Six Long Years

This blog is mainly dedicated to my favourite human, Ryan and our relationship as we turn six years this year. We just turn six years in September of this year to be precise. Now, the reason why I decided to write a blog about us is that I want to do something different this year. I usually create an anniversary album each year. However, I think the five giant anniversary albums should be enough, and it's time to do something different. I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to Ryan through words and on my very own website.

Worry not as this is not going to be a sappy and lousy kind of love story. Proceed reading this blog if you are curious or want to be nosy. :D

THE BEGINNING

Every relationship has a story. Every love has its beginning. So how did we started our story?

We started off as friends. When we first met each other, we seriously did not think that we would eventually end up with each other. We became good friends and we go out for drinks and party for more than a few occasions. All that drinking and partying eventually led us to each other. We were partying pretty intensely one night, just the two of us. We both were so drunk that I went home without my bag. I lost my phone, wallet, keys, lipstick and my favourite earphone. There were all inside my bag at the time. I lost everything. Ryan wakes up nowhere with only 1 shoe with him. Despite this unfortunate event, we remembered one thing. We kissed. We couldn’t forget about the kiss.

That one kiss turns out to be the beginning of our adventure together.

Our humble beginnings

Party and drinking days

We love Burger King

The bunny and the monkey

Back when we were still so skinny

WE ARE VERY DIFFERENT

Ryan and I are very different from each other. We have different likes, dislikes, hobbies, favourite types of music and movie genres, expressions towards numerous situations and even different ways of handling things. Despite these differences, we still manage to get along well with each other. We learn how to adjust ourselves and understand each others' differences. 

We never thought that us being different is going to be a problem at all. In fact, I have what he doesn't have and he has what I don't have. For instance, I'm a meticulously organized person, and he is the least organized person. He doesn't mind chopping or slicing vegetables, and I hate doing them. I don't eat pork, but he loves eating pork a lot.

SOMETHING WE HAVE IN COMMON

When I said different, I don't mean totally 100% different. We do have something in common too. We have some common interests such as we both love hiking, trekking, camping and drinking. We both have a big desire for travelling and to see the world one step at a time. 

We both are competitive too, and we often try to compete with each other and see who is smarter or who is a better player when it comes to games. We both love doing exciting things. We also don't mind not seating together when we are with friends. We are not the clingy types. We give each other some space from time to time.  

Paragliding

Bungy Jumping

We love hiking

Try Scuba for the first time together

WE COMPROMISE EACH OTHER A LOT

Despite having some differences, we do a lot of comprising and lots of never-ending understandings too. Sometimes when it gets too frustrating, we end up just laughing it out instead of making our differences a big deal. Although I must admit, Ryan does a better job at compromising. I, on the other hand, have more pride and I would only give in when I am calmer or when I finally realize that I am just being childish. 

I wouldn't say Ryan is the boss or I am the boss in our relationship. We both make decisions together. One of us might have some ideas, but at the end of the day, we still think and decide together. We respect each other a lot, and we value each others' thoughts and opinions. 

WHY WE NEED EACH OTHER

I used to think that I will not meet a man that will make me feel safe and loved. When I met Ryan, it wasn't love in the beginning. We started off as friends and eventually, we fell to each other. We are both very different people, and we learned how to respect our differences. We can help each other with our differences, and there are many times that we truly need each other because of our differences.

Ryan and I have been through a lot. We face many problems and challenges in life. Together we face it all. We have seen each other in our lowest and most vulnerable times. We have also celebrated many good news and blessings. We were there for each other and together we witness how much we have grown as a better human being than we used to be.

It is like we are each others' rock. Without working as one, we can’t get anything done. I like this relationship because we believe that it takes two people to make a relationship work and make it stronger.

SIX YEARS 

Now that we have reach number six, our bond has grown stronger, and it will continue to grow deeper. Reaching this far isn’t an easy work. It takes a lot of patience, unconditional love and respect, unstoppable hurdles, blessings and a lot of understandings to make this relationship work. I should probably say to make any relationship work.

In the mountains

Birthday treat

When in Krabi

Breakfast with Mt. Machhapuchhre

Selfie with Yak

Spoiling me on my birthday

Spoiling him on his birthday

First carnival together

Second glow paint party together

Third glow paint party together

After hiking looks

Jeepney ride in the Philippines

Lunch date at Pici

Is that Bruno Mars sitting beside me?

Butt contest. He wins.

Blue and Red match well

I look forward to writing "Seven Long Roads" next year when we turn seven years.

Yours Truly,

Michelle Chan

Things You Probably Didn't Know About Introverts

Being an Introvert isn't easy or should I say, it could be tough especially we live in a cruel society. Introverts are often misunderstood, disregard and judge which lead to many misconceptions. Many people often misunderstood our silence and how we don't mind spending more time alone. We have our reasons and if you are curious enough, you may continue to read this blog. Before I forget to mention, there are actually plenty of famous celebrities, successful and world leaders that are Introverts. Yes, you read the right thing. You may search "Famous people who are Introverts" in google.com if you don't believe me. I'm not bluffing. I'm just as surprised as you are!

So why did I decide to write a blog about Introverts? The answer is very simple for I am an Introvert and I'm not ashamed to admit that. However, what really inspire me in writing this blog was when I read some articles about Introverts when I was figuring out things about myself. I felt that I should be able to write or more like open up and let people understand why Introverts act the way we are and as much as we may appear cold or snobbish, we are actually nice people. It was such a relief to me after I read those useful and informative articles about Introverts. Majority of the things that I have read were accurate and it applies to me. 

1. I EXPRESS MYSELF BETTER IN WRITING

The easiest way for me to express myself is through writing. I feel like I can express myself better and clearer in writing. You see I am not much of a vocal person in front of a huge crowd unless of course I am required to do public speaking. I write more than I speak.

2. PERSONAL TIME IS EVERYTHING

One thing I love about being an Introvert is that I don't mind being alone at all. Having to have personal time after spending many hours surrounded by people is probably the best therapy for us Introverts. Personal time can be very fulfilling and it gives us the time to think about stuff that we probably can't think when with people due to distractions. Alone time makes us feel most at peace.

3. WE ARE NOT ANTI-SOCIAL

Let me clarify this, Introverts are not anti-social. In fact, we enjoy socialising, but not too extreme - like becoming BFF with every single one in a party or social gathering. We love having people around and we love initiating interesting conversation with people. We are also open-minded people, well for most of us at least. 

However, there may be a moment where you might find us Introverts quiet but listening to people talk instead. Don't take us in a wrong way, we are just taking a break from socialising and although we love to initiate in conversation, sometimes we actually prefer to listen to people talk and somehow talk back through our minds. That is because socialising can be somewhat exhausting. Everyone deserves a break from time to time if not all the time.

4. CRITICIZED AS BEING TOO QUIET OR RESERVED

Because of our silence and lack of voice, we are often criticized as too quiet and too reserved. Believe it or not, we are sort of used to hearing people say that and we know that is not true. Introverts are actually shy people, but not quiet and reserved people. We just prefer not to start a conversation with someone we barely know. 

Let me share something about myself. My friends and including my boyfriend all thought that I am a quiet person when they first met me, but after spending some time chatting with me, they came to a conclusion that they were truly wrong because I am not a quiet person. I talk a lot, I talk about anything and sometimes it's even hard to shut me up. I am a shy person though I must admit. 

5. ASSUMING AND KNOWING THINGS AHEAD OF TIME

I don't see anything wrong with knowing things ahead of time because I like to be prepared for what has to come. I don't fancy surprises and to me, surprises can make me flustered. I tend to assume things because that is what my brain is for, I think a lot like a lot of lot. 

6. WE DON'T GET BORED WITH OUR OWN COMPANY

Frankly speaking, I don't mind or I don't feel bad being alone. In fact, I enjoy my own company and I don't get bored with myself. I get to do things myself and without anyone judging or observing me. 

I can either use my phone for hours, play games or watch movies for the entire day, finish a book and even facial time with myself without feeling bored because I always find something to do without relying on others. So in other words, I am the type who don't mind staying at home at all.

7. SOMETIMES WE ENJOY THE ATTENTION

Introverts also enjoy attention not just extroverts. We need to feel special too from time to time. We need to feel that we are being appreciated despite our shy personality, we are still human beings with the need for attention. However, we don't like having too much attention. A simple thank you gesture of any sort will be enough to make our day.  

8.  WE ARE ACTUALLY A PEOPLE PERSON AND WE ENJOY MEETING NEW PEOPLE

I get very excited when I know I'm meeting new people even though I don't normally show much expression that I am excited. I won't go like, "Woaaaah! Yaaay! New people!" that kind of expression. I would rather let it go with the flow once I meet that person. I don't try too hard to make a good impression, though I believe in first impression and personal connection.

I am also a people person because I actually like surrounding myself with people especially those who are close to me. I like entertaining people too.

9. SURPRISES ARE NOT MY BIGGEST FAN

I don't fancy surprises. To me, surprises can be overwhelming and awkward. I dislike being unprepared because I like to know things ahead of time so I can prepare myself for what has to come rather than getting shocked and shit face. 

Just because I said I don't like surprises, doesn't mean that I would hate anyone who plans to surprise me. I just prefer not to deal with surprises, but if it happens then it happens!

10. TOO MUCH SOCIALIZING CAN BE EXHAUSTING

Think about talking non-stop for hours with either the same group of people or worse with numerous kind of people. It can get pretty exhausting and it will suck out all of your energy. Some people enjoy or don't mind doing this because they're born social butterflies and whilst for introverts too much socializing can be pretty tiring. 

Toilet breaks or checking on our phones are our ways to conserve or regain our energy,  

11. WE ARE OFTEN NOT GIVEN PROPER RECOGNITIONS

We introverts are silent workers. We prefer doing things through actions instead of talking or bullshitting. Because we are silent workers, we are often not given proper recognition from neither work or school.

In my 8 years of work experience, I only had one manager who had seen my potential and saw me as a leader which led me to my very first promotion. I don't like to brag about how much I work, at least not through words, but I show my hard work through my actions. 

12. WE ARE VERY GOOD OBSERVERS

We like to observe before we say anything. It is because we make decisions very carefully and we want to see what other people might say first, even though we already have the answers in our genius mind (JK!). We are good at noticing the smallest details and things that not a lot of people care to see. 

13. I DON'T LIKE PICKING UP ANY STRANGERS OR UNKNOWN CALL

I can't explain why, but I'm terrified of picking up unknown calls or calls from someone I barely talk to. I think I'm just anxious about the fact that I don't know what to talk about or that I think too much about what the caller is going to tell me. Work calls, for instance. 

Don't get me wrong though, I love talking on the phone. I can spend hours over the phone just chitchatting about anything, but of course, I only do that with my closest people. 

14. WE LIKE TO DO THINGS OUR OWN WAY

We introverts are full of ideas. That is because we spend more time observing and thinking in our own world. There are many things that we prefer to do many things or everything our own way. It's not because we don't like your method or ideas. It's just that we have our own way of handling things and we do what we make us feel comfortable. We can be quite stubborn at times, but we do listen and follow the rules when needed. 

15. I LEARN TO LOVE AND ACCEPT MYSELF

Last but not the least, I finally learn how to love myself or should I say accept myself first. It's not easy at first, but I eventually learn more about myself. I went on a deep research about why I am the way I am until I get to really know myself. We never really stop discovering yourself and every day is a new day and a chance for us to learn something about yourself even more. 

Frankly speaking, It took me many years to finally realized what is happening to me. I always knew that I am a shy person and I have fear of talking to people. At first, I hated how I was before and I had many desires to change that disgusting habit of mine, however, I let fear get to me for many years. Finally, I learn to accept who I am and I try to improve it slowly but surely. I also want to say Thank you to those who have been giving me the courage to face my fear and for accepting me for I am. 

Being an Introvert isn't a bad thing. Being an Introvert isn't a incapability or disability. Being an Introvert is awesome. It is not our fault if we were born shy or having fears of talking to people in general. We shouldn't let anyone stop us from fulfilling what we want to achieve in life. We may have to work extra harder in this cruel society, but always remember that a good and smart people would notice you before you even have to show or prove anything. Just be you and love yourself. 

Yours Truly,

Michelle Chan 

Overnight Camping in Hong Kong

Camping in Hong Kong is becoming a trend. Every year there are more and more people camping around the beaches or countrysides in Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, there are quite a number of places to camp whilst doing BBQ. Overnight camping could be nice and unpleasant for some people, but it is the experience that matters most importantly.

This blog contains information about some of the important information about camping rules and regulations, camping destinations and things to pack for you to know before heading on to your camping adventure.

CAMPING RULES & REGULATIONS

CAMPSITES THAT ARE PERMITTED TO CAMP

There are many places to camp in Hong Kong, however, there are some places that are restricted and not permitted to camp due to private property ownership or special area regulations. If you are planning on camping, be sure to check with AFCD via their website to see if your designated campsite is permitted or not. 

Check out this link via AFCD to check if your designated area is permitted or not.

BONFIRE IS ILLEGAL IN HONG KONG

Be mindful that bonfire is illegal in Hong Kong. Offenders may be prosecuted when caught. However, there are some areas that are not very restricted and a little bit discreet. Mini fire pit should be okay, for instance. Mini firepit should be suitable for cooking your meals and to keep yourself warm while sitting by the fire. You must, however, do this in the BBQ pit areas or the campsites area only. 

Be sure not to do it somewhere too narrow, near the houses or objects that could start a fire. Make sure to extinguish the firepit/ bbq pit and do not leave it unattended. Make sure to dispose of all of the firewood to the wastage area to help protect the environment. It will be nice not to leave it behind. 

Working in progress

Firewood

Mini BBQ pit

TAP WATER AND DRINKING WATER SAFETY

Some campsites don't have a water supply for drinking, it is mainly suitable for washing and cooking only. Make sure to bring your own drinking water supply or you may bring some water capsules or a small pot to boil some water. 

Check out this link, Water Source of Campsites via AFCD to know more about water supply conditions before going to your designated camping area. 

WHERE TO LITTER

Each campsite should have a wastage area for campers/ hikers to dump their garbage in. Make sure not to leave your garbage anywhere. If by any chance, the wastage area is too far from your tent. You may simply store all the rubbish in a garbage bag or a box and make the effort to throw it in the wastage area before you leave. 

BEWARE OF WILD ANIMALS

There will be some wild animals around the campsites such as wild boar, wild bears, poisonous snakes and spiders, wild dogs and many more. Simply avoid them by not exploring deep in the woods and do not mimic their animal sounds as this will tempt them to possibly attack you when you least expect it. Do not leave any food unattended before heading inside your tent at night. Do not feed the animals too as this will lure them to visit the campsite even more often. 

WHERE TO CAMP (RECOMMENDATIONS)

1. TAI LONG WAN CAMPSITE

HOW TO GET THERE

• Take a boat from Sai Kung Pier. There are many boat service available at the pier. It cost about HK$120-180 per head. Price is higher during the weekends and public holidays. Booking your spot via boat company is advisable during peak season. 
• Hike there from Sai Wan Village. Take a village minibus from Sai Kung to Sai Wan. The hike will approximately take about 1-2 hours (depending on speed and weather) to Tai Long Wan Beach.

SOME INFORMATION TO KNOW

• There are shops to rent tents, sleeping bags and other camping equipment around Sai Wan village
• There is a toilet area available to use around the village
• There are places to eat around Sai Wan Village 
• There is a waterfall nearby about 30 minutes walk from Tai Long Wan beach
• Wake up early for sunrise

2. HAM TIN WAN CAMPSITE

HOW TO GET THERE

• Take a boat from Sai Kung Pier. There are many boat service available at the pier. It cost about HK$120-180 per head. Price is higher during the weekends and public holidays. Booking your spot via boat company is advisable during peak season. 

• Hike to Ham Tin Wan. Take the bus no. 94 and get off at Pak Tam Au. Once you get off the bus, find the sign to Maclehose Section 2 (via Chek Keng). It should be on the opposite side of the bus stop. There is a public toilet for you to use before starting the hike. The hike will approximately take about 1-2 hours (depending on speed and weather). Follow the path to Ham Tin Beach. 

SOME INFORMATION TO KNOW

• There are shops to rent tents, sleeping bags and other camping equipment
• There is a toilet area about 2 minutes away from the beach
• There are places to eat around Ham Tin area
• Wake up early for sunrise
• You will be able to see the mighty Sharp Peak from the beach. Check out "The Treacherous Sharp Peak Hike" to know more about the hike. 

Boat service

Watching the sunset

Watching the moonrise

3. NGONG PING CAMPSITE (MA ON SHAN)

HOW TO GET THERE

• Unfortunately, the only way to reach Ngong Ping is by using your two useful legs and feet to hike. From Ma On Shan MTR, take the village minibus no. NR84. The minibus ride should take about 15-20 minutes. Get off at Ma On Shan BBQ site and look for a signpost to Ma On Shan Country Trail. Walk straight until you see a carpark. There will be another signpost via Ngong Ping. Once you've found that, that is where you start the hike. The hike will approximately take about 1-2 hours (depending on speed and weather).

SOME INFORMATION TO KNOW

• There are no shops in Ngong Ping Campsite, so be sure to have everything with you
• There are a few dry toilet pits around the campsite
• Wake up early to see adrenaline junkies assembling and flying out for Paragliding
• Brace yourself with a spectacular view of the Pyramid Hill. Check out this site The Hong Kong "Pyramid Hill" Hike to know more.

4. NGONG PING CAMPSITE (LANTAU)

HOW TO GET THERE

• On foot/ short hike - Take bus no, 23 from Tung Chung Town Centre and get off at Ngong Ping. From there, follow the path to Tung Shan Fat Mun via the tea garden.

SOME INFORMATION TO KNOW

• There are flushing toilets available around the campsite
• Cooking places and barbecue pits are also available around the campsite
• Panoramic view of Tung Chung Town Centre and Nei Lak Shan

SUGGESTIONS ON WHAT TO PACK FOR CAMPING

CAMPING EQUIPMENT

·       Tents - your tent should include a waterproof ground sheet, mosquito netting and flysheet

·       Sleeping bags

·       Cushions, Blankets

·       Torchlights/ flashlights/ kerosene lamp

COOKING EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS

·       Firestarters

·       BBQ sets (nets, tongs, charcoal)

·       Induction cooker

·       Stainless pots, stone pots

·       Utensils (plates/ bowls, spoon/ forks, knife, cups)

·       Plastic bags (for garbage)

FOOD AND DRINKS

·       Meats for BBQ

·       Vegetables

·       Cooked rice

·       Pre-made meals

·       Snacks (biscuits, chips, candies, small bites)

·       Spices, sauces

·       Water, sodas, beers, wines

·       Cooler (for storing food and drinks)

PERSONAL BELONGINGS

·       Extra clothing

·       Towels

·       Tissues, wet tissues

·       Toiletries (soap, hand gel, toothpaste, toothbrush, body spray/ deodorant)

·       Mosquito repellent

·       Sunscreen lotion

·       Portable charger

OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS

·       Portable chairs/ folded mini chairs

·       Speakers

·       Floor mats

·       Playing cards, portable board games, poker

·       Volleyball, football, rugby ball

THE DOs AND DON'Ts

DOs

·       Watch the sunset and sunrise. It is magnificent.

·       Always close your tents to avoid having insects coming inside your tent.

·       Assemble your tents safely.

·       Respect the rules and signs at the campsite.

·       Stay hydrated at all times. Drink plenty of fluids.

·       Help other campers when needed, they may help you back in return.

·       Apply sunscreen lotion and spray mosquito repellent over your body from time to time.

·       Make sure to have enough sleep before camping. Camping may not be that comfortable, most especially for first-timers.

DON’Ts

·       Don’t litter. Bring your rubbish with you or throw your rubbish in the waste area.

·       Don’t spoil the nature. Be kind to our mother nature.

·       Don’t leave your belongings unattended.

·       Don’t play too loud music. Be considerate of your neighbours and animals.

·       Don’t spit anywhere!

·       Don’t leave the fire burning overnight (for BBQ or mini firepit).

·       Don’t bring plenty of things when camping. Only bring the essential things.

Tents are ready

Playing football

 

OVERALL EXPERIENCE

My overall camping experience was fantastic. Being my first time, I did pretty well outdoors. The best part of the overnight camping was watching the moonrise, chit-chatting with our fellow campers and executing a BBQ successfully. The food was delicious and satisfactory after waiting for hours to assemble a BBQ pit. However, what irritated me the most was the thousands of sand flies clinging onto our bodies, hungry mosquitoes biting us everywhere, the heat with minimal wind and the toilet issue. There was no proper toilet actually. 

Regardless, I still enjoyed my first overnight camping. I would definitely do this excursion again but I will not do it in the summer and by the beach anymore. I would like to try overnight camping in the winter and somewhere in the countryside.

Overnight camping is not for everyone I believe so. You must know what you are capable and not capable of doing. If you dislike being outdoor, insects and heat, then overnight camping is not for you. However, it is always good to give it a try. Who knows you might actually enjoy it after your first experience.

Yours Truly,

Michelle Chan

High Junk Peak

Summertime has arrived. Hiking is one of the hottest activities to do in Hong Kong. However, the sun shouldn't stop hikers to hike. Hiking in this kind of hot and humid weather could still be enjoyable, however, one must find a good hiking spot to feel that it's worth the sweat. High Junk Peak is probably one of the best hike and suitable hiking spots in Hong Kong during this hot season. Why is that? Continue reading this blog to find out. 

ABOUT HIGH JUNK PEAK

High Junk Peak is located in Clear Water Bay section in the New Territories. High Junk Peak is probably one of the treacherous hikes in Hong Kong. Hiking High Junk Peak is a quick hike with a stunning and scenic view of Clear Water Bay on the left side and Tseung Kwan O on the right side. High Junk Peak measures about 344 meters above sea level. 

Hiking High Junk Peak can be challenging especially when climbing up to the peak. This hike reminds me of the Sharp Peak hike, however, High Junk Peak is a lot shorter. 

See The Treacherous Sharp Peak Hike to read more about it and if you are also interested.

BASIC INFORMATION OF THE HIKE

DURATION - 3.5 hours

DISTANCE - 6.5KM

DIFFICULTY LEVEL - Fairly Difficult

CELLPHONE/ INTERNET COVERAGE - Everywhere

BEST TIME TO HIKE - Winter or Autumn (Do not go during rainy season)

WATER LEVEL - 1L 

STARTING POINT - Ng Fai Tin (Hang Hau)

FINISHING POINT - Po Toi O

HOW TO GET THERE AND WHAT TO TAKE

EASIEST WAY AND MOST CONVENIENT WAY TO START THE HIKE

The easiest way to start the hike is to take KMB bus no, 91 from Diamond Hill. If you are taking the train to Diamond Hill, you must get off at exit C1. If you are taking a bus or taxi to Diamond Hill, go to Plaza Hollywood Shopping Mall and find the bus terminal.

From there, you can the bus no. 91 from the bus terminal. Get off at Ng Fai Tin. The total journey time should not take more than 30 minutes except if there is any traffic. 

From Ng Fai Tin bus stop, cross the road to the Pavilion and turn right. You will see some stairs and a map and that is where the hike start. 

ENDING THE HIKE IN PO TOI O

The most convenient route to end the hike is at Po Toi O. From there, you can take the minibus no. 16 in the minibus station. It stops at Clear Water Bay, Hang Hau MTR or Po Lam Railway Station. 

HIKE DIARY

DIAMOND HILL TO NG FAI TIN

The easiest way to get to Ng Fai Tin is by taking a bus from Diamond Hill MTR Exit C and go to the bus terminal to take bus no. 91. The bus ride to Ng Fai Tin should take about less than 30 minutes. 

NG FAI TIN - THE PAVILION AND A SHORT FLIGHT OF STEPS

Once you reach Ng Fai Tin, you must cross the road to the other side to a small pavilion. On the right side, there is a map and stairs going up. That is where you start the hike. Up ahead you will be able to see Tseung Kwan O and Sai Kung area on the other side. 

The Pavilion

SHEUNG YEUNG SHAN

After a short flight of steps, you will encounter a signpost. Follow Sheung Yeung Shan trail or Mountain Bike trail for another half an hour. While trekking, you will pass by a ridge and you will be able to see the High Junk Peak view from there.

Taking country trail is easier whilst mountain trail is challenging

A glimpse of High Junk Peak

We also encounter some interesting flowers, wheat field, mushrooms and some Gypsy Moth Caterpillars. 

Wheat field

Gypsy Moth Caterpillar

White mushrooms

There will be another signpost, turn to left fork to Tai Miu trail.

TAI MIU TRAIL

After a few more minutes of trekking, you will come across a resting area, mainly benches. You may allow yourself to take a few minutes rest or have a few snacks. Climbing up the High Junk Peak starts in this area. Follow the ribbons wrapped in tree branches to get started with your hike to the peak.

THE HIGH JUNK PEAK

The first few minutes will be downhill and will eventually be descending to the valley. It will later lead you up to a steep gravel near the peak. From there, you may see Clear Water Bay from the south side. 

Climbing up to the peak can be challenging especially for those with less experience, however, there are many big rocks for you to use to pull yourself up to the peak. Just be careful on the rocks and make sure that it is stable to step on. Climbing up to the peak takes about 30-40 minutes. Wear hand gloves if necessary. 

PANORAMIC VIEWS OF CLEAR WATER BAY AND TSEUNG KWAN O

The view on top is very stunning and rewarding. The clear water from Clear Water Bay is just amazing. I have enjoyed my time on top and took a lot of pictures as well. There are plenty of giant rocks for you to sit, stand or even do a yoga pose for a fantastic picture.

TIN HA SHAN

While descending down, you will be able to enjoy the views of Po Toi O Fishing Ground, Clear Water Bay Golf Course, and Tai Mui Temple. You will also need to cross the entrance of Clear Water Bay Golf Club and follow Tai Au Mun Road to the left. Lastly, you must turn right to Po Toi O Chuen Road to end the hike. 

ENDING THE HIKE IN PO TOI O

Your hike is near to the end when you spot a minibus station in Po Toi O. From there, you may take the minibus no. 16 via Po Lam Railway Station. There is an option to drop off at Clear Water Bay or Hang Hau MTR (Nan Fong Plaza).

WHAT TO BRING AND WEAR

• Small towel
• Hiking pants/ jogging pants (no jeans/denim!)
• Short/ Long-Sleeve Shirt
• Hiking shoes
• Trekking pole - can be useful when descending 
• Extra shirt - for changing
• Cap - to protect your face from sun exposure
• Umbrella/ waterproof jacket with hoodie - in case of rain 
• Windbreaker jacket (optional) - It will be very windy in the middle of the hike from Violet Hill path to Tse Long Bridge
• Toiletries - tissue/ wet tissue, sunscreen, OFF spray (to avoid insects)
• Portable charger
• Water - 1L
• Snacks - fruits (apples or bananas), boiled eggs, protein/ energy bars, digestives biscuits or bread

OVERALL EXPERIENCE

This hike for me was one of the best I ever hike in Hong Kong during summer. Hiking High Junk Peak was not very difficult, though a little bit challenging. Clambering up was the challenging part of the entire hike, which is exactly what I am looking for in a hike. The view on top was spectacular. I enjoyed it a lot and somehow I felt that I was on an island in Thailand or the Philippines. I would definitely recommend this hike. 

If you have any concerns or questions, feel free to leave a comment below. I will be more than happy to help. 

Yours Truly,

Michelle Chan

Losing a Father at 27

This blog is dedicated to my late father who had passed away on February 28, 2018. I decided to write a blog about my father as a way to express myself about the loss, grievance, guilt and my fondest memories of him. 

My father, Chan Ming Hsan had been ill for 8 years and he was the strongest man I ever know of. He fought for many years and survived 2 strokes. He had high blood pressure and as well as diabetes mellitus. Despite all these sicknesses, he managed to live his life and continue to fight it until his very last breath. My father was only 70 years old when he left this world. 

My father in his younger days

Back when everything were so simple

THE PHONE CALL THAT CHANGED MY LIFE FOREVER

I received a call from my big brother, Clinton on 28th February at around 7:20 pm. I just got on the train and took off my coat and my phone from the pocket. As I picked up the call, I was struck by the sudden news from my brother. He said, "Papa is gone" and I replied "Huh? What do you mean by gone?"  "Like he's dead?" and he said in return, "I think so.." I was speechless.

My mother was calling on the other line as well and as I picked up the call, I immediately asked her if what my brother said was true and to my surprise, it was true, my father had left us. My mother told me that I can still see my father before they move him to the morgue. I rushed to the hospital as soon as I can, I was in tears and my heart was crushing so much after hearing the very sad news. That phone call has changed my life forever. 

WHEN I SAW MY FATHER ON HIS DEATHBED

My heart was beating so hard as I enter the hospital. I was thinking to myself "Am I really ready to see my father on his deathbed?" I went on to face the reality. I was speechless when I got into his bed station. My tears kept flowing down as I look at him. We were all trying to wake him up and telling him that he cannot leave us just yet. I saw my mother pumping my father's heart, like CPR. It took us a while to leave his bed station. Everything was still a shock and it's still processing in my mind slowly. Half of the time at the hospital, I was thinking that it is not real and he will wake up in just a few minutes, but he never did. 

My big sister took care of the arrangements for them to deliver our father's body to the morgue. I couldn't stomach it, I tried listening and looking at the paperwork but I can't deal with it. I walked away. My boyfriend Ryan called as he saw my message and he was just as surprised as everyone was by the news. I expressed to him, "My father left us. No one will bring me to the aisle when I get married" 

It was a painful moment when two men arrived with a mortuary tray and soon they led us to the main entrance where the morgue was. It was still all sudden to me. 

TWO DAYS BEFORE MY FATHER PASSED AWAY

I remember seeing my father two days before he passed away. He was confined in the hospital to get treatment. When I arrived at his bed station, I woke him up by shaking his body. He opened his eyes and saw me, he put up his hand and held my hand and smiled very sweetly. I hardly remember when was the last time I saw my father smiled that way. I asked how he was and he said happily that he is getting better and he is coming home very soon. I really thought he was recovering. I will always remember how happy and peaceful he was that night I last saw him. 

My sister arrived shortly and we all chatted until it was the end of the visiting hours. Little did we know that was the last time we will ever see our father alive, smiling and our last goodbye with him. If I knew that he will be gone two days later, I would've hugged him really tightly and stayed with him even longer. I would've probably begged him not to leave us, it may sound very selfish of me but I am sincerely not ready to lose my father yet. 

ON HIS LAST BIRTHDAY - HE LIVED A FRUITFUL 70 YEARS

Despite the sad news, we were still lucky to have celebrated my father's 70th birthday last year and we were able to get him two delicious cakes and cooked his favorite dishes. My father loves eating sweet, although he only had a thin slice because he can't eat a lot of sweet stuff. Little did we all know that was his last birthday with us. Unfortunately, my father is never going to reach 71 years old but his birthday will never be forgotten. 

He loved his 2 birthday cakes

Last family photo with our father

GRIEVING IS VERY CRUCIAL

The grieving part is the hardest and most unbearable thing I ever have to deal with. I still went to work the next day. My mother advised us all to continue with our lives and although we must mourn, my father wouldn't want to see us suffering. It was hard pretending to be alright at work. I work with children, I am an English teacher in a learning center and as a teacher, I must be very vocal and energetic. It was hard and yet I was distracted for at least a moment I wasn't thinking about my father and then I would remember him again. The first two weeks were very hard. There were times I had to escape to the toilet and cry a little bit and go back to my class. 

I am still grieving over his death. I am not over it. I don't know when I will recover from this, only time can heal the grief that I feel. 

I HATE BEING ALONE

Being alone makes me vulnerable. I hate and I am afraid of being left alone. I tried to surround myself with people all the time, so I get distracted and to keep myself busy. This is the only way I could think of that would somehow ease the pain, although it's only temporarily, it somehow helped me feel a little bit better about the situation. 

I am very grateful and thankful to the people who were there for me during this fiasco. 

I SMILE ON THE OUTSIDE BUT DYING INSIDE

I am a happy and positive person. I smile or laugh at simple things and even corny jokes. I normally feel happy whenever I smile, however, I find it very difficult to feel the same now. I may be smiling on the outside but I am completely dead inside. I feel that there is a big hole in my heart. Regardless, I still keep on telling myself that everything will be okay in time and that I should keep smiling as this is what my father would want me to do, that is to smile. 

PRETENDING TO BE OKAY IS NOT OKAY

Not a lot of people know what my family is going through and for those who don't know, I have to pretend to be okay with them. You see, I'm not out to seek anyone's attention and I don't want people to worry about me. Whilst it is all still fresh, I keep the news only to a few people I am comfortable with. With that being said, I still think that pretending to be okay is not okay, however, we must face the reality and must think positively that everything will be well.

IT NEVER GETS EASIER, IT ONLY GETS HARDER DAY BY DAY

Just when I thought I was fine and starting to move on, I come to realize that I never will as it only gets harder day by day, weeks by weeks, months by months and probably years by years. I remember feeling slightly a little better after three weeks. Then out of the blue, I find myself grieving once again. Reliving all those painful memories the night my father died. 

ALL I WANT IS TO BREAK FREE FROM ALL THE PAIN

I work six days a week, nine hours a day at work and gym sessions three times a week. I try to live normally and go on with my life but to be honest, all I want to do is to break free and just don't show up to work, to the gym or see anyone at all. I wasn't entirely interested in anything and my mood has been changing drastically. I just want to lock myself in a room full of darkness and mourn. But I needed to fight that feeling as it won't do me any good. This is not what my father would want and I don't want to make people worry about me. 

WATCHING MY FATHER SUFFER FOR 8 YEARS BREAKS MY HEART

For 8 years, my father battled with many sicknesses. He fought with it and stayed strong. It killed me to see him suffer as he was once a proud and strong man. He taught me many things and showed me many things when he was still able to. He wasn't paralyzed after his stroke, he could still walk but he was not the same man anymore. I still love my father in spite of the changes, it just really hurts to see him suffer for too long and it hurts, even more, when he left us. 

My father always tells me that he will not last very long since he got sick. Every year, I made it for his birthday and I had no intention of missing them. Unfortunately, last year was his last birthday with us. My father taught me many things but he never taught me how to live without a father. 

A HOLE IN MY HEART AND FEELING INCOMPLETE

There is a hole in my heart, even until now. After my father left us, I felt that a part of me is missing and without that missing piece, I am incomplete. Sometimes I try to look for that missing piece but the truth is no one can ever replace my father. I will always have one father and that is him. He is irreplaceable. 

PEOPLE WHO WERE THERE FOR ME AND MY FAMILY

I am very surprised for those who had and are still with us during this very sad moment of our lives. I can't thank those people enough but I am very grateful for their support and help. It means a lot to see people care. In times like this, you get to really know who is really there for you and who is not. 

WHAT I EXPECTED FROM PEOPLE AND WHAT I DON'T

Honestly, I didn't really expect much from people. I received a lot of condolences and sorries from people and I am truly grateful for their sympathy. Some people also offered some help. It's a very weird feeling when I hear "condolences" or "sorries" from people because it only means that it is real, my father really had left this world. To be honest, I don't really know what to say to people. All I can say was "Thank you" or sometimes I just nodded just to acknowledge their sympathy.

The first few weeks, I received much help and I began to see that people do care. But as time goes by, people start to forget and they start to be normal around me, although, I can't blame them because most of the people probably don't have any idea of what I am going through. It is not something that I can get over within just a few weeks but I am really not expecting much from people. Although I feel quite disappointed with how quickly people forget, I really cannot blame them for anything. The only person who can help me recover is myself. 

I FEEL LIKE NO ONE UNDERSTAND WHAT IM FEELING

It's true that not everyone can understand what I am going through or what my family is going through. I only know a few people who had lost their parent at a young age and the other 80% of people that I know have no idea how it actually feels like. There were many moments that I thought that nobody understands me and no one is getting what I am feeling. 

I met a few people who had lost their father in their 20s, just like me. I started sharing my stories about my father and same goes for them. I felt a little better after opening up. It made me feel that I am not alone in this. 

 

I HAVE THOUGHT OF SEEING A THERAPIST

Honestly speaking, I had thought of seeing a therapist. I told no one about this because I know what people will say to me. It is true, seeing a therapist is not an option and it is understandable why I was having a thought about it. There was a moment when I just want to talk to someone who doesn't know who I am and know nothing about my life. Just when I came back to my senses, I started scolding myself and called myself "Pathetic" for even thinking about. I know I can do this, It may take a long time to recover but I can do this on my own. My father taught me well. 

SOMETIMES I AM STILL IN DENIAL, NOT WANTING TO FACE THE REALITY

There are times when I feel that I have already accepted my father's death and then there are times when I am still in denial. It is really difficult to accept it right away. Whenever I am in denial, I start to think about the memories that I had with my father and the promises that he made. It feels like it's not really his time to go yet. I feel like he's just there next door or he just went out but he will be coming home soon. 

I WILL ALWAYS MISS HIS COMPLIMENTS 

To my father, I am perfect, even though I am not. He always shows me off to people and he compliments me a lot of times. That is how I think how I get my confidence from. He made me feel like I can be something in this world.

I remember that one time I was working on my school project. I had to use some recycled materials to make an eco-friendly clock. My father saw me working on it and told me that it looks beautiful. The next day, I passed my project and my professor was not totally impressed with my work and even said that an eight-year-old can do better than what I did. I realized that my father was patronizing me but not because he was lying about how my project really looks but because he understood how hard I worked on that project and that is his definition of beautiful. 

I will be longing for his words of compliments and courage. He is the reason why I am the way I am today. 

WAITING ALMOST TWO MONTHS TO LAY MY FATHER IN PEACE

My father passed away in Hong Kong and the funeral procedures here in Hong Kong is different than other countries. My father is a Buddhist and so it is a must to hold a traditional funeral. The earliest date available that we can hold a funeral for our father was a month later after he passed away. Then, we have to wait for two weeks until we can finally bring my father's urn back to the Philippines. It was such a relief when my father had been put to rest, all the waiting is over. My father can finally find peace. 

Frankly speaking, it was torture having to wait for almost two months to finally lay my father in peace. It is even harder to go on with life knowing that my father has not been put to rest yet. Everyday whenever I go to work, there was not a time that I don't think about how's my father doing, He must be feeling lost, lonely, cold and trapped in that morgue inside a zip bag. It's terrible and I cannot believe that this is how it is in Hong Kong. I was beyond displeased and as much as I wanted to do something about it, it is out of my control. The only thing I could do is to be patient and try to be strong for myself and for my family. 

I MADE A LETTER TO MY FATHER

Since my father left us unexpectedly and we didn't say our goodbyes yet. I decided to write him a letter. In that letter, I wrote down the things I want to say to him and what I want to promise him. Whilst I was writing the letter, I was getting emotional and it took me four attempts to finally finish the letter. 

On the day on his funeral, I slipped the letter into his pocket. I believe that there is a chance that he might be able to receive and read my letter to him. I have a feeling that he will be very happy with what I wrote in there. 

My letter to my father in Chinese

English version

THE LAST MOMENT WITH MY FATHER

Before the farewell ceremony and prayer on my father's funeral, we were given some time to be with our father for the last time before they put him inside his casket. It was a very heavy and emotional moment. I was with my mother at the time. We were both saying goodbye to him. My mother was crying so much and I comforted her. I have to be strong for my mother during that time and I had to pull her out of the room because I felt that she won't ever leave my father's side.

I cannot imagine how painful my mother was feeling during that moment. They had been together for 38 years. That was a long year of commitment, love, patience, and respect. 

THE HAND GESTURE

My father always asked for my hand with his left hand when I visited him in the hospital during his confinement. On the night that he passed away, I held the same hand that he always used to hold my hand. It's kind of a coincidence because two days before he left us, he had asked for my hand with his left hand once again and apparently for the last time. 

During his funeral, I had the chance to see him outside his casket. He was placed on a bed tray with a blanket. I held his left hand as much as I can every time I go into the room where his body was. It felt good holding his hand and I truly felt that he is holding my hand too. 

THE VERY LAST TIME I TOOK A GLIMPSE OF MY FATHER

The hardest part aside from mourning over my father's death was during the very last time I saw my father. He was already placed inside the casket whilst I and my family were taking around to have a look at him for the very last time. It was a painful moment. I thought to myself, "This is really happening, he is gone forever in this world." I will never ever see him face to face ever again. 

PASSING BY THE SAME FUNERAL EVERYDAY ON MY WAY TO WORK

One of my difficult moments whilst moving forward, which means going to work as usual was having to pass by the Funeral House, where my father had his funeral service. The last time I get to hold and see him happened in that place. I have to pass by that Funeral House on my way to work and on my way back home. There isn't any other convenient transportation that I could take to get to work. I didn't have a choice but to endure the pain each time I have to pass by there. I know for sure that I will eventually get over it after we've placed our father's urn in the Philippines in a Buddhist temple. 

My instinct was right, I no longer feel my father's presence in that Funeral House ever since we laid him to rest in a Buddhist temple in the Philippines. My inner self is telling me that he is now in peace and in a place where he can finally rest. 

MOOD CHANGES

I've noticed something very different about me since my father's death. My mood has been changing rapidly. Sometimes I am feeling okay and most of the time I feel devastated. I find myself dealing with mood swings, I was fine a moment ago then suddenly my mood changes in a split second later. Somehow, my mood swings have been affecting me in my daily life routines. I find myself less dedicated to work and I really don't have the mood to see people or to deal with anyone. 

I couldn't understand what I was feeling at first but I came to realize that all I need is time to heal, accept and to continue believing that everything will be alright in the right time. 

I WILL NOT MOVE ON BUT I WILL MOVE FORWARD

Unlike a broken relationship, moving on is not very hard, whilst losing a parent is incomparable. I used to think that moving on from a bad break up was difficult to deal with but I was wrong. Trying to move on from my father's death is beyond hard. There is no such thing as moving on. Instead, I will move forward in life. I will continue living my life the way my father wanted me to. 

I dislike the word move on because we often refer the word "move on" into bad breakups, whilst moving forward sounds a lot better to me. 

Losing my father made me realize many things. Life is indeed very short. We may often think that we have plenty of time to do what we want to do but we pay too little attention to how long a person will be able to stay with us. It's true that we don't think about this kind of situation until it has actually happened to us.

I cannot imagine how my life is going to be after losing my father but I know one thing for sure, he is there watching over us and I will live my life and be a better person. My father may have left this universe but his memories will never be forgotten. I will never forget about him and I will always remember all the things I have learned from him. I will share his memories with my children once I have my own. I want my future kiddos to know about how incredible their grandfather was.

I hope that my story will help those who had also lost a parent and finds it hard to move forward.  

Yours Truly,

Michelle Chan