Do you like trying new foods, or do you prefer the same familiar dishes? I actually love trying new foods. I enjoy exploring new things in general, and food is a big part of that. I keep a little list of restaurants I discover on Xiaohongshu, especially the ones I haven’t visited yet. And every payday, I treat myself to a new restaurant and try something I’ve never had before. The feeling of tasting new food is amazing — it makes me feel as if life has endless possibilities. For me, it’s also a small reward for working hard throughout the month.

Have you ever disliked a holiday because of one bad memory? To be honest, yes. I’m not a big fan of the Chinese Lunar New Year anymore. During that period, we usually have a lot of family gatherings, and they can be quite overwhelming. My parents and relatives keep asking very personal questions, like when I’m going to get married or have a baby. I can clearly feel that they’re trying to convince me to settle down with someone and start a family, which really upsets me. It makes me feel as if I’m not allowed to live my life in my own way. So every year, I volunteer to work during the holiday just to avoid those uncomfortable situations.

What holiday makes you feel the happiest? Why? I’d say the Chinese Lunar New Year holiday. Even though I still have to work during that period because I’m a midwife, I honestly don’t mind it at all. Since I’m not married, my married colleagues always give me red envelopes, which is a fun little perk.And to be honest, working during the holiday gives me the perfect excuse to skip family gatherings where people tend to ask those uncomfortable personal questions like, “When are you getting married?”, “How much do you earn?”, or “Why don’t you find a man to take care of you?”Actually, I’m happiest when I have some quiet time to myself. I enjoy the peace, and I can adjust my study plan and get things done.

Do you have a “holiday food” that must be on the table every year? Yes, absolutely. For me, the must-have holiday food is Musang King durian. It shows up on my table every single year. Even though it’s a bit pricey and I usually have to save up for a couple of months before buying one, it’s totally worth it. There’s just something magical about the whole process — putting it on the table, prying open the husk, scooping out that golden flesh, and taking the first creamy bite. The flavour is so rich and comforting that it instantly melts my stress away. For a moment, it honestly feels like I’m in heaven.

Do you think babies in the womb can hear people talking? Why or why not? Yes, I do think babies in the womb can hear people talking, especially when their parents speak directly to them. I’m a midwife, so I see this a lot. When I notice minor variations in the fetal heart rate, I often encourage parents to talk to their baby or play music they usually listen to. Very often, the fetal heart rate shows significant variability and the baby starts moving, which suggests that they can definitely perceive* sounds from the outside.