It is that time of year again, as we come to the end of the nine 9's of winter - the White Moon, Mongolian new year. There are all kinds of traditions associated with this ancient holiday... most of which aren't done anymore. Here are the kids enjoying one of our many home visits... you can probably tell by all of the smiles that they get ALL the candy they want!
Although still quite crisp outdoors (sub-zero nights) some of us are looking forward to the beginning of the archery season... no, not hunting. The Urianhai, an ethnic group known for their archery, shoot from 50 meters at a row of leather balls - the object of which is to knock as many out of the square as possible. Larry, Zeke and I are still a bit rusty... can't hit a thing at 30 meters. But we'll get there as long as the neighbor kids (and adults!) stand back long enough to let us practice! It's surprising how many "modern" Mongolians have never ridden a horse or shot a bow...
It is that time of year again, as we come to the end of the nine 9's of winter - the White Moon, Mongolian new year. There are all kinds of traditions associated with this ancient holiday... most of which aren't done anymore. Here are the kids enjoying one of our many home visits... you can probably tell by all of the smiles that they get ALL the candy they want!
Although still quite crisp outdoors (sub-zero nights) some of us are looking forward to the beginning of the archery season... no, not hunting. The Urianhai, an ethnic group known for their archery, shoot from 50 meters at a row of leather balls - the object of which is to knock as many out of the square as possible. Larry, Zeke and I are still a bit rusty... can't hit a thing at 30 meters. But we'll get there as long as the neighbor kids (and adults!) stand back long enough to let us practice! It's surprising how many "modern" Mongolians have never ridden a horse or shot a bow...
