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.