Baba's annual tribute

This is perhaps the most touching part of the annual routine when we come home to Xi'an. We visit my father-in-law's mausoleum and take his portrait and stone for a little walk. It's really a happy occasion that shows great respect for a great man. He's been gone nine years and he's missed and remembered by all.

ZZ is the grandson and most like his Yeye(grandfather) who raised him for many years. ZZ is smart and ambitious and learned many life lessons from his Yeye.

From a big hall in the back of a park where the ashes of hundreds are stored in their own cubicle, we walk Baba to yard made for offerings.

On a concrete tableau we set out his photograph beside nice things to snack on and burn money in his memory. Beside his little alter we draw circles with an opening to the north. Here we burn money to other generations and relatives who have passed on. I made an offering to my mom too. I think she understands that her son is really a Chinese son-in-law.

ZZ sets off a long braid of fire works and he smiles. He says for sure his Yeye heard them and appreciates them.

Life a good daughter (she's a great one actually), FF cleans out her father's cubicle, dusting off all the little things that keep him company, including some games.

More on this later.... The pictures really tell the story.