RATify

Truly, it's comforting to know amidst all the changes that have taken place on this island, that the Lunar New Year still hails as one of the most well observed of Seasons. The streets were empty in town, shopping centers were practically desolate - and all manner of decoration for the season was in place around this tiny island. In the lull between preparing for the Reunion dinner and diving into the thick of the festivities, I took a trip down town to see what it was like.
The meaning of 除夕 (Chú Xī - Lunar New Year's Eve, or literally "Change", "Eve") still figures very strongly in the lives of the people here, and it's great to return to a place like that. I would not have imagined myself saying this, but I'm glad I'm here during this season, and not somewhere else where it' still Winter. I'm definitely pleased ...

Reflections

Being stranded here doesn't quite cut it really. Thankfully, this is still home, and the Lord is kind. Met up with +K after his two week vacation in Europe. Spent a good deal of time chilling at a nearby Cafe, him working, me writing. Caught up with GA and Art', Jackrabbit and Red Tim' over the weekend with the General, then it's time with EOKW and wifey. Keen Karat is back in town, and so is the KL Swede. Managed too, to catch S2 before she headed off to her little adventure in the Chu Chi tunnels. Add to that a whole lot of time with the crew from Epainos and the time here really isn't too bad. I just need to get my butt back to Walawalamuciwawaland soon cos' there's just so much to be done and it ain't budging from here.
On a separate note, Blue Like Jazz is going to be made into a film, which is really exciting. If you've not read the book, give it a shot. Donald Miller does a great job of putting Christian spirituality in pretty much non-Christian terms...no mean feat in my opinion. I bought a copy earlier, finished it, gave it to a friend and realised I actually liked the book a great deal, so I went back and bought myself another copy. It's on loan once again - but that's how it should really be with Blue Like Jazz...pass it on.

Freitag

Two days worth of action, back to back. Loving every minute of it. Familie W called this evening, as did the crew from the surprise operation. Elf did her thing. And a couple of surprises too from friends from a while ago. It's fab to have something to be grateful about. More action over the weekend. Thank God.

V.I.V.O

Voracious Imagery Vast Opportunities, Very Intense Vast Outdoors...an evening excursion yielding imagery of sorts. A kaleidoscope of people, materials and eras. 5 levels plus an open "skypark" and whilst it might not be the next Mount Faber...it's become a favorite hang out of sorts for couples. That aside, that place has got good angles by the spades. Worth the trip before they're officially open (Dec 1st 2006), don't know about AFTER they're open....malls are malls after all, but we'll see.