E: Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Going back home is a huge family affair, especially for daddy, and more importantly this year his daughter will be present to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Sporting the pearl white Harrier, mummy seemed rather restless. It was her first time wearing the cheongsam and never in her right mind was this a sound idea (then again, it was dad’s idea in the first place). Upon the female cousins’ request, I let my hair down to match theirs. Funny that I would play along with their silly antics, guess I do in a way miss them for a bit.

So I gave some thought before I declared my entrance, I wanted to practice being grounded and yet, myself. Letting loose is a temptation I often reserve for friends, relatives are more complicated. They can run you dry and you would still have to be acquainted. But, my cousins know I’m the crazy kind, the smart one, the richer kid (now, how did that come round, I really don’t know) and the nicer cousin. The boys had the fancy of acting all princely, taking my hand and gingerly pecking at it. Of course, the aunts aren’t letting them slide that easily after that, forcing them to do the same if they want angpau’s. The boys gave in and had a ball.

When we sat together, each had their own tale to tell. Some had rather disturbing revelation and troubling family situations, I could only offered condolences. Years of experiences teach you not to meddle in family affairs; it is simply not your territory and trust me, we don’t want to be there either. Also, we had the pleasure of hosting a backpacker from the UK. Grandpa randomly invited her over, despite his broken English, and had me entertained her. She reminded me very much of Miss ChuLi because of the similarity in their aged wisdom. Visiting other distant relatives followed soon after and the rain had yet to dampen the mood. Here on out, I am officially the revered “American”, just so you know, the title is sticking too much that people were surprised my Malay is still fluent. Funny ya’ll, Imma still Malaysian!

Happy Chinese New Year!
Vonnie S.
Credits to ink-pot (c) Happy Chinese New Year 2012