Going Away

The lunar new year is just round the corner. I'll be leaving town and will only return when the new year celebrations have simmered down.

Every year, mum would be really busy around this time, doing her new year shopping. Memories of her making preparations for the new year celebrations last year is still fresh in my mind. I can almost hear her grumbling about how things have gotten so expensive during the festive season, and that it's time to take the curtains down to wash it. She will then fret over having nothing to wear, that she's put on weight and can't fit into anything.

But if you'd bought her any clothes, she'd complained that she can't wear that because it's "too young" for her. Of course we knew that's just mum being vain and self-conscious. She's the prettiest 64-year-old I've seen, looking not a day older than 50. But she would protest weakly whenever we complimented her on that, altho' u can always catch that little smile hanging at the corner of her mouth.

Well, there's no need for any last minute cleaning, or shopping, since we are still mourning and can't celebrate the new year. While families are busy going about with their spring cleaning and shopping, i'm just aiming to get through each day without crying.

I'm jut glad that I'll be going away. Staying at home would be too painful for me. I was just walking through Marks & Spencer - mum's favourite clothing store the other day, when a blouse caught my eyes. The first thought was "Mum would love this", and then a bolt of pain just tore through me. Mum's not around anymore. She has no need for pretty clothes wherever she's now.

I used to stay up late during New Year's eve every year, as the Chinese believed that this will contribute to your parents' longevity. This year, I intend to do the same. I hope mum is finally enjoying some peace and quiet now.

Happy New Year, mummy, whenever you are.