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. ❤️
We’ve been away from Singapore for a while. Whenever we come back, it’s usually only for a short period of time. The timing never seems quite right — sometimes due to busy schedules, and other times because of the weather. Rain often disrupts our plans, and it feels like we rarely get long stretches of time here.
Quiet walking trail in MacRitchie Reservoir with calm nature surroundings
This trip, we decided to stay over the weekend since my boyfriend has to be back in the office on Monday. For me, it’s something I really appreciate — a quiet weekend in Singapore, even if it’s just for a short while.
One of the things we always look forward to is our walk at MacRitchie Reservoir. Our walks are never short. Usually, we cover around 11km, walking through the golf link and TreeTop Walk. Yesterday, we went over 14km, including the distance from Caldecott MRT. It’s a long walk, but we honestly enjoy it.
Quiet moment of reflection during a long walk in MacRitchie Reservoir
There’s something calming about being surrounded by nature (minus the monkeys). The greenery, the quiet paths, and the slow rhythm of walking help us disconnect from everything else. We also appreciate the convenience of public transport — it was easy to get there without needing Grab or a taxi. As long as the weather stays on our side, the experience is even better.
Walking in nature to relieve stress and clear the mind
Lately, my boyfriend has been dealing with a lot of stress, mainly from work. It has been ongoing for months, and it has taken a toll on him both physically and mentally. On top of that, he has been trying to work on his weight and overall health.
He is currently taking a more strict approach to his diet, and while I understand his intention to improve his health, I do have some concerns about whether it is sustainable for him. As he is working full-time and already under a lot of stress, I worry about whether he is getting enough energy and proper nourishment.
I don’t fully agree with everything, but I also try to be mindful of how I express my thoughts. He has been more short-tempered lately, likely due to the stress he is facing, so I try not to add unnecessary pressure. At this point, I can only support him in the way he is comfortable with.
One thing I really appreciate is that he still makes the effort to go for walks and do light exercise. When he is at home, he is more disciplined with his routine, although things can be more challenging when he travels, especially when it comes to maintaining habits.
Our walk yesterday felt especially meaningful. For me, it was a chance to clear my mind and take a break from unnecessary thoughts. Walking through nature helped me feel lighter and more present. For him, it was a quiet moment as well — a way to unwind in his own way. Sometimes, he zones out or gets lost in his thoughts, and I gently nudge him back into the moment.
I really hope things get better for him soon — especially with work. The stress has been affecting him for a long time, and I just want him to feel healthier, both physically and mentally. For now, we’ll keep doing what we can. Just walking, one step at a time.
I finally sorted all my Pokémon cards and organised my Pokémon card collection into binders.
As a beginner Pokémon card collector, I’ve been learning how to organise my Pokémon card collection, sort bulk cards, and build my own binder system.
I didn’t expect to get back into collecting Pokémon cards after more than 20 years, but here I am — slowly building a collection again, one card at a time.
I started with just two black binders — a small one for my 20+ year-old vintage collection, and another for the cards I got from CG. That was how everything began.
From two binders to this… it escalated quickly
Then I started learning more, bought some bulk cards, and slowly grew the collection. Now… it has expanded quite a bit, and I’ve added a few more binders along the way.
From the bulk cards, I managed to get a lot of new additions. Of course, there are duplicates (which I keep separately, not in binders), but I still enjoyed going through everything. Along the way, I realised I was getting close to completing one series — Scarlet & Violet (SVI English). That got me thinking… maybe I can try completing a master set. So I’ve dedicated a blue binder to that.
The rest of the cards are sorted into a few separate binders — mostly randoms, but still part of the collection.
As I learn more about Pokémon, I’m starting to notice the types and designs I really like. So I created a “favourites” binder — the purple one. Any card from the other binders (except the SVI set) that makes it into the purple binder… means I really like it 😆
Slugma and Magcargo...slowly became favourites.
A bit random, but that’s the fun of it.
Helioptile and Heliolisk. Somehow, these caught my attention first.
Right now, some of my favourites include Slugma, Magcargo, Helioptile, Heliolisk, Slakoth, Yungoos, Gumshoos, Mimikyu, Dipplin, Flapple, Hydrapple, Eiscue, Eevee, and Espeon.
It’s still a mix of random favourites, and I think that’s what makes it fun. I’m still learning, still exploring, and slowly figuring out what I really want to collect.
I think that’s enough for now…
But knowing myself, this is how it always starts 😅
This is part of my Pokémon collecting journey — I’ll share more as I continue building my collection.
Sometimes, I find myself wanting to try something new… but also hesitating a little.
This time, I decided not to overthink it.
I filmed my very first Pokémon card opening video — something simple, something I’ve been quietly enjoying lately. No big setup, no perfect script, and definitely no voiceover. Just the moment of opening packs, seeing the cards, and reacting in my own way.
It felt a bit strange at first, watching myself do it. But also… fun. There’s something oddly satisfying about opening Pokémon cards again after so many years — a mix of nostalgia and curiosity, not knowing what you’re going to get.
I opened the Pokémon TCG Suicune Knockout Collection, which came with two booster packs: Surging Sparks and Twilight Masquerade. Nothing too fancy, but enough to make it interesting. Honestly, I’m still very new to this, so I don’t really know what counts as a “hit” or what I should be expecting to pull.
But I did manage to pull a card that I genuinely like — and I think that’s good enough for me.
I don’t know if I’ll keep doing more of these yet. But I’m glad I started.
Sometimes, that’s all it takes — just starting.
May xx
🎥 You can watch my first pack opening here on YouTube.
Some days, when I wake up, I find myself wondering — what do I actually want to do today?
This is another slightly personal post… maybe a bit of sharing, maybe a bit of grumbling. But I thought I’d just write it as it is. First of all, I have to say that I am happy and grateful, but this feeling is hard to explain.
I know I’ve said to myself to enjoy slow mornings and quiet time. And in a way, I realised this was something I used to want. After years of rushing, working hard, and constantly moving, I thought slowing down would feel different.
But honestly, sometimes, I still feel a bit… useless. Like, I’m not really contributing in a meaningful way.
I think this feeling started after I left my job. Suddenly, there was no clear goal, no structure, no objective to work towards every day.
And just to be clear, it’s not that I gave everything up unwillingly. I made the choice to be closer to my boyfriend. I wouldn’t call it a sacrifice… but at the same time, I know I did give up certain parts of my life.
I also know how it might look from the outside. Some people might think I’m living a “tai tai” life. But honestly, that’s not how I see it.
I don’t spend on luxurious things. I don’t shop much, and I’m not into branded items. I live quite simply. I cover my own expenses and don’t rely on him for what I want. Even when it comes to birthday gifts, I tend to think carefully about what I actually need.
So no, it’s not really that kind of life.
From the outside, everything probably looks fine. Life is comfortable, things are stable. But internally, it can feel quite different.
It’s a quiet kind of feeling that just sits there in the background.
There’s no real reason for it on those days. Nothing particularly bad happens. It’s just that sense of not doing enough, not being enough, or not moving forward in any clear direction.
Some days, I wake up and wonder what I actually did that day that mattered.
Not in a big, life-changing way. Even just something small that feels meaningful.
Some days, I manage that.
A short run. A few pages of a book. Clearing something at home. Finishing a small task. Those days feel a bit lighter.
But there are also days when I don’t feel like doing much at all. And those are the days when the “useless” feeling creeps in a bit more.
I’ve been trying not to be too hard on myself when that happens.
Because maybe this is just a slower phase of life.
I know not everything has to be productive all the time. Not every day needs to have a clear outcome.
Maybe sometimes, it’s enough to just get through the day quietly.
I’m also learning that just because something looks small, it doesn’t mean it has no value.
Resting has value. Resetting has value. Even doing nothing for a while has its place, whether we like to admit it or not.
Maybe part of this feeling also comes from being away from people.
I don’t really have anyone here besides my boyfriend to talk to. Most of my conversations are online — with my siblings, my nieces and nephew, and a few friends I don’t see often.
So I do appreciate the small things — a reply, a message, even a simple like. It reminds me that I’m still connected in some way.
I don’t have everything figured out right now. Maybe this feeling is just part of the process. I’m still slowly figuring out what I want next… it just feels like it’s taking longer than I expected.
And if you’ve ever felt this way too, you’re not alone. I’d really like to hear how you get through those days — or if you’re still figuring it out too.
February went by so fast I can’t even remember what I’ve actually done.
Me, pausing long enough to appreciate the stillness.
There was a short getaway to New Zealand with my boyfriend, and then it was Chinese New Year — which I decided to stay away from this year. A quiet CNY. I don’t really celebrate it anymore, and I shared why in another post.
New Zealand was beautiful. There’s still so much I would like to explore, and I know I will go back someday.
It was a short trip, too short. 😬
A bit of looking around.
A bit of walking.
A bit of running.
Amazing view of Lake Tekapo. Even more beautiful in person.
A photo taken during our boat ride along Milford Sound.
One of many beautiful views we passed on the drive to Christchurch.
Then we flew back to Bangkok.
I had a week of work that kept my brain occupied. After that, I tried to return to my normal routine. Quiet mornings with coffee. Reading again. No rushing. That part felt good.
Then I tried to run properly again.
But I couldn’t run much.
Somewhere along the way, I probably picked up a minor running injury. I tried managing the load and running through it.
There’s been persistent pain along my left shin, especially after impact. My right plantar has been flaring up on and off. I saw a physio when it first started, but the pain came back.
I’ve rested. I’ve adjusted. I’ve done what I could.
Almost everything — except properly following up.
I kept telling myself I would wait until I flew back to Singapore for follow-up treatment. Maybe it sounds a bit silly. Still, if I’m honest, waiting isn’t helping. Even walking is painful now.
So I’ve decided to see a physio here tomorrow.
Sometimes discipline isn’t about pushing through pain.
Sometimes it’s about pausing and fixing it properly.
I don’t like slowing down. But maybe this is also part of training.
It’s something I’m still learning — even though I’m always the one saying I should listen to my body.
After sharing how my running journey started and where I am now, this felt like the right next step. Nothing loud. Nothing flashy. Just giving my running a bit of direction again.
AI-generated image
All three runs on the calendar are ballot races. I know how lucky I am to even get a spot, so I’m genuinely grateful. No expectations, no entitlement. I'm just thankful for the chance to stand on those starting lines.
Putting these dates down isn’t about making big promises. It’s about giving myself direction without pressure. Training steadily. Respecting my body. Allowing recovery. Accepting that some weeks will be better than others.
There may be a few more races along the way if one becomes available and timing allows. No fixed plans. Just joining when it feels right.
For now, it’s simply about showing up and seeing where the road takes me.
2025 wasn’t a big race year for me. I only participated in 4 running events.
And for a while, that felt… small.
But not to forget, I took part in #Global6KForWaterSG, clocking 694.69km from Sept to Nov 2025, and raised some funds along the way. Knowing that every kilometre represented something bigger than myself made it meaningful. 🫶🏻
Looking back, this year wasn’t about chasing medals or filling up a race calendar. It was about staying connected to running, keeping the habit alive, and simply showing up.
Every run, whether in an event or not, reminded me of why I started. Not gonna lie, keeping momentum isn’t easy. I do have a big, fat lazy worm in me 😅.
2025 reminded me that progress doesn’t always look loud. Not about numbers. Not about speed. Just the simple joy of finishing the run and enjoying the race.
It’s been 4 years since my lifestyle changed. I moved, I left, and with remote work and frequent travel, it hasn’t been easy to build a regular running circle like before. I miss the days when every run, every event, and even evening jogs in the park meant seeing familiar faces.
So I’m really hoping to slowly get back into the running community — to meet new people, exchange running tips, and learn from each other along the way. Hopefully, with the power of the digital world, we’ll find each other.
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.
I used to think I would use every lotion I bought. The logic seemed simple enough: I liked the scent, I bought it, and, of course, I would use it. But reality had a different plan.
Since I started buying my own lotions (I’m guilty of collecting a few from hotel stays, haha), I found myself accumulating them—different scents for different moods, seasonal favourites, and random impulse buys. But no matter how good my intentions were, most of them ended up sitting on my shelf, gathering dust, and eventually meeting their inevitable fate: expiration.
Image created with Microsoft Designer
I would only use a lotion once or twice after buying it, then get lazy with my routine and completely forget about the many lotions piling up on my shelf. It felt like I was stuck in a cycle of neglecting them, even though I had plenty waiting to be used. The cycle would repeat. It became more like curating a mini lotion museum than actually using them. I convinced myself I would eventually get around to using them, but honestly, I was more interested in owning them than applying them.
Fast forward to now, and age is catching up. My skin’s getting drier, and I have started to realise skincare is about more than just the nice scents. Those once-neglected lotions have now become a regular part of my daily routine. It’s no longer about collecting them—it’s about actually using what I have. And today, I finally used one of those long-forgotten lotions (if it’s still in decent shape and doesn’t smell too off)—a small victory in my journey to finish a product before it expires.
The same thing happens with my facial skincare. I would buy full sets—cleanser, toner, scrub—you name it. But in the end, I never used the whole set. These days, I even skip the toner because of the extra step.
A small victory: Who knew it would feel this good?
It made me wonder: Does anyone actually finish a bottle of lotion before it expires? Or are we all just hoarding nice scents, convincing ourselves we will get to them eventually? If you have ever done this, you are not alone!
Maybe the key is to stop impulse buying and commit to using what we already own. Or maybe some habits just take time to change. Either way, here’s to making progress—one bottle at a time.
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. 😊
Finding habits that genuinely improve our quality of life can be challenging, especially with the busy responsibilities of daily working life. One habit that I have found to make a significant difference is reading.
Image created with Microsoft Designer
Over the past few months, my life has been hectic. Despite my best intentions, carving out time for reading often felt like a luxury I could not afford. However, I have discovered that even brief moments spent with a good book can offer substantial benefits.
I have always had an interest in non-fiction, romantic comedies, and mysteries. Recently, I have broadened my reading interests to include science fiction, fantasy, and philosophical fiction. Each genre offers a unique perspective and provides a refreshing break from my daily routine.
Undeniably, I have faced challenges with this new habit. Finding time to read consistently has been difficult, and I have struggled with patience when a book does not immediately captivate me. I have had a few books that ended up as "DNF," as I sometimes find it hard to push through if the book is not engaging.
However, I have learned that flexibility is key to making reading a regular habit. Even if I cannot read every day, I make an effort to pick up a book whenever I can. Whether it is a few pages before bed or during a short break, these small moments of reading contribute to a greater sense of relaxation and mental improvement.
Incorporating reading into my routine, even sporadically, has enhanced my quality of life. It offers a mental escape, fosters creativity, and provides a chance to unwind from the daily grind. I hope to continue making reading a more regular part of my day and encourage others to explore this habit as well. Sometimes, small changes can lead to the most significant improvements in our lives.
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.
I want to share my recent journey walking back home from the BTS station in the busy city of Bangkok. Living here means dealing with a mix of sweltering heat and rain, but rain or shine, I stick to my routine of walking home.
Bangkok has this unique way of making you feel like you're walking on the sun's surface! The sun was blazing high this week, casting its heat all around. A 1.6 km walk might be easy, but it's definitely a challenge with this intense heat.
As I walked along my usual route, I noticed my own shadow tagging along. Capturing that fleeting shadow in bright sunlight is usually a challenge, but today was different. I found the perfect shot – my shadow walking beside me on the hot pavement. The sun was intense, creating a beautiful play of brightness and shadow. I couldn't resist capturing the moment, even though there were probably many people on the street staring at me.
Living in Bangkok has its challenges, and the weather is one of them. I've learned to embrace it all.
It's funny how the simplest things can turn into a bit of an adventure – unexpected moments, simple joys, and the shadows that accompany us on our everyday journeys. The next time you find yourself walking under the scorching sun, take a moment to look down and appreciate the beauty in your own shadow. You might just discover something amazing right at your feet.
Until next time, keep walking and keep discovering!
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 🧡:
