New Year, Old Memories

New Year came coupled with a flashback.

Ironic but it suddenly felt like a blast from the past, for like maybe, 20 years.

First scenario:

You know the first thing relatives say to you when they see you during the annual Chinese New Year visit, is " Waah so big already." My grandmother, whilst handing me an ang pow, asked if i was doing well in school. When i told her i was done in school, she asked me about my university...was feeling a little confused. should i be flattered or worried that she's having some serious memory troubles ...

I had decided not to try too hard to understand but i think i might have found some form of reconciliation from cousin's room wall..

On the wall i found, pictures of me, my brother and her, from left to right in that order, 20 years ago (see pic above). This is how we do not look like now!??!!?. But i guess it's what granny sees everyday. Perhaps perhaps perhaps.

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Second scenario:

At an assignment to shoot the River Hong Bao.

It was, i learnt, not just a celebration where you will find giant God of Fortunes and Animals from the Lunar Calendar, Fireworks, lots of Red, lights, lights in trees,Tiger Balm products, children, old people, food, foot massages, random chinese acrobats flying in the air, indian, eurasian, malay, ang-mohs, and a few plain clothed policemen.....but your hairdresser from 20 years ago!

Meet Jiong Tai. (never thought i'd see her again.)

Responsible for 3 generations of hairstyling in my mom's family lineage.

It was 20yrs since i last saw her and she hasn't changed a bit. scary.

Can you celebrate the new year with old memories?

yes. i just did.