August 30, 2016

Journal Day 30; Aug 30, 2016

Day 30: Your highs and lows for the month.


Foreword


Ah, the end is here. Sad to see I'm finishing this journal. But happy to see I've made it this far! :D

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the rest of the journal down in the link below. :)
Enjoy reading!

My Highs And Lows For The Month


HIGHS
1. My birthday was this month. I definitely had a splendid time with all the continuous "Happy Birthday" sing-alongs in class.
2. This journal, of course! It had given me the motivation to start my blog and I'll be happy to continue this blog for as long as I'm still alive.
3. My exam results of this month were epic. With 7As and 2Bs, this marks my first time getting 7As and also without anything lower than a B. :D
4. I'm improving my skills in badminton. I'm no sports person but I love playing badminton.
5. I received my order of the Heroes of Olympus series that I bought three months ago! Ah, and I (and my mother) thought I was cheated.

LOWS
1. I didn't write much! I'd hate myself if I don't write as much as I intended. This month had been busy for me, so I didn't get to write much. (Excuse me while I berate myself more.)
2. Journal Day 4. Nuff said.
3. Recently had a nasty acne that needed a little poking and pressing. Sad to say, I screamed like a girl throughout the whole ordeal.
4. I'm still waiting for my freaking overdue book cover that I had not one but two people doing it. Ugh!
5. The haze. Not only does it make the temperature rise up like an oven, the haze is attracting mosquitoes into the house. I keep getting nasty bites on my feet! >.<

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Overall, this month was pretty okay for me. Anyway, this is the last post of the journal. :( I might take up another 30-Days Challenge, provided I have time to divide between this and my novel.
How about you? How was your month? What are your highs and lows of the month?

Want to read more? Check out the topic list, here!

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August 29, 2016

Journal Day 29; Aug 29, 2016

Day 29: What are your goals for the next 30 days?


Foreword


Two more days until this journal finishes. I have a few goals in mind that'll make up the disappointments of this month. (heh)

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

My Goals For The Next 30 Days


1. Write my stories more
This month, I've barely written more than ten pages in any of my novels/short stories. I'd been so busy with exams, competitions, and other stuff that I never really got to write anything. The most I've written a day was a measly 200 words. I plan to write more and force myself to write 500 words a day. No exceptions.

2. Keep this blog running
I'll definitely start sharing updates and (noob) artwork for my novel series and side stories here. Maybe even updates in my life too. Maybe even my opinions on books too. Eh, I'll think about what to write. For now, I'll just write about my novel's updates. Say, has any one of you found my missing pen?

3. Make most of my holidays and weekends
On the second week of September, there'll be a one week holiday per Malaysia Day on the 14th. Add that with the weekends and I'll have a lot of free time next month. I want to make most out of it, be it by writing or reading more or perhaps do some artwork for my novel series. As long as I am and I stay productive, I'm fine.

4. Win the DKLS Essay Writing Competition
The DKLS Essay Writing Competition is from the 1st to the 15th of September. The topic has already been released and I plan to make the draft of the essay on the 31st of August. I'm aiming to win the competition and put all of my effort in the essay. I might win a free study trip to Canberra, but what I want more are the book vouchers (RM500, man; that's 10 novels worth of money!).

5. Learn to say "No"
Enough about writing and productivity, this one comes my constant altruism. I have to start saying "no" and don't feel or look like a jerk after saying "no". Once, I lent my friend to photocopy my material for the History paper. But then everyone else came and one by one I said, "Sure, why not." Ended up that the whole class had the same sheets. Rip. ;-; Well, I surely won't let that happen again.

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Those are my goals for the next 30 days. I might try to finish up the side story of Seriquan Magiwarrior next month.
Anyway, how about you? What do you plan to achieve in the next 30 days? Let me know in the comments below!

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August 28, 2016

Journal Day 28; Aug 28, 2016

Day 28: Your favorite memory.


Foreword

Three more days! I have to start deciding how I'm going to keep this blog running.

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

My Favorite Memory


My favorite memory dates back when I was around 6 or 7 (I don't remember). It was a trip to a highly-acclaimed resort on a Pahang mountaintop called Genting Highlands. But that was so far back I'm having a hard time recalling what happened. I don't even remember how long I stayed there. ;-;

When I entered my room in one of the apartments, the first thing I did was jump on the bed. Man, I could still feel the comfiness of it. While the rest of my family thought the place was cold, I felt just right at home (I love cold temperatures :3 ). Even the bathtub was so much fun. One time at night, I locked myself in the bathroom and played in the bathtub for what—nearly the whole evening? (rip water bill.)

The only thing I remember from the trip besides the room was the theme park. There were so many rides until I couldn't pick which I wanted to ride on. So I just settled on blowing bubbles by the entrance. I heard the theme park was getting remodeled and it was still in progress. I hope to visit Genting Highlands again and see the new and improved theme park.


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I didn't have a lot of favorite memories. And this one I didn't remember much, sadly.
Anyway, how about you? What is your favorite memory? Let me know in the comments below!

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August 27, 2016

Journal Day 27; Aug 27, 2016

Day 27: Something you regret.


Foreword


Four more days to go...

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

Something I Regret


Everyone had always encouraged me to start a blog when I first published my book. For many different reasons. I never took their advice because I believe having a Facebook account as a social platform was enough. In fact, I didn't want to start a blog just yet because of my fear of not knowing what to write. I was wrong. And I regretted not starting a blog early.

I published my very first (short) story way back in January. My family urged me even from last year to start a blog so I can build a fanbase. But the thing is: I didn't know what to write, what to share, how to even get a blog started. I felt like starting a blog and keeping it up is tedious and absorbed a lot of my time. I actually did plan to start a plan, but I never got the chance.

But now, it's already August. Eight plus a few more months. And look at me! I'm writing posts every day and writing my novel. I can use my time to keep a blog up and running. The prompts gave me ideas on what to write, and while I wrote, I got more ideas on what to write after this journal is done. I even researched on how to decorate a blog and everything.

It was easy. If I'd only started my blog earlier. I would've had some people following me and my stories, which in turn, helps me in building a fanbase, which in turn, helps my status as a (future) author. My constant delays and "should I actually do it?"s kept me from starting until now. Well, no point sulking now. The worst thing that would happen is a good and steady fanbase that takes longer to build than it should've.

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How about you? What is something you regret? Let me know in the comments below!

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August 26, 2016

Journal Day 26; Aug 26, 2016

Day 26: Post about the three things that are really important in your life.


Foreword


Another list. And only 5 more days including today left. This journal is almost done. :D

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

Three Things That Are Really Important In My Life


1. Family
How could my family not be important in my life? I mean, the moment I was brought into this world, the first person I'd recognize is my family. And the people who are and will be with me throughout my life is my family. I probably won't survive by myself on the streets alone. Besides, my family had been there and gave me important values in life.


2. My Laptop
Well yeah. Besides using it for entertainment such as video games and YouTube, I use my laptop to write all my stories. Even my handwritten drafts go into my laptop. Microsoft Word 2007 is my favored platform (I might try Scrivener during the holidays). I also use it, via the Internet, to Google information that I need to write. It's a tough job and school doesn't provide me with the information I need. (Medieval, man!)

3. Knowledge
I treasure each and every information I receive (that is if I'm interested in learning, heh). Whether it be for my books or for life, I'll remember it for as long as I can remember it. Learning from my mistakes is an invaluable knowledge that I almost always treasure. I rarely do the same mistake twice, and sometimes, I purposely do mistakes just to get a grasp of what's taboo and what's not so I can adapt to their preferences. Without knowledge, well, I'd just lack any sense of anything.

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How about you? What are your three things that are the most important in your life? Let me know in the comments below!

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August 25, 2016

Journal Day 25; Aug 25, 2016

Day 25: Write about an area in your life that you would like to improve.


Foreword


...And we're back to writing paragraphs. (yay)

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

An Area In My Life That I Would Like To Improve


An area in my life that I would like to improve is my interpersonal skills. Being self-conscious is one thing, but being able to express and communicate is another. And that is my weakness.

Introversion isn't helping me. I keep to myself most of the times and I refuse to speak out anything. But if I actually speak out, I might sound awkward or a bit too exaggerated. This is where people usually take me the wrong way—mostly as a haughty jerk when all I really want is to help. Although I'm a tad bit extroverted on the Internet, I still can't put the right words to express myself properly.

Besides that, I always get cold feet when I'm chosen to stand in front and talk about something. One minute I am brainstorming; the next minute, bam, I forget everything. I stutter and stammer repeatedly while trying to explain and I sweat and cringe through every mistake I make. My body language is also poor. Because of those, people won't take me seriously.

That's pretty much it. My interpersonal skills are pretty low (which is also why I scored terribly in an EQ test). My mother says it's just something all teenagers experience. But man, it troubles me a lot. I'm working on my skills slowly (I never faltered during the latest presentation, yay!). Hopefully, this weakness of mine will become one of my strengths in the coming days.

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Not much to say on this one. Thankfully, the next day is another list.
How about you? What is your one area in your life that you would like to improve?

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August 24, 2016

Journal Day 24; Aug 24, 2016

Day 24: Post about five things that make you laugh out loud.


Foreword


Whew, it's been a long time since the last list. I'm glad this is a list, or else I would start going crazy with all the blocks of paragraphs.

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

Five Things That Make Me Laugh Out Loud


1. Cheesy Puns
I have a great sense of humor (but bad sense of sarcasm), and I love it when someone makes a pun. I might start laughing and never stop until maybe five minutes later (plus extra laugh outbursts). The cheesy ones are always the best. Not only are they a great example of a double entendre, it's also funny and creative. At times, even I make some cheesy puns!

2. Tickling
I don't know why but I'm extremely ticklish. One little finger touching my neck or waist is enough to send me laughing and convulsing uncontrollably. Some of my friends use this to their advantage and tickle me until my throat goes dry and tears start dribbling down my cheeks. Talk about laughing until you cry.

3. "Try Not to Laugh" videos
Gets me every time. No matter how hard I try watching any of these, the first video always gets me. And I don't mean just chuckling, I laugh loudly and continuously snicker after that. Where did they even get all these clips?

4. Short Funny GIFs
If it's short, and pack a punch, and can loop. Then I'll probably won't stop laughing. I mean, come on. Not only it's short, it's funny and it loops forever! Especially the let-me-give-you-a-pat-on-the-head penguin GIF I saw not long ago.

5. Getting trolled (twice)
Usually, when I get fooled once, I tend not to get fooled again. If I do get fooled again, then I'll start laughing at myself for my stupidity. Yeah, I laugh at myself too! Why not? (Definitely not crazy). And rickrolling gets me every time.

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Not much to say here. Almost anything makes me laugh out loud, so it was kinda difficult to pick just five. Anyway, how about you? What are your five things that make you LOL? Let me know in the comments below!

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August 23, 2016

Journal Day 23; Aug 23, 2016

Day 23: Write about a lesson you have learned the hard way.


Foreword


I've learned this lesson the hard way recently. And... it's not my first time. :|

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

A Lesson I Have Learned The Hard Way


"Nobody is perfect," they always say. I do take this into account yet sometimes I forget about it. I always expect the best out of the best, but that only leads to a chain of bad things to happen. I constantly have to be reminded about this or else the whole ordeal may repeat over and over again.

Whenever I read someone's work or hear a presentation, I tend to judge them. When I judge them, I point out the flaws and suggest them on how they could fix it. Unfortunately, some people don't like to be judged and... you can guess the rest. No matter how hard I try to tell them that my criticizing them is just to help them get better. But then again, nobody is perfect, neither is nobody the same.

If I am a team leader, I always expect the best out of each of my team members. I try not to disregard about their time constraints or other problems. Alas, this is obviously impossible. The only thing I receive out of my effort is nothing but disappointment. And if I do start questioning the said member's irresponsibility, I get into an argument with him or her.

Even though whenever I'm reminded, I'm left hurt for a day or two, I still have to take it into account. Combined with my social awkwardness, I can't find the right way to express myself on my reasoning of my actions. Hopefully, I can overcome this when time goes by.

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Ah, my interpersonal skills are weak. No wonder I have low EQ score. ;-;
Anyway, how about you? What is one of the lessons you have learned the hard way? Let me know in the comments below!

Want to read more? Check out the topic list, here!

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August 22, 2016

Journal Day 22; Aug 22, 2016

Day 22: A letter to someone—anyone.


Foreword


The fourth week is here. 9 more days including today; this journal will end soon. :/
This letter is addressed to my best friend, but he's overseas (sadly :( ).

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

 A Letter To Someone


Dear Jesús,
This will probably sound awkward since this is the first time I'm sending you a letter not from Facebook. And also the fact that this letter is in a blog post and not through email or something else. Anywho, I hope your life in Venezuela is swell so far. I don't have much to talk about, so I'm going to point out some random things.

You know, I'll always remember that time when we first met. In a Facebook group where I posted something and then you were like, "Is that Koishi Komeiji on your profile picture?", and I was like, "Yeah. You're a fan of Touhou too?", and somehow our friendship formed from that. We used to talk about Touhou-related things only but later we pretty much opened up to each other. I think it's an awkward start for a relationship, but then again, lots of great friendships start off weirdly.

I still can't digest how many mutual interests we have. Besides Touhou, we both enjoy writing and reading each other's works. Not to mention we both share our ideas and plans. Whenever I explain a bit about my novel series, I too remember things I have to write in the future. While I share my ideas, I develop new ideas. Speaking of which, do you plan on starting a novel soon? It doesn't have to be in English.

Well, this letter is certainly getting long when I could just mention everything on Facebook. So I guess I'll leave this here. I just want to thank you for being the only true friend I've ever had, despite us being miles apart. Good luck on your 30-Days Writing Challenge!

Sincerely,
Chan

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Wooo! This has got to be the weirdest topic out of all!
I... don't really have any idea how I should write the "Let me know" part so... Just let me know in the comments below!

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August 21, 2016

Journal Day 21; Aug 21, 2016

Day 21: Discuss your first love.


Foreword


*facepalm* Somebody kill me please. Not this topic! =_="
(As if Day 4 wasn't torture enough!)

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

My First Love


My first love is my love for writing. Aw, were you expecting a love life? Well, too bad! >:P

Anyway, my love for it didn't just come to me the moment I started writing. It started out as a hobby, but it eventually became a passion of mine. I don't quite remember how long it took, but it was long. As I delved deeper into writing, I also found myself loving to read books. Long books.

My love of writing has given me the ability to think critically. Sure it's all words with story. But like poems, within every paragraph yields a meaning that relates to real life issues and the such. With my critical thinking skills developed, it becomes easier for me to relate stories to real life and draw out the meaning. This is the same for writing the hidden meanings into the paragraphs of my stories.

My love of writing has also taught me things about English further than the usual teachers teach in school. It's part of the process, though. To learn weird punctuation such as semicolons and the em and en rule, to learn how big words don't mean anything, to learn the difference between "showing" and "telling", to learn how the length of sentences and paragraphs can affect a piece dramatically. I think writing has taught me all this, but then, there are probably even weird customs that are waiting for me to dig in.

But of course, as much as I love writing, there are also a few bad things. Writing has made me indecisive. Like, how can I decide what to write? decide how know what think FOR PEEP'S SAKE, writer's block! *ehm* Sorry. Yeah, that pretty much sums it. Not just in my stories that I can decide what I want to express. In the real world, I also find it harder to pick between two choices unlike last time. I must be overthinking things too much...

At the same time, writing has also made me more prone toward looking for errors rather than enjoying the story. This is especially true whenever I read my friends' essays or works. I always point out the errors instead of sitting on my chair and reading it to the end. I almost every time cringe upon finding a common mistake and I have to fight the urge to point it out. It may be a good thing to help my friends, but sometimes, people may just want to slap you in the face for doing that. Unfortunately for me, I get the latter most of the time. :(

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Eh, it didn't go as bad as I thought it would be. Day 21 shall now be one of the two days I shall never talk about again. Ever.
How about you? What is your first love? Discuss it in the comments below!

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August 20, 2016

Journal Day 20; Aug 20, 2016

Day 20: Post about your dream ambition.


Foreword


Third week's weekend has arrived. This journal is going to end soon. :/

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

My Dream Ambition


If "author J.L. Chan" in the title description doesn't ring a bell, my dream ambition is to be a writer, generally. Specifically, I want to be a young adult fantasy novelist. It's not so fancy-sounding like astrophysicists or otorhinolaryngologists, neither is it as awesome as being a commercial pilot or an all-star athlete, in fact, it does sound a bit dull. I mean, who would want to sit on their tooshie and do absolutely nothing except typing or writing words? *cough* Me. *cough*

The universe of literature is huge—enormous—gargantuan! Some prefer to imagine the many different worlds in the expanse while some prefer to experience it. Writers, however, prefer to expand the vastness of the universe. And I want to be one of those writers. This little job may sound easy, but trust me, it's not. You have book types such as young adult, children's, fiction, and non-fiction; genres such as horror, mystery, fantasy, steampunk, dystopia, and dark; characters big and small, good and evil, humans and non-humans... Oh my, your head must be spinning right now.
I almost forgot: before you actually start writing, you have to pick the ones you want to write in. Yep, one or two from all that.

Anyway, being a writer is more or less sitting on their tooshie and type or write words. But the best thing about it is that you can write it in any way you want. No one is restricting you! You're technically your own boss! (No, don't talk about publishing agents nor editors here, please. >:( ) The characters, the world, the story, the protagonist and antagonist, the mentor, the love interest, the nerve-wrecking deaths and the oh-my-god-what-the-hell twists, everything is in your hands! The only thing you need to know is to find out the way you write!

On the side note, fantasy is the genre I've picked to write in. At the same time, I'd love to throw in elements of adventure, action, romance, and all the others. Fantasy is basically things that don't make sense yet makes sense. Does that even make sense? Magic, witches, Harry Potter, ugly horrendous creatures, Greek gods, and the rest—they are all fantasy. I love to write in fantasy because anything you write can make sense in some way. Especially magic. Yeah, magic. If only magic is real in this world...

If you think that I'm just writing and publishing for the sake of money, then no, I'm not. I just felt like writing and contributing a form of art to the world, and then this 'thing' just came to me. Talent, my uncle called it. Before this, I really had no idea what do to in the future. But now that I have a set goal, I'm pushing forward to achieve my dream ambition. I aspire to make my fantasies and daydreams come to life.

I want to be a writer because I want to express myself. You know, my feelings and views of the world, in the form of words experienced by the characters in my stories. But why don't I become a spokesperson, journalist, or politician if I want to voice out of my views? Creativeness is one of my aspects (but not interpersonal :( ) and my love for books pretty much set me on a path of literature. And I believe that path is the right path for me.

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Wow, I wrote that long about my dream ambition? I'm barely halfway through what I can write! xD *ehm* Anyway, a writer sounds dull and boring, but it's actually fun and completely unique. I've read books, but nothing beats writing a book.
How about you? What is your dream ambition? Is it an astrophysicist or otorhinolaryngologist, or some form of doctors or professors or teachers, or becoming a unicorn, or what else? Let me know in the comments below!

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August 19, 2016

Journal Day 19; Aug 19, 2016

Day 19: Independence Day—what does it mean to you?


Foreword


Independence Day here in Malaysia is but only two weeks away. Speaking of Independence Day, why isn't this topic on Day 30? Huh...

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

What Independence Day Means To Me


On the 31st of August 1957, Tunku Abdul Rahman, otherwise known as the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, had succeeded in uniting the people of Malaya, fulfilling the request of the English regime and granting us—our independence, or as we coined it, Merdeka. After years and years of being under violent and strict services by multiple countries, Malaya had finally earned its long-yearned independence. On 31st of August 2016, it would be 59 years after Merdeka.

Okay, okay, that's enough history.
For me, Independence Day is the day the people of Malaysia showed how much they care for one another, despite the many differences. Back then, people used to keep to themselves and divide among themselves based on their ethnics. Barely anyone would mix with one another. Because of this, it became easy for stronger forces to conquer the country. No unity between the people. No peace among the people.

But was it true that it was impossible for one to watch the back of another? Of course not! People gathered together and stayed together. What do we achieve from all that unity? Progress—something equal to a paradigm shift of the country's economics and people. Things that used to nothing but a fantasy, achieved with unity. But the most important thing out of that is that people are actually happier together!

I cherish the diversity in Malaysia. Honestly, I very much prefer conversing with people of different ethnicity for the sole reason of learning their culture. Independence Day—the day we achieved our freedom, the day the country was united as one. This day means a lot not to just me but to everyone else. I believe that Malaysia wouldn't be Malaysia if it weren't for the manpower of everyone. United we stand, divided we fall.

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Independence Day is indeed a day to rejoice and appreciate what history had given us. Every country has their past to tell, their past for the people to cherish. Speaking of Independence Days, what does your Independence Day mean to you? Let me know down in the comments below!

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August 18, 2016

Journal Day 18; Aug 18, 2016

Day 18: If you have one superpower, what would it be and how would you use it to help the needy?


Foreword


I have the feeling that I'll like this topic a lot. (Even though I don't watch a lot of action movies.) Hey, this topic has the longest title too. Heh.

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

My One Superpower And How I Would Use It To Help The Needy


If I have one superpower, it would be the power to rewrite. Sounds cheesy, doesn't it? I mean, I could go for things like cryokinesis or the good ol' invisibility... but nah! Oh, by the way, I don't mean the kind of rewriting you do with pen and pad or keyboard and laptop.

I imagine that everyone in this world has a story to tell. Past, present, future, it's all there. All fates and destinies and pain and regrets. And I always thought, what if someone could alter that? What if someone could change what's already been written and make someone's life completely different? (Rhyme not intended) Someone's story's words and sentences, changed and altered, subsequently creating a new fate.

It may not sound powerful (and it doesn't), but it binds itself with the power to manipulate fate. Let's say my friend who's life is miserable. I could rewrite that and state that his life would be merry the next day—and it will happen. Why? Because it was rewritten. Or maybe I could rewrite that the class bully would trip on a banana peel later in the canteen—and it will happen. 3:) But comes this question, how can I use it to help the needy?

Imagine a poor and homeless child and mother. I could change their destiny by rewriting their stories that they will find a one-thousand dollar note on the street the very next day. Or perhaps I could just straight up rewrite their past that they were rich to begin with (along with the assumption that I don't alter the rest of the present too much). The rest of the needy people can be said the same, though I wouldn't keep rewriting that they'd find a one-thousand dollar note on the street by chance. I could always get... a little creative.

How about those kinds of people seeking medicinal help? I could just rewrite them that they'd get better almost immediately! What of orphans? Get adopted the next day! And what about the hungry kids on the street? Ehm, just rewrite that some good Samaritan will treat them to McDonald's! Heck, why not I just rewrite the whole world's story and end world hunger? xD (But I'm pretty sure that'll cause some things to become hectic, so... I'm not taking risks.)

I'm pretty sure you can find flaws in this superpower. I know I can. Then again, with great power comes great responsibilities. But for now, let's set that aside and see how the world can be changed by replacing one measly word. A new sentence added. A whole paragraph—rewritten. The possibilities are endless!

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I knew I was going to love this topic. :3 Well, the length of this one definitely makes up for the previous day.
What about you? What is your one superpower you'd have and how would you help the needy? Maybe the power of clairvoyance to see the future and prevent it from happening for those poor people? Or maybe the power of time travel to change the events of the past? Like I said, the possibilities are endless. So let me know yours down in the comments below!

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August 17, 2016

Journal Day 17; Aug 17, 2016

Day 17: How is the society nowadays? Give your opinions.


Foreword


Well, this is one heck of a topic.

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

How The Society Is Nowadays


In my opinion, the society nowadays is chaotic. I think the most important aspect for a prospering society is peace. But with all the controversy, irresponsible people, people taking some things too far, and war, I don't think that will ever be achieved. I reckon that some citizens who blindly follow their leaders without any thoughts, which obviously leads to bearing a common-senseless nation. This, in turn, makes it easy for those manipulative people to lead them astray into doing things far more damaging.

I also opine that the society nowadays is irrational. I believe no one can agree on anything, thus leading to people fighting. They even fight over things that don't matter; can you believe it? Whenever someone wants to innocently speak about politics or maybe trivial religious things, they might receive backlash instead of a rational answer. Is everyone really that easily offended? I always choose not to speak about anything like that, lest I want someone to trash talk me while everyone else jump on the bandwagon.

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I'm really sorry if this was extremely short. I'm not really into talking anything politically related, so I've decide to do this short. So yeah, Day 17 isn't really my kind of day. Add that with this annoying tooth-filling (which I honestly did not want), I can't really concentrate on anything.

How about you? What do you think society is nowadays? Let me know your opinions down in the comments below!

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August 16, 2016

Journal Day 16; Aug 16, 2016

Day 16: In another 10-years time, where would you be?


Foreword


Day 16, Aug 16 of 2016. 16-16-16. That's a nice date.

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

In Another 10-Years Time, I Would Be...


In another 10-years time, I would probably be sitting on a swivel chair, staring directly at my laptop screen with a cup of green tea by my side, and my fingers randomly mashing the keyboard that somehow make words come out. Nah, I'm just joking with you! In another 10-years time, I would probably be at home somewhere overseas, publishing my very first novel—in hardcover!

While you must probably think, "What's so different between publishing in paperback and hardcover?" The answer is simple: hardcovers only sell if it's worth the publishing agent's time and money. And mind you, publishing agents are very, very picky. So yeah, it's a huge life achievement for me and I plan to achieve that in the coming decade. If the Seriquan Magiwarrior series gets a chance to hit the shelves in hardcover... eh, I'm not going to make any swears.

By the way, about the "somewhere overseas" thing, I hope to travel and settle in a place surrounded by English-speaking people. I aspire to expand my English skills endlessly. And to do that, what better way than to actually communicate with fluent people? I, myself, am not fluent in English. It'd definitely help me in my future writing and my future career as a part-time writer. Besides, I may have more chance to meet and greet with famous authors. :3

Digression aside, seeing my book in well-received retail stores such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble, it's like a dream come true. All my days sitting on a swivel chair, staring directly at my laptop screen with a cup of green tea by my side, and my fingers randomly mashing the keyboard that somehow make words come out are all worth it. Hopefully, in 10-years time, I'd be a successful young adult fantasy novelist with his name listed as New York Times Bestselling Author. (hehe)

Publishing a novel in hardcover format is not easy task. As if getting a book published in paperback isn't hard enough. I wish to achieve that in 10 years. Oh yeah, maybe even have a wonderful family with children who'd love a good bedtime story. Anyway, if I want to see everything I blabbered above come true, I need to work hard at it. Speaking of working hard, excuse me while I write some random things. :)

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10 years is a long time. Anything could happen between the days.
How about you? Where would you be in 10-years time? Maybe you'd be in the sky, flying a commerical airline; or maybe in an observatory, discovering the existence of parallel universes; or maybe a spokesperson, preventing and stopping all catastrophes on the planet. Let me know in the comments below!

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August 15, 2016

Journal Day 15; Aug 15, 2016

Day 15: Write about your idol and why do you choose that person.


Foreword


The third week of August is here. And guess what? We're already halfway through the journal! Time flies fast, doesn't it?
I remember doing this one for my portfolios. Hopefully, I can find it somewhere in my pile of junk...

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

My Idol And Why Do I Choose That Person.



Do you know the woman in the image above? She is my idol. (You: duh!) Perhaps you don't know. No worries. Maybe this one could ring a bell or two...


Released on July 31, the long-anticipated thought-to-never-will-happen continuation of Deathly Hallows. But who is its author? That would be J.K. Rowling; also the woman in the image before. And also the author of the entire Harry Potter series.

I choose Rowling as my idol because she has shown that writing earns a place in this world. E-books are much more common now, but paperbacks have always been my favorites. Mainly because I can lie on my bed and read, and enjoy smelling the book. Writing isn't something everyone likes, even I sometimes hate to write. Yet it is art. You heard me: writing is art. You can express yourself in the form of words in any way you want; it's just like magic. And I, too, want to express how I want—through writing.

Rowling has also proven that a mediocre job like a writer can actually make a living. Some people have looked down on me for picking the path of literature in the future—said I could do something more important and worthwhile. But look at Rowling! She'd done it! I understand my thoughts are mere fantasies and that the stakes of a writer earning profit is low, but does it say it is impossible? Besides, if my talent is writing, why don't I make use of it? And, of course, I won't straight up go freelance writing. I'd definitely take up a side job while I write in-between work hours.

Even though I've yet to read the Harry Potter series (shame on me), I admire her a lot. She has become a motivation for me to become a writer—a successful writer. (Almost) Every day, I try to get better in writing. No way I'm throwing in the towel; I've yet to think about quitting so easily. Who knows what will happen in the future? But one thing I know is that the future is brought on from the past. So, no point in stalling anything. Better I get to it.

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J.K. Rowling is my idol I look up to whenever I'm writing. How about yours? What is your idol? Let me know in the comments below!
P.S.: Thank you for giving me the motivation to continue writing, Rowling.

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August 14, 2016

Journal Day 14; Aug 14, 2016

Day 14: Post 30 facts about yourself.


Foreword


I've been waiting for this day...
The second week has already ended. Time moves fast, doesn't it? Thirty facts will be kinda hard to pull off but I'll try my best anyway.

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

30 Facts About Myself

  1. I am an INFP according to the MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) results.
  2. I particularly write fantasy. But I like throwing elements of adventure and action, and possibly a bit of comedy, romance, and tragedy.
  3. Books above 400 pages are my favorites.
  4. I'm left-handed.
  5. I'm an atheist.
  6. I use the American English dialect even though my country uses the British instead. (I have my reasons!)
  7. Before I wanted to be a writer, I chose to be a marine biologist. That is until I lost interest in science.
  8. I always have vertigo when I'm looking down from high places. Maybe I'm a little bit acrophobic.
  9. I'm too altruistic for my own good.
  10. Idealist or realist? Idealist.
  11. It's hard for me to remember names, but I can easily recognize faces.
  12. I never know how much time has passed when I'm writing.
  13. I can understand Shakespearean English.
  14. I can read phonetics.
  15. I can speak in the Army Alphabet.
  16. I have a pet sugar glider named Ariel.
  17. I'm a night owl and I hate mornings.
  18. I am incredibly ticklish.
  19. My horror tolerance is near zero. I get scared very easily.
  20. I love looking at country flags and memorizing them.
  21. I write Virtual Piano music sheets.
  22. I dislike movie adaptations of books.
  23. I can't stop chewing on Mentos.
  24. I dislike chocolate.
  25. My favorite color is rainbow yellow.
  26. If I were to pick one magic type from the ten in my novel, I would pick Water.
  27. I love to eat salmon.
  28. I am poor in History. (Like I said, I can't remember names, much less dates!)
  29. I have mild red-green color blindness.
  30. I started writing two years ago.

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That was definitely hard to list! But I managed to do it! Yay!
What are some things about you that you want to share? Let me know in the comments below!

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August 13, 2016

Journal Day 13; Aug 13, 2016

Day 13: Post about your zodiac sign and whether or not it fits you.


Foreword


Day 13. The "dreaded" Day 13. Mmm... Isn't 13 supposed to be an unlucky number? Speaking of 13, what is Jason Voorhees's zodiac sign? Beats me.

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

My Zodiac Sign And Whether Or Not It Fits Me


People born from July 23 to August 22 are Leos. I, myself, am I Leo too. I honestly never bothered to check the traits and personalities and compare them to myself (because of Myers-Briggs!). But I think it's time now. I should get myself ready for shockers.

Leos are creative. That was the first trait listed and this is definitely me. Anything artistic draws me in and I love to recreate them. In fact, I had the motivation to learn drawing faces yesterday... so if you'll excuse me, I'll go open Photoshop CS5 and start drawing. Apparently, Leos are also cheerful. Yep, mhm, yep. Self-explanatory. Leos are passionate, too. I definitely take passion into my hobbies and whatever that leads me to a brighter future.

But Leos are stubborn. Well, I can be a little bit persistent on things. Leos are marked as self-centered. I won't lie; I am sometimes egotistical, but I'm working on that. And I'm also a lazy bum. I'm only lazy to things that I should do but have no interest in. If procrastination is accounted as laziness, then I'm very lazy. :)

I have to say, I match with some of the personalities. I've always known my astrological sign to be Leo, but now that I've checked it... the similarities are almost the same! :| Does my zodiac sign suit me? If the strengths and weaknesses haven't convinced you, then yes, it suits me tenfold.

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Anyone of you Leos here? If you're not, then which zodiac sign are you? Does it suit you or does it not? Let me know in the comments below!

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August 12, 2016

Journal Day 12; Aug 12, 2016

Day 12: Something that you miss.


Foreword


Posted this late because I got too absorbed in watching the "Scale of the Universe"... :) Anyway, I've been thinking deep about this topic and I picked the perfect one I'll talk about. And no, it has nothing to do with missing Pluto as a planet.

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

Something I Miss


I used to travel back and forth between Johor and Selangor (to visit my grandparents). During November 2013, my family and I were to travel to Selangor again—but this time permanently. Yes, we were moving because my mother had to take care of our sick grandfather as nobody could. And ever since this day, I miss Johor so much. Home sick, I guess.

One thing I miss about Johor the most are, of course, my friends and classmates. Not just any friends and classmates, but my childhood friends and classmates. We had a lot of fun together, each of us creating some wacky games for all of us play. We also were keen on helping one another to pass any of our subjects. Honestly, I don't consider anyone here in Selangor as a close friend. Luckily, I'm still in contact with them.

Besides that, I also miss the food there. I find food in Johor better than the food here. Johor has a wider variety in a close proximity. You can find a fast food restaurant, a diner, a hawker center, and a simple eat out location within a kilometer's drive. But over here? Of one row of shops, there must be three of them that sells bak kut teh. Not just that, the food in Selangor is more expensive than in Johor. But I have to admit that Selangor excels in taste.

Within my first year living in Selangor, I was already struck on edge by the behavioral ethics of the people here. People in Johor are friendlier and strangers are willing to help one another. Neighbors know each other. Over here, you'd see plenty of reckless drivers speeding and driving on the wrong lane (and even on the wrong side!) and people who just can't seem to reply in a civil way to you, be it sarcastically or outrageously. I miss the people of Johor.

I pretty much miss my life in Johor. The change was drastic and even then I'm still learning to adapt. I always fall victim into the people's sarcastic way of talking since I usually take things seriously. In school, truants and juveniles are more common here than in Johor. Sigh... if only I didn't have to move. But hey, if I didn't move here, I wouldn't have discovered more about myself. It was here that I learned my passion to write. Not all things are bad, huh?

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I apologize for the late post. I was just too absorbed in that website! :c Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this one as I was actually rushing. (1 more hour before the next day, dang it!)
What is something that you miss? Let me know in the comments below!

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August 11, 2016

Journal Day 11; Aug 11, 2016

Day 11: Post about your favorite movies that you never get tired of watching.


Foreword


I'll most definitely have a lot of trouble writing this one. I don't really watch any movies, neither do I watch them more than once. So... I'll just post the movies that I enjoyed the most. Meh.

WARNING: Massive spoiler alert for all the movies below! If you haven't watched any of them, turn back now, go to the nearest store, buy the movie, and watch it!
You: But what do I care? I just want to read your post. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

My Favorite Movies That I('ll) Never Get Tired Of Watching


1. Zootopia (2016)
I'll start this off with my most recent favored movie. Zootopia is a movie by Walt Disney Studios that tells the tale of Judy Hopps, an aspiring bunny who yearns to become a police officer in a world full of anthropomorphic animals. Sounds corny? Never judge a movie by its poster.

Throughout the story, Judy had to overcome tough challenges that far surpasses her limits as a mere bunny. (Come on, all the members of the police force are big animals.) Tough challenges like proving her worth to the chief, forcing Nick Wilde, a fox con artist, into joining her, almost getting killed a few times, and finding out who caused the mysterious disappearances of several civilians. Her size may be small, but her heart is as huge as an elephant's.

The story revolves around dealing with prejudice—specifically between preys and predators. Even though Zootopia claims itself to be "peaceful with all animals of all species", this statement is proved to be false as predators continue to show ferocity at preys whereas preys tend to defend themselves by harming predators. This was shown when Nick tested Judy's trust on him by faking an attack, but Judy nearly sprayed him on impulse with fox repellant.

This movie has earned a special place in my heart. And I am glad I've been able to hustle my mom into buying tickets for the movie. 0:)

2. Tangled (2010)
I've watched Tangled a few years back. This movie is another one by Walt Disney Studios and it is inspired by Rapunzel, by the Brothers Grimm. It tells the story of eighteen-year-old Rapunzel, seeking to see the 'floating lights' against Mother Gothel's wishes. Her desire entwines her destiny with Flynn Rider, the wanted-dead-or-alive thief version of Prince Charming.

Rapunzel had spent her whole life held up in a tower, having nothing interesting to do anymore. I'd never be able to live one minute locked up there. She knew if she escaped her tower, her mother wouldn't be happy. But did that keep her from her dreams? When Flynn stumbled upon her windowstep, Rapunzel took it as an opportunity to see the lights. Though on the way, she did encounter ruffians, thugs, poison ivy, quicksand. Cannibals and snakes, the plague—no—yes!

Basically, Tangled gives a clear message about chasing your desires. Rapunzel may be a gullible and naïve, but she needed to see the lights. Needed so much that nothing stood in her way. Eventually, Rapunzel realized that she had another desire—being together with Flynn (or Eugene). Despite the fact that she was tricked into thinking that Flynn didn't care about her, she never gave up hope. What she had in return from all her positivity was a happily ever after, with Flynn as her husband. This goes to show that if you want to achieve something, you should never let anything stop you.

Of all the Disney princesses, Rapunzel is my favorite. Tangled is one of my most memorable movies and honestly one of the best Disney has ever offered.

3. Up (2009)
If you haven't guessed by now, I'm obviously a fan of Disney. This one is by Pixar Animation Studios, but also in collaboration with Walt Disney Pictures. The movie opens up to Carl Fredrickson, who wishes to move his house—via balloons—to Paradise Falls to fulfill his late wife's, Ellie's, dream, albeit with the help of a talkative boy scout named Russell.

After the death of his wife, Carl became cold and distant. With his last few years left in his life, he did the impossible—lifting his house in the air with thousands of helium balloons to Paradise Falls. Though he accidentally lifted Russell off with him, too, and has to stick with him for the rest of the journey. Through the end, his selfish personality develops into a more understanding one, right after seeing Ellie's real wish, which is to have Carl go on his own adventure.

Carl had undergone a massive change. From being a man set on his goals to a man wanting to make things right. Despite accomplishing what he longed for, he wasn't fulfilled. And particularly because he caused more harm than good. When Carl reflected on his journey so far, he realized he wasn't doing what Ellie wanted him to do, which was to have his adventure, not hers. Thus, he went above and beyond the call of duty to set things right. Carl had shown that true happiness came from everyone around him, not just him.

Up was a truly marvelous movie. I even bought the video game once and played it, too. Well, Disney, here's the "Making People Happy" patch for your badge sash!

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As I have said, I don't really watch a lot of movies. But if I were to pick my favorites, all of them would be Disney movies. I love Disney movies—mostly because they derive from classic fairy tales and are inspirational and unique. I've said it once and I'll say it again: Disney never disappoints.

What are your favorite movies that you never get tired of watching? Let me know in the comments!

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August 10, 2016

Journal Day 10; Aug 10, 2016

Day 10: What are you excited about?


Foreword


A lot of things make me excited. I, more or less, overreact to even the smallest things. (Just look at the post below. xD) But I guess I'll just pick one for this topic.

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

What I Am Excited About


*browses Goodreads for books to read...* Wait a minute! 
The release of the next sequel in one of favorite series is... in the next month?! :OOO Say what?! Somebody give me an inhaler; I can't breathe!

Nothing drives me more nuts other than learning about a book's release, especially the ones I've long anticipated! Book sequels tend to come out on a yearly schedule. In other words, it'll take ages for the next book. I have nothing to do with my life during that period. :(

The anxiety of wanting to know how the series would conclude itself, what other kinds of problems would arise, and what would happen to my favorite ship pairings put me on the edge of my reading armchair. Though, it eventually dies down because... well, ONE YEAR! If I could order the whole series without waiting for it to come out in the local bookstores, I would.

But when I hear about the sequel's announcement, I'll go insane again! I'll probably scream like a lunatic and receive glares and glowers from the people beside me. 0:) I mean, why wouldn't I be overly-excited when I see the cover, an excerpt, or a commercial poster of the book? Those prove that I've survived the yearlong torture and that I can go empty my wallet again! (If I had one! Sorry, mom!)

And then I'll read the book. ^_^
And then I'll finish reading the book. ^o^
And then I'll go through the torture all over again. >:D

#storyofmylife

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So guys, I again want to thank you for both reading Day 10 and for the 1,000 pageviews! Anyway, what are you excited about? The Olympics? New movies? Learning that you're actually a unicorn? Let me know!

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August 9, 2016

1,000 Pageviews!

It's only been around two weeks since my blog had started and I've already touched 1,000 pageviews! Yay! :D :D :D

I know it's not much, but everything starts small. And getting 1,000 pageviews is a feat for me. I've never tried to blogged—feared, honestly—because I didn't know what to blog about and also because I worry too much about what people might think of what I write. But I did it! c:

Actually, around 300 of them are from my own (pls disable self-pageview tracking, Blogger tqvm), but what about the rest? They're all from you guys! So thank you! :D

For now, I'll continue journaling my way throughout the month of August. But I'll definitely continue my blog afterward. I might post more things and maybe some excerpts or updates from my novel!

Thank you guys so much again for reading my blog. This means a lot to me even though 1,000 isn't such a biggie. And to those who commented, heartfelt thanks to you too! ^_^

Well, see you on Day 10! ;)

Journal Day 9; Aug 9, 2016

Day 9: Write about five blessings in your life.


Foreword


Not much to say this time. So, let's just get into it!

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

Five Blessings In My Life


1. Having a wonderful family
My mother sacrifices her time and energy to tend to my needs whereas my brother is a great person to monkey around with. I can't fathom a life without a family. Having friends are eons different than having a blood connection. My father had since passed when I was three. I was completely devastated and felt lost. But my mother took me in—though she had to quit her job. I would've been scarred for life if no one was there for me. So I'm grateful I have such a wonderful caring family.

2. Having a creative mind
Most of my friends have a logical mindset and I myself thought I had, too (didn't know the actual definition of "intelligence" hehehehe). But when I stumbled upon the world of writing, I discovered my real mindset. My tendency to improvise using recycled ideas and my capabilities in critical thinking as well as my talent with words point to me having a creative mindset instead! And if it weren't for my creative mind, I wouldn't have thought about writing a novel!

3. Having straight A's in UPSR
For those of you who aren't familiar with UPSR, it is a Malaysian examination which calibrates everything learned thus far from Year 1 to 6 (age 7 to 12) for the advancement to high school. In other words, big exam. I'm a flop in the Malay Language and I was convinced I would end up with 3 or 4 A's (there are 5 in total). But when I heard the announcer calling my name as one of the straight A's scorers, I thought I was dreaming! I couldn't tell if it was pure luck or it was from my hours of never studying. But I did it! Woooooooo!

4. Having mistakes
I might sound a bit cliché, but no one can be perfect at anything. Even masters at a particular field frequently make mistakes. However, what differentiates a real master from the crowd is how they approach their mistakes. In my view, mistakes are keys to attaining a quality result. I always try to receive opinions from my friends or family so I know what's wrong. With that knowledge, I can avoid it by changing my approach. I never make the same mistake twice... almost, because I value all of them. :) Once bitten, twice shy.

5. Having a stress-free life
Stress isn't something that should be taken lightly—just ask my friend, Lester. It's cumbersome to handle stress, let alone live a stressful life. Most of one's problems and future problems derive from all the accumulated stress. My mother always honors me the freedom to think what I want to think and do what I want to do. This, in turn, gives me a cheery life and outlook, plus open-mindedness. Therefore, I'm grateful for my stress-free life.

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Blessings in one's life doesn't occur every now and then. I'm in debt to everyone and everything that had made my life better, so thank you very much! :)

What are your blessings in your life that you'd like to share? Let me know!

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August 8, 2016

Journal Day 8; Aug 8, 2016

Day 8: Something that you always think, "What if..." about.


Foreword


A brand new week brings seven brand new topics! I have a lot of "What if" 's in my mind, but there's one that I simply love to daydream about. Allow me to share it with you guys. :)

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

Something That I Always Think, "What If..." About


What if books' worlds were real?

You heard me: what if books' worlds were real? Wouldn't it be fascinating if you could enter the world of detective Sherlock Holmes, solving mysteries as his second Dr. Watson? Or cast and learn magic alongside Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley in Hogwarts? You could watch the stars with Bella Swan or dash away in the thickets with Katniss Everdeen. A different book unfolds a far different world.

I've recently read An Author's Odyssey, which tells the story of a pair of twins whom set out on an adventure in—guess what?—their books! They were able to enter via the use of a potion which opens a portal into the book's dimension. Everything they've imagined, everything they've written, they were able to live it. If I had a chance to enter my world, I would definitely accept it. Just think of everything you could experience! A few drops of portal potion and voila!

If books' worlds were real, you could witness the adventures of each book through their eyes instead of your mind. To stroll the sprawling landscape of the world, to battle your hearts out against the villains, to cry uncontrollably feel the sorrow over the deaths of your favorite characters. But out of all that, the best thing that could happen with your presence is altering the story entirely. You could build a new tale from within the story itself. Just make sure you don't make your life hard, okay? ;)

Imagine the characters you've written with your soul in a book. Now imagine the characters you've written with your soul shaking your hands and saying, "Hi! It's nice to meet a friendly face around here." I would freak out (in a good way) if I met my characters. And to talk with them... *faints* And for them to touch me... *dies* But of course, it can't be just about meeting the good characters. Don't leave out the villains, too. They might fry your bottoms or kill you should you irritate them!

Journeying through a book is simply amazing; think of all the possibilities! If only it were true. :/ The world of literature is diverse, each unique in its way. Mmm, maybe one day someone might craft a portal potion. For now, though, living the adventures through my mind is satisfying enough. Anyway, I think I'll venture a book right now—no, through my imagination, silly!

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How interesting would it be for you if books' worlds were real? What are your "What if" 's that lingers in your mind? Let me know!

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August 7, 2016

Journal Day 7; Aug 7, 2016

Day 7: Choose one word of wisdom that influences your life and how.


Foreword


And comes the final day of the first week of August.
I had even more trouble thinking of a single word that influences my life than the previous one. -_-" I had to look around the internet and find the suitable word that I can relate to myself. But anyway, I finally found the word I was looking for, so allow me to start the topic for today! :D

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

One Word Of Wisdom That Influences My Life And How


Dedication is the one word of wisdom that influences my life. It's not easy to be committed to something. But when I do, I ought to put my whole effort and time into it, wanting the best out of anything. Therefore, I wholeheartedly value my dedication.

Whenever someone faced a difficult obstacle, there's a chance that he or she may turn around and walk back. For me, I will take it head on. Of course, not without proper scrutinizing from every angle before executing my plans. My dedication helps me strive onward and not give up too easily.

Without dedication, I wouldn't have been able to get here thus far. I mean, writing a book is harder than it looks. One has to persevere through things like writer's block and multiple grammatical mistakes so they can be satisfied with what is written. Dedication has bestowed me the passion to love and continue writing. It has also given me the ability to improve my works out of pure will with much vigor.

Anyway, dedication has definitely influenced my life. It is a strength of mine. If I didn't have it, I'd probably thrown in the towel on anything by now. In fact, I might have stopped doing this journal thing if dedication weren't there either. ;)

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Have you ever been committed to something so much that you put your soul into it? What is your word of wisdom that influences your life? Let me know!

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August 6, 2016

Journal Day 6; Aug 6, 2016

Day 6: Share something that you struggle with.


Foreword


The first weekend of this month has arrived! Yayyy!
Honestly, I had been thinking yesterday and today, "What do I struggle with?", when the answer was just flat on my face. I don't have much to say this topic either, so I'll just start it right away.

Thank you for reading my post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

Something I Struggle With 


Up until now, I've been struggling with social awkwardness. It bugs me in life, especially when I want to communicate and express myself, but I can't find myself to do it. And if I do do it, I'd probably make myself look like an idiot in public.

Whenever I'm chosen to go on stage/up in front, whether good or bad, competition or whatnot, I immediately get cold feet. I want to just go up there and do what I ought to do, but my mind keeps forcing me otherwise, despite being confident in myself. Seeing the crowd from up there is just too frightening! Even a crowd of two can send me backing into a corner! And when I am on the stage, my legs can't stop trembling. Maybe that's why I prefer not to participate in activities involving going up on stages. I even forget everything I remembered and stammer while speaking.

One more thing is that I can't bring myself to talk to strangers or acquaintances. I do my best to avoid talking to them or distance myself from the area. If I were to attend a party or a conference, I'd stick to the people I know, glue myself to a far corner, or slip out of the vicinity entirely. I would always ask my friend/family members to talk to them instead because when I do it, I'd smile awkwardly and stay silent. I don't know what to say! And when I know what to say, I say it in a way that is also awkward! I find it much easier to communicate through a screen than in person.

My social awkwardness has also made me reclusive. I tend to keep things to myself and I would only tell my problems to those closest to me. I rarely hang out with my friends outside, fancying staying at home and doing what I do. Besides that, I tend to take some things too personally, causing a far more hurting response from judgmental people. I try to understand what they mean and express it in a correct manner, but even that fails to deliver what I meant. I just can't seem to be able to express myself without being too sentimental or too demanding, thus I prefer being silent.

So, yeah, I'm very much socially awkward. I hope the way I expressed my points above was okay and relatable. I only wish I can speak to people more casually, but my strong self-enthusiasm and self-confidence collapse the moment I start talking. Despite that, I know struggles in life can be overcome with time, age, and experience. Because a little pick-me-up can always lift my mood anytime!

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And that's something that I struggle with up until now. If possible, can anyone of you give me some tips on how to quickly get over this problem of mine? Thanks in advance.
On the side note, what is your struggle(s) in life? Let me know!

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August 5, 2016

Journal Day 5; Aug 5, 2016

Day 5: List the 10 songs that you are in love now.


Foreword


It's my birthday today! :D :D :D WOOOOOOO~
Ehm... anyway. Now that Day 4's out of the way (never going to talk about it again), it's time for the fifth day on the journal calendar! I listen to a lot of songs, usually those which can influence emotions. They help me write a specific emotional scene better. But the thing is, I don't listen to songs with lyrics (sorry, love song fans); my taste is more to instrumental. This includes classical, orchestral, background music (BMGs), soundtracks, themes, and others. No loud music, either!

Enough talking, let's have me introduce to you my taste in music! Again, no specific order.

Thank you for reading this post, and I hope you'd read the following days' topics. :)
Enjoy reading!

(PS: My sincerest apologies for the late post. :( )

10 Songs That I Am In Love Now


1. Umineko – Dread of the Grave
I'll start this off with one of my most recent soundtracks I've heard and loved. This BGM comes from the murder mystery sound novel by Ryukishi07, 「うみねこのなく頃に」 (EN: Umineko; lit: Seagulls When They Cry), inspired by Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None. This theme plays when Battler Ushiromiya, the protagonist, countering a move—similarly to Phoenix Wright making an objection.

All of the music are splendid and successfully set the mood in each scene, but the one that captured my heart was this theme. The rhythm, beat, and transitions between slow and fast make it sound triumphant. And it is! I could listen to this whenever I write a victory scene; it's perfect!


2. Jacques Offenbach – Cancan
Never ever nor will be tired of this piece by Jacques Offenbach, a German-born French composer. This is a superbly done classical piece you'd probably heard of but don't know the name to. Here's something to ring a bell: it's the song you'd hear when wild goose chases happen.

Right from the overture down to the ending, the piece is awesome! It's so vibrant and bouncy, the perfect kind of music you'd want to sway your dress, high kick, and cartwheel to. (No seriously, people do do that ( ._.) ). I'd probably listen to this music whenever my character does something stupid that causes a chain reaction. Well composed, Offenbach!


3. Undertale – Undertale (Main Theme)
A soundtrack composed by Toby Fox, from the game Undertale, also by Toby Fox, eponymously named Undertale. Undertale is a kickstarted 8-bit RPG bullet hell game, with an excellent story and even more excellent tracks. When I first played this, I knew I couldn't click that big red "X" button until I finished the game.

The main theme plays at the near end of the game (SPOILERS!!), when protagonist Frisk travels through New Home while the story of Asriel and Chara is told. It's a heartfelt song that invokes a soothing calmness. I'd listen to this whenever I'd write a traveling scene or when a tragedy is resolved.


4. Final Fantasy X – To Zanarkand
I haven't played Final Fantasy X, but my brother did once. Even then, I forgot almost everything about it, except this one theme. To Zanarkand is composed by Square Enix, the same company that produced games such as HITMANTM, Kingdom Hearts II, and Call of Duty 4.

Unfortunately, because I haven't played the game before, I have no idea when the BMG plays. It plays in a high-pitched tune and in soft piano notes. Imagine you, yearning to return home, but your home is in ruins, and this song starts playing. The overwhelming sadness is compelling enough to send imaginary tears down my cheeks.


5. Yiruma – River Flows in You
When I first heard this piece, I fell in love with it immediately. In fact, when I first heard this piece, my mind scream, "Okay, I have to learn how to play this on the Virtual Piano." It is a piano piece composed by Korean pianist Yiruma.

The tune is just so serene and tranquil... peaceful. I feel at ease listening to it. The name is pretty suitable too. A river does seem to be flowing inside me as I listen to the piece. Yiruma: great with naming, greater in composing, greatest with playing.


6. Faraway Voyage of 300 000 Kilometers (Orchestral Arrange)
Another song from a game. What can I say? I'm drawn to games with terrific music! This is one of the many, many themes of the Touhou series 「東方」, a bullet hell game made solely by a single person, ZUN. And I mean everything—from the music to the characters to the story.

I seriously love orchestral arrangements of the music in the game. As if the music itself wasn't already well composed by ZUN, the orchestral arrangements make it even better! This is the Stage 5 theme from Touhou 15 – Legacy of Lunatic Kingdom 「東方紺珠伝」, which happens to be the latest game as of this post.


7. CLANNAD – Dango Daikazoku
Well, when I said I don't listen to music with lyrics, it doesn't mean I won't listen to music with lyrics. This is the only one in the list that has lyrics. Dango Daikazoku 「だんご大家族」, or in English, Big Dango Family, is the ending theme of the anime, CLANNAD. CLANNAD itself came from the visual novel of the same name.

The song is sung in a soft voice throughout the video. In the beginning, it starts off cute and cuddly. But as the song goes on, it builds up and the rhythm and beat become powerful. Even my heartbeat starts to follow the song. The song is beautiful and that's why I fell in love with it. Not just that, it has a far deeper meaning than talking about a big dango family. Curious? Why not research? ;)


8. Shadow of the Colossus – The Opened Way
Something more intense for the change. This theme comes from the game, Shadow of the Colossus by Team Ico, a PS2 game known for being incredibly well made for such a platform. The story of the game is incredibly sad and heartwarming. It is one of the themes that would play when you climb atop a colossus.

I have to say, The Opened Way brings out the heat of the battle. Climbing a moss-covered few-hundred-meters giant is no easy task, let alone trying to kill it. And what's even better about it? It loops flawlessly and the balance is perfect. I can listen to it for a full ten minutes without realizing how long I've been listening to it.


9. The Nightmare before Christmas – This is Halloween (Instrumental)
Finally a song from a movie! This is from a Disney classic, The Nightmare before Christmas. Too bad I prefer listening to the instrumental version, hehe. It is composed by Danny Elfman. The song is as good with lyrics as it is without them too!

I like how the song has a sense of mystery and creepiness without actually having a sense of mystery nor creepiness. Well, it is a celebrative song, in dedication to Jack Skellington and Halloween. I also like how there's a bit of Christmas jingle thrown in there. Nice, Disney, nice.


10. Johann Strauss II – Tritsch-Tratsch Polka
This list can't properly end without another classical one! A piece by Austrian composer Johann Strauss II, Tritsch-Tratsch Polka is a jolly tune. I've listened to it once when I first watched Tom & Jerry, but I didn't know the name. Now that I know the name, I just can't stop listening to it.

It's a great piece to listen to. Energetic, merry, and puts a smile on my face whenever I listen to it. Most importantly, it's catchy! Sometimes, I find myself humming to it without realizing.


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Well, those are my 10 songs that I'm in love now. Did you fell in love with any of mine? If you had listened to all 10 of them, I salute you! What are your 10 songs that you are in love with now? Let me know!
Extra challenge: Guess which song I was listening to while I was writing this!

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