Went back to Penang last weekend for a “housemate” convo. That housemate was also someone who sat next to me in form 6, the first of many people who are born in 1984 I got to know very well. Ha. Can’t believe how time has passed. Seeing how much she had changed. How much we had changed. And how for now and many years to come, I’ll use going to Penang as going back to Penang because somehow that island has been another home for me. Haha. We used to dread going back to Penang.  We called it 神龙岛 (shen long dao). We used to say, going back to a birdcage, to more projects, to more sleepless night. But now, it is going for holiday!

We would be so happy to see the bridge whenever we leave the island, but will curse it when we were going back to it. But last weekend, seeing the bridge (although it looks worse) was nothing but excitement and joy. I guess one of the major factors would be the people who are still there. Will it still be the same if everyone matter has left?

Once, during a little gathering, we were ask to share what we are thankful for the year 2007. I said “Thank God for Penang”. Haha. No matter how much I hated it at first, that place has gave me laughter, sadness, love, friendship, knowledge (maybe) and the encouragement to know Christ more. And I hope I will see it again. Haha.

My birthday just passed. (few people still thought I’m born in 84. The wonder of who you hang out with determine your year of birth!? Ha) Nothing special, as I told my friend, being a part time student/full time worker means no life. Work in the morning, class at night. But I did have a little gathering with my nieces, nephew, cousins and sisters. Feel like a small kid. Not sure since when I last spent my birthday with family members. It was chaotic with all the kids screaming. Eh, maybe only 3 kids ba. The rest too little to scream.

However, yesterday is a very sad day for a friend. I hope she’s coping well. Her grandma just passed away. May God rest her soul in peace.