Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Merry White Moon!

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...




Sunday, February 22, 2009

Growin' Up So Fast

Our kids sure are growing up! All of them will have birthdays again in the next month or so.

Static-Girl: small of stature but sporting a powerful shock and scorching scold. Watch out for her glare AND her kisses...

Favorite song: "Mamo Nash Ir" (Mongolian lullaby)




The Yeller: superpower includes both piercing high-pitch and tremendous volume. Unfortunately his powers do not seem to have an "off" switch...

Favorite song - "Afternoon Delight"...?!




The Wacky-Tackler: demonstrates a variety of curious interests and skills - kung-fu, memorizing songs, drawing strange creatures, and tackling dad from behind...

Favorite song: "Jedi" by Weird Al






Monday, February 09, 2009

Lil' stocking stuffer?

Santa was NOT pleased with these kids last Christmas! That's a big lump of coal. Or perhaps, in Mongolia, that means you were a really GOOD child... it could keep our house warm for days! Especially with the heat wave we have been having lately...
snow has actually been melting! If you don't know, that is HIGHLY unusual for Mongolia in February. And of course it followed right after I shoveled another 2+ TONS into my coal closet!