chinese new year in photos.

I really don't have much to say about Chinese New Year this year. I think partly because it was my third time spending the break in Henan, partly because there wasn't anything special or exciting this year like a wedding, and partly because I've lived in China for almost four years. I'm just... used to it.

I wanted to write this whole epic post, telling you about the difficulties, the happy things, the cultural differences, but I don't know what to write. I mean... the bed was hard and we didn't have much alone time, I made our niece laugh and I cried when it was time to leave, they eat parts of animals I never will and toddlers occasionally pee on the floor. But it's just all so normal. This is my life and they're my family. 

I think that's the exciting thing this year: They are my family.

P.S. Chinese New Year 2014 & 2015

home sweet henan.

Just a few people... and this was 1 of 13 waiting rooms at the train station.

It's 5 hours on a high speed train + a 2 hour car ride to Tony's home.

T's "backyard" and neighbour's place.

I love exploring T's neighbourhood.

All of the homes are made with concrete and most are left unpainted. Businesses—think plumbers, electricians—write their names and phone numbers on the homes. Even 2 years later, I'm so fascinated by it. If it was my home, I think I'd be annoyed!

Some of the businesses have gone "legit" with stamps ;)

It's that time of year again, Chinese New Year / Lunar New Year / Spring Festival. (Is there any other holiday that is known by so many names?) Whatever you call it, T and I are back in his hometown of Gushi (pronounced "goose"), Henan.

He's sick, poor guy, and I'm still getting over the flu. As we do every year, we're eating dumplings and noodles, visiting family, and wearing sweaters and coats inside, despite it being above 0°C (18°C yesterday!) because concrete homes and people's reluctance to turn on heaters. And there are new babies to cuddle this year, and babies turned toddlers to play with and make laugh. I'm a hit with the kids, always.

The first year I came home with Tony everything was exciting and new, and I blogged almost every day. Last year was less exciting, with the exception of our Chinese wedding! And this year, I think I finally feel at home, and even a little bored, because everything just feels normal.

But I know it's exciting for other people and you might be curious, so here are links to make reading about my time in Henan easier for you:

Chinese New Year 2014: Day 1 / Day 2 / Day 3 / Day 4 / Day 5 / Days 6 & 7 / Days 8 & 9

Chinese New Year 2015: Our Chinese wedding!

P.S. Welcome to China...