Sunday, December 27, 2015

Sundays :: in Shau Kei Wan and Wong Tai Sin

Every Sunday I hop on the MTR and go north.


Shau Kei Wan - the MTR station nearest our home (about 10 minutes by apartment-shuttle) is my starting point. It's a place worthy of exploration all on its own, and I hope to come back just to wander some more. Certainly more of an old-school Chinese feel here.

"Wet Market"








I haven't a clue what most of this stuff is!



No refrigeration of meat around here... (even in hottest summer)







Many stops and two transfers later, I arrive in Wong Tai Sin: Kowloon side. Wong Tai Sin is where the old squatter village Chuk Yuen once thrived - until the government tore it down to erect high rises.

some squatters remain, tucked in between the bustle
 The smell of roast chestnuts and sweet potatoes greet me every Sunday afternoon:



The stunning taoist temple survived the gentrification.


My purpose for going to Wong Tai Sin each week isn't to visit the temple, however, it's to attend dance class. A Cantonese-language modern dance class at a stellar dance company. I am so grateful that it is here!! It's worth the weekly trek.



Saturday, December 26, 2015

Little Rock Climber

She's at it again!


Our monkey-princess.... climbing Shek-O cliffs with her coach. Having this real-life, real-rock experience is incredible. Bit more windy this time...





check out the crevasse below


Nearly flat here - how does she find grip??










Rock climbing, as she is learning it, is far more than just scaling mountains. It's about perseverance, grit, and effort. It's about building confidence. It's learning that you can conquer your fears.

practice after school

she's up top - going for the black, inclined wall

The day of the climb is also a day of fresh air and adventure for the whole family...












Hong Kong is not all high-rise and city-scape.