It has been really a while since I held a pen and journal … and sharing with the Nyonyalicious community. My apologies for being so quiet.

Right this moment, I am enjoying my favourite time of the day – looking out of the window enjoying the sight of the sunrise, while listening to one of my childhood songs (shared by one of my aunties).

Looking through the old photos from the song clip, seeing the happy, innocent faces and carefree lifestyle of school children in their uniforms, studying together, playing, laughing and enjoying time together.

The photos also feature the food scene from the roadside ice cream cart, street food such as rojak, roti and bak kwa (meat jerky) stall where the uncle is fanning the grill stove with yummilicious pieces of pork jerky.

It brought back the nostalgic memories of the good old times of my childhood… my loved ones…my fellow schoolmate – bringing back memories of growing up – nostalgic is the word!

So, here I am, with bak kwa and bread in hand, and a hot cup of tea; it is time to boot my computer and start writing. It really has been a while since I last sat down and wrote.

Only a few days ago, I received a note from an overseas aunty detailing her travel plans, and asking whether we would be able to meet up in Penang as we used to for “All Souls’ Day” or “Cheng Beng”. We used to catch up with family and friends who travel far and wide to meet up and to celebrate the occasion together. However, this year, unfortunately we would not be travelling until the later part of the year.

Now with international borders opening up and planes back in the skies, it is time to reconnect with loved ones, families, friends and your roots. If you are celebrating All Souls Day (Cheng Beng), make this opportunity to meet up and reconnect with your family. Share stories, especially with the younger generations. Use this opportunity to explain to them the rituals of Cheng Beng, who their ancestors are, their heritage – their roots.

Have a wonderful day ahead.