It's the start of Chinese New Year 2011, and I am salivating at the thought of it. Chinese celebrations always conjure up lovely images of friends and family gathering around tables of festive food. What favourites spring to mind? Plump steamed dumplings, slippery cheung fan, crispy duck, and glorious custard egg tarts! Ahem, steady on though, we should pay our respects to the Rabbit, it is after all his year. The Rabbit or 'Hare, is a symbol of longevity with an affinity to the moon. Old Chinese stories tell of a moon hare that is a companion to the moon goddess, and he is always portrayed with a mortar and pestle, pounding away at the ingredients for the 'elixir of life' for the goddess.
You see, this is an educational writerly post really, - a little story thrown in for good measure! I'm not just waffling, at least not too much...
Now, where was I? If you are a rabbit, you are likely to be well mannered, graceful -and lead a tranquil life. And if you're not a rabbit, don't worry - the good news is that, the year of the rabbit should bring a peaceful influence... which I think, is exactly what our world needs right now.
Here are a few of my favourite Chinese New Year things...
 |
| Lovely Lanterns |
 |
| Scrumptious Offerings |
 |
| Old Chinese Proverbs |
 |
| Moon Cakes... |
 |
| Fabulous Fireworks! |
Photocredits: Fireworks via virtualtourist; all others via weheartit.
Comments
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
I'm a Dragon.
Also, I wish I was a rabbit, my main character is a rabbit, so maybe this will be his year!
Solvang, what time is dinner? I'll be right over!
Pat, absolutely, I'm right beside at the table! Chinese food is a long time favourite. Happy New Year!!
Misha, hello dear dragon! ;)
Melissa G, maybe you could start something up n KC? A few friends around for chinese? Any reason for a dinner party and decorations I say! ;-)
Golden Eagle, right back at you! ;)
Bish, of course - come in and pull up a chaise lounge. Dinner will be along shortly, in the meantime -aperitif?
Melissa, love the lanterns - I saw some floating overhead on Monday night - FAB!
Meredith, rabbits are so peaceful to watch, I hope this year becomes the same. ;-)
I don't know what moon cakes are, but I'm positive I'd LOVE them. :)
I hope the bunny brings peace across the world...but according to todays news, Cairo is still out of control, among other places. Make me sad.
Huggles,
Lola
This is interesting to me though... I wish you'd written a bit more (in other words: done the research for me- lol) I have a section on the Moon Goddess in my piece but I didn't include much on Chinese influence. I might have to...
Carol, Yah! Pork egg rolls count! ;-)
Danette, ha! Well you know research takes time and thats a rare commodity these days. I shall have to pop over and read your Moon Goddess piece. ;)
Melissa M, Happy New Year! And please do take a moon cake with you. ;)
As far back as I can remember, I have been intrigued with the pictures of the Chinese Lanterns, especially the ones that are released by the water. Their kites too, inspire imagination and flight of fancy.
Have a great weekend and a Happy Year of the Rabbit.