"Escape from Cubicle Nation"

Arms wide open! Freedom!

Allow me to describe this brand new phase in my life as, borrowing Pamela Slim's bestselling book, my temporary "Escape from Cubicle Nation".

Yes, I have broken free from the four corners of my gray and blue cubicle and stepped out into the unknown. Some people feared for me - my mother and former bosses, some cheered - those who want to do the same (mothers like me), and some wept - my beloved young, gung-ho team and I wept with them as well.

This is officially on a proof of concept period: I have dedicated myself to taking care of my three year old daughter who looked a lot like Dora the Explorer. On the side, my desk is open for some freelance work - graphic design, speechwriting, blogging, events - whatever I can put my free hands on.

April 16 was my last day at work, and six days later- I am already pushing myself to set realistic plans of what I will do from hereon to end of the year.

I know. I am in the withdrawal period. For over 8 years, my head, hands, feet, legs and all of me were so used to working for 8 to 12 hours a day, commuting from home to the office and back, and rushing things here and there. The slow pace of my hiatus is like a new drug my body is still finding time to respond to, made worst by home temptations: (since my daughter's schooling is two months away) it is easy to lie down, sleep, eat and watch TV all day!

Alas! Tomorrow is Friday. My plan is all set (home chores, complete office clearances, finish entry, driving lessons etc) - I must push myself to stick to it!