I Smell A Rat....

So here we are again at the beginning - the year of the RAT.

We are staying put in Miri this year throughout the new year for various reasons. While 3 months ago we made that decision and thought it to be a great idea then, it does not seem so to me now. As I brush off the dust from all the corners of our house and lay out the red and gold decorations to be put up later this evening, I cannot help but feel a pinch of loneliness at not having mom and dad around to welcome in the new year.

I watched in silent regret at the beaming face of the aunty across the road as she threw open her doors to welcome back her sons and daughters for the holiday.

That is what Chinese New Year is all about, I guess - being with family. It is not so much about the fire crackers or additional income through ang pows (well, no more for me now :P) - but rather just being with the ones you love most.

Well this year, family will mean just hubby and me. But I am not going to sulk too long over this. Even though it is for only 2 people, I had planned to make our mini reunion dinner memorable. The fridge is all stocked up and I have become an expert in preparing a full course meal in small portions.

Happy Chinese New Year everyone, Gong Xi Fa Cai.....