Wanderhoney.com

As I recently scrolled through my external hard drive to delete some old photos, I found myself swept up in a wave of nostalgia. Seeing photos of myself smiling, laughing, and truly enjoying life brought back a flood of memories. Each snapshot reminded me of the vibrant, adventurous youth I once had—surrounded by friends who have since grown apart.

Out of all the photos, I keep coming back to the memories from 2018–2019. Those were undoubtedly my peak years in terms of life achievements, friendships, and relationships. They stand out the most because the lessons I learned during those years completely shaped who I am today. Regardless of what happened during that time, they were the happiest years of my life.

2018 truly was the year of friendship. Back then, I had colleagues who were more than just coworkers—they were my ride-or-die crew. We cracked jokes, went to the cinema together, took spontaneous road trips, and often hung out at Mamak for roti naan. I loved how we could come up with plans out of nowhere and actually make them happen. I must admit, I miss that friendship deeply. It’s the kind of bond I doubt I’ll ever replicate with anyone else. Life has since scattered us, and our connection isn’t as strong, but those moments still hold a special place in my heart.

Like any friendship, we had our ups and downs. There were times when we felt hurt or frustrated with one another—nobody’s perfect, right? But in the end, it was the kind of friendship I’ll always remember.

In 2019, my life took some unexpected turns. My 2018 friendships continued to grow stronger, but that year also brought someone into my life who I thought might be the one. Instead, it became the year that completely shattered me—forcing me to rebuild myself piece by piece over the years that followed.

Sometimes I wish I could rewrite those chapters. But I also understand that every twist and heartbreak shaped me into who I am now. They led me to meet the people I was meant to meet—especially Justin and my now-partner. Things happened for a reason. As painful as they were, they taught me more than I could’ve imagined.

That same year, my blog saw its highest traffic. I traveled the most. I experienced things I never had before. And for that, I’m grateful.

I couldn’t stop thinking about 2019 for days. Just recently, I tagged along with my colleagues to buy some work supplies, not even knowing where we were headed. We ended up at Savanna Southville, and coincidentally, the shop was right next to the apartment block I once called home.

As the car drove past the building, memories came rushing back. I smiled.

I remembered the parking lot where I used to leave my car, the café I’d frequent, the streets I strolled through, and the Mamak spot I loved. I didn’t feel angry. I didn’t feel sad. I just smiled.

It was my first time returning to that place since 2019—and finally, I felt peace. I remembered how much I loved living in Savanna. Saying goodbye to it was one of the hardest things I had to do.

So yeah, I wish I could go back to 2018–2019 just to relive those good memories one more time.

Big thanks to everyone who made those years the happiest of my life. You all know who you are. 💛

Sign out. Hani.

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