Nostalgic Holiday Mood

My body is here but my heart is somewhere else already. My boss is trying his best to make me feel guilty for leaving on such a long break - without much success, I must say.

"Did you know, I chopped off all the long leaves of the other heads of department except yours?" he told me today.

And also, "Don't worry, I shall discuss the other project with your assistant in your absence." But his twinkling eyes held hope that I would feel guilty for extricating myself from work responsibilities during my two-week break.

Fat hopes indeed

The nearer the date of departure creeps, the memories of Australia - so long ago and almost forgotten - starts resurfacing. I loved living in Melbourne during my year of study there. I even had plans to settle down there for good. There, people understand and wouldn't look down on me for not being able to speak in Mandarin or Cantonese.

I loved experiencing the four seasons there and the long, long walks I used to take in seasons other than summer. Here, I avoid walking in the humid and hot sun as much as possible and duck into air-conditioned places whenever I can. I loved the tea and scones at Cuckoo Restaurant, Mount Dandenong. The authentic Hong Kong dimsum and Italian foodies. The efficient public transport system that truly does arrive and leave on the dot! That's a major culture shock for any Malaysian, let me tell you that.

Aaah, Melbourne. I can't wait to see thee and traipse upon thy streets again.