CNY blues

This year, as for quite a number of years, I've really dragged my feet over Chinese New Year preparations. Done everything last minute, and even then, wonder if I've finally completed all I need to! I was wondering whether I was alone in this. But talking to a friend the other day, I realized that, at least I have someone who shares the same sentiments! (and there may be others out there as well). My friend lost her mother last year (her father had died many years ago and mum was the last 'link' with the relatives.....) and I've not had my parents around for half my life.

We realized that it is not quite the same when parents are no longer around. Siblings usually do not pull together so readily, and coming from a small family doesn't help the 'reunion' setting. But despite these 'blues' we do remember that CNY is a special occasion for family reunions. This is so especially when families live far from each other......and to 'go home' to the family's home and gather with all the siblings, is the blessing of the occasion.

Well, I have only one brother and we do get together on one of the days of the CNY for a family meal. I usually prepare steamboat for my own family's dinner on the eve, carrying on a tradition that my parents started. Anyway, it gives a more relaxed meal, that can be eaten slowly and leisurely.........

My children still look forward to CNY, now mainly because of the 'ang pows'. And I do value the few relatives that I get to meet. Sometimes there isn't that much closeness because we have not been in touch over the rest of the year, but they are still our God-given family.......His gift to us of kin.