14.2.2026 Saturday

 

13.2.2026 Friday - growing together and also apart

I give Shane a hug as he sits at the kitchen table, I am not particularly close to him but he has grown into a lovely young man, and the moment warranted a hug. +-

We have our Wee reunion dinner at No. 40 tonight - Khoon sees the renovation for the first time, as do some of the nephews. I don't think that they have much of an attachment to this house, Pam's kids hardly spend any time here. Shing is curious as usual, he wanders arounds and looks at the rear garden as well - he is genuinely a hands-on person. During dinner, there is a lot that is said (questions asked and answered) and much more which is left unsaid - tonight's dinner is a rare occasion because I am at the table. There are many more which I (we) have not been invited to, they have their reasons for not even inviting me. In return, I will organise and plan more dinners like this in the future, especially if Pam is in town. 

The highlight of the evening, I manage to replicate (somewhat) my grandmother's nyonya chap chai

 

12.2.2026 Thursday -

 

11.2.2026 Wednesday -

 

10.2.2026 Tuesday - back on my feet

 Feeling good about my ankles, but taking it easier in squash (3-game limit) and then going for a few games of pickleball followed by a jump into the pool. I miss walking about so after dinner I go for a quiet stroll around the neighbour, it is supposed to help with one's digestion. 

I am reminding myself not to go easy on the gym work and swims now that I am able to play sports

9.2.2026 Monday - recovering well

 His text said 'Min, is Friday's dinner still on?

How rude, I thought - no salutations, no blessings (or do they reserve those for believers). I get friendlier texts for my colleagues and squash mates. As Sam says I am the eldest and should take the lead in organising this; the pre Chinese New Year dinner. This time, it will be at No. 40 which he is not seen yet, so it will be a nice experience for everyone including my nephews and nieces. I am quite looking forward to it, and playing big brother. 

8.2.2026 Sunday - hot and busy

after letting the soil settle for several weeks, the planting has started

mint drops by for dinner and a chat

a bike ride to and from pikabol followed by a quick swim, and plenty of hydration

and in the meantime, sam has crafted her planter bed