The 10th Day of CNY: Health Checks & Family Lunch In Menglembu

Today is the 10th day of Chinese New Year, and was my scheduled yearly medical check-up and Pap smear.

This year, instead of visiting my usual gynae in KL, I did it at Pantai Hospital Ipoh. After Googling for female health screening packages, I found that Pantai was offering one of the best deals. I chose the Ruby package at RM380, which includes a Pap smear, blood and urine tests, abdominal ultrasound, lung function test, eye test, dental check, and ECG. I also added an ultrasound of the breasts for RM87.

The whole process was surprisingly quick. By 11am, everything was done. I couldn’t see the doctor today as she had to attend a meeting, so I’ll be reviewing the results with her next week. The medical report was WhatsApped to me by noon.

There was complimentary breakfast too. I had to scan a barcode to choose my meal, and after finishing the scans, I headed to the café. The set was quite a big breakfast — sausage, ham, baked beans with bell pepper, scrambled eggs, a slice of wholemeal toast, hash brown and watermelon. The latte was pretty good too. Not the healthiest, but it was tasty and not overly salty. I haven’t eaten something like that in a long time.

My dad fetched me home, and after a quick shower, I drove us to Menglembu for lunch with my dad’s siblings. The drive there took about an hour, but the return trip was much faster. It was my first time driving to Menglembu using Waze — something I’d probably never do in KL. The traffic in Klang Valley is just too horrendous, and I hate wasting time stuck in jams.

Lunch with the relatives was lovely. But after being away from my fur baby almost the entire day, I realised how much I missed her. It made me wonder how I’ll cope if I ever go back to working full-time and have to leave Haru alone in my room for the whole day. I guess I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it.

All in all, it was a busy and fruitful day. As for my medical report — that’s a story for another day, if I feel like sharing. Not too bad, yet not perfect either. But that’s life, right?

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I drove an hour to Menglembu to have this lovely lunch with my dad's siblings at Best View Restaurant.

Rethinking Retirement at 53

 When I was in my early twenties, I had a very clear picture of life.

By age 53, I imagined I would have retired — bags packed, passport ready, slowly traveling the world with no deadlines and no responsibilities.

Then I entered my forties. Reality gently tapped me on the shoulder.

I began to realise that maybe… I wouldn’t actually stop working at 53.

And now, as I approach 53 in a month, I am certain of one thing —

I will probably still be working in my 60s, perhaps even into my early 70s.

And strangely, I’m at peace with that.

These days, I find myself thinking about picking up a part-time job around my neighbourhood. Something simple, meaningful — maybe even working as a kindergarten teacher aide. Not just for income, but for purpose.

Because at this stage of life, a job is not only about paying bills.

It is also about funding future dreams — like traveling overseas at my own pace, on my own terms.

I look around me and realise I’m not alone in this mindset.

My mum officially retired as a teacher at 55, but she continued tutoring English until her early 60s.

The legendary designer Vera Wang is 76 and still working — elegant, sharp, and unstoppable.

Cliff Richard, one of my favorite singers is still doing his world tour at 85. And Barry Gibb (Bee Gees), my forever favorite singer is planning to do his final world tour at 78. 

Even my neighbour here in Ipoh is still working as an office manager at 78. Yes, almost 80 — and she looks like she’s in her mid-60s.

There really is a difference between staying engaged in life and slowly retreating from it.

And that made me ask myself an honest question:

How do I want to grow old?

I don’t just want to live long.

I want to live well.

I want to look like I’m in my 60s when I’m in my 80s.

I want an active mind and a flexible body.

I want to be able to squat, climb stairs, and still do my daily brisk walks in my 80s — maybe even my 90s, if God permits.

And for me, staying mentally and physically active includes continuing to work in some way.

So no, I don’t think I’ll be stopping work anytime soon.

Right now, I’m giving myself permission to rest and heal here in Ipoh.

But once I feel ready, I already know what comes next.

My resume is updated.

The target websites are bookmarked.

All I need to do is press “send.”

And somehow, that thought doesn’t exhaust me.

It energises me.

Because maybe retirement isn’t about stopping work.

Maybe it’s about redefining it.

Not chasing survival anymore —

but choosing purpose.

What are your thoughts on working into your 70s?

Is retirement an age, or is it a mindset?

Why Financial Literacy Is a Vital Skill for Modern Parents

Meta Description: Learn how financial literacy helps modern parents cut money stress, protect their families and teach kids healthy money habits.

Some days it feels like the majority of parenting is worrying about money: Groceries, school events, birthday parties and surprise bills all pull on the same wallet. When you do not feel in control of your finances, that worry hums in the background, even when you are trying to relax. Financial literacy will not erase every bill, but it can turn down the volume on that constant stress.

Money Stress Is Part of Modern Parenting

If it feels like everything got more expensive overnight, you are not imagining it. Housing, food, childcare, fuel and children’s activities add up quickly. Many families also juggle part time work, side hustles or freelance income, which can make cash flow feel unpredictable.

When you are already tired, every “Can I have this?” or school email asking for a small contribution can feel overwhelming. That is why building money skills is not a luxury. It is part of keeping your home and your mind calmer.

What Financial Literacy Really Means

“Financial literacy” may sound technical, but in a family setting it is very practical. It simply means:

• Knowing what comes in and what goes out of your accounts

• Having a clear plan for bills, debt and daily spending

• Saving something for emergencies and future goals

• Understanding interest, credit and common fees

• Thinking ahead about education, healthcare and retirement.

As your confidence grows, you might explore simple investing or even small, carefully planned forex trading, always remembering that higher potential returns come with higher risk. Any investing should only involve money you can afford to lose after essentials and emergency savings are covered. The goal is informed decisions, not quick wins.

Financial Literacy As Self Care

Many parents carry a mental checklist from the moment they wake up: meals, laundry, homework, work tasks and appointments. When money feels uncertain, on top of that, it adds an invisible weight.

Learning about your finances is a way to support your future self. When you understand what is coming in, what is going out and what is due soon, unexpected costs feel less frightening. You can say “yes” or “not this month” with confidence instead of guessing. That sense of control may not look glamorous, but it is still a powerful form of self-care.

A Simple Family Budget That Fits Real Life

A budget does not need to be complicated. Think of it as a basic map for your money each month. You can start with three steps:

1. Write down your monthly income from salary, benefits and regular side work.
   
   

2. List your essential expenses: rent or mortgage, utilities, childcare, transport, insurance and minimum debt payments.
   
   

3. Estimate flexible spending such as groceries, school lunches, clothes and small treats.

You can keep this in a notebook or a simple app. The goal is not perfection. It is awareness. Once you see where your money goes, you can adjust gradually, perhaps moving a small amount toward savings or reducing unnecessary spending.

Emergency Funds and Future Goals

Saving can feel impossible when money is tight, but even small amounts make a difference. A good first milestone is a modest emergency fund. Aim for a starter goal like 200 or 300 dollars to cover real emergencies such as medical bills, car repairs or a broken appliance. As that cushion grows, you can think about longer term goals: setting aside money for your children’s needs, healthcare costs or retirement. You do not have to fund everything at once. What matters most is building the habit of saving regularly, even if the amount is small.

Handling Debt Without Shame

Many families carry debt, including credit cards, car loans, student loans or buy now pay later plans. Shame often leads to avoidance, but ignoring debt usually increases stress.

Set aside time to list each debt, its interest rate and the minimum payment. Then choose a simple repayment approach. You might focus on paying off the smallest balance first for quick motivation, or prioritize the highest interest rate to save more in the long run. The key is consistency and avoiding new high cost debt whenever possible.

Digital Money and Spending Traps

Today, money often exists as numbers on a screen rather than cash in hand. Contactless payments, online shopping and in-app purchases make spending almost effortless. Children may see you tap your card and assume money is unlimited.

A few simple habits can help:

• Turn off one-click purchases where possible

• Wait 24 hours before buying non essential items online

• Review subscriptions regularly and cancel unused services.

Talking to older children about how much apps, games and streaming services actually cost helps them understand that digital money is still real money. These small conversations quietly build financial awareness.

Teaching Kids About Money at Every Age

Money lessons do not need to be formal; they often happen naturally in the course of daily life.

For younger children, let them use a clear jar for coins so they can see savings grow. At the supermarket, explain simple choices, such as selecting a lower cost brand to free up money for something else later.

For school-age children, a small allowance can teach budgeting. Let them decide whether to spend immediately or save for something bigger. Experiencing the consequences of spending all their money is a valuable lesson.

For teenagers, involve them in more realistic conversations. Show them a bank statement, explain fees and discuss part-time income that can be divided into spending, saving and giving. When they see you planning and occasionally saying “not this month,” they learn that setting limits is normal and responsible.

Small Habits That Protect Your Family

You do not need a complete financial overhaul to improve your situation. A few simple habits can create lasting change:

• Have a 10-minute weekly money check-in to review balances and upcoming bills

• Set up a small automatic transfer to savings on payday

• Track unexpected expenses for a month so you can plan better next time

• Talk openly about money with your partner or a trusted friend.

Over time, these actions build confidence. What once felt overwhelming becomes part of the routine of managing a household.

Final Thoughts: Progress Over Perfection

If you grew up in a home where money was linked to stress or silence, it is natural to feel uneasy about finances now. The good news is that you do not need to be perfect to create a healthier money environment for your children. Every step you take to understand budgeting, saving, debt and planning strengthens your family’s foundation.

Chinese New Year Day 7 - A Spoonful of Memories Across Generations

Today is Yan Yat — the birthday of all humankind, also known as Everyone’s Birthday. It falls on the 7th day of Chinese New Year.

Since I was a child, my late maternal grandmother would cook fish and chicken porridge topped with fresh lettuce on this day. The dish is called Yue Sang Gai Jok. It was something I looked forward to every year. She would also fry fermented bean paste with garlic as a savoury condiment for the porridge. Grandma came from Guangdong, China, and was an amazing self-taught cook.

After she passed on, my dad took over the tradition. Without fail, he continued cooking fish and chicken porridge every 7th day of CNY — but I was rarely around to taste it. I missed it year after year.

This year, being back at my ancestral home, I finally got to enjoy his porridge again — my first bowl in more than a decade. Dad slow-cooked a rich pot filled with fresh grouper, abalone, prawns, dried oysters, pumpkin and chicken. Just before serving, he placed raw lettuce at the bottom of our bowls and poured the hot porridge over it. It was deeply comforting and incredibly delicious.

A little history behind this tradition:

Fish is an important dish during CNY as it symbolises abundance and prosperity. It represents having a good start and a good ending to the year. Elders also believe that feeding children porridge on the 7th day of the Lunar New Year helps them do well in their studies.

Being able to taste this again, in the same home where my childhood memories were made, feels extra meaningful this year. Some traditions may be simple, but they carry love across generations.

Do you have a special tradition for the 7th day of CNY? I’d love to hear it 💗

Our Yan Yat porridge today, cooked with rice, millet, grouper fish, prawns, abalone, dried oysters, chicken, pumpkin, carrots and served with raw lettuce. 

My dad gave me this bowl where the 'liu' (ingredients) are more than the porridge.  

2026 Chinese New Year

CNY felt different this year — in the best way. For the first time in years, I’m celebrating the entire 2 weeks of CNY back in my hometown, and with that came something I didn’t realise I had been missing so deeply: family reunions.

For so long, I missed gatherings with my dad’s siblings — my uncles, aunties, and cousins. Life in KL made those moments rare. But this year, I had it all again. I saw relatives I hadn’t met in years, and there was something incredibly heartwarming about picking up conversations as if no time had passed.

On the 2nd day of CNY, my girls suggested Korean food for dinner. Alycia did a quick Google search and found Daorae Korean BBQ Restaurant, which is just a short drive from my parents’ house. I later learned that Daorae is the largest Korean restaurant chain in Malaysia, with 11 outlets nationwide. Dinner was fantastic — sizzling meats, warm soups, ginseng chicken soup, endless side dishes — but what made it truly special was having all three of my girls around the table with me. Moments like that feel extra precious these days. They returned to KL with their dad the very next day, and the house felt noticeably quieter.

On the 4th day of CNY, my cousin from Cameron Highlands treated us to a sumptuous lunch at San Poh Restaurant in Pasir Pinji. The food was wonderful, but what made it memorable was the laughter and the endless catching up with cousins I hadn’t seen in years.

Growing up, until my early twenties, my dad would take us up to Cameron Highlands every CNY. I used to dread those trips — the winding mountain roads gave me terrible motion sickness, and I often ended up throwing up. When I moved to KL, I was honestly relieved that those trips stopped.

But funny how life comes full circle.

Now, I find myself missing those journeys — the reunion dinners, the noisy gatherings, the simple joy of being surrounded by cousins, uncles, and aunties. The things we once took for granted often become the memories we cherish most.

This CNY reminded me that while traditions may change, what truly matters is being present — whether around a steamboat table in Cameron Highlands, a Korean BBQ grill near my childhood home, or a round table filled with relatives and stories.

What’s a CNY tradition you once had that you now miss? 💛

Watch the video of the celebration here > https://www.facebook.com/reel/1423764812345001

A New Chapter, Same Traditions — Celebrating CNY and Sherilyn at 21

This year’s Chinese New Year felt a little different, yet beautifully familiar in its own way.

On the 1st day of CNY, the three girls and their dad came back to Ipoh. For many years, we would make the annual trip from KL to visit my parents here. But this time, life has come full circle — I’m now the one staying in Ipoh, and it was them who made the journey back home. It felt both surreal and comforting, like watching a tradition quietly evolve.

What made this reunion even more meaningful is that we were once again celebrating Sherilyn’s birthday. Born on the 8th day of Chinese New Year, her birthday has always been intertwined with festive joy. This year, however, carried extra weight — Sherilyn turned 21 on 16 February 2026, marking a beautiful milestone into adulthood.

We had our reunion dinner at Kok Thai Chinese Restaurant. As always, the celebration began with the sweetest moments first — cake cutting and family photos before the main meal. There’s something about pausing before dinner to celebrate life that makes the occasion feel even more intentional and heartfelt.

True to tradition, Sherilyn received double ang pows again — one for Chinese New Year and another for her birthday. It’s a little privilege she has enjoyed since childhood, and one that makes this season especially magical for her. Chinese New Year will always hold a special place in her heart, simply because it almost always arrives hand in hand with her birthday.

This year, Sherilyn chose her own cake from Ferment Boulangerie in Canning Garden — a strawberry shortcake that was as beautiful as it was indulgent. Light, fragrant, and decadently layered, it was the perfect centrepiece for the evening.

As I sat there watching everyone laugh, eat, and celebrate, I realised that while circumstances may change, the essence of family remains constant. Traditions don’t disappear — they reshape themselves around new seasons of life.

And perhaps that’s the true meaning of reunion: not just gathering in the same place, but carrying the same love forward, year after year. 

You can watch the video here > https://www.facebook.com/reel/1424737755721445

UK Crypto Investors Must Supply Account Details to HMRC

Those who hold cryptocurrency in the United Kingdom must now share their account details with tax officials. This is to ensure all relevant taxes, such as capital gains, are paid.

The allure of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies has been that they are decentralised and free from institutional interference. Yet as they become more widely accepted in mainstream finance, the sector is being forced to change. One major dilemma has been taxation, and authorities in the United Kingdom have now brought into effect laws which state account details must be shared with tax authorities.

Cryptocurrencies Volatile Path

All of this could not have come at a more crucial time for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. The last two months of 2025 were not the strongest for crypto after a year of gains. Spot Bitcoin ETFs have seen large monthly outflows, with more than 3.5 billion dollars’ worth and several weeks near or above 1 billion dollars. The Bitcoin price today stands at $68,917 as of January 2nd, 2026, down from $124,310 in October.

Estimates are that these tax changes could raise at least £315 million a year by April 2030. It has been likened to the same amount of money required to fund 10,000 newly qualified nurses for a year. The government were keen to highlight that this is not a new tax, and that all taxes must be paid on gains made. Crypto tax evasion has long been a worry for HMRC, which has found it hard to track those who have bought low and sold high. There is also a scheme for anyone who made profits before April 2024, who can come clean about their gains.

James Murray MP, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, noted that “We’re going further and faster to crack down on tax dodgers as we close the tax gap and deliver on our Plan for Change. By ensuring everyone pays their fair share, the new crypto reporting rules will make sure tax dodgers have nowhere to hide, helping raise the revenue needed to fund our nurses, police and other vital public services.”

The Cryptoasset Reporting Framework

The move is an adoption of the OECD’s Cryptoasset Reporting Framework (CARF). It is part of a wider global effort to close the gaps and loopholes provided by digital assets. Signed in 2023, it has taken until January 2026 to implement it fully. The first reporting will begin in May 2027. This will move digital assets under the same regulation as any other investments, such as property, stocks or shares.

CARF is being adopted by the EU, the US and many other countries. It means cross-border taxation, and chasing those who skip it will become easier. Even offshore exchanges could report to HMRC, making evasion harder. Global users will now face more scrutiny, and for UK users, it makes it harder to hide behind international platforms.

A reporting cryptoasset service provider is broadly defined and covers any business that has influence over crypto transactions. Thus, brokerage services are also covered. While software is not regulated, if a company has considerable control over the software or can manipulate it, then it will.

Crypto exchanges, service platforms and providers of wallets will have to adapt. They must now collate, report and verify user information and data on transactions to the tax bodies. All of this information is similar to the data banks must provide. It includes where the person resides for tax purposes, wallet-to-wallet transfers, tokenised assets and other related concepts. This data will then allow HMRC to detect any crypto gains that have not been reported or are not aligned with the figures they have been given.

Major Changes in 2026

The United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority is also running a public consultation until February. This is on other possible rules changes for the crypto sector. So far, ideas have been rules around lending and borrowing, ethics and responsibility for brokers, along with standards for crypto exchanges.

Traditionally, the New Year has often brought renewed interest in cryptocurrency and sparked fresh price rises. Only 2019 and 2023 saw it at lower prices than it was a year before. These stood at $3,843 from $13,657, and $16,625 from $47,686, respectively. However, 2026 presents a very different playing field from previous years, with these increased taxation regulations being one of many variables on the table.

Is Crypto a Good Investment for Mothers?

All investments carry a risk, and cryptocurrency has a higher risk than others. This is because of its volatility, which makes it go up and down in price rapidly. It is also not a physical asset, such as oil or wheat, and thus is massively influenced by speculation.

In its defence, crypto has made huge gains for many people. If you study its trajectory since its inception, few assets have risen as quickly. With prices low, this could make it a great time to invest in it. However, you must be careful. Use it as part of a wider portfolio and never invest more than you can afford to risk. 

Reunion Season, A House Full of Joy

The house has been unusually lively these past few days — the kind of liveliness that fills the air with warmth and reminds you what home really feels like.

My younger brother is back in Ipoh from KL, and my eldest brother returned from Singapore with his family. Almost everyone is home for Chinese New Year. The past few days have been filled with restaurant meals, long conversations, and the comforting noise of family all around.

With my brother’s 9-year-old twins (a boy and a girl) running about, the house feels even more alive. Their laughter and endless energy bring a kind of joyful chaos I haven’t heard in a long time — loud, messy, but deeply comforting.

And in just a day and a half, my three girls will finally be home.

I can already imagine Haru’s excitement when she sees her three sisters again. This time, all four of my girls will camp in my room — something we’ve never done before.

My heart feels full just thinking about it.

I really can’t wait to see my girls again.

Watch the video here > https://www.facebook.com/reel/1388099185971991

Haru's Vet Day

Yearly vaccination + deworming day for my brave little girl yesterday 🐱

She was so scared and trembling the whole time… that big barking dog didn’t help at all.

Home is her safe place — knocked out the second we got back. So proud of her 🤍

I'm also proud of myself as I drove to the vet's clinic with Haru alone. In KL, either Sherilyn or Cass would follow me, always.

Watch the video here > https://www.facebook.com/reel/897098846577667

How I Calm My Mind When Anxiety Hits

The six months before I moved back home from KL…

my panic and anxiety attacks were at their worst.

Some nights, I would wake up gasping for air.
Even in the daytime, my heart just wouldn’t rest —
constant fear… constant palpitations.

I was exhausted.
And honestly… I was scared.
I kept thinking, I can't go on living like this.

So I decided to take back control.
I stepped away from the things that were triggering me.
Moving home was my first step toward healing.

When a panic attack hits,
I slow down and breathe deeply.
I turn on my favourite songs — Bee Gees, Air Supply, Chicago, Cliff Richard —
and sing along until my chest feels lighter.
Then I remind myself,
this is temporary… it will pass.

After that, I gently ask, what caused this?
If I can remove it, I remove it.... even if it meant removing toxic people from my life.
If I can reduce it, I take action.
Less stress. Less toxic energy. More peace.

And I talk to someone I trust.
Because we’re not meant to carry everything alone.

Little by little…
I’m learning to choose calm.
And life feels lighter now.

Watch my video here > https://www.facebook.com/reel/1312062110697502

You Think You Own a Cat… But She Owns You

Haru is slowly feeling more and more at home. It’s been almost two months since we moved back from KL to Ipoh, and the change in her is so obvious.

In the early days, she would hide under my bed in my room, too scared to explore. Now? Miss Freedom has discovered the whole house and refuses to be “room arrest” anymore. The moment I lock her in, she scratches the door, tries to pry it open, and meows so pitifully like I'm torturing her.

She’s gotten braver (and cheekier) too. In the wet kitchen, she somehow jumps all the way up to the highest boxes above the cabinets where my mum keeps her containers. And the outside world looks extra tempting — she loves sitting on the sofa, staring out at the porch like she’s planning her next escape.

Yesterday afternoon, I accidentally fell asleep while typing. Suddenly I jolted awake with this strong gut feeling: “Where’s Haru?!” I rushed downstairs… and yup, my dad had opened the front door. This naughty girl had slipped out and crawled under my car, refusing to come out — not even for treats!

After much coaxing and drama, we finally pulled her out.

Honestly, she’s becoming such a spoiled brat and total queen of the house. I’m pretty sure she thinks she owns the place now and we’re just her tenants. Everyone has to give in to her whims and fancies, even my dad!

Life with Haru = chaos… but also the cutest chaos ever. 

Watch the video here - https://www.facebook.com/HealthFreakMommy52

42 Years of Neighbours, Now My Makan Buddies

From kid next door to joining my parents’ morning walk gang — 40 years of neighbours, food, and laughter. Life comes full circle.

I’ve officially been inducted into my parents’ neighbourhood “Morning Walk Kaki” makan gang.

My parents have lived in Ipoh Garden East for 42 years — we moved there back in 1985 — and some of these neighbours have been part of our lives for over four decades. Not just neighbours, really… more like extended family.

Their morning walks aren’t just about exercise. They come with local trips, overseas holidays, and of course, plenty of makan outings. Food is always the main event. 😄

Earlier this week, on Lap Chun day, we had our pre–Chinese New Year dinner and loh sang together at Wah Kee Dim Sum restaurant. Most of the group are close to 80 years old, a few in their 60s… and then there’s me, the baby of the gang at 53.

They may be seniors on paper, but honestly? Young at heart, super funny, and full of stories. The laughter never stops.

After dinner, we continued round two at Douba Ipoh Bean Bar for dessert (because there’s always space for dessert). It felt so nice reconnecting with familiar faces — some neighbours I hadn’t seen in more than 30 years. So many memories came rushing back.

Growing older has its own kind of sweetness. Slower walks, longer chats, good food, old friends… and a sense of belonging you can’t buy anywhere.

I guess I’m now officially one of the morning walk kakis too. ❤️

Watch the video of our pre-CNY dinner on my Facebook page >https://www.facebook.com/HealthFreakMommy52

Homegrown Pineapple In A Flower Pot From Our Garden

My dad finally harvested his homegrown pineapple today, and it felt like such a small but meaningful victory.

He started growing it more than two years ago from nothing but a pineapple crown, tucked into a simple flower pot. Day after day, he watered it faithfully, fed it with kitchen scraps like fruit peels, and gave it plenty of sunlight and quiet attention. Just simple, old-school care and patience.

Today, all that love paid off.

The pineapple grew into a huge, beautiful fruit — almost 2kg! We were all so excited holding it in our hands, amazed that something this big came from a humble pot on our little home garden. We honestly can’t wait to cut it open and taste it. Somehow, homegrown fruit always tastes sweeter.

After harvesting the pineapple, Dad also picked some lady’s fingers (okra). His plants produce two or three every week, and with a few pots growing steadily, there’s always something fresh for the kitchen. Nothing fancy, just honest, fresh vegetables grown right outside our door.

Moments like this remind me that you don’t need a big garden or a farm to grow your own food. Even a flower pot is enough.

With daily watering, some sunlight, and kitchen scraps turned into compost, nature will quietly reward you — sometimes with the sweetest surprises.

Watch the video of how my dad harvested the pineapple on my Facebook page > https://www.facebook.com/HealthFreakMommy52

Alycia's Tokyo Getaway

Finally sharing some photos from Alycia’s Tokyo getaway with her friend, plus meeting her uncle there.

From gigantic snow crabs to sweet giant strawberries, fresh sushi and unagi… every picture is pure food temptation! But she said it was super cold (3°C and below) and had to quickly buy more winter wear in Tokyo to keep warm.

Such a fun adventure — so happy for her, and also secretly very envious of all that amazing food 😜❄️

Follow my journey and get more family stories and updates by liking my Facebook page > https://www.facebook.com/HealthFreakMommy52

Growing Old Together: The Small Changes I Have To Make

Living with parents in their 80s teaches you something no book or motivational quote ever can.

It’s not the big, dramatic sacrifices.

It’s the tiny, everyday adjustments that slowly become your new normal.

And strangely… you don’t even complain. You just adapt.

Food, for example, used to be simple. Now it’s thoughtful.

Vegetables are often steamed or cooked until very soft because my parents don’t have strong teeth anymore. Mum has gum problems too, so everything has to be gentle on the mouth. What used to feel “overcooked” now feels like comfort food.

Meat has to change as well. No tough cuts, no chewy bites. Everything needs to be tender, slow-cooked, or shredded. If it takes effort to chew, it’s off the menu. Cooking isn’t about taste first anymore — it’s about whether they can actually eat it comfortably.

Mum has chronic digestive and stomach issues, so heavy, spicy and sour food can make her miserable for hours. We rarely eat deep fried food these days. Our meals are lighter, simpler, plainer.

Funny enough, my taste buds changed along the way too.

Fruits don’t come sliced on a plate anymore for my parents. They go into the blender. Apples, pears, papayas — smoothie form is just easier. No biting, no chewing, no struggle. Just sip and enjoy. The house sounds like a juice bar every evening when mum makes her smoothie.

Even snacks are different. Hard nuts are out. Walnuts are in — the softest, easiest, and healthiest option for them. Grocery shopping has turned into a quiet calculation of “Can they chew this?”

But it’s not just food.

Safety becomes part of daily life.

Indoor slippers can’t be left lying around carelessly. One wrong step could mean a fall. The floor can’t be too wet after mopping. Even cleaning products have to be chosen carefully — no strong perfumes or harsh disinfectants because Mum’s asthma and lungs are sensitive. I have to stop using strong smelling cleaners downstairs as my parents are downstairs all the time now. I ‘stay’ upstairs and the nice-smelling cleaners are now for upstairs use.

Things I never used to think about… now I notice automatically.

And walking — something so simple — has changed too.

I used to walk very fast. Everywhere. I’m the type who zooms from point A to point B without thinking.

But when I’m with Mum, I slow down.

Way down..

She has to be extra careful with every step. She fell several times over the past few years and broke her right shoulder and wrist, injured her head and broke her teeth. Since then, every uneven tile, every curb, every staircase feels like a potential danger. I match her pace now, step by step, holding her hand, sometimes almost shuffling.

Dad, on the other hand, still walks surprisingly fast for his age — which somehow makes me even more nervous. I’m constantly watching him, worrying he might trip or lose balance. It’s funny how parenting quietly reverses like that. They used to worry about me falling. Now I’m the one worrying about them.

Even the ceiling fan has rules.

Speed one only.

Because of Mum’s chronic lung issues and asthma, strong wind makes her uncomfortable. Meanwhile, I’m sweating buckets thanks to perimenopause and our lovely 38°C weather. Some afternoons feel like I’m slow-roasting indoors.

But still… the fan stays at speed one.

Because her breathing matters more than my comfort.

All these little adjustments might sound restrictive to some people.

But to me, they feel like love in its most practical form.

Not grand gestures.

Just small, quiet choices every single day.

Cook softer. Walk slower. Mop carefully. Sweat a little more. Rearrange your life gently around the people who once rearranged theirs for you.

And truly — I have no complaints.

At their age, time feels different.

Their presence feels like a luxury.

Every morning I see them at the dining table, every simple meal we share, every small conversation — it all feels like bonus time. Extra chapters I didn’t know I would get.

I thank God for giving them such long lives.

And I silently hope for a few more years… maybe more birthdays, more slow walks, more speed-one fan days.

Moving back to my hometown to be with them is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Because one day, these inconveniences will disappear.

And when that day comes, I know I’ll miss every single one of them.

Simple and soft dishes that my 83-year old dad cooked for us: steamed okra, steamed red spinach, air-fried salmon with homegrown rosemary, chicken feet from soup (collagen for their joints), yacon and radish soup, beet root + corn soup, stir-fried yau mak veggie with red yeast and garlic, and steamed white pomfret with red dates, goji berries and ginger. Very simple yet delish and nutritious dishes.

How My 83-Year-Old Dad Cooks Our Childhood Whole Winter Melon Stew | Traditional Family Recipe

This double boiled whole winter melon is more than just a dish in our home — it’s a family tradition.

My 83-year-old dad is cooking a recipe that was passed down from my late maternal grandmother over 50 years ago. We grew up eating this comforting, old-school Chinese home dish, and every time it’s on the table, it feels like childhood all over again.

Winter melon is considered a yin food in traditional Chinese medicine, known for its cooling and alkaline properties that help balance and neutralize heat in the body. It’s nourishing, light, and perfect for the whole family.

We start by washing the whole winter melon thoroughly, cutting off the top, and removing the seeds. Then we stir-fry garlic, onions, shiitake mushrooms, chicken, dried cuttlefish, and other ingredients until fragrant. Seasoned with soy sauce and oyster sauce, the savory filling is stuffed into the melon before slow-cooking for 3–4 hours until everything becomes tender and flavorful.

The result? A unique, hearty, and deeply comforting dish that tastes like home.

Simple ingredients. Old memories. Timeless flavors. ❤️

Watch the video on how my dad cooks this dish here > https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Ej94AiBcP4c?feature=share

When Editing Videos Is Easy… But Choosing Music Feels Like Taking an Exam

Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of my time editing videos. What started as a simple hobby somehow turned into me sitting in front of my laptop for hours, trimming clips, adjusting colors, adding subtitles, and obsessing over tiny details nobody else probably notices.

The funny thing is — editing itself isn’t the hard part anymore.

Thanks to CapCut (which I have to pay), I can actually create videos pretty fast now. Cut here, transition there, add some captions, done. Everything feels smooth and efficient. I finally reached that stage where editing doesn’t feel scary or technical.

But then comes the real nightmare.

Choosing. The. Music.

CapCut has thousands of nice songs. And I mean really nice ones. Cute, trendy, emotional, cinematic — you name it, they have it. Every time I scroll through the music library, I get excited thinking, “Ohhh this one fits perfectly!”

And then… copyright says hello.

TikTok is pretty chill. Upload, done, no drama.

But YouTube?  Different story.

YouTube is like that super strict teacher who checks everything with a microscope.

So many times, I spent ages converting my favourite songs from YouTube into MP3, carefully placing them into my CapCut video, syncing every beat perfectly… only to upload and get hit with: Blocked due to copyright.

Heart pain, really.

Even worse, not just songs — sometimes even short tunes or simple melodies are protected. Like… how?? It’s just five seconds of music 😭

My latest Nana Vietnam Kitchen video nearly broke me. I had to redo the entire video THREE times because of music issues. Three times re-exporting. Three times re-uploading. Three times hoping it would pass.

In the end, I gave up.

No more nice music. No more trendy songs.

I just picked one of those super safe, super boring, very “corporate slideshow” tunes from the YouTube Audio Library.

So yeah… if you ever watch my YouTube videos and think,

“Why the music so old-school ah?”

Now you know.

It’s not my taste.

It’s survival 😂

At this point, editing the video is easy. Fighting copyright is the real full-time job.

Honestly, being a small content creator sometimes feels like 20% creativity and 80% dodging copyright landmines.

But oh well… we adapt, we survive, and we keep posting.

Because at the end of the day, the memories (and the food videos) are still worth sharing — even if the background music sounds like it came from 1985.

Nana Vietnam Kitchen at Festival Walk, Jalan Medan Ipoh

Yesterday my parents and I tried Nana Vietnam Kitchen at Festival Walk, Jalan Medan Ipoh, and it turned out to be such a satisfying dinner.

Opened by a lovely couple (with the lady boss from Vietnam), this cosy little spot serves authentic Vietnamese street food favourites like banh mi, beef pho, Gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls), plus a variety of Vietnamese-style rice and noodle sets.

My parents and I ordered their classic beef pho, lemongrass & chilli chicken rice set, and spring rolls to share. The portions were surprisingly big — so big we couldn’t even finish everything and had to tapau the leftovers (no regrets though 😆).

The food was flavourful, comforting, and tasted really homemade. Service was friendly, the restaurant was clean, and the prices were super reasonable too. For 3 adults including tea, the total bill was only RM57.90. Honestly such good value.

Definitely coming back to try more dishes next time. If you’re in Ipoh and craving Vietnamese food, this place is worth checking out!

Watch the video of our dinner at Nana Vietnam Kitchen here > https://www.youtube.com/shorts/j8Xw3ZRtV2g?feature=share

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Food for the 3 of us.