I used to weigh between 47 and 49kg for most of my adult life. Back then, fitting into an XS was just... normal. I never thought much about it.
Then COVID happened. Yes, I still blame COVID.
Living in Penang during the lockdown meant we were confined to our homes. We could only leave for groceries and travel within a limited radius. Like many others, I started working from home, and the boundaries between work and life disappeared.
Wake up.
Work.
Lunch at my desk.
Keep working.
Before I knew it, it was evening.
There was no commute, no reason to get up, and somehow there was never an end to the workday.
I tried to stay active, but it wasn't the same.
When the world finally reopened, life had changed. Many of my running friends had retired from running, and not long after that, I moved to another country. I still went for the occasional run with colleagues, but the routine and community I once had slowly faded away.
Then work became busier.
Then I left my job and moved to Bangkok to be with my boyfriend.
Life settled into a completely different rhythm.
By then, I was hovering around 52kg.
At first, it didn't seem like much. But little by little, I noticed the changes.
My XS clothes stayed in the wardrobe.
Then I moved into size S.
Then M.
Eventually, even some of my M-sized clothes no longer fit comfortably.
I don't buy clothes often. So when I do, it's usually because I genuinely need them.
Yesterday, I went shopping.
For the first time, I didn't even bother reaching for a size M.
I picked up a size L without thinking. Five years ago, I would never have imagined doing that.
This morning, the scale read 59.8kg.
A younger version of me would probably have panicked.
Today?
Not anymore.
I've tried.
I've trained for marathons.
I've walked, run, swum, and started over more times than I can count.
Could I do more? Probably.
Should I start strength training? Definitely.
Could I eat better? Probably.
But life isn't lived in perfect training cycles.
Sometimes you're building a career.
Sometimes you're moving countries.
Sometimes you're trying to settle into a new place.
Sometimes you're so busy showing up for the people you love...
...that somewhere along the way, you forget to show up for yourself.
Age changes us.
Hormones change us.
Life changes us.
Do I still want to become stronger and healthier?
Absolutely.
Not because I want to fit back into an XS.
Not because I want to see 49kg on the scale again.
But because I want to feel strong.
I want to keep running.
Keep travelling.
Keep exploring.
Keep saying yes to adventures.
So yes, today I'm 59.8kg.
The clothes are bigger.
The body is different.
The pace isn't what it used to be.
Would I like to lose a few kilos? Of course.
But I'm not going to beat myself up over it anymore.
Life happened.
Age happened.
And that's okay.
So I'll just keep moving.
One last thing before I end...
This isn't about saying one size is better than another, or that there's anything wrong with being a size L.
It's simply an honest reflection on how my body has changed over the years. We all have different bodies, different lifestyles, different genetics and different life journeys. This one just happens to be mine.
I'm curious...
Have you noticed your body changing too?
Was there a moment when you realised things weren't quite the same anymore?
What has helped you make peace with those changes—or are you still figuring it out?
I'd genuinely love to hear your story. Let's have an honest conversation in the comments. ❤️
I wasn’t athletic when I was young. I loved running, but I was never fast enough to compete properly. The only “competitions” I joined were school sports days, running for my house. That was about it.
After I started working, keeping fit wasn’t a priority at all. Exercise wasn’t even in my dictionary. Running? Training? A healthy lifestyle? I didn’t think about any of that. Life was about work, getting things done, and moving on to the next thing.
I started running again in 2012 with my 🐷 sister and her friend, our adik bongbongsu. My first run was a 10km race. No training. I honestly thought, “How hard can 10km be?” Trust me — it was brutal. My legs were so sore I walked like a crab for days.
But somehow, I went back for more. Slowly, my sister and I continued this running journey together. She has always been my biggest motivator to keep running. My second race — again, with no proper training — was 17km. Painful, tiring, uncomfortable… yet I started to enjoy these little tortures and challenges. Our motto back then was “lambat janji sampai” — and I added “dan selamat”. Years ago, there were quite a lot of accidents during races. It was scary. Finishing safely mattered more than speed.
I couldn’t fully commit to running at that time because I was doing my degree and later my master’s, mostly on weekends. But once I completed my studies in 2016, I ran whenever I could. Weekends became running days. I met many running friends through events. I even flew to nearby “overseas” destinations just to run, because there weren’t many running events in Penang back then. I was addicted.
There were podium finishes at small races. The excitement. The community. The routine.
Then COVID happened. Everything stopped. We were locked inside our homes. I lost my running momentum. I lost touch with my running friends. When things slowly opened up again, work took over. My job demanded more time and presence, and running became my way to release stress rather than something competitive. Events no longer crossed my mind — I never knew where I would be in a few months’ time anyway.
I still enjoy running a lot. Training matters. Friends matter. Having people around you makes a difference — you push each other, encourage each other, and show up together. Most of those friends are now on their own paths, and that’s okay. Fair play to them. I’ve been away from home for a long time since COVID. I left Penang. I left Malaysia.
Running stayed — just in a different form.
Age is catching up — I feel it. Recovery takes longer. Niggles don’t disappear overnight. I’m not as fearless as I was in my twenties, and I don’t bounce back the same way anymore. But I also know myself better now.
I don’t want to run aimlessly anymore. I want objectives. I want goals. Not to prove anything to anyone. Not to chase podiums. But to give my running a direction again — something to work towards, something that makes me show up even on days when motivation is low.
This comeback isn’t about being faster than others. It’s about being consistent with myself. Training smarter. Respecting my body. Setting realistic targets — whether that’s finishing strong, improving endurance, staying injury-free, or simply showing up week after week.
I’ve learnt that running changes as you age, and that’s okay. These days, my goal is simple — finish the run and enjoy the race. No pressure, no chasing others, just showing up and getting it done.
This comeback is quieter, more intentional, and hopefully more meaningful in its own way.
I won’t sugarcoat this. I’ve been slacking on my workouts, and now my body’s paying the price.
I noticed it after last week’s run. Actually, no—I lied. It’s been a while. This didn’t happen suddenly. It crept up slowly, skipping a workout here, cutting a run short there, convincing myself that a walk or an occasional PT session would balance it all out. I thought I was doing “enough” to maintain things, but the truth is, I wasn’t paying attention.
And then the signs started showing. My clothes, the ones that used to make me feel good, stopped fitting the way they used to. I noticed it first when I pulled on an old dress, and it felt tighter than I remembered, with my belly hanging out. Then came the feeling when I was running, the uncomfortable bounce and that little voice in my head asking, "How did I get here?"
It’s tough to admit, but I let it slide. I’m the one who got myself into this situation.
But here’s the thing: I don’t want to stay stuck. I’m not chasing perfection or some unrealistic ideal. I just want to feel like me again — the version of myself who moves with energy, feels strong, and is comfortable in her own skin. I'm 44 this year.
So now, I’m trying to find my way back.. one run at a time, one small choice at a time. It’s not glamorous, it’s not instant, and honestly, it’s humbling. But it’s necessary.
If you’ve ever felt this way, too, lost your rhythm, lost motivation, or felt like you’ve drifted... how did you get yourself back? What helped you regain your momentum? I’d love to hear your thoughts, tips, or even just your story.
Progress is progress, no matter how small the step.
Back in December, Bangkok’s weather was perfect—cool mornings, fresh air, and that “mini winter” feeling that made everything better. I heard it was even colder up north, but it already felt pleasantly cool for me, almost like summer back in the UK. I was running outdoors, taking long walks, and just enjoying how comfortable the city felt. It was the kind of weather that made you want to be outside. Some locals were even wearing winter jackets, which was quite comical, and a few asked if I was cold because I was still in my usual sportswear and shorts.
Then, I left Bangkok for a few days, heading back to
Singapore and Penang for some errands. When I returned, I felt like I had
stepped into a completely different city. While flying back into Suvarnabhumi
Airport, I could already see the thick haze hanging in the air, blurring the
skyline. The cool, refreshing weather was gone, replaced by a thick,
suffocating smog that made everything feel dull and oppressive. Bangkok had
changed—and not for the better.
The air got so bad that authorities started offering free
rides on public transport, including the BTS Skytrain. At first, I was like,
Yay! Free rides! But then I wondered—why were staff handing out free cards at
the stations? When I asked around, locals told me the idea was to reduce car
usage and lower emissions. A solid plan in theory, but in reality? The trains
were packed. Bangkok’s BTS is always busy, but this was another level.
Squeezing into a train during rush hour felt like a survival game. It was as if
everyone had forgotten that Covid ever happened. And now that the free rides
have ended, I’m not sure if they made any real difference. The air still feels
just as bad.
As a runner, this haze has been a nightmare. Running
outside is out of the question—unless I want to choke on pollutants. Running
with a mask? Even worse. So, I’ve had to move my workouts indoors, swapping
outdoor runs for gym sessions. I go to the gym for my PT sessions anyway, but
it’s not the same. There’s something about running through the city, feeling
the fresh air (or what used to be fresh air) that a treadmill just can’t replace.
I’ve been staying indoors as much as possible. Bangkok’s
pollution levels have been hovering in the “unhealthy” range, and at this
point, I would rather not risk it. My only real exposure to the haze is the
1.6km walk home from the train station; even that feels too much sometimes. It’s frustrating.
The free public transport initiative is over, but the
pollution isn’t. Bangkok recently ranked among the most polluted cities in the
world, and unless bigger changes happen, this isn’t going away anytime soon.
For now, all I can do is take precautions—wear masks, stay indoors when
possible, and hope that real solutions are on the way. But let’s be honest, we
can’t keep hiding from the air forever. Something has to change.
Have you been struggling with the haze, too? How has it affected your daily routine? Let’s talk in the comments.
Goodness me, it’s already February. I don’t know about you, but I feel like the year just started, and here we are—already six days into Chinese New Year. Time flies, doesn’t it?
Photo by: May
This past month has been a mix of moments that made me stop and think. For one, I went for a medical check-up—something I’ve been doing regularly ever since my mum passed away. Nothing too serious, but the doctor pointed out a few areas I need to pay closer attention to. Age is catching up, and let’s be real—it’s not like I can run away from it. So, this year, I’m committing to making small but important changes.
I’ve already been working out regularly—running, swimming, and hitting the gym—but I know I need to be more mindful of what I eat. I’ve been trying to make healthier choices, but there’s definitely room for improvement. Cutting down on alcohol, eating less fried food, adding more greens... you know the drill. It’s all about balance, I guess.
I’m not working at the moment, and it’s been a bit of an adjustment. After a hectic year, I’m taking things at a slower pace—focusing on the new house renovation, reading more, spending time with my boyfriend whenever he’s home, and, admittedly, getting a little too caught up in mobile games. Some days, I find myself thinking about my research, but other days, I just let myself enjoy the slower rhythm. It’s different from what I’m used to, but I’m embracing it for now.
With Chinese New Year in full swing, it almost feels like a second new beginning. Looking back at January, I realise it was a month of small but important reminders—like the fact that it’s never too late to refocus. The start of a new year isn’t just about grand resolutions; it’s about making meaningful changes you can actually stick with, even if they’re small. So, as we step into February, I’m keeping my goals simple: stay active, eat healthier, and take care of myself, one step at a time.
How’s your January been? If you’ve been thinking about making changes, big or small, here’s a gentle nudge to start. Your future self will thank you. 😊
Last Run of the Year. The Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok is an annual event held in Bangkok, and it's one that I've always looked forward to. Before COVID, it was usually held in February, and I'd participate every year. But like so many events, things changed after the pandemic, and the marathon was shifted to December. It's been years since I last ran this race because it always clashed with the Singapore Standard Chartered Marathon (SCSM). So, this year, I decided to skip SCSM and experience it again.
Photo credit AMTB 2024 Official Photographer: A crowd of runners
The race pack collection took place at Central World Life, and when I arrived, I was surprised by the long queue. Since it was a weekday morning and the first day of collection, I didn't expect such a large turnout. Despite the crowd, the process went smoothly, and everything was well-organised. There were several shops selling running shoes, sportswear, energy bars, and other race-related merchandise. It was a great experience, with plenty of options for runners to stock up on what they needed.
Fast forward to race day, I took a Grab over to MBK. The flag-off was at 2 am, and honestly, I wasn't fully prepared for this. I knew it was a bit reckless—jumping into a marathon without proper training, especially after recovering from a sprained ankle. But my goal was simple: survive and finish within six hours.
The start was chaotic, with both half and full-marathon runners starting together. I was in Pen 4, which meant a long walk to the starting line. As soon as the flag went off, we slowly began to move forward. However, with the timing tracker positioned further ahead, it took a while before I could actually start running at my own pace. The congestion made it challenging to find a rhythm early on. While the energy was great, the crowded start made it hard to settle in.
The event was well-organised, with water stations providing small bottles every 2 to 2.5 km. It was convenient and helped keep things clean, but it was not the most eco-friendly setup. Plus, it became a bit of a slipping hazard, with runners tossing bottles and caps without much care.
I hit a mental block earlier than usual—somewhere between 12 and 13 km. By the time we hit the 18 km mark, where the route split for the half and full marathoners, I seriously considered taking the shorter route. The temptation was real. But I reminded myself why I signed up for this and pushed on. From that point, it was a mix of running and walking along the elevated road, battling cramps in both my legs and stomach while trying to enjoy the experience.
When mental block hits, the sunrise reminds me to keep going.
The sunrise might have been stunning, but the heat was no joke.
By sunrise at 6:05 am, Bangkok's skyline was breathtaking, but the heat was brutal. By 6:45 am, it felt like I was being roasted alive. Still, I kept pushing forward, and after what felt like an eternity, I crossed the finish line at 5:23:14.
The finish line was a relief, but it also came with a bit of chaos. With runners from all categories finishing together, it got crowded, making it hard to navigate through the area. I had to squeeze around sweaty runners to make my way through. However, the post-race resting area was amazing, with a wide spread of food to refuel and recover, although it was packed with people trying to grab their share. Despite the chaos, it was all part of the experience, and it definitely made me appreciate the small victories of completing the race.
A huge shoutout to the Thailand Tri-league, the volunteers who kept us hydrated and motivated, and the photographers who captured every sweaty, determined moment.
It wasn't my smartest race, but I'm proud of myself for not giving up. Sometimes, it's not about perfect preparation or chasing PBs—it's about showing up, pushing through, and proving to yourself that you can do hard things.
What about you? Have you ever tackled a challenge you weren’t fully prepared for, but still managed to push through?
The Garmin Run Asia Series is a collection of running events held across different cities in Asia, bringing together runners of all abilities. From half marathons to 10Ks, it’s all about encouraging an active lifestyle and creating a sense of community. This year, I had the chance to take part in the Garmin Run Asia Series Thailand Half Marathon, and here’s how it went...
Race weekend kicked off with the Race Pack Collection the day before. The whole process was smooth and well-organised, making it easy for runners to collect their bibs and explore the event area. There were various stalls selling running gear, hydration products, and race merchandise, creating a lively atmosphere. One of the fun surprises was a mini challenge by Garmin, where runners could participate in a quick activity to win small prizes. I queued for about an hour, gave it a go, and won a Garmin cap—definitely worth the wait!
Then came race day.
Photo by Garmin Official Photographer: The energy at the start line was amazing!
I completed the Garmin Run Asia Series Thailand Half Marathon 2024 yesterday morning! It was a race I’d been looking forward to, especially after weeks of recovering from a sprained ankle. I wasn’t sure if I could run the whole distance, but I knew I wanted to be at that start line. Just being there at Rajamangala National Stadium, surrounded by thousands of runners, made me proud to have shown up—even if I ended up walking the entire way, which I had planned for in case my ankle acted up. With a COT of 3:30 hours, I knew I could still finish, even if it meant walking.
A huge thanks to my partner for waking up at an ungodly hour to drop me off at the venue. Having that support made all the difference. I started in Pen 1, which was both exciting and intimidating. Everyone around me looked focused and ready to race, and I felt the pressure creeping in. If I held back, I would probably get pushed along by the crowd, so when the gun went off, I just started running… and kept going.
I went into this race with only one goal—to finish safe and strong. Pace didn’t matter today; I just kept praying my ankle wouldn’t give me trouble, especially on the hilly sections. My mind kept calculating backup plans—worst case, I would walk. But surprisingly, my legs kept going. I only stopped briefly at the hydration stations for a quick sip before pushing on.
Photo by Garmin Official Photographer: Crossing that finish line was the best part of the race
The 21.1 km route took us through the streets of Bangkok, but it wasn’t the most scenic race I’ve done. What stood out, though, was the incredible organisation. The hydration stations were well-placed, the volunteers were encouraging, and the atmosphere was electric. But what do I love most about running in Thailand? The post-race experience. Finishing a race here isn’t just about crossing the timing mat—it’s a celebration. The post-run spread was next level—food, drinks, desserts—everything a runner could ask for after a long, exhausting run. I was so drained that I could barely decide what to eat first!
This race reminded me why I love running events—the adrenaline, the energy of the crowd, and the feeling of pushing through doubts to finish strong. It wasn’t my fastest race, but it meant a lot to me. Getting through it, despite my uncertainties, was a win in itself. Now, I can’t wait for the next one!
A massive thank you to Garmin Thailand for putting together such a well-organised event, the dedicated crew and volunteers for making everything run smoothly, and all the photographers for capturing all the race-day moments. You guys made this an unforgettable experience! You guys rock!
Now that it’s over, I’m left thinking about what’s next. What about you—have you ever pushed yourself in a way you didn’t expect? I’d love to hear your stories and experiences!
Sometimes life throws us curveballs😭. For me, this happened in June, a week after the big event. I fell ill and struggled to recover, especially with all the travelling. This made it hard to get back to my fitness routine. Even simple tasks like walking up the stairs felt challenging. Hence, missing the Gold Coast Marathon wasn't that bad.
Image created with Microsoft Designer
So, after about 6 weeks off, returning to my fitness routine was more challenging than I expected. I didn’t feel motivated to start running or doing intense workouts. The most I could manage was walking.
Restarting a fitness routine after a break was difficult, but I’ve learned that patience and consistency are crucial. It’s important to listen to my body and set realistic goals. Small steps, like daily walks, gradually build my stamina and confidence 🙄.
Taking things slow and combining it with my reading routine has made getting back into fitness slightly easier. If you face a similar setback, remember that progress doesn’t always mean pushing hard; sometimes, it’s about making steady, manageable steps.
I was really looking forward to running the Gold Coast Marathon, but unfortunately, my excitement turned to disappointment due to a series of unforeseen issues.
Photo by: May
I applied for an ETA to enter Australia, expecting the same swift approval I had experienced in the past. However, this time, the process took 4 days instead of the usual seconds. My application wasn’t rejected, but I received an email stating that it could not be finalised at that time. I was instructed to submit additional information through ImmiAccount, including a copy of my passport biodata page and evidence demonstrating my intention of a temporary visit.
Also, it requires proof of employment in my home country, a bank statement showing sufficient funds to support myself during my stay, and details about my family background. It was a horrendous experience. I was forced to cancel my trip because the ETA was approved just a day after my scheduled flight. This delay had a domino effect, leading to the cancellation of both my flights and hotel bookings.
In an attempt to make the best of a bad situation, I contacted the marathon organisers to ask if they could courier my running bib to me. I knew I wouldn’t be able to collect it in person or sell it, so I was willing to pay for the service. Unfortunately, my request was turned down. This left me not only disappointed but also out of pocket for a significant amount of money.
Looking back, I realise the importance of applying for travel documents well in advance. The lesson is clear: don’t wait until the last minute, especially when it comes to something as important as an international marathon.
To make matters worse, I fell ill after attending the trade show in Singapore. I suspect it might have been COVID-19. On the bright side, missing the marathon meant I could recover without the added stress of travel and racing.
Though I’m still unhappy about the whole experience, I’m trying to focus on the positives. Sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges our way, and all we can do is learn from them and move forward.
Why did I decide to sign up? Well, it was something on my bucket list.
Photo by: May
The Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris on 7th April 2024 marked a significant milestone for me—a check off my bucket list. Initially invited by my partner's brother, who unfortunately backed out, I decided to go ahead with this journey alone. My partner decided to go to the Hong Kong Sevens 😒. Despite being a bit of a lone ranger, it was a fulfilling experience and a satisfying achievement.
Photo by: May
Arriving in Paris 3 days before the event was a smart move, allowing me to combat jetlag and acclimate to the local weather, even if it meant spending a bit more on accommodation. Picking up my race bib at Porte de Versailles on Friday was smooth, although the language barrier made things a bit tricky. Nevertheless, I enjoyed exploring the expo, or "The Run Experience Fair," which was well-organised and engaging.
The flag-off for this race felt a bit strange to me. We were all given colour coding, and I expected the flag-off time to be as stated. I arrived an hour early to check things out and found myself in the pen 10 minutes before the scheduled start. Little did I know, I waited 40 minutes before we began. And during that time, I had already loaded up on a pack of gel... 🙄🙄🙄
Anyway, I'm incredibly grateful to have made it to the finish line. My finished time was 5:07:46. There was a moment when I doubted I could. Mentally, I hit a wall around 23km, but thanks to the encouragement from my sisters, I found the strength to push through. The weather was okay, with a light drizzle towards the end, and running past Paris landmarks was truly enjoyable.
The spectators' enthusiasm brought some challenges. The route wasn't fully barricaded, resulting in encounters with pedestrians, children, and even cyclists crossing the path. Despite these obstacles, the energy of the crowds, with cheering sections and musical bands, was uplifting.
Photo by: Marathon-Photos.com
Running on cobblestones proved to be physically demanding, and the elevation added another level of difficulty. By the time I reached 36km, my legs were protesting. Luckily, they did not completely give up, and I started walking.
At 40km, I started picking up speed until I crossed the finish line. The congestion of people around the timing mat made the final moments a bit chaotic.
Nevertheless, completing this race was a bucket list achievement for me. I want to extend my thank you to the organisers and all the volunteers for their efforts and dedication in making this event possible.
I know this post is late, but I will share my reflections anyway. 😊
As I sit down to contemplate the year that has just bid us farewell, my heart overflows with gratitude for the rich tapestry of experiences that shaped my 2023. The highs and lows, unexpected twists, and moments of sheer joy have etched an indelible mark on my heart.
In 2023, my heart found fulfilment in sponsoring more children and visiting them in different corners of the world. Witnessing the impact of these simple acts of kindness was humbling and profoundly rewarding. However, the year also presented challenges. Battling through my first encounter with COVID-19 reminded me of the fragility of health.
As the calendar flips to 2024, a renewed sense of purpose propels me forward. Learning from the past, I am determined to live healthier, reignite my passion for marathon running, and strive towards a lofty goal – completing an Ironman before I turn 50, a challenge I eagerly embrace at the age of 43.
My focus for 2024 extends beyond personal milestones. I aspire to inspire those around me to adopt healthier lifestyles. I hope to create a community dedicated to fitness and well-being through training updates, motivational stories, and encouraging words.
In the spirit of giving, I plan to initiate a fundraising effort. While the cause remains undecided, the goal is clear—making a positive impact. Additionally, visits to my sponsor child in various locations will continue, fostering the connections forged in 2023.
Looking ahead, the dream of completing all 6 major marathons takes shape. The plan is to achieve this milestone before reaching the age of 50. As the journey unfolds, it becomes not just a pursuit of medals but a celebration of resilience, perseverance, and the joy found in every step.
Join me on this expedition of self-discovery, resilience, and pursuing a healthier, more fulfilling life. Let's make 2024 a year of positive transformation—one step at a time.
Finally sharing my long overdue post! I completed my first half-marathon in ages. 😅 While I've tackled a few full marathons before, the full vs the half marathon is a whole new ball game. The strategy, energy levels, and the entire experience differed significantly.
Photo by: May
A huge shoutout to the BOSCH Charity Run 2023. Completing the BOSCH Charity Run 2023 in Sattahip, Thailand, on its 100th Anniversary became more than just a race—it was a celebration of health, sustainability, and personal achievement.
This event tested my running prowess and contributed to a noble cause. I was particularly impressed by BOSCH's commitment to health, environmental sustainability, and their ingenious use of recycled PET plastic bottles for our race shirts and medals.
Photo by: May
Admittedly, I didn't check the race route beforehand, and the unexpected elevation proved to be a formidable challenge. However, the breathtaking views along the way made the uphill battle entirely worthwhile. I tackled the hills like a champ and was rewarded with the privilege of running through the Ramayana Water Park for free—an unexpected treat!
Source from: BOSCH Charity Run 2023
I finished strong with a time of 2:13:58, surprising even myself, given the challenging elevation. Landing in the 9th place in the women's category was an unexpected bonus, though no podium moment. However, the cherry on top was securing one of the exclusive 100th-anniversary pillows—a quirky and cherished memento.
I was amazed to see so many food stalls on race day. Though I was too exhausted to indulge, I did manage to grab all the drinks while waiting for the crowd to thin out, making it easier to get a Grab home.
Photo by: May
A massive shoutout to the incredible photographers who tirelessly captured every moment of the race. Their enthusiasm and dedication to getting shots of all the runners made the event even more memorable for me. I'm grateful for every snap the photographers took—I loved every single one!
With this, I am looking forward to more runs in the coming year, preparing myself for the hope that each race will bring a new opportunity to do even better.
My recent trip to Sindhuli East, Nepal, organised by World Vision (WV) Singapore, proved to be an eye-opening experience. I would like to thank both WV SG and WV Nepal for their incredible dedication to this community. My main motivation for embarking on this trip was to gain a deeper understanding of the initiatives that have been established in this community and, of course, to visit my sponsored child.
Sindhuli East, in Nepal's Central Development Region, is 150km east of Kathmandu. It covers 235 sq km of challenging, hilly terrain cut by river valleys, making the land largely unsuitable for farming. The area faces frequent natural disasters such as landslides, storms, floods, earthquakes, and fires, posing a continuous risk to its people.
Off-road adventure with 4WD SUVs conquering the rugged mountain terrain
The objective of this Area Programme was to empower children, families, and communities to collaborate in enhancing the quality of life for the most vulnerable group, which is the children.
The 6-day trip proved to be an incredible experience despite the many hours of travel required to reach the Area Programme. The journey was undeniably worth it. The first two days were dedicated to travelling. We embarked on an exhilarating "road trip" from Kathmandu to Sindhuli East, involving roughly 10 hours of travel via bus and jeep. The bumpy ride through the rough and undeveloped roads added an adventurous touch to the trip.
Our first visit was to a lower secondary school, where the sight of the Principal, teachers, and eager students excitedly awaiting our arrival was genuinely heartwarming. We were welcomed warmly, each of us adorned with a traditional flower garland. The school tour revealed significant efforts to enhance educational opportunities for the children, including the establishment of a library. It was inspiring to learn that some children endure hours of travel over challenging roads and weather conditions to reach their school. Their resilience is truly commendable. The school is in need of support to renovate a wooden classroom, which suffers from leaks during the monsoon season and excessive cold during winter, affecting the student's learning experience. Another issue I observed was the lack of sufficient lighting in the classrooms. I hope these issues can be addressed for the benefit of the children.
A warm welcome from the Principal, Teachers and students of Shri Ni Ma Vi Langurdandan Lower Secondary School.
The wooden classrooms waiting for a transformation
Enthusiastic students dedicated to their studies in humble wooden classrooms.
Where knowledge begins – A cosy library
A cheerful group photograph with students, the Principal, and teachers at Shri Ni Ma Vi Langurdandan School.
The school also hosts an outreach clinic supported by World Vision under the nutrition programme. The clinic operates twice a month to monitor children's growth. It serves as a focal point for training the mother group, actively participating in Positive Deviance/Hearth sessions. These sessions aim to educate mothers on the importance of a diversified diet, preparing nutritious meals from locally available resources, monitoring children's growth for their well-being, and providing Antenatal Care and Postnatal Care.
Mother groups participating in the Positive Deviance/Hearth program
We visited one of the community's most vulnerable households, where livelihood support and business recovery assistance were extended to local families. In this initiative, families were beneficiaries of livestock support, including goats and pigs, along with comprehensive training in proper care and housing for these animals. While some families chose to keep these animals for breeding and income generation, others opted to sell them to fund their children's education.
The Livelihood Support to MV households.
Besides we also had the opportunity to visit the irrigation support site, where we met the dedicated members of the producer group and were introduced to the Savings for Transformation group, all led by dedicated women. These women met regularly to discuss cultivation practices and marketing strategies. Their commitment and progress were truly empowering. The Savings for Transformation group's ability to increase savings from 5 rupees to 50 rupees demonstrated the significance of savings and reinvestment. I was thoroughly impressed by these women's resilience and determination.
The strength and resilience of empowered women in our Producer and Saving for Transformation groups.
Our next stop was a secondary school that had been declared a Child-Friendly Local Governance (CFLG) ward. Earning this title involved meeting stringent criteria related to child protection issues, such as addressing child marriage, child labour, dropouts, and child development. The visit was an unforgettable three-hour experience, filled with warm welcomes. We had the chance to learn about the school's initiatives and captivating performances. Witnessing the national anthem being sung left me inspired. This school has achieved significant milestones and truly deserves the CFLG recognition.
Proud students of Shree Janapremi Ma Vi Syangti Secondary School
The highlight of our visit was witnessing the dedication to creating a comfortable space for girls during menstrual discomfort, complete with beds and necessary amenities. This initiative aimed to encourage girls to continue attending school, even when faced with physical discomfort, and educate them and their parents on managing these challenges, which was an eye-opening experience.
The comfort and support resting room
However, this school also expressed the need for support to create a safer play compound. As it is located on high ground, the current activities area poses safety concerns for sports activities, and installing a proper playground and barbed wire would allow students to play and practice safely.
The current activity area which facing safety concerns for sports activities.
On the fifth day of the trip, I finally had the privilege of meeting my sponsored child. Despite the considerable distance, I am immensely grateful she made the journey to see me. Through our translator, I discovered she takes two hours daily to walk to school. Despite her shyness and unfamiliarity in conversing with strangers, I cherished the opportunity to get to know her better. I had brought some gifts for her, and we enjoyed playing games and making cards for each other, thanks to the thoughtful initiative of WV SG. What really impressed me was when I discovered her ability to read and pronounce every word I had written in English on the card I made for her. While there might have been a few words she didn't fully understand, I believe this is just the beginning of our journey toward better communication. I am so proud of her!
As the saying goes, "Time flies when you are having fun. " After our lunch date, I bid farewell to my sponsored child.
A heartwarming moment with my sponsored child
As the trip concluded on the sixth day, we left with a sense of fulfilment, knowing that our visit had made a difference. Our stopover at Bhaktapur Durbar, a beautifully restored historic site, added a touch of magic to the journey.
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
This trip gave me invaluable insights into the remarkable initiatives by World Vision in Sindhuli East and introduced me to new friends among the trippers who shared this unforgettable experience. It was a life-enriching experience filled with inspirational encounters and a renewed sense of hope for the community's future. Although the key challenges have not been fully overcome, the initiatives in place are making a positive difference. This effectively conveys our journey's impact, the local people's resilience, and the hope for a better future. I would like to thank WV SG, WV Nepal, and all those who support such significant work in this area programme.
Trippers Assemble! Where Friendships Thrive, and Purpose Unites Us.
I would also like to thank Christine and Shan Ying for capturing the moments and Elynn for initiating and coordinating the thoughtful goodies.
Interested in learning how child sponsorship can make a difference? Visit World Vision Singapore 🧡:
Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. My life has been a whirlwind of change, from moving to a new country to embracing a new relationship. Amidst it all, my fitness journey took a backseat. I blamed myself for not being disciplined enough and for my love of food. But today, I want to share how I'm rediscovering my passion for fitness and making positive changes, one step at a time.
Before the changes swept me off my feet, I was dedicated to my fitness routine. Running, marathons, and staying active were not just hobbies but a way of life. Then came COVID-19, which upended everything I believed in.
Moving to Bangkok brought new challenges. Finding the right gym and adjusting my workout routine wasn't easy. I had to adapt, and my fitness journey took a hit.
I decided to stand by my partner through his health and wellness journey, even though it meant adjusting my own habits. It was a difficult decision, but I wanted to support him every step of the way.
Six weeks ago, something clicked. Both my partner and I realised it was time to prioritise our health. We gave up alcohol, revamped our diets, and committed to regular workouts. It was a turning point we'll never forget.
Over the past six weeks, we've made incredible progress. Our dietary changes, increased exercise frequency, and a renewed commitment to fitness have transformed us physically and mentally.
I'm hopeful and determined as I prepare for an upcoming full marathon. My changes propel me forward, and I'm eager to see the results.
Image created with Microsoft Designer
This journey taught me consistency, support, and self-awareness are the keys to success. If you're facing similar challenges or changes in your life, remember that it's never too late to make a positive change.
My fitness journey has been a rollercoaster ride, but it's a ride I'm determined to enjoy. I'm grateful for the support and motivation I've found along the way, and I'm excited to see where this path leads me.
Share your story with me if you've experienced similar life changes or fitness challenges. Let's embark on this journey of self-improvement together, one step at a time.
