Lunar New Year and hats!

One of the perks in visiting Singapore during February is that we were there during the Chinese New year (aka Lunar New Year)! It is very festive and the kids had a lot of time off (plus they took some personal holiday time too). It is like Christmas here when it comes to the family gatherings and the decorations every where you go. 2008 is the Year of the Rat as you can see from the picture here. Also, most of my pictures I have my hat on. I never did figure out how to get my hair to behave there!



Often you will get to see Lion Dances too. We saw them when they were in trucks going down the highway to whatever destination they were going to. All the while they are in the back of that truck they play the drums and make noise. Then, they go to businesses, stores, schools, homes, whatever and do a traditional dance for good fortune and happiness in the new year. It was pretty fun to watch but very LOUD! (Notice the young boy covering his ears?)

The first night we were there it was New Year's Eve and we went to Malcolm's parents home for a traditional New Year's Eve meal. It is called "steam boat" and there is a large deep pan placed on a portable burner in the middle of the table. The broth is placed in and brought to a boil. All kinds of things to boil and cook is placed around the table and we all get to participate in cooking it. Things like: vegetables, shrimp, pork, chicken, beef, sea bass, and my favorite - fish balls. There were other items but I can't remember them all. It was very good and Malcolm's parents are gracious hosts. This year while there I found out I can eat with chopsticks. The problem last year was that I kept trying to make them work using my left hand (I'm mostly left handed) but learned, like when using scissors or golfing, I can only do it with my right hand. Who knew?

Many of you have asked how Gary did on the trip. I am pleased to share that he did awesome. He had moments of being overwhelmed by everything but for the most part he really did enjoy it. Except during the time I wasn't feeling well because he tends to worry a great deal about me. Anyway, he tolerated the plane trip. The way home our flights got goofed up and we were put on a different airline (Singapore Air - best in the world!) and had a direct flight from Singapore to LA. 17+ HOURS! Now, that was a long flight and I think there was even a brief moment during the last 2-3 hours that I started to feel a little claustrophobic. Gary hardly slept at all, a little here and a little there. But overall I would give him a "B+"! And I think he said that, "if he had to", he could do it again. :)This was his most common pose while on the plane, except he usually had ear buds in and his straw hat on. We are very sad to announce that his beloved hat was lost on the journey. That hat had been to many states and countries with him. He thinks he left it at the hotel in LA. :( Bummer.