It’s been a while since my last post. So let me fill you in.
When we wrapped up the backpacking we headed for a 6 week stint with the in-laws and Chinese New Year Macanese style. They’re a family that like their grub and Macau’s hospitality is top drawer. I fit right in. Only trouble is, the food’s so nice mealtime left me feeling like a fois gras duck (stuffed).
Being a mono-linguist the daily discourse is a step too far. Which was handy, ‘cos it gave me a pass to do my own thing – the gym, library and local coffee shops became my sanctuaries. I only got summoned when there was a dinner to be eaten, or an item to be retrieved from the top shelf.
I wanted us to stay in Macau for a decent length of time. Family and friends are among the most important things in life. And having nabbed their daughter for the best part of a decade. It was about time I shared the wealth.
One of the more pleasing aspects of our trip was watching the wife share the experience with her mother. Her heart condition has prevented her travelling in recent years. So showing her the world via the wonders of modern technology was a bonus.
***
It was soon time to move onto Melbourne. Our plan was to find jobs and a place to live, and explore Australasia at our leisure. Two weeks in, and things are going well; we’ve signed a 6 month lease on a flat in Fitzroy and are waiting for the nod from a couple of job interviews.
…But life’s not all champagne and skittles.
And a month after saying hello to our new home. I’m back in Macau saying an emotional goodbye to the best mother in law a bloke could wish for. She was special. Our inability to converse never affected our rapport. I have so many happy memories. I miss her.
So it’s been a subdued start to life down under. Times like these are a kind of wake-up call. A reminder that growing old is a privilege not everyone gets to enjoy. We’re here for a good time not a long time.
_____
Hi Ben – Rae and I love your mixture of humour and pathos- keep writing! I know what you mean about Sok Fan – although we only met during our one visit to Macau I could sense that she was a loving lady with her ready smile and gentle voice and wish we could have met again. I can imagine what a loss she is to all who knew her. During our visit to Hull I came across the following in a park “the bridge between the land of the living and the land of the dead is love” and we also believe that love never dies. I know that you and Angela have that in abundance – Mum xxx
LikeLike
Thanks for that Ma. Yes, she meant a lot to a lot of people. It’s a shame you couldn’t get to know each other better, I could sense a mutual appreciation. Xx
LikeLike
We know Auntie is in a better place. Take good care and enjoy a new life in Australia with your queen!
LikeLike
Thanks Norma. Yes, at least her suffering is over now. Hope all’s well with you and the family. X
LikeLike
Dear Ben and Angela, we hope you are doing ok during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Take care, Kevin and Amanda
LikeLike
Thanks you two, much appreciated. Hope all’s well with you. Love A&B. Xx
LikeLike