First saw him eating ice cream with our helper at the void deck last year 2 Jan, when I was on my way out. He was with all the other parents / grandparents who were waiting at the void deck for kids to end school, and there would always be an ice cream van outside the school in our carpark. (Our place is right opposite a primary school.) He was really enjoying his ice cream. (Not posting it here cos he had ice cream dripped all over his t-shirt 😂)
One day I also found a big bottle of F&N Ice Cream Soda in our fridge. It’s such an old school drink and I asked our helper about it. She said when she brought him down (we would encourage her to bring him out to prevent him from constantly staying at home - at least get some fresh air and scenery), he would direct her to the mama shop and tell her what to buy. So that’s how I know he likes ice cream soda, and ice cream.
My second last time that I saw him, I felt compelled to buy Potong ice cream from the mall across before I visited him. I did find his red bean Potong. He didn’t have any appetite that day to eat any food, but he agreed to the red bean Potong. 🥺 he didn’t want any meds earlier either, so our helper came up with a brilliant idea to mix his ground meds into the ice cream. I was worried he might detect the meds, but he finished everything. Maybe he found the ice cream tasted weird and was trying not to be difficult, or maybe the ice cream really masked the meds. ❤️
He left 3 days later. That was his last ice cream. I’m not sure why I felt compelled to buy it that day, but I know I’m glad I got the chance to.
I’m also unsure why I suddenly wanted to buy those items in the middle of the night while 守夜ing, but I’m also glad I did. 🍦
Reflecting on moments like these, I’ve found that simple joys like sharing our favorite ice cream flavors hold powerful comfort during tough times. For example, choosing a colorful Potong ice cream or savoring an old-school ice cream soda can feel both nostalgic and healing. I remember how mixing medicine into ice cream cleverly helped ease Grandpa’s discomfort without causing him distress. This gentle approach showed how love and creativity come together in caregiving. Many of us might not realize how small acts—like buying a favorite treat late at night or revisiting childhood snacks—can strengthen our bonds and ease pain. For anyone caring for a loved one, offering comforting tastes from their past can be a beautiful way to connect and show care. Also, incorporating favorite drinks or snacks as small celebrations, even just a "cheers" moment, can uplift spirits and create lasting memories. It’s a reminder to treasure the present and honor loved ones with kindness and shared happiness. Have you experienced similar simple but meaningful moments with family or friends? It’s incredible how these personal stories of love and care resonate with so many of us.
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