20.07.2007 [30 and Happy!]

I just turned 30 today on the 20.07.2007. What a beautiful date to remember the new Big change in my life I guess. But frankly, I don't feel any different, I was expecting some big reflection time, feelings of guilt, or whatever that makes one feel 30. But I am the same. However, this day IS Special, not only because of the numeral coincidence, but because I feel so touched and humbled by the gestures of my family and friends.

Habibi is not here to celebrate this birthday with me, but I think that was for the best. I just can imagine him having a ball mocking at me for entering "the club". The parting gift that was meant for my 30th birthday was the most precious thing I ever received in my life. Thank you darling. Thanks for spoiling me, your very naughty wify.

I woke up and was greeted with so many birthday greetings from all over the world at Rantauan.com of course. Thank you Kak Teh for remembering my birthday. It is exactly 4 years ago that we met in the same month in London and watch Raihan in concert.

This morning I was invited for a nice breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya by our dear Mak Buyung a.k.a Nazrah in WhiteSands, Pasir Ris. Thank you Naz, I had a great time this morning, chatting and catching up with you. Rasa macam tak puas je, but inshaallah we will catch up again. And I"ll bring some airsickness bags along. hehe. Thanks for the present, its lovely, and i love it.

Then, my old friend gave me a shock of my life. We were having some disputes over the week about communications and confirming appointments. I am too tired to explain now...however, she surprised me with a hamper of my favourite home-made sardine curry puff self-delivered to my doorstep. And she lives in the other end of Singapore. Her mother made the puffs and her dad sent her to my place. I am so touched.

My other old friend bought me a huge Esprit Bag yesterday, so now both of us have the same one. It is so practical for Mommies!

At home, Mak gave me ang pow, hugs and kisses. Thank you Mak. Around her, I"m not 20, 30 or 40, but just a child who is so grateful for a kind soul like her.

Ibu gave me a treat to a wonderful meal at Kampung Chai Chee Seafood Restaurant that had me unbuttoning my pants. The whole family was there. Including my new cousin-angkat, Beatrice - my cousin's best friend. It was so fun. Food was fantastic.

The last surprise came after we came back from dinner. Lina & Amran sent me a birthday cake but since we were out, it was delivered later. My last present before the clock strikes 12mn tonight, and the birthday is over.

What a wonderful gift from Allah that I receive today for my 30th birthday. All my family, my friends, wonderful gestures, kind thoughts, warm wishes. Mashaallah, I am so blessed.

Thank you Allah. Please help me. Protect me, and don"t ever let me stray from your path. Keep my family and friends safe and healthy, keep the love and the bond between us strong forever. Help us become better for you.
Ameen.