Got here on Monday. Tues and Wednesday spent the night and morning at Grandma's funeral. My dad, being the elderest son, had to help out quite a bit. The funeral service is a mix of Taoism and Buddhism. Since I am a Christian, I did not have to bow or burn incense. My family and relatives were very supportive and open about my faith.
I visited my Grandma (mom) on Tuesday morning. Her home were filled with pictures. Of my aunt and uncle. Of their family and of mine. Of my grandpa (whom passed away in 2003). Looking at those pictures, I felt very emotional.
Partly because I was happy to see my grandma. Also partly to see what's important in her life.
My grandma's home was simple. There weren't a lot of 'stuff'. Just a few key items to reflect what she cherish.
From reading this blog or in person, you can tell I ain't interested in shopping (exception is tri gears) or fashion. If you like to do so, you will love Hong Kong. There are so many shops and they are so cheap.
Coming back, my priorities weren't on expanding my wardrobe. I want to connect with my relatives and cousins. I also want to find the nooks and crannies of Hong Kong. Places (nature trails etc.) where people don't find them easily. My dad use to live in the mountains. I told him to bring me there sometime.
I am learning a lot about my family past. My grandpa (dad's side) use to build his own furniture and died of lung cancer. My grandma (mom's side) gave money to those in need when she read them in the newspaper (and she ain't wealthy). I also didn't realize my dad got layoff during my transplant.
Yesterday evening, my Uncle took us out to a trail around his place. I am glad he lives in the border of the suburb and enjoy hiking. This coming Sat we are going for a 4-5 hr hike.
My foot is getting better. This morning I went to the gym for 30 min on the bike. I want to go for an hour but my foot was complaining. Went to the pool today and it was closed for maintenance. NUTS!
Here are some pics. Enjoy!
The villa where my Uncle live. Lots of smog.
Tree House: The tree grew over the house.
My aunt and uncle. On the trail last night.
My uncle, my dad and me.
Me and my dad in front of the tree house.
20 comments:
If you believe that everything happens for a reason, then perhaps the reason you aren't working right now is to be able to have all the time in the world to appreciate the blessing of this trip. And it sounds like you are doing just that.
Oh and the treehouse is just way too cool.
I echo JC. Have a safe trip and I've really enjoyed those pictures.
I can't believe the tree house.
Looks like you're enjoying the trip and your family time.
I'm glad that you're having a great time with your family. Having family 1/2 way around the world doesn't make it easy to see them very often, but it's very special when you do get to!
So good that you went - thanks for filling us in!
cliff - i know this is a hard trip for you with the passing of your grandma, and i am so very sorry for that. in some respects, though, it is a blessing as well - the time you are spending with your family and in hong kong will be something you remember forever.
Enjoy the time with your family, Cliff.
Nice pics, too.
Sorry about your Grandma, Cliff.
Enjoy the time with your family - those pics are amazing.
Great pics! How special you got to spend time with your family, especially during such a tough time.
wow...very intersting what you learned about your dad and grandparents, cliff. that is nice that they all were accomodating about your faith. the pictures are great - thanx for posting!! you look like your dad! very cool treehouse and beautful trail that your aunt and uncle were on!! enjoy your visit and i hope the pool is ready soon :-)
What a wonderful opportunity to have extra time to spend time with your family. Great pics!!
I love the treehouse!
The pictures looked great.
It's great to re-connect with your family...a reminder of where you came from.
I love what you are having the chance to do! All of it! I love that you see what's important to your grandma decorating her home. I love that you're seeing the city and the nature around it. I just love this whole thing.
you should totally get a Hard Rock shirt from there. Just kidding man, trying to put a smile on your face after a funeral for a loved one.
Have fun.
Hey there, good to see you are enjoying the time with the family. Looks like your uncle stays in the hills in Hong Kong - way betta than to live in the city, I've been told. One doesn't always associate Hong Kong with trials so it's good that you are still heading out.
Hey, maybe you can make some $$ by bringing back some of the cheap electronics from Hong Kong - iPODs, memory sticks and stuff... :)
Sorry about the loss of your grandma.
Hey Cliff,
Sorry to hear about your grandma. But glad to hear you're enjoying your time in Hong Kong and with your relatives. I quite enjoyed my time in HK last summer and wanted to go back this June after my STM trip in China, but the flight from Beijing to HK was just not worth it for me to stay a week there afterwards. Oh wellz.
How far away is the place you're living at? I stayed at Sheung Shui, right by the Chinese-HK border. 45 mins from TST, Kowloon! OH, and my, I guess since my visit they've torn down the ferry terminal at Central. < sigh > Gentrification..... creative destruction......
It sounds like you are really enjoying this opportunity. Hope the rest of your trip is just as wonderful.
Cliff,
Hong Kong is one of my favorite cities in the world. I have spent a lot of time there. My wife being from the Philippines, we can understand being separated from family around the world. It is no fun, but it can be used by God to allow you a chance to spread the Gospel message.
Blessings to you,
Dave
Post a Comment