this time

Been in Malaysia the past few days with family.

Visiting relatives. Eating. Shopping. Eating.

I was last in Malaysia in 2008, just finished high school.

Then, I did not want to be here. I wanted to be in Melbourne to receive my final results, with everyone else.

Sulky to the point of tears.

Looking back now, it was silly and petty.

(I suppose most teenagers are but that's no excuse.)

Anyway, I'm here now

and it's not as bad as I remember.

Still dirty and smelly at times but I'm ok with that. 

Helps that it isn't as hot and I haven't been ravaged by mosquitoes. Also, the fact that I do want to be here.

This time.

I want to see my grandmothers. Where my parents grew up.

To piece together where they (I) came from.

Shophouse where Mum grew up

Neighourhood where Dad grew up

Like it or not, Malaysia is a part of my history too.

(and always will be)