Today is the eve of lunar New Year, also known as, Chinese New Year. Every year at this time, all family members will gathered around the table to feast at the sumptuous spread of food, which is usually steamboat, delicately-prepared by Mum. This year is no exception. The whole fridge is being stored to the brim and on the brink of breaking down. A-ha...time to change to a bigger, cooler refrigerator.
I treasured this reunion dinner with utmost affection. Not because of the delectable and mouth-watering delicacies, but the thought of everyone making time to sit down together to have dinner just warmed my heart. It was not a casual affair that we get to dine together as a whole family. One of my sister is married and getting off from work at different times further added to the irrealizable task. Almost impossible.
The most amusing and enjoyable part should be credited to the "lao yu sheng" prior to the dinner. We will all armed with chopsticks, and start to "lou hay", while not forgetting the auspicious greetings and wishes. It never failed to get everyone laughing heartily.
Over the years, we have new additions to the family. From 5 to 6 to 8 and now 9. Probably in a year or two, the number will increase to 10 **smiles* or even more. Oh no, I could almost hear my stomach rumbling, ops!!
Happy Chinese New Year and may the new year bring good tidings and best of health.