The countdown has finally reached its end, and it is time to celebrate the new year!
The two weeks between Christmas and New Year have been spent on holidays. Even though there is a bunch of work to do after it I feel like the holiday spirit is still alive. Currently, in Viet Nam, a major holiday known as Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year) is taking place. I have a hard time returning to my normal routine: working, exercising, blogging, and engaging. I apologize if I have been so quiet lately. I will definitely come back and be more active after the holiday has gone 馃
The company I work for is based in Aus; clients are mainly from Europe and Australia. Obviously, they have no idea what Tet is, and yes I have to work these days. I have a lot of work to do at the moment and I'm trying to pack as many things as possible in order to enjoy the first day of the Lunar New Year without worrying about work. Luckily, my boss has been very understanding and encouraged me to complete any tasks today so I can spend time with my family and friend in the upcoming days. This is a really nice gesture from her because it shows that she cares about how I feel. I really appreciate her kindness 鉂わ笍
For those who don't know What is Tet Holiday is and why it's so important to the Vietnamese people, you can check out one of my previous posts here.
It's the last week before the new year, so I plan a meeting to catch up with my close friends to share all of our memorable moments from this past year. It was always an interesting conversation to hear how people changed, what they did in the past year, and what they plan to do in the next year. One of my best friends told me about her boyfriend and how they prepare for the wedding very soon after they're done with all the documents. I was really happy for her and can't wait to be the "bridesmaid" 馃槅.
Another friend shared with us the struggle of balancing a career and her personal life after marriage. She is overwhelmed by work and family life. Her daily morning routine consists of taking care of children, getting them ready for school, and returning home to prepare dinner in the evening. Although I couldn't help much, I shared with her my own experiences of coping with modern-day stress through outdoor activities and being immersed in nature, as I know she rarely finds time for herself.
I went on a hike with some friends the last weekend and we really had a great time. We were surrounded by "green", I called that day: green and happy day!! Green is my happy color. Nature is an amazing place, and it's hard not to be happy seeing the green of the trees, the blue of the sky, and the bright color of the sun.
Always, there is something about being outdoors that energizes me and brings out my adventurous spirit.
How are you celebrating the last days of the year? It is so easy to get caught up in all of the hustle and bustle of this time of year. Personally, I have been spending time for myself more, being a bit lazy hahaha. I think I feel better after getting some rest.
To all my Vietnamese friends, I understand that we've felt such an intense sadness that wants to cry because it seems like this is the end of many wonderful moments, but at the same time, we feel content because we know that next year will bring new opportunities to enjoy life. What matters most is that this time of year provides an opportunity for a fresh start and a new beginning. Happy Tet Holiday !! Happy New Year Everyone :)
Tomorrow, I will walk down the street and get a good look at the new year decoration. I'm interested in what types of decorations they have put up and what colors they are using this year.
Here are all the pictures I and my friend took on our hike to Lang Van Beach last weekend. I hope you enjoy the green and sun in the photos. 馃槈 Wishing you a wonderful start to the week.