So as far as celebrations....except for a few sleepless nights due to non-stop fireworks that sound like an absolute war zone, what's not to like about this holiday? For a couple weeks leading up to the new year, the anticipation is felt everywhere---the streets are decorated with red lanterns, the grocery stores are packed with not only people, but also traditional Chinese snacks of assorted nuts, seeds, small oranges, and Chinese candies that the people love to share with their friends. In addition, bus, train, and plane tickets are being sold out daily because of the mass exodus back to hometowns or travels that will occur for the holiday to be with family.
It is truly undescribable to live in China as a foreigner during this most important week of the year for the Chinese people---and I LOVE IT!! And just when I feel I'm an absolute KNOW IT ALL about the Chinese customs, beliefs, and superstitions that accompany this holiday----suddenly, I hear, read, or discover volumes of more interesting facts to add to this fascination in this land.
For example......I didn't know during the Chinese New Year....
*Eat a chicken foot, head or tail! It represents future prosperity.
*Be sure to eat your Noodles uncut , as they represent a long life.
* Decorate your home with live plants in bloom---this symbolizes rebirth and growth.
*Start a "clean slate"--clean your house from top to bottom, pay debts, paint doors and window panes, get a new haircut, or my favorite.....buy new clothes!!
This is our fourth year we have celebrated a genuine, traditional Chinese New Year in China. Keeping in line with all the Chinese traditions we have learned since living here, we have even developed a few Chinese New Year traditions of our own........
CELEBRATIONS AT SCHOOL
PARTICIPATING IN CHINESE SONG AND DANCE
TRADITIONAL CHINESE DECORATIONS FOR OUR HOME
TRADITIONAL CHINESE PERFORMANCES
CHINESE CELEBRATIONS WITH FRIENDS
MAKING DUMPLINGS
GIVING HONG BAOS TO OUR CHINESE FRIENDS WE APPRECIATE THE MOST
A NEW YEAR VISIT TO YU GARDEN---MY FAVORITE CHINESE TRADITION!
(our day trip to Yu Garden was made even more exciting with John behind the wheel driving us here--
I had to snap a picture from my "co-pilot" seat----welcome to driving in China!)
( not only are dumplings a traditional Chinese New Year treat, but the best dumpling's
in the world are found here----check out the line for a few "take away" treats)
(We definitely would not pass up a chance to indulge in a few famous dumplings ourselves. These dumplings are good enough to even talk teenagers into hanging out with their parents for an afternoon of Chinese fun)
And you know that new tidbit part I just learned about "start a new slate", and get a new haircut to start out the new year?? Well, apparently Parker took that Chinese advice quite literally. Not only is it a "new do" for Parker, it is truly "Chinese black slate color." Looks like we will be reminded daily of this particular Chinese New Year superstition, or at least for the next 3 months until the dark color fades. Yes, Parker continues to surprise and fascinate the best of us.......just like the Chinese (: Good thing we love them both!
4 comments:
Are you kidding me? I was just reading along enjoying all the New Year traditions, so fun. I loved it. Then I got to the end picture and said, "What????" Yes, Parker does try to do the most interesting things--but he is so unique, he can generally pull it off great!
SO very cool how much your family gets to see and do year-round. What amazing exerpiences/opportunites you all get to share in together. You are an even stronger family because of it all. Exciting to hear about John. Your little family will be so blessed in so many ways. The calling is also a huge compliment to you! Way to be.
You definitely have been culturally enriched living in China (and Paris)! It was fun to see Yu Gardens in your post! That was definitely a place of tranquility and beauty.
Awesome. Parker looks good with his hair :)! We had to make our blog private, and I can't find your email address, so send me and email at brookeoromney@gmail.com so I can invite you!
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