Uncle Hainanese

Been wanting to write this post since a week ago. Since it's pretty quiet in the office (a.k.a still in holiday mode), finally here i am.

Last week, after an assignment, i decided to head to what 'this used to be my playground' Damansara Jaya for lunch. I realised i have not been to my fave Uncle Hainanese restaurant near Atria. It is not that the chicken rice there was the best...it was for old times sake and well, haven't spoken to 'uncle' for a loooong while.

The restaurant was the same. Well, almost. Been going there since i was 15,16. Uncle would always greet us with a big HELLO and warm smile. After a while, we went there out of loyalty. Last week, i entered and it was pure silence. I looked around and young guy came up to me to take my order. Unable to hold on to my thoughts, i had to ask him, "Where is uncle?" while getting ready for bad news. He said uncle has retired to look after his grandchild. What a relief!

I had my usual Hainanese chicken rice and taugeh, feeling all nostalgic about the place and knowing that it will never be the same. I doubt i'll be going there as often anymore. No more uncle.

Last year, i gave him some fruits and he gave me an angpow. Aww. And a few years back, when i went there during the fasting month, i remember him having a troubled look while taking my order. He then asked, "You tak puasa ah?". To which i answered," Uncle!! After all these years you think i am Malay??". Quite funny, really.

So that is the story of me and my uncle Hainanese. He's a good man and i hope the best for him - in health and happiness.

The end of another chapter. It is time to move on.... just like many other things in life.