Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Chinese/Lunar New Year

Today is the Chinese/Lunar New Year! One of the most important holidays in Asia it inaugurates the new "Year of the Snake." So stop absent-mindedly writing "Year of the Dragon" on your checks. :)

New Year festivals have many traditions, my favorite of which is to eat dumplings. They're a symbol of health and prosperity; plus they taste good. There are several exceptional dumpling restaurants on Long Island; the best is near me in Syosset. Their dumplings explode with bold flavor and sumptuous warmth.

For the first time, schools are closed throughout New York State today in honor of this holiday. It's customary for adults to give younger adults and children "red envelopes" containing money. If you want one from me you'll have to wear something red and show some interest in foreign culture. 

May everything you wish come true!

11 comments:

  1. We have a large Asian population where I live, so there are celebrations and festive foods everywhere. There was even a dragon at our farmers market this past Saturday.

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    1. Wow! That's cool. I like learning about other cultures, especially ones that have been around for centuries.

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  2. I'm still amused that both my mom and I have the Snake as Chinese Zodiac.

    One thing I do miss from pre-covid times is my work used to celebrate Lunar New Year since it was after all the usual winter holidays and gave everyone the best opportunity to attend + our bonuses would come in red envelopes. We don't 'congregate' like that anymore

    I still made customary dumplings yesterday!

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    1. Wow, I'm impressed at your culinary skills. I couldn't make a dumpling if you told me how.

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    2. Noodles are probably more customary and a lot more foolproof! Or just get takeout because the pros are always better ; )

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  3. Dumplings are my favorite, too- and the perfect way to ring in the lunar new year!

    -Ashley
    Le Stylo Rouge

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    1. Happy Lunar New Year, Ashley! Always a thrill to hear from you.

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  4. Happy Belated Lunar New Year! Looks like this year is going to be a doozy.

    Suzanne

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    1. It already is! Feels like the entire year's been crammed into the first month. :)

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  5. Happy Belated Lunar New Year!
    Ooh, I was wearing red Balinese traditional garments last night to perform Balinese Gamelan and Dance for a concert!! Do I get a prize??? 😂😂😂

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