As I was writing this, my eyes furtively darted between my screen and my luggage, bared open, mentally going through a checklist to see if I have missed out on anything. It was one of the three suitcases encasing my most important earthly possessions, bound for check-in, as I packed for new beginnings in a new city.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia has been home for the last seven years through the highs and lows, wins and losses, laughter and tears, miracles and love. The city - in all of its glory, character, and complexities - was where I have grown the most, both professionally and personally. Yet, my best memories in the capital city can be mostly attributed to the discovery of an incredible community (some of whom I am privileged to call friends) accompanied by amazing opportunities to see a fraction of my lifelong dreams come to life. To be bidding it goodbye after the better part of a decade would make any person a little wistful. Hence, this piece in my rather neglected blog…

These last few weeks have been a flurry of farewells and a host of goodbyes, a look-back into a repository of good times - where it all began and how far we have come.

For the last two years, our home was where I have celebrated the best news and sought refuge from the bad. It was where I have welcomed friends from all walks of life for a home-cooked meal. It was where I have written some of my favourite stories. Of the seven years I have dwelled in this city, I have spent the most time in this house; it was our safe harbour amidst a global pandemic. It will always hold a dear place in my heart.

So here we are, embarking on a new season in Bangkok, a city I have long loved and been fascinated by... The search begins for our very own home, one we can grow and build our roots in.