Whirlwind visit to Sg

Have just returned from 3 days in Penang and 7 days in Singapore.

The 3 days were spent with my CG on a makan fest around Penang. We were chauffeured in two vans, which gave me an opportunity to catch up with different members, both adults and kids. Enjoyed sampling the local version of char koay teow, chendol, rojak, wan tan mee and roti prata. But I could not answer yes when asked if I have any cravings. I am as happy with Aussie food as I am with Asian food.

I learned that I am much more comfortable where I am now - physically and emotionally - and that when I am back home, I sometimes lapse into a state of learned helplessness and have to remind myself that I have made so much progress since migrating and not to waste my experiences and new skills.

The 7 days went by in a blur. Loved that #2 had a chance to sleep over with her cousin. They partied till midnight everyday, always finding things to do together: swimming, drawing, painting, singing to Taylor Swift on YouTube. I closed an eye and let them be - it's the school holidays after all (in Singapore, though not in Victoria till mid-December).

Aside from being present at Mum's 80th (the main reason for the visit), I was able to catch up with an ex-classmate/uni friend/college friend/FB friend/various relatives. I had not seen S for 30 years since we were in Sec 2 together. We went to different classes in Sec 3 and 4, different JC's, and did different courses in uni. S found me on FB a few weeks ago and we rekindled our connection. During our lunch together, she shared a little of her dramatic life story and presented me with a copy of the book she co-wrote with her husband. Have just finished reading it and am tremendously humbled and moved by what they have endured and how God has proven faithful. How wonderful is our God to bring us together like this.

I have always loved the forethought put into Sg infrastructure, particularly the way malls are linked to the MRT station, making travel easy and comfortable when it rains or gets too humid. My new favourite mall is NEX at Serangoon Central. It was there I discovered Sianeder, a local boutique (not the fashion chain kind) where a tai-tai looking lady kept encouraging me to try different outfits which she recommended as looking good on me. She has outstanding personal skills, making me feel special and attractive and like a VIP. If I ever need tips on grooming, presentation, sales skills, I will definitely go to her.

Overall, did not get to shop as much as I would have liked, and did not get to fulfill all requests to meet up. But that just gives me another excuse to visit again soon.

For now, I'm just happy to be home.