A Familiar Place, A Fuller Heart

Hello!

Lately, I feel like time has been passing much faster than expected. Perhaps it’s the weather getting warmer, or perhaps there are simply more things happening and more things I want to do.

In May, I took a short break and travelled solo to Japan. It wasn’t unfamiliar to me, and that was exactly the point. I wanted somewhere familiar, somewhere I could truly switch off and not stress too much about uncertainty.

During this trip, I was able to take things really slowly. There was no one to keep pace with, no need to worry if someone was waiting for me, and no rush to get to the next destination. I could explore at my own pace, pick a café and stay a little longer, and spend more time reflecting inwardly.

There was something comforting about not having a fixed agenda.

I also found myself drawing more frequently. Although I still don’t have the confidence to sketch people in public, I hope to one day overcome that fear. I still worry about what others might think, or whether I’ll make a bad drawing before the moment passes. But perhaps that’s all part of the process, and one day, I hope to fill my sketchbook with scenes and people from everyday life.

New Responsibilities

This trip was also my first time being away from home with Bella watching over the house.

Although a close friend dropped by every day to take care of her basic needs, I still worried about her. Thankfully, she adapted well and did her duty of keeping the house intact 🤣.

When I returned, Bella was especially clingy, which was incredibly cute! 🥰

By the end of the month, she had been with me for two months, and I made the decision to officially adopt her as part of my family. It wasn’t something I had originally planned so soon, but sometimes life has a way of moving things forward unexpectedly. I decided that I wanted to take greater responsibility for her and give her a permanent home.

With the suspicion of a possible food allergy, I brought her to the vet. To my surprise, she behaved so well throughout the visit. Following the vet’s recommendation, Bella started an eight-week hypoallergenic food trial and had to wear an e-collar.

While she has been trying hard to adapt and return to her normal routines, I’ve also been learning alongside her. Adjusting to the changes, understanding her needs, and figuring things out together. I guess this journey isn’t just about Bella adapting — it’s about both of us learning and growing together.

Stepping Back into the Scene

On the art side, I’ve been encouraged by friends to start boothing again. With enough persuasion and motivation, I’m happy to share that I’ll be participating in an art and craft fair this coming July!

It’s been a long time since I last had a booth. Although I stopped participating over the years, I still enjoy visiting art markets and have noticed how much things have changed.

To be honest, I felt rather anxious and a little lost at the thought of returning. There are so many things to consider — how I want the brand to look and feel, what I want to bring, and how I want to present myself and my work.

Nevertheless, preparations are underway, and I suppose that’s my homework for the next few weeks. It feels exciting, nerve-wracking, and unfamiliar all at once, but perhaps that’s part of the fun too.

What’s Next

Looking back, I realised that a lot of my energy these days has been spent on things that I genuinely enjoy and care about. While it can be tiring at times, I find myself feeling content, and perhaps that’s what satisfaction means to me at this stage of life.

There are still many things keeping me busy. I’m continuing to take care of Bella and making sure she stays comfortable during her prescription diet journey. I can’t wait for the day when she no longer needs the e-collar and can return to her usual carefree self.

On the creative side, I hope to continue filling up my sketchbook, preparing for the upcoming booth, and exploring ideas for new merchandise. Returning to the art market scene after being away for so long feels both exciting and slightly intimidating, but I’m looking forward to seeing where this journey leads.

Beyond work and hobbies, I’m also reminded of the importance of slowing down and making time for the people around me. Sharing meals with like-minded friends, catching up with family, and enjoying these ordinary moments have become things I appreciate more and more.

Perhaps there is no perfect balance to achieve. For now, I’m simply grateful to be spending my time on things that matter to me, and that feels like a good place to be for now.

Thank you for being here, and take care! ✨