Hello, beautiful people! It’s been two weeks since I last shared anything here in the Hive family. This past week has been busy, as it often is when we are parents. The past couple of weeks have been especially overwhelming because my son just had his leg cast removed. After spending weeks in a cement cast, his little legs are still adjusting, and he hasn’t been able to walk yet. Watching him navigate this phase with such resilience has been both challenging and inspiring. Even though I’ve been preoccupied, I’ve missed sharing bits of our life, and today I wanted to post a special throwback that means a lot to me. This picture is from when my son was just two years old, a beautiful memory frozen in time. We are craving Arabic food, and just nice to have a family bonding at a fancy Arabic restaurant here in Malaysia. It wasn’t just any ordinary outing; this visit was not just for craving; it was extra special because my mother was visiting us at the time. Having her here meant the world to me, and sharing this meal made the day unforgettable.
This photo was edited by Canva.
It was my mom’s very first time trying Arabic food, and seeing her reactions to the new flavors was priceless. The spices, the textures, the aroma, everything was completely new to her. Because she only eats Filipino food so far, when she visits here, I let her try all the food she hasn’t tried before as much as I can. She’s usually a little scared to try when it comes to unfamiliar cuisines, but on that day, she surprised me what ever we ordered, she tried it. And I told her it's Arab food, and by the end of the meal, she even asked for seconds of the lamb kabsa! It warmed my heart to see her enjoying the food and the atmosphere so much.
My two girls had been waiting excitedly for this day. They love this particular food probably because of the giant platters, warm bread straight from the oven, and the cozy vibe that makes it feel like you’re eating in someone’s home rather than a fancy place. The restaurant isn't one we visit often, mainly because it’s a bit on the pricey food. So when we do go, it feels like a family treat, a special celebration. That day was filled with laughter, shared dishes, and countless little moments that I hold close. Watching my son try to eat hummus with his tiny hands and seeing my daughter trying to pronounce the names of the dishes in her funny accent were just some of the highlights. My mom joined in the fun too, giggling as she tried to roll up her sleeves and eat the food the traditional way with her hands.
Any way my mom now is already in Philippines 1 year now, and she also in hospital fighting the life but she also week she has all the sickness diabetes high blood and kidney, but even though all the worry in my heart I just wish the best life is sometimes mess, now looking back the memory it’s not just a simple memory of a family dinner at a restaurant, it reminds me of what matters most: being together. Especially in times like this, when situations are hard to understand and the days are filled with worry about my son and my mom's recovery, I look back on these little snapshots of joy and feel grateful. Life isn’t always about the big milestones or the picture-perfect moments. Sometimes it’s about watching your mom try shawarma for the first time or holding your child’s hand as he takes his first steps again after weeks of being unable to move freely. Thank you all for your patience and kindness while I’ve been away. I’ll try to keep sharing more of our everyday joys and little adventures. And if you haven’t tried Arabic food yet, go for it! You might just fall in love with the flavors, just like my family did.
