As a child, I remember celebrating Eid very differently. It was a festive occasion that I looked forward to because I knew there would be plenty of delicacies to eat and of course, the most awaited duit raya. As I got older, especially recently, I realized that the vibrant and energetic aunts and uncles I knew were getting more frail. They have aged. So was I. Their vision is getting worse. Their steps are getting slower as they have a painful back and wobbly knees.

Their kids are part of the Sandwich Generation – myself included. We divide our attention between our parents and our kids. Sadly also to our jobs. Previously, hosting an ‘open house’ was a breeze for the elders because they have their kids to help them. Now that with added responsibilities, with their kids securing a job and raising a family – it is not that easy.

I suppose this is where traditions will begin to change for the family.

Similarly the death of an older family member – that too will change the family dynamics and how a certain occasion will be celebrated. The Sandwiches will gradually take the lead and create their own traditions and way of life depending on how they like it.

I’ve made it a mission to celebrate Eid at Kuching this year. I felt there were many days for us to travel and enjoy the festive season without compromising the kid’s school days. I used my WPUA this time and travelled with Malaysia Airlines. We departed from Melaka as early as 8am and arrived at Salak Tinggi Park and Ride. Then we took the KLIA Transit train to KLIA1.

At Kuching, I booked two rooms at the Serapi Hotel. There will be a separate blog post on that.

Most of our days are spent visiting relatives on both of my Dad and late mom’s side. It was a worthwhile visit. The kids love it too as they get a lot of packet money. They also enjoyed eating the kuih lapis. I mean, what is Raya without Kuih Lapis right?