Davin Indah Love story

Today, I declared that I am enough. Enough of chasing things that are not in season yet. Enough of trying to be “God.” Enough of doing more than what I’m called to do. Enough of worrying endlessly about my career and future. Enough of hustling aimlessly just to feel productive. The past few days, I felt lost. I worried about my business, our finances, and the future. I started thinking about doing everything possible — becoming a Lalamove driver, working longer hours, pushing myself harder — because I felt like maybe I hadn’t done enough. But eventually, when I tried to carry more than what God actually asked of me, I became frustrated, exhausted, and hard on myself. Looking around me, seeing people getting retrenched and struggling financially breaks my heart. I wanted to help them, but I felt helpless because honestly, I was struggling too. No matter how hard I tried, my business still felt like it wasn’t moving anywhere. Then this morning during my quiet time with God, He brought me...

The past 2 days, I was in “panic attack” mode. Suddenly I felt anxious. My mind became noisy. I started making decisions without really thinking clearly. I was confused. Stuck. Worried about how this business will move forward. I revamped the website. Ran social media ads. Reached out to previous customers. But nothing happened. The inbox stayed empty. No WhatsApp enquiries. No bookings. Slowly, I started doubting myself. Out of panic, I opened LinkedIn, JobStreet, and Glassdoor and started applying for jobs — honestly, even jobs that I myself was not sure about. Maybe I just wanted to feel useful again. To feel productive. To feel like I was doing “something” instead of waiting. But strangely, there was still no peace inside me. So I decided to slow down. I went for Mass. Spent some quiet time. And in the morning during my cardio time, I listened to sermons by Rick Warren. Interestingly, he talked about God’s timing. God has His own timetable. And His time is very different from ours ...

I felt a little sad and disappointed this Mother’s Day. Maybe I expected too much. Maybe I’ve been carrying so much silently that people no longer see it. Or maybe… I’ve become “the strong woman” everyone assumes is always okay. At the beginning, I already knew that having 3 boys probably means no romantic surprises, flowers, or emotional Mother’s Day messages 😅 So honestly, I didn’t expect gifts. But deep down, I thought maybe there would at least be a simple special dinner planned for me. Instead… nothing happened 😂 I still had to collect the shoes for our youngest son, settle a quick dinner for everyone, watch the family movie, clean the bed, and do simple household chores because our helper was off duty. And somewhere in the middle of all that, I suddenly realised… Motherhood can feel very invisible sometimes. So this Thursday, I decided to give myself a small gift instead. A little solo escape to JB: 2-hour massage, movie marathon nobody else would enjoy 😂 (Michael Jackson docu...

What’s the most demoralising part of running a small business? It’s when you feel like you’ve given your best… but nothing seems to happen. You spend hours creating content you believe could help people, but barely anyone reads it. You build a website with care and hope, but only a few people click on it. And the hardest part? You realise you have no control over who becomes your customer. Deep down, I’ve always believed that every customer who comes to us is not because of our own greatness or strength — but truly God’s grace and provision. Still, there are days filled with disappointment and silent doubts. But somehow… hope comes again. Last month, we received a booking for a trip happening next year. Yesterday, another customer contacted us because they needed winter jackets for working inside a cold room. And last night, someone booked a try-on session for her December holiday — even though it’s still 6 months away. Sometimes God sends encouragement in unexpected ways. Just enough ...

When I first started WinterBuddy, I remembered a story about two builders who wanted to build a house. Both started with almost nothing. The first builder simply began with whatever he had. It wasn’t perfect. He didn’t have enough resources, enough knowledge, or even a clear guarantee that it would work. But he started anyway. As he continued building, little by little, help came along. Neighbours chipped in. Family supported him. Opportunities appeared. Within a year, the house was built. The second builder spent all his time waiting for the “right time.” He kept planning, strategising, and overthinking every detail. But because he never truly started, nothing was ever built. Looking back now, I realise I was probably like the first builder. When I started WinterBuddy, I honestly didn’t have much. My capital was very small. I didn’t know the market well. I didn’t know how to build a website. I was terrible at accounting and analysing backend numbers. Most of the operational side of ru...

Contentment doesn’t mean being lazy, complacent, or lacking ambition. Instead, it is the ability to appreciate and enjoy the present moment—without waiting for something better to happen before allowing ourselves to be happy. There are three ways to grow in contentment: 1. Stop comparing In the age of social media, it’s so easy to compare our lives with others. What we see online often looks perfect, but every person carries a story that is not posted or seen. Comparison quietly steals our joy. If it becomes too difficult to resist, it may even be wise to step away from social media for a while. 2. More doesn’t mean happier The world constantly tells us to upgrade—more money, more status, more possessions. But does “more” truly make us happier? Everything we chase in this world has an expiry date. Lasting joy is not found in having more, but in learning to be grateful and content with what we already have. 3. Learn to admire without needing to own Many people work tirelessly to own bea...

As I was doing my usual treadmill routine, I watched a YouTube video of  Rick Warren  sharing about how to experience peace beyond human understanding—peace that is not dependent on our circumstances. He outlined five simple yet powerful steps: Do not worry about anything Pray about everything Give thanks in all things Keep your mind on good things Be content in everything It sounds so simple—almost too simple. And yet, these are things we can actually do. The challenge is that both internal and external noise often overwhelm us, making us worry unnecessarily. One statement that really struck me was this: We are not born as worriers —we learn to worry from the people around us. And if worry can be learned, it can also be unlearned. That shifted something in me. If I worry about something I cannot change, then there is no point in worrying. But if it’s something I  can  change, then instead of worrying, I should use my energy to take action. Another powerful reminder ...

These are God’s words that echo so strongly in my heart. Not once, not twice—but three times. And when God repeats something, I know He is serious. These passage came from Joshua chapter 1:5-9 No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.   6  Be strong and courageous , because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. 7  “ Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.   8  Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.   9  Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous...

Continuing from our previous story about searching for storage for our business, God’s providence came in a way I never expected—beyond what I could have imagined. At that point, I was still discerning between a few storage options, and time was running out. I told my husband honestly, “I don’t know what God wants.” He asked me, “What do you feel? Which option is pulling you more strongly?” But the truth was—I didn’t feel strongly about any of them. He then said something that stayed with me: “God’s way is often not the easiest. Sometimes He leads us to places that feel unfamiliar so we learn to rely more on Him.” He suggested Ubi, since it was a new place for us, outside our comfort zone. Since I had no clear inclination, I chose to follow his suggestion. From a practical standpoint, Ubi made sense—it was more affordable, bigger, and offered monthly payment. There really wasn’t another option that matched those benefits. Before making the final decision, I went for a weekday Mass at S...

This month I need to make an important decision about my storage, as the lease will end at the end of this month. I have been praying and asking for God’s guidance. Yet sometimes it feels as if God is silent—or perhaps my own anxiety and expectations are making it hard for me to hear Him clearly. The rent for the current unit will increase sharply, and to sustain my business, staying there is simply not possible. My options are either to move to a different unit or relocate to a different area altogether. It’s a difficult decision because I have grown comfortable in the current location. If I move to a new place, I will have to dismantle and rebuild the entire inventory setup, update the system, and reorganize everything. But the payment structure there is monthly, which would help my cash flow and allow me to allocate some funds toward advertising. As I continued praying, God reminded me of two stories. The first is when the Israelites were leaving Egypt. They could have taken a shor...

Yesterday, I reached a point where I felt completely overwhelmed. I told God honestly, “I’m tired.” Tired of trying to be a good and obedient girl while my work problems remain unsolved. My business has no customers right now, which means no revenue. Yet the expenses keep coming — warehouse costs, the car, and other commitments. The waiting and uncertainty are exhausting. I’ve been praying day and night. Attending weekday Mass. Completing the 54-day novena. Praying to St. Joseph. And still… nothing seems to change. In my frustration, I even told God that it felt pointless to keep being obedient and faithful if everything stayed the same. But this morning, something gentle happened. While doing cardio at the gym, I was watching YouTube, and a video from Rick Warren about the  six tests from God  appeared. I clicked on it. Somehow it felt like God knew exactly what was going on in my heart. The video led me to  Hebrews 11 , the chapter about faith. And slowly, my doubts sta...

Yesterday, I watched the movie  Risen . It tells the story of a Roman tribune who was tasked with investigating the missing body of Jesus after the crucifixion. During his search, he eventually encounters the risen Christ himself. One scene stayed with me. When they were sitting quietly together, Jesus asked him a simple question: “What do you seek?” That question echoed in my heart. What do I seek? I began to realize that part of my restlessness may come from not knowing the answer to that question. There are moments when I feel like something is missing, as if what I have is somehow not enough. Yet deep inside, I know that it’s not because I am ungrateful. I am very aware of how blessed I am. I have a loving husband, healthy and growing children, a peaceful family life, and a home that is fully paid. Over the years, we have even had opportunities to travel and experience many beautiful places together. But if that is the case,  why do I still feel restless sometimes? When I ...

This week has felt like a spiritual roller coaster for me. There were moments when I felt lifted up, full of positive energy and hope. But there were also moments when I felt very low, overwhelmed by negative thoughts and confusion. It feels like a spiritual battle happening inside my heart. On one side, I feel deeply grateful for everything I already have. I am blessed with good health, a loving husband, kind and mature children, and a harmonious family. We have a roof over our heads and a car that serves our daily needs—even though it will expire in two months. Yet on the other side, I sometimes feel restless and inadequate, as if I am not contributing enough financially to our household. My business has been slowing down as we approach summer. I am uncertain about the demand for winter rentals in June and July for destinations like Australia and New Zealand, since their winters are milder compared to places like Japan or Northern Europe. Another concern on my mind is our storage spa...

Two weeks ago, our family watched  True Spirit  on  Netflix . The movie deeply resonated with me—not just as a story of courage, but as a reflection of the entrepreneurial journey. A Short Synopsis of  True Spirit The Mission Driven by a lifelong dream, 16-year-old  Jessica Watson  attempts to sail solo, non-stop, and unassisted around the globe. The Challenges Even before the journey begins, she faces intense public scrutiny after colliding with a cargo ship during a trial run. Once at sea, she endures massive storms, deep isolation, and dangerous equipment failures—including a terrifying knockdown that leaves her briefly unconscious. The Support The film highlights the important role of her family and her coach,  Ben Bryant , who helps guide her through both psychological and physical challenges from afar. The Outcome Despite critics questioning her maturity and ability, Jessica completes her 210-day journey and returns to Australia to a hero’s welco...

Finally, I have time to write this journal again. The business has quieted down now that the winter season has ended and spring has begun. On top of that, the war that broke out in Iran has caused many flight disruptions, especially for Middle Eastern carriers. Many flights have been cancelled, affecting tourists around the world who are in transit. Once again, ordinary people’s lives are disrupted by events far beyond their control. As things slow down, it gives me time to pause, rethink my strategy, redirect my life, and recharge my spirituality. Last night I felt completely overwhelmed. Our car’s COE is expiring at the end of May, and we are facing a dilemma: should we extend the COE for another five years or rent a car first before eventually buying a new one? We do not want the car to become a liability. Yet at the same time, I need a car to support my tuition work and my business. After much careful consideration and prayer, I decided to apply to become a private hire driver. It ...

This marks the end of our 18-day pilgrimage across Italy and France. It was truly a fruitful and blessed journey. Each of us experienced healing and miracles in our own way, both seen and unseen. For myself, I feel deeply enlightened and renewed. Reflecting on the life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux reminded me that extraordinary holiness can grow from ordinary, simple acts done with great love. During the Sacrament of Reconciliation, a priest encouraged me to live more acts of charity and mercy. These words stayed with me and have now become the guiding theme of my life in 2026. Another beautiful piece of advice I received was this: the closer we grow to God, the simpler our lives become. We begin to focus on what truly matters, instead of chasing after things that fade so quickly. Our youngest son experienced his own miracle at San Giovanni Rotondo. We entrust him to the care of Padre Pio, praying that he will always guide and protect him along his path. Our second son also experienced a ...

Today marks one year since my journey shifted from a busy working mom to a stay-at-home mom with a side hustle. This past year has been a  refining and pruning season  from God — a time when He purified my heart, refined my character, and stripped away worldly motivations and selfishness. It wasn’t an easy process. I’m naturally stubborn, impulsive, and a fighter at heart. I had my own principles and ways of thinking — even my husband often found it difficult to advise me. But God, in His mercy, broke off every branch that wasn’t bearing good fruit for my growth. There were times when I felt low, unworthy, and lacking confidence. I questioned myself —  What am I doing here? Am I even useful? My faith often hung by a thread, especially after starting this business. There were no customers, finances were in the red, and yet I had to keep planting and nurturing the seeds, not knowing if they would ever grow. My only source of strength was the  Eucharist . I spent many a...

I’m deeply grateful for God’s mercy and generosity toward His lowly servant. Last week was a hectic one after returning from our business trip — I had to update the inventory, website, and accounting, while also welcoming two groups of customers for try-ons and preparing for our very first pop-up event. By God’s grace, both groups booked their winter wear with us for their upcoming December holidays. 🙏 I truly thank God for His providence. I know it’s not by my own strength, but by His generosity and guidance. And now, we’re preparing for another try-on session at the end of this month for a family traveling to Japan. I surrender everything to God. If He is the One who opens the door, He will surely provide and help me accomplish the mission He has entrusted to me. 💙

Two weeks ago, I was feeling so down and desperate that I didn’t even know what to pray for anymore. During midday Mass at the Church of St. Mary of the Angels, I broke down and cried hopelessly during the Eucharist. All I could say was,  “Help me, Lord. I am drowning and don’t know what to do.” In that moment, I imagined myself like St. Peter when he began to sink after stepping out onto the water to walk toward Jesus. He saw the storm, panicked, and began to drown—yet Jesus reached out His hand to save him. I felt the same way, needing His hand to lift me up. After Mass, I messaged my supplier to check on some stock because I had a customer preparing to travel to Finland. To my surprise, she told me her shop would be closed in October for renovations and only reopen in November. I was puzzled, but I realized I had no choice—I needed to go earlier, and the only window available was during PSLE week. Since my husband had to be with our child for the PSLE, I went alone. I prayed aga...

When I was at the gym, I came across a YouTube video by Stefanie Gass about running a God-led business. As I continued listening to her podcasts, I found one episode that deeply spoke to me:  Business Meeting with God . She explained how important it is to have regular  “business meetings with God” —whether weekly, biweekly, or monthly. God is the CEO. He sees the bigger picture and knows what’s ahead, while we are His employees. That’s why we need to consult Him and ask for direction instead of relying on our own plans. Here’s how Stefanie suggested having a business meeting with God: Prepare a quiet space—light a candle, bring your Bible, journal, and a pen. Begin with praise and worship. Spend a silent moment asking God to speak. Be attentive—He may prompt you to read a certain verse or remind you of something. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal God’s direction. God is not a God of confusion but of clarity. Often, we struggle not because He isn’t clear, but because His guidance ...