16 : The Newlyweds

Two faces glow as
their loved ones raise glasses in
unison -- "Yaaaaaaaaaaam seng!"

~

Just came back from an interesting wedding reception. I attended because the groom is my neighbor, and he's a Chindian lad who found love in Australia. He married a Chinese Aussie lass. They both looked dashing,and the bride was just so radiant. She changed into 3 dresses, and they were all pretty ^_^

Aside from the champagne fountain after the cake-cutting ceremony, a few other things made me smile: the kiss that the groom gave the bride (while carrying her 'princess style'... bcuz his friend impromptu-dared him to do it lol :P), and chanting "Yaaaaaaaaaaaam seng!" (Chinese "Cheers" equivalent) really loudly. The bridge and groom actually went from table to table to do this Yam seng thing and thanked ppl for coming. Although I'm not truly into Chinese cuisine  (a lot of seafood dishes tonight, probably because there was a mix of guests -- Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists...), I thought the reception was quite well. I really liked the dessert at the end, some kind of honeydew-ish soupy thing, and lotus pancake or sthg like that. Yumm!

An interesting experience, today was :)

10: Force of nature

Earth shakes violently
as giant Waves loom over;
their Spirit: intact.

This is dedicated to the amazing people in Japan who are courageously dealing with the aftermaths of the recent earthquake and tsunami that hit several parts of the region. Countless lives are affected by this tragedy, but many remain positive, continuing to light the nation's beacon of hope.

Seeing all the positive messages from the young and old, from doers to observers of sheer kindness, from survivors as well as helpers... Japanese people, you are a force of nature yourselves.

My prayers are with you Japan. Stay strong.

がんばってください！

For more info about Japan's story and to find out how to help, visit this link.