My Surprise 45th Birthday in Bangkok with Family at Nobu

I turned 45 in a way I really didn’t expect.

On the morning of my birthday, it started like any other morning we’ve had in Bangkok. I followed my boyfriend to the office for a cup of coffee, but that day he said he wanted a haircut first, so I tagged along. After that, we went to his office, and he told me to wait for him so we could head back to the hotel together and maybe have lunch later.

Back at the hotel, he had a conference call. I was thinking of going for a run, but realised I had forgotten my socks (classic me), so I stayed in the room, played some games and just waited.

Then the doorbell rang.

I opened the door and just froze.

There were my siblings, nieces and nephew standing there with a cake, singing happy birthday. I was honestly stunned. It took a few seconds for it to register that they were really there, in Bangkok, as a surprise for me.

Apparently, my boyfriend had been planning this for two weeks — hahaa, so not him actually. Especially with how busy and stressed he has been with work, it made me feel even more grateful.

In the evening, we went to Nobu, a place my boyfriend had wanted to go to for a while, so he made it part of the celebration. High above the city on a rooftop, with Bangkok lights around us, it felt like a special occasion in every sense.

(Original photo recreated to protect the privacy of my niece and nephews.)

We talked nonsense, laughed and caught up on life. It was fancy — not really my style — too atas... but because he had arranged it, it felt meaningful. And somehow, what made it special wasn’t the place, but simply having everyone there together.

I think at this age, I don’t really need big celebrations. But this meant a lot — the effort, the thought behind it, and just having family around me.

And thanks to my boyfriend and my siblings for keeping this so quiet from me. There was so much thought and effort behind this surprise, and I felt deeply grateful. It was more than a celebration — it became one of those simple but meaningful memories I know I’ll return to often. 💛

May xx

Just a Quick Check-In

Life has been moving… a bit of everything. Nothing too exciting, but not bad either.

I’ve been dealing with some shin pain and plantar fasciitis, so I haven’t been running. It’s a bit frustrating, but I’m trying to let my body recover properly and not rush the process. Some days feel better than others, but for now, I’m just taking it one step at a time.

I flew back from Singapore to Chonburi for a few days because my partner had some work to do. We also came back to pick up the car so we can drive down to Penang.

Another road trip… from Bangkok to Penang. Same time last year. Hahaha.

Haven’t really had the mood to write lately, but I thought I should show up here again.

Sometimes, that’s enough.

Sometimes, just being present is already something.

May xx