Why are you reading HopeMail

and why I am writing.

How did this draft begin?

it began like this.

In the living room I sat
Throw-blanket on my legs outstretched
Pen and paper on my lap
jotting down ideas in my head
My writing all scribbly-boo
Of what I want to write to you.
~ Melinda Yeoh

This first HopeMail of 2025 feels like a fresh page, a chance to reflect and share why this newsletter exists—for you and me.

What is HopeMail about?

HopeMail is a space where I reflect on life and creativity, share stories from my art journey, and highlight my latest works. Each edition ends with a piece of good news—because we all need a little more light in our world.

For 2025, I’ll be writing and sending HopeMail twice a month.

To new readers: welcome to this journey. And to existing readers and those from Mel’s Art Community—thank you for staying as this space evolves.

Who writes HopeMail?

Hello, it’s me, Melinda. I’m an artist. It was a word I was uncomfortable to use a couple of years back because of the imposter syndrome. Who do I think I am?

self-portrait using stubby fingers on Apple Notes. Fancy a portrait commission?

But now, I hold a different, clearer perspective—what makes an artist, an artist?

I see the world differently. I don’t see a tree as a tree per se. I see lines, I see shades, I see shapes, I see…wonder.

I need to create. Even though if it doesn’t pay. Because creating is my way of communicating beyond the usual regular conversations.

I have something to say and to share. And art is my language.

I take honing my art skills seriously.

I take my studio time seriously and that means commitment.

I am open to exploring, to evolve, to be challenged.

I need to create.

Wait, I’ve said that already.

Do you resonate with any of the above?

I am also a wife, stepmom, niece, friend, work partner, believer and follower of Jesus, albeit stumbling and bumbling along the way, hanging on for dear life. Thank God for grace!

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Ending this email with good news

"I'm suffocated by love! It's beautiful." — Paddy McGuinness.

In 2024, BBC Radio 2’s Paddy McGuinness raised over £8m for BBC Children in Need, cycling almost 300 miles on a modified Raleigh Chopper bike.

This incredible feat will help disadvantaged children across the UK, inspiring countless others along the way.

When announcing the total raised, Paddy broke down in tears on live radio. And honestly, I almost did.

Encouraged by Olympian Sir Chris Hoy¹, Paddy faced gruelling hills and long days: "You must keep pedalling on your little chopper… You're doing this to inspire the nation."

And inspire, he did.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this first HopeMail of 2025 as much as I’ve loved writing it. If this sounds like your cup of tea, stick around! The next edition publishes on 27th January 2025.

Take care. Now, put away this email and go tell or text a loved one you love them.

🧡
Melinda
melindayeoh.com
I’m best with emails but I’m occasionally on Instagram.

1. :( Sir Chris recently announced his cancer is terminal