Gung Hei Fat Choy!
In preparing for the Lunar New Year, we did a little pre-party in Oakland’s Chinatown last weekend and got some fortune cookies for my daughter’s class, courtesy of Oakland Fortune Factory. Tangerines and oranges make more traditional gifts, but you know—5th graders. We also caught a Lion Dance at the Pacific Renaissance Plaza, and shopped for some ingredients for tonight’s stir fry (did you know that my husband makes a mean Kung Pao?).
In the past, we would visit family and have ourselves a feast. Since my parents constantly worked at their restaurant, Chinese New Year was THE only day they took off, so there are many fond memories at my Aunt’s table—particularly of her and my mom fighting over the eyeballs on the steamed fish. Ewwww. It’s also typical to clean the house before the big day to get rid of the bad luck. My dad thinks that’s nonsense, so I chose to split the difference and wipe down what I thought best represents the heart of our home: our stove.
The rest of the day will be spent catching up with family, getting lost with my camera, and spending quality time with my crew.
May we have good health, prosperity, and love in this new year. Happy Lunar New Year!
xo
