The contrast between the start of 2010 and 2011 is representative of our own transformations.  NYE 2010 was spent skiing in France with 20+ friends in a rented chalet, with huge dinner, drinking, dancing, etc.  2011 was spent off in another continent in a sea town on the West coast of Japan.  A small cozy dinner at Chika’s aunt and uncle’s house and later a trip to the temple.

The temple ritual focuses on ringing the ceremonial bell around midnight, and its meaning is about letting go of our wants and desires, 108 to be exact.  Kai had finally gone to sleep around 11pm, so Chika decided to stay home with him while I went with Yukie, Megumi, and the uncle’s family to the temple.

After queuing and ringing the bell, we went into the temple for a quick trip into the sanctuary, followed by a traditional bowl of noodle soup.  We sat in the communal area around the fire, enjoying hot soup, some sake, and interesting company.  The monk of the temple came over for a nice chat.  As he seemed quite young, I am sure we will meet again for many more New Years in the future.

In reflection, it is has been a great year for us to grow as a family, in many ways.  Both Chika and I have had fantastic adventures travelling and enjoying many things around the world.  But now the center of our universe is changed with Kai.  We will not completely stop travelling or exploring, but will do it as part of Kai’s growing experiences as well.  He is fortunate to have loving families and rich traditions from both East and West to start experiencing early on in his life.  And Chika and I will now focus on enjoying the ride alongside him.  So begins 2011.

Although a bit dark, you can at least hear the bell ringing here.