What a day it has been….and it’s not over yet.

I continued where we (Jeannie and I) left off yesterday. Yesterday, we started putting to action what we have been talking and planning for the last 2 weeks or so.

We have been putting together a public relations and marketing plan for my newly published book, SPARKS OF JOY – SEIZE THE MOMENT. We’ve been speaking to multiple people who are connected and / or related in these areas of expertise. Many, many people have offered us advice and suggestions, which we have noted and are taking into consideration. We have got certain parts of this “master plan” put into action. We are extremely excited as to how things are taking shape.

One of the things penciled (not really pencil as in using a “pencil. It’s just a figure of speech to make it look [or is it sound?] nicer or more canggih[1]) was to get a new tattoo done today. I have been wanting to add another piece of tattoo art for a few weeks but had been putting it off. One of the reasons is (or could be. Is it a reason? Haha) I had not “penciled” it in my calendar or Tasks. Which meant it was not tha-a-a-t important, until I finally pencil-ed it in. The word to stress on is “finally”.

I think another reason that I had not scheduled a tattoo appointment earlier was because I had not decided on a tattoo. There were so many (that’s putting it mildly) to choose from. When I picked one, a whole new range of others popped up. And you know how when you show an interest in something, that something pops up all over your phone, that it won’t leave you alone. It is not just one website. It’s like** everywhere. Once you’ve “invested” in that item, thing or service; it stops popping up on your screen. I know I can shut off these auto-ads, but when you are interested in something, you want to see more. And you don’t have to go looking for it. It comes to you. 😂

I scheduled the tattoo appointment for yesterday since it was a holiday in the week (Tuesday). However, my tattooist messaged me saying that he had to cancel our appointment because he was not well. I agreed to re-schedule it for today. I mean since I decided to do it, it had to be done. I go all the way. “Strike while the iron is hot” or something like that. 😉

The next day (that is today) came. I got a call from my cousin, Chris, asking to meet up this afternoon. I agreed, saying that we could meet after I got my tattoo done.

Towards the late part of the morning, I received a message from my tattooist that he was still not well and would not be in. I asked if one of his colleagues could “perform the procedure” in his place. He put me on to his “mentor”, a young lady by the name of “Rui”. She had to fill in (pun? intended) for another colleague who was on emergency leave, but could see me at about 5.00pm.

Which meant that I would meet with Chris first before getting my tattoo done. Our rendezvous was 2.00pm at Good Ground Bakery (GGB).

Got to GGB just before 2.00pm. Greeted by its Happiness Ambassadors (they are all very happy), Monique and Joanne (my favourite barista); I ordered a long-black and made my way to a table past the counter as the tables in front were all taken up.

Chris arrived a short while later. By that time, there was a table in front that was available, so we decided to sit there. We had our usual family updates. Lots of yarns and jokes.

Sitting in front gives us a view of the outside through the full length glass panels and door, sort of “al fresco” but in the comfort of air-conditioning, away from the hot and humid afternoon weather.

GGB had its usual crowd. People kept coming and going. Then suddenly, this tall very attractive lady, a model in her own right; swung open the door and stepped in. I recognized her instantly. My favourite violinist (not just any violinist, but an electric violinist) of all time; Joanne Yeoh. “Hi, Joanne”, I greeted her.

I was elated to see her, in person. Joanne instantly caught my attention when I first met her over 20 years ago. I took to her immediately. Her persona was one of vibrance, excitement, fun, seriousness, humble, gentle and kind. If I was to point out the very first thing that struck me about her, it was that she was electrifyingly colourfully bold, with a smile that melts hearts. She captures her audience instantaneously. I was one of them.

Joanne is one of those super amazing people that you could become best friends with immediately. I was blown away by her amazing talent and showmanship. This virtue of hers has stuck with me since then.

We have been communicating with each other through Facebook and Instagram through the years but never had the opportunity to meet again…until now. In fact, I was thinking about her over the last few days. There’s a saying, “Long life”.

One of the things she did recently, that touched me was when she performed for the Kajang prison inmates. It was indeed, a noble gesture.

I believe and know that this is in her nature…to inspire and bring joy, hope and love with her talent and kindness.

I told Joanne that I spend many an afternoon, having coffee and pastries at GGB. Always a good place to be. I also mentioned that I just published a book and showed her a copy of it which I had with me. She purchased a copy for herself and asked to personalise it for her; which I gladly did. It was more an honour for me.

Joanne was in GGB for about half an hour and then left. It was also about the time for me to make my way for my appointment with Rui, the tattooist. Keep a lookout for my write-up on my new tattoo. It promises a message, too. Till then…

NOTES:
1. Canggih is a Malay word for sophisticated in English.

**Did I just use the “like” word as a matter of speaking, sounding like ’em youngsters? I am young, no denying that; just a bit older than ’em young ones.😉