When April Feels Like a Blur — Travel and Life Reflection

April felt like a blur — the kind of month where everything was always moving and slowly blending into each other. Travel, work, small routines shifting, and quiet in-between moments that only made sense when I looked back.

It came and went the same way — without a clear beginning or end. A mix of celebration, movement, and slow pauses in between.

It started with my birthday month, and this year felt extra special. I had a surprise celebration planned by my boyfriend, together with my siblings, nieces, and nephew. It was one of those moments I genuinely didn’t see coming. Being surrounded by family made it feel simple, warm, and grounding in a way that stayed with me.

Not long after that, my boyfriend decided to drive back to Penang on a mini road trip. It felt like a slow transition between places — not rushed, just driving, stopping a few days in Bangkok and Hua Hin, and letting each place unfold naturally along the way.

After that, things shifted again when my boyfriend had to travel for work, visiting different offices and focusing on a company revamp. It started with a few days in Singapore, then we moved on to Europe, and eventually the US.

While most of his days were packed with work, I found myself in a slower rhythm. I stayed back, walked around familiar streets, and treated it like my own quiet version of a holiday. There wasn’t a fixed agenda — just walking, observing, and filling time in simple ways.

Dresden, along the Elbe River. Cities like this don’t ask for attention. They just let you slow down.

I’ve recently learned to crochet and have become slightly addicted to it. It became something I did between travel and downtime, until I eventually ran out of materials and had to pause. Still, it was one of those small things that kept my hands busy and my mind steady.

Running, which I thought I would do more of, took a backseat because of my plantar issue. Instead, walking became my main form of movement. I ended up walking at least 5km most days. It also became the way I explored cities like Dresden and Milan, both beautiful in their own quiet, different ways.

Just taking it in - Duomo di Milano

Work-wise, I’ve been slowly scaling down. I’m only attending weekly calls now based on client schedules, and I’m hoping to close this chapter soon. There’s a part of me that feels ready to step back completely and shift my focus to things that feel more aligned with where I want to be.

Lake Como from above. Some views don’t need much explaining

I also noticed some of my daily habits shifting this month. Reading, which I’ve been trying to be more consistent with, took a backseat. On trains and during downtime, I found myself more drawn to gaming or crochet instead. It wasn’t planned, but it’s what naturally happened.

Somewhere between travel and downtime, this little whale came to life.

With everything moving — travel, work, and time zones — even though we’ve been travelling together, most days have been shaped by his work schedule. It’s meant quieter days in between, with him focused on meetings and responsibilities, while I’ve been exploring or staying in. It’s been a different rhythm for us, and I’ve been hoping things ease up a little soon so there’s more space to just enjoy the trip together, and for him to have a bit more breathing room, too.

Looking back, April wasn’t defined by one big thing. It was a mix of celebration, travel, routine shifts, and slower personal adjustments. Not perfect, not linear, but real in its own way.

And maybe that’s enough.

May xx

A Weekend in Singapore: MacRitchie Reservoir Walks

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.

May xx

My First Queenstown Parkrun – Running Around Queenstown Gardens, New Zealand

This is a slightly late update, but I wanted to record this because it was quite memorable.

I did my 7th parkrun on 14 February in Queenstown — Event 354. The Queenstown parkrun takes place near Queenstown Gardens, with beautiful lake and mountain views.

It was freezing cold, but whenever I travel, I try to join a parkrun if timing allows. It’s my way of saying, “I’ve been here.” 😅 And parkrun is free — you only register once, and you can join events anywhere in the world with the same barcode.

I was staying about 10km away, so transport was tricky. It was either Uber or bus, because the water taxi only runs at 8.15am and parkrun starts at 8am 😅 I checked Uber and the price was crazy, so I decided to walk 2km to the bus stop. After 1km in 9°C cold, an Uber notification suddenly pinged — the price dropped! Since it was freezing, I booked it quickly. No more hero mode 😂

I reached early with numb fingers and joined the first-timer briefing. Funny thing, most runners were tourists too, so I didn’t feel alone.

The route around Queenstown Gardens was beautiful with gentle elevation. I was proud to finish in a reasonable time, even though I haven’t trained much on hills lately. As a runner, finishing a run in a new place always feels special.

Parkrun is every Saturday morning. No pressure, just people running and walking together. Different countries, different faces, same spirit. Volunteers cheering, people smiling. Thank you to all the volunteers who made the run possible — you really made my morning.

On the way back, I discovered you need a Bee Card for the local bus. They don’t accept credit cards! I only found out when I boarded the bus to go back to the hotel. The kind driver gave me a free ride. I felt very grateful that day.

Small reminder to myself: always check public transport payment methods when travelling.

Next time I travel, I’ll still try to join a parkrun if timing allows and it's not far and easy to get to. Parkrun makes travelling more meaningful.

If you’re visiting Queenstown, you can check details at parkrun website. And they even have photographers taking amazing photos — thank you for the lovely memory ❤️

Photo credit: Queenstown parkrun (Facebook album

)

May xx

How I Mark Each Trip

Every trip has its checklist.

• Run in a new place.
• Visit a bookstore.
• Send a postcard.

I’ve made it a habit to send one to myself and my family whenever I travel somewhere new.

It’s not about collecting souvenirs. It’s just something I do — a small way to mark each trip.

I pick a postcard, write a few lines, and drop it into the postbox.

Simple ritual, but one I genuinely enjoy and hope to keep for a long time.

Years from now, I think these postcards will mean more than I expect.

What’s something you always do when you travel?

May xx

On the Road: Why We Need to Rethink How We Drive

Lately, I've been seeing more and more news about highway accidents in Malaysia—almost every day, there's a report of a collision, injury, or worse, a fatality.

I'm currently on a road trip from north to south, travelling from Bangkok to Singapore, and I've had the chance to observe the driving culture firsthand. And to be honest, it's frightening.

Some drivers treat the highway like an F1 track—zig-zagging through traffic as if every second saved is worth risking a life. But for what? To be one car ahead? It's really not worth the danger. Getting to your destination safely should always be the goal.

With the rain pouring down, I noticed some still driving as if the roads were dry and empty. A sudden swerve or hard braking on a slippery surface can cause a serious accident, not only affecting you but everyone around you. One wrong move and the consequences can be devastating.

Motorcyclists, too, have been weaving through traffic, even between the fast lanes. I get that time is precious, and many are just trying to get to work or home. But squeezing between speeding vehicles, especially in wet weather, is extremely risky. Our roads may be generally alright, but let's be honest—no road is perfect. One small stone or an unseen pothole is all it takes to lose control and skid.

Some of the traffic delineators here are clearly missing or broken.
These are meant to guide vehicles and create safer merging or give-way zones. 

A random shot while heading towards Terowong Pechala.

Snapped this from my hotel room—can really see how busy the roads are.

At the same time, I've noticed slower drivers occupying the fast lanes, even when they're clearly not in a rush. If you're driving slower, it's important to be mindful and move to the left lane. Blocking the fast lane doesn't just create frustration for others—it creates a dangerous situation that could easily be avoided.

Having experienced different driving behaviours across countries, it's clear: the road belongs to everyone, and we all share the responsibility of keeping it safe. It's not just about your own journey—it's about being considerate and mindful of everyone else on the road.

Drive responsibly, respect the lanes, and remember that your actions have an impact on the safety of others.

Let's Hear From You!

Now that I've shared my thoughts on the state of driving on Malaysia’s highways, I'd love to hear from you. What’s one thing that frustrates you the most while driving? Is it something you've noticed during your own road trips or in everyday traffic?

Feel free to drop a comment below and share your experiences. We can all learn from one another and, perhaps, make our roads a little safer together.

Stay safe and drive responsibly! 

May x

Sambour: A Journey Close to My Heart — Part 3

Waking up early isn’t always my thing, but on this trip, it felt different. Maybe it was the excitement, or maybe it was knowing that today, we were finally heading into the villages. Either way, I was up and ready to go.

Our journey started with an hour-long van ride to the jetty, followed by a boat ride across the river. From there, we switched to a tractor—yes, a tractor! If you’ve never taken a tractor ride before, imagine a bumpy but fun experience, especially when you’re surrounded by endless greenery and fresh air (got to strike that off when we we are actually sucking the dirt while driving too fast). It was definitely a mode of transport I wouldn’t forget.

When the WV staff told us we'd be taking a big wooden boat, I’m sure it has a name in Khmer—but to me, it’s a sampan with an engine.

The tractor gave us a good workout, a nice tan, and a free dust bath for the day!
Sambour’s heat and dust are no joke!

Our first stop was a primary school. During the trip briefing, we were told that classes here are shared between two grades—Grade 1 with Grade 4, and Grade 2 with Grade 3. At first, I couldn’t wrap my head around it. How could one teacher manage two different levels at the same time? But as soon as we stepped into the classroom, I saw it with my own eyes. The students sat quietly while the teacher taught one grade, patiently waiting for their turn. It was impressive.

A simple school with only two classrooms. Each is shared by two grades.

One classroom, two grades, and a teacher guiding them all. Such respect for their dedication and passion. 

One of the trippers, Fynn, who is also a teacher, volunteered to teach at the school during our visit and prepared creative activities for the students. Seeing their excitement and how much they enjoyed learning, even with limited resources, was heartwarming. It reminded me why education is so important and why sponsorship goes beyond just providing school supplies.

After the school visit, we split into smaller groups to visit the Most Vulnerable Families (MVF). I was assigned to visit a family of ten—grandparents, parents, and seven children. The youngest was just nine days old, while the eldest, a 14-year-old boy, had left home to become a monk because they couldn’t afford his education. It was heartbreaking.

The living conditions of the MVF home, where a family of 10— including a 10-day-old newborn.

Despite their struggles, the family was doing their best. They had a small piece of land for farming and lived near the river, which provided access to water and fishing. Their home was a tiny hut, with everyone sleeping in the same space. But thanks to the support from World Vision, they were learning better farming techniques and had access to a latrine—a small but significant improvement in their daily lives. During our visit, we even joined them in planting vegetables, a simple but meaningful experience.

Hands in the soil.

The day ended with a visit to a secondary school and a community library. Some trippers had brought English books to donate, and we also participated in tree planting with the students as part of the Child Sponsorship Learning Program (CSLP). I’ve always loved gardening, but this was special—I planted a tree alongside two young girls, knowing it would grow with them.

English books were generously donated by fellow trippers.

I’ve always loved gardening, but this moment was truly special.

Tree planting with the students.

As we made our way back to the hotel, travelling the same boat-tractor route, I couldn’t stop thinking about the resilience of the community. For them, these daily journeys weren’t just part of a trip—they were a way of life. And I was only just beginning to understand it.

Stay tuned! Every moment here is unforgettable. I can't wait to tell you more! 

May x

Sambour: A Journey Close to My Heart — Part 2

The day of the trip finally arrived! I flew directly from Bangkok, arriving in Phnom Penh a day earlier. That extra day gave me time to enjoy some local meals, explore a little, and, of course, do some last-minute shopping for my sponsored children. No matter how much I plan, there's always something more I feel like getting! 😆 Thankfully, SC was there to accompany me, so I didn't have to explore alone.

With all the extra shopping, I'm thankful to SC because some of it went into her luggage, some into my small suitcase, and we managed to shift things around. Problem solved!

In the morning, we met up with the rest of the trippers at the airport as they arrived from Singapore. Seeing familiar faces from past trips and meeting new ones was such a great feeling. There's something special about being surrounded by people who share the same passion for making a difference.

Cheers to the great company, meaningful moments, and the journey ahead!

After everyone settled in, got SIM cards, and exchanged money, we hit the road in a comfortable van, heading from Phnom Penh to Sambour. If there's one thing I've learned from trips like these, it's that getting to the AP isn't a quick journey. It took about six hours, with stopovers for toilet breaks, lunch, and, of course, the very last minute of buying gifts. The road conditions were so much better than last time—no more back-breaking, bumpy rides! That alone felt like a win. Although the drive was long, I didn't mind at all. It gave me time to reflect on my last visit and everything I was looking forward to. Would the girls recognise me? How much had they grown? 

After checking in at the hotel, we gathered for a trip briefing led by Piseth. I have so much respect for him—his dedication to the community is truly inspiring. His team has done an incredible job over the years, and hearing about their ongoing work made me even more excited for the days ahead. He walked us through what to expect, such as the living conditions, challenges, and, most importantly, the achievements made possible through sponsorship and community support.

Gaining insights into the journey ahead. His passion and dedication are contagious.

We wrapped up the day with dinner, resting up for what was to come. We will be heading deep into the villages tomorrow—and I couldn't wait.

This place wasn't just a name on a map anymore. It was a community I cared deeply about, a place that now felt like a second home.

Stay tuned because the real adventure is just about to begin. 🫰🏻

May x

Sambour: A Journey Close to My Heart — Part 1

When I received the email notification in November 2024 about the trip to Sambour, I didn't hesitate—I clicked and registered right away. Maybe I was the first to sign up, who knows? 😆

Sambour is one of the Area Programmes I've been most excited to revisit after two years. A little background to my story: I had just one sponsored child in this AP two years ago. After my last visit, I returned with 10. So, Sambour holds a very special place in my heart because most of my sponsored children are there. I couldn't wait to reconnect with them!

But it's not just about seeing them again; I was also eager to witness the incredible progress the community has made over the past two years. I feel so fortunate to be part of something so meaningful, especially knowing we have a committed AP Manager and his dedicated team working tirelessly on the ground.

From my previous visit, I knew that shopping locally could be tricky due to the limited time and travel distance to the AP. So, I started planning early— figuring out what gifts they might need. (Trust me, I won't go into the details, but it just shows how excited I was! 😂). Once I had everything sorted, I had a new challenge on my hands. How on earth was I going to pack and bring all these gifts for 10 children? The struggle was real, and even then, I still felt like I could have brought more. There's always that urge to add a little more…

But here's the twist: I realised I would have a whole day in Phnom Penh after finalising my flights. Since I wasn't flying in with the other trippers (they were coming from Singapore), I decided to fly in a day earlier to avoid any travel hiccups. This gave me the perfect opportunity for some local shopping, and I was able to pick up some essential items: the Khmer-English Dictionary (a must-have for all my sponsored children), toothbrush and toothpaste sets, and bar soap. As for the rest of the gifts were already packed from Bangkok, so I felt well-prepared.

Touching down a day earlier in Phnom Penh. I am ready for some peaceful local shopping before the adventure begins!

All the gifts were well packed in the box, and I only bought a small suitcase!

With everything in place, I'm ready for the exciting days ahead—reconnecting with my sponsored children and seeing all the wonderful things that have been happening in the community. 

Stay tuned for more updates! This is just the start of my journey to Sambour, and I can't wait to share more with you along the way.

May x  

A Quick Rant About Toilets

Okay, this is going to sound a bit random, but I couldn’t help but share my thoughts on something that struck me when I came back to Penang.

A couple of weeks ago, I returned to Penang from Bangkok, and as always, the excitement of being home was bittersweet. The familiar sense of anticipation hit me as soon as I stepped off the plane, but that excitement quickly faded the moment I needed to use the bathroom. As I walked toward the toilets, I already knew what was coming—the same disappointing experience with Penang Airport’s bathrooms that I've had every time I return.

Image courtesy of Ogy Kovachev

Every time I land, I can't help but feel let down. No matter how many times I’ve been through, the toilets are always disappointing. It's like stepping into a different world—a world where cleanliness takes a backseat. The floors are always wet, and the smell of stale urine never leaves the air. A mix of dampness, stale air, and sometimes something even more unpleasant makes you wish you had held it in a little longer.

What’s even more frustrating is seeing cleaners in the area, but the situation doesn’t seem to improve. The floors remain wet, and the unpleasant smell is impossible to ignore.

It’s clear that the cleaning methods used aren't enough to fix the issue, and the toilets continue to be in bad shape.

I’m not trying to start a comparison, but it’s hard not to notice the difference between Singapore’s airport toilets and Penang Airport’s. Singapore’s airport restrooms are spotless and air-conditioned, setting a high standard for cleanliness. In contrast, despite being an international hub, Penang Airport doesn’t quite measure up in terms of maintenance. Even when you consider Singapore’s MRT stations, which handle far more foot traffic as a public transport system, their toilets are still cleaner and more comfortable than what we have at Penang Airport.

Image created with Microsoft Designer

Here’s the surprising part: I’ve had better bathroom experiences in some unexpected places—like a gas station in Thailand. Yes, you read that right—a gas station. Thailand’s PTT stations, which you might expect to be basic, are actually much cleaner, drier, and better maintained than what you’d find at Penang Airport. Sure, the downside is that they have squat toilets, but overall, it’s a far more pleasant experience. Even at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, the toilets are noticeably more hygienic.

I’m not trying to point fingers, but the state of our airport toilets says a lot about how we value first impressions. It’s the first thing visitors experience when they arrive, and unfortunately, it doesn’t leave the best impression.

I’m not saying we need an overnight overhaul, but maybe it’s time for a little more attention to detail. Proper maintenance, more frequent checks, and a proper ventilation system could make a world of difference. After all, Penang is such a beautiful, vibrant place, and we shouldn’t let a damp, smelly toilet be the one thing people remember the most.

What do you think? Have you had a similar experience? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

May x

A Journey of Impact: Meeting My Sponsored Child in Mongolia

It's been a week since I returned from Mongolia, but the memories remain fresh in my mind. This was my third trip with World Vision Singapore, yet each experience feels new in its own way. Visiting the communities, meeting the people, and witnessing the impact of sponsorship firsthand reinforced why I continue to be part of this journey.

Mongolia is a land of vast open spaces, rolling steppes, and a deep-rooted nomadic culture. The weather was just great—probably because I've gotten used to the cold seasons—but there were moments when the sun warmed our faces, and in the next, strong winds sent chills down our spines. But what truly stood out was the resilience and hospitality of the people we met.

The trip to Selenge was unforgettable, made even more meaningful by the warmth, friendliness, and incredible talents of the people I met along the way. I travelled with 21 other trippers, and we began our adventure with a nearly 13-hour flight to Ulaanbaatar. After a day of exploring the city, shopping, and enjoying dinner together, we hit the road the next day, embarking on a six-hour journey to a remote town. The scenery was breathtaking—endless stretches of green and distant mountains that looked like something out of a painting. It was so peaceful and beautiful that it was hard to find words to capture its true essence.

Captured this along the way on our bus journey. I'm not sure exactly where I am, but the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

I have to be honest; no camera can truly capture the view the way your eyes do. 

We met with the local governor and attended a graduation ceremony for a community development program, which equips people with skills, resources, and training to become self-sufficient. Seeing their achievements was truly inspiring. Later, we visited a local school, where students showcased their talents with a lively judo performance—an impressive display of energy and skill.

These young faces in traditional Mongolian attire made our arrival unforgettable. 

Met these amazing young judo athletes during my trip. Their dedication and passion for the sport is truly inspiring. 

Day 3 was particularly eventful. We toured a school dormitory and learned about an innovative water sanitation and hygiene programme. During the visit, we were introduced to a traditional Mongolian game called shagai, which is played with ankle bones (sheep or goat ankle bone). It's more than just a game; it's a cultural tradition passed down through generations. 

The talent and spirit of these students are truly something special. 

Visited the new WASH programme facility today. I’m so glad the children now have a better place to use. The old facility had them walking out from the dormitory, which was a real challenge during the cold winter months. It’s heartwarming to see the positive change. 

The ankle bone game, or shagai, a traditional Mongolian game.

In the afternoon, we visited herder families supported by World Vision, gaining insights into their way of life. I even had the chance to try horse riding and scooping cow dung (yes, really!). Being inside a traditional ger was an eye-opener, making me wonder how they endure the harsh winters.

Getting a firsthand look at the daily life of a herder’s family

The view and the traditional ger feel like a scene from a painting.

Unfortunately, the day took an unexpected turn when I sprained my ankle in a fall. The pain was intense, and I feared it might be broken. The nearest hospital was two hours away, and even then, there was no doctor—only nurses. After an X-ray, we had to search for a pharmacy to get the necessary medication. The situation was overwhelming, but I was incredibly grateful to Claire and the World Vision Mongolia team, who stayed by my side, ensuring I was comfortable and supported. Their kindness made all the difference during such a challenging moment.

On Day 4, despite my injury, I didn't want to miss out on any part of the trip. We visited the local World Vision office for a briefing and then went to a library to meet savings group members. The success stories shared were uplifting—these groups empower individuals to take control of their finances and build supportive communities. Some even use their savings to assist members in times of need, reinforcing resilience and solidarity.

Later, we attended another graduation ceremony for beneficiaries who had completed a livelihood training programme. One of the stories that stood out was of Bumaa, who participated in a life skills training course in sewing and now runs her own business. Her words, "Give a man a fish, and he'll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he'll eat for a lifetime," resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the lasting power of education and empowerment.

Bumaa's amazing story

We also had the chance to visit some of the most vulnerable families, witnessing the immense challenges many face. Many are grappling with generational poverty, alcohol addiction, and limited access to resources. We visited one family whose middle son was in the hospital for appendicitis, and the eldest son shared their story with us. The condition of their ger, which had been damaged by the mother's outbursts, was heartbreaking. There was little support available to address deeper issues like rehabilitation services, which could truly make a difference in such situations.

One of the MVF houses — not in the best condition

Before we left, we took a detour to the Russian border for a cheeky little adventure just before calling it a day.

The border

Day 5 started with a visit to a familiar place—the hospital where I had been treated for my ankle. It looked completely different from my last visit! This time, we were there to hear students share how they had benefited from the Health Education Programme, which empowers the younger generation with crucial knowledge.

Then, we also visited a school to learn about their Child Development Club, which includes sports, arts, and life skills training. What stood out to me was their inclusion of children with special needs. I had the opportunity to sit with an older student who taught me how to make handicrafts, a way of developing motor skills. It was a heartwarming experience, and I truly enjoyed my time with him.

In the afternoon, we split into two groups for volunteer activities with local CSO members. I joined the painting team, while others took on the challenging task of building a ger for a vulnerable family. Once we finished, we went to check on the progress of the ger and witnessed its handover ceremony. One of our fellow trippers even sponsored the boy who would be living in the new ger—a touching moment that highlighted the lasting impact of this trip.

Day 6 was the highlight of the trip, which was meeting my sponsored child. I had been looking forward to this moment for so long, and it exceeded all my expectations. She spotted me first during an icebreaker game and came straight to my side. My heart was filled with joy. We spent hours playing games, singing, and dancing, and with Uuree as my translator, I learned more about her life and family. Her determination and competitive spirit reminded me so much of myself. Saying goodbye was tough, but I will always treasure the gift and letter she gave me—a truly touching moment.

After our emotional farewell, we visited Saikhanii Khutul National Park near the Russian border. Despite my sore ankle and fear of heights, I couldn't resist taking in the breathtaking views. The hike was tough but absolutely worth it.

That evening, we gathered for a farewell at the hotel, saying our goodbyes—not just to fellow trippers setting off on their own journeys but also to the incredible World Vision staff who made this experience possible.

Looking back, I feel so incredibly grateful. Meeting my sponsored child and seeing the impact of World Vision’s work firsthand was deeply moving. It’s one thing to hear about these efforts but another to stand in the very places where change is happening. The resilience, warmth, and strength of the people I met left a lasting mark on me.

Before leaving, I made a decision that felt right in my heart. A new Area Programme was being established in Dornod, Mongolia, and World Vision Singapore organised a Chosen programme. After witnessing the challenges families face, I knew I wanted to be part of the journey ahead. Since it was also the last day for registration, I signed up before I left. Because even the smallest steps can make a difference, and this trip was a powerful reminder that we all have the ability to create meaningful change.

If you’re interested in making a lasting impact and changing the life of a child, consider sponsoring today. Visit the World Vision website to learn more and join this meaningful journey.

May x