SG50

We returned from our summer adventures just in time to enjoy the 50th anniversary of the creating of modern-day Singapore.  SG50 has been promoted for literally the last year and the national pride and enthusiasm has been contagious.  50 years ago Singapore separated from Malaysia and became its own country.  Looking back, I'm sure this was a move that Malaysia regrets since Singapore went on to become one of the most prosperous nations in the world while Malaysia hasn't had any of that same growth and success.  At the time, Malaysia simply thought of Singapore as an expensive piece of land to their south that didn't have any of its own natural resources and therefore was just a drain on Malaysia's economy!

SG50 has been hyped as a tribute to the country and it's founding father, Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.  In a very unfortunate coincidence, Mr. Lee passed away this spring after a length illness so he wasn't able to see the SG50 festivities for himself.  The country held a full week of mourning in his honor and it was amazing to see the grief and love Singaporeans had for this leader.  His son, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, is now leading the country in a time of much change as Singapore tries to maintain its history and traditions while also maintaining its relevancy in the 21st century.

Here are a few pictures we took during the National Day parade weekend.