After much continual postponement to the following/next week/weekend, I decided that we needed to go and see my parents/folks as I had promised many months ago. The initial plan was to go and visit them last Christmas/new years and give mum her portrait that I had been working on. But I got stuck in some kind of creative/productivity block (because my portrait painting skills were not good enough, and I worked too slow and kept sidetracking) and stopped working on the painting and haven’t completed it. And so mum’s almost completed portrait remained hanging in the living room (and looking good may I add) and time kept passing by as mum and dad kept waiting to see us (with or without the painting) and I kept on making excuses.
They don’t live that far away from us (which is fab) but sometimes it can be a rigmarole for us to jump in the car and drive the distance. Anyhow, it was my birthday last weekend and on our drive down south, I felt compelled to go and see them as we were (without the painting). We were basically half way there so it made sense for us to take the opportunity and make the effort and pay them a visit. My partner suggested that we just turn up and surprise them but I thought it was best to give them notice first, just in case. We got there late at night after a long drive. They waited up for us. Needless to say, they were delighted to see us and we were delighted to see them.
The following morning, after a good sleep, I got a chance to spend some precious time with my precious folks. They get up early and were already preparing a meal for us. I explained to mum the situation of her portrait and that I would bring it on our next trip. She said no worries and that they were happy to just see us. I took Swan for a walk in the reserve at the back. I then let her loose in the backyard as I gathered some herbs and pak bong (my favourite) to take home, and took some photos. Swan continued to fossick in the yard and then rested in the shade under the Hills hoist amongst the mixed plants. She looked so happy when I called for her. We ate gaeng nor mai with sticky rice (above) for brunch and then loaded our car with food/gifts. We left via my sister’s house for pho/feu for lunch and meandered back home via my brother’s restaurant in Canberra where I picked up bottles for another new art project. Will tell you more about it later. We arrived home late and exhausted but safe and sound and happy to be back.
[dropcap]I’m[/dropcap] very lucky to have received many gifts/blessings, inspirations/insights for my birthday/birthday week but without a doubt, driving home and seeing my parents (and sis and bro) and spending some time with them was the best gift ever. I love them so much and they’re getting older everyday. I/we really must see and spend more time with our family/folks more often. Thanks so much to my darling partner for making it all possible. Oh, and the food – our parents make the best food! Truly. It’s so delicious, comforting/loving, nutritious and all of our favourites. Yummm. Much love to you. heart
Cynthia and Pet
We are certain that Mum’s portrait will be amazing Ngeun. You are such a perfectionist as we can tell from all of your work. We would really like to see it asap as we are wanting to commission a portrait from you of ourselves. Lucky you, to have had such a wonderful birthday. You are very much loved Ngeun and your parents must have been ecstatic to have seen you. Please also post some pics of all the amazing Lao food when you can. We made the jeow het and it is simply divine. Happy birthday to you Ngeun! Thank you for sharing your beautiful thoughts and experiences. We cherish this every week!
Love always. Cynthia and Petal xxx ❤
Ngeun
Thank you my precious Cynthia and Petal. Will post pics of finished portraits, other paintings and other artworks asap. Love you. <3
David
Such a sweet post, and how fortunate you are that your parents live close by. It sounds like you had a lovely birthday celebration! I hope it continues all month.
Ngeun
Thanks David! Yes we’re very lucky indeed to have our parents close by. I hear that Facetime is good but we don’t use it. And seeing them in person is best. Thanks for the birthday month idea! :)
lost in utensils
Happy belated birthday Ngeun! You are very lucky to have your parents especially when they cook up such a delicious spread :)
Ngeun
Thanks very much Jem! Yes, their cooking definitely makes the visits more special. :)