People born in the Year of the Rabbit are articulate, talented, and ambitious. They are virtuous, reserved, and have excellent taste. Rabbit people are admired, trusted, and are often financially lucky. They are fond of gossip but are tactful and generally kind. Rabbit people seldom lose their temper. They are clever at business and being conscientious, never back out of a contract. They would make good gamblers for they have the uncanny gift of choosing the right thing. However, they seldom gamble, as they are conservative and wise. They are most compatible with those born in the years of the Sheep, Pig, and Dog.
So, we are trying to come up with something to do this year for Chinese New Year. With Jaxon part of the family now, we feel like we need to do something a little extra. Our local Chinese group is having a dinner and celebration, but it is a bit expensive for all of us to go. We briefly talked about only a few of us going, but that just wouldn't be fair. We have also talked about going to one of the Chinese restaurants for dinner after Church on Saturday. I don't think we know what we are doing, and probably won't until later. Any ideas?
I am sure Jaxon is really missing China right now with it being Chinese New Year. He hasn't said anything, but I cannot imagine being in another country by myself over Christmas. He is doing pretty well. He is able to talk to his friends back in China since they are out of school for a month. Yep, a whole month! That is crazy. He also said they were given red envelopes with money in them (around $30 US dollars) so they could buy food or whatever. I guess the fireworks are non stop and it is hard to sleep because they are constantly going off. I feel bad because I don't really know what to do to celebrate here with him that will come close to being like what he is used to in China. Again, any ideas???
The kids are out of school again today for the 3rd day in a row. At least the past couple of days they have been able to go outside, the temps here to day are ridiculously cold so I cannot send them outside. For now everyone is content, but we all know that isn't going to last long.
6 comments:
I don't have any good advice, just wanted to say I hope you find something. Have you thought about just asking him what he wants to do? There might be local celebrations around you that you can just join in on. Have fun either way and enjoy the new year!
Could you make a Chinese New Year calendar-kind of like an advent calendar with something special every day? It wouldn't have to be something big-it could be a fun family time doing something or a small gift.
I'm not a frequent commenter, but I felt the need to add my two cents. I think you definitely need to do something - but since the New Year is all about going back to your hometown, it should be a family celebration. Have your own little party - ask Jaxon what to have for food, something special that you wouldn't normally take the time to make, you could even cook together - have some little presents or red envelopes with money for them (nothing extravagant of course) - celebrate being together. If you can, buy some fireworks & set them off together in your backyard or an empty parking lot (why not?). Even just some sparklers would be fun. If you have or can find any traditional clothing, you should all wear it for the day too.
Most of all, just celebrate being a family.
My brother and I usually receive red envelopes ("lucky envelopes") with money. We also get a set of new clothes to ring in the new year. We also have a big family meal with our parents!
I think it's great that you are being so tender and mindful of Jaxon's heart. Like you, I can't imagine being his age and missing out on something he is so culturally used to, just like our Christmas! It would be hard. I don't have any great ideas, but look forward to seeing what others may have to say. I do think if you purchased gifts in China, now would be a great time to give them.
Well, anyway ~ I just wanted to stop in and wish you a very Happy and Blessed CNY and I look forward to seeing what the "year of the Rabbit" has in store for your gorgeous (and still GROWING!!) family!
Love and Hugs,
~ Tanya
I've been reading online about the Chinese New Year and I've learned a lot. I've taught the kids about it and we made lots of crafts. We made paper lanterns, cherry blossom pictures (for the coming of Spring)and colored pictures to decorate the dining room. I was thinking you all could wear read and make a meal at home! I was reading that they eat Dumplings, oranges, long noodles, etc. And it all symbolizes different things like the long noodles for "long life". I was thinking of doing this with my family. We don't have our little girl home yet, but I thought I could take the opportunity to teach my two about the holiday. Eventually I'll post some pictures of our lanterns, they were easy and really cute!
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