Wednesday mornings don’t usually begin like this. I woke up and decided on a whim that I would go exploring! I wanted to break out of that routine exercise monotony so I thought it would be fun to explore a part of Singapore which I had never visited before. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy every bit of the usual workout that I do almost every morning, be it my virtual Kick-boxing or Zumba classes, Ring Fit Adventure on the Nintendo Switch or the occasional jog around the block. I love them all! But on that day I was in the mood for something different. Little did I know that ‘different’ was in the mood for me too.
Exercise for me, is a way of getting into the zone, enjoying the beats and feeling good and accomplished once you have completed the routine!
Coney Island or also known as Pulau Serangoon is a quaint little island is located at the northeastern coast of Singapore, right about here!
Feeling a certain sense of adventure, I set off early at about half past 7 in the morning and the journey to the island took a lil over an hour via public transport and some walking. Once I got there, it was just a convenient walk across a man-made bridge over to the island (entry is FREE!). (Watch the short video below!)
It was sunny. I felt lucky that the weather chose to be slightly different that morning, a modest change from the damp Singapore weather we’ve been experiencing these past few months. I was (almost!) reconsidering if this should be left for another day. The sun shone brightly above me, illuminating the entire island in it’s warmth. Soon, warmth turned to heat, and I begin second guessing my decision to make this journey. These thoughts soon vanished the moment I stepped into the forest. The air was cool and crisp; and the fresh breeze caressed gently against my skin. It was, without a doubt, utter bliss.
There were many little trails in Coney Island. Some led to the beach side and some allowed passage to areas where beautiful feathered creatures made their homes; much to the interest of the bird-watchers. Being a fan of the ocean, I chose the former, hoping it would lead me to a scene reminiscent of my coastal hometown of Melaka. I began my trek following the sounds of waves and the smell of salt and sand. As I made my way to the beach, I couldn’t help but marvel as I took in every inch of the forest. I loved how the sun peeked through the leaves of the tall trees, casting God-rays towards the forest floor. I gazed at the little shrubs that blanketed the entire island with a beautiful sea of green.
It reminded me of my mum’s childhood fantasy, of which she used to tell my sister and I when we were younger. My mum loved fairies and having read a lot of Enid Blyton books during her younger days, she would pull us into her fantasy land (Like Mary Poppins!) of magical fairies and mythical creatures, that lived and pranced in the forests amongst toadstools and flowers.
As I trekked slowly towards the beachfront, I was totally consumed by the wonders of the forest that transported me back to my childhood, a little girl sitting wide eyed and beaming, entranced by the magical tales her mother wove seemingly out of thin air.
Some of the beautiful flora and fauna that I discovered along the way
At the Beach!
When I finally made it to the beach, I was more impressed by how clean and well maintained it was. I found a nice, shady spot and sat there for a moment to enjoy the view. It was picturesque – white, fine sand, and almost clear waters just slowly crashing against the shore. That moment of peace really got me thinking about my journey through 2020 and despite everything that 2020 has challenged us: What has it given me?
For me, 2020 was a tough one, but it has given me plenty.
- Due to the nature of my job which requires a lot of travel, 2020 has given me more time at home and opportunities to catch up and connect with friends and loved ones
- With the support from colleagues and the ability to work from home, I was able to return to my parents and help to care for them during a difficult period
- I learnt to think more creatively on my job
- The everyday challenges of 2020, and the anxiety of leaving home without a mask have taught me to be contented and take every day with stride
- I am grateful that I still have a roof over my head and the necessities that I can provide for my family
- I had more time to love my body, to nourish it and keep it energized with physical activities I enjoyed doing
I admit, although 2020 was not an easy one for me or for anyone of us for that matter, it made me stronger, more resilient and more appreciative of life.
A short video of my view of the ocean as I bask under the shady trees on Coney Island
As I continued to explore the rest of the island, the sound of birds lured me to venturing deeper into the forest. I was determined to catch a glimpse of one of my newfound feathered friends. There weren’t many people on the island in light of the fact that I embarked on this little adventure mid-week so I almost had the island all to myself!
As I closed my eyes, I could feel and hear the sounds of the forest. The gentle whistling of the wind through the trees. The birds and insects chirping high above and around you. Curious rustles from the bushes and shrubs somewhere ahead.
I was enjoying the moment.
I had almost given up on sighting any when on my way back to the park entrance I spotted a bird high above the trees perching atop a tree branch! Thanks to the ‘super’ zoom features on my phone, I was able to get a shot of the adorable winged friend! Sorry, as I am no bird expert, I can’t tell what species it was. (Do comment down below if you happen to know!) As I switched to record mode, the bird took off and I was able to capture that too! It must have been my lucky day!
Video of the bird in flight!
Thank You 2020…
After a good few hours on that island, it was time to make my way back home. I enjoyed the impromptu adventure and it was great while it lasted. I felt rejuvenated and inspired and a bit anxious on kick-starting 2021. That inkling of my fear of the unknown sometimes makes it way to my head and I have to be prepared for it – whatever 2021 throws at me.
Thank you, dear reader, if you have been with me on my journey since I started my blog in August 2020. This was fun, and I hope to bring you more content as we journey 2021 and beyond together.
Stephanie Loo 
Thank you girl from the bottom of my heart for being so supportive during my difficult times.
I truly missed the time we spent during the MCO. Take care n keep focus.
I m sure you will be able to handle what ever coming your way in the new year 2021.
Keep going đŞ
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