Holiday Spirit

The Lanterns were hung by the lampost with care, in hopes in the Lunar New Year soon would be here. Yes I know, I'm a geek or at least that's what my 14 yr old tells me. I thought I was pretty clever though! lol.  What a pretty sight to see, lanterns hanging from light posts and trees, door ways and shops.
Within China, regional customs and traditions concerning the celebration of the Chinese new year vary widely. People will pour out their money to buy presents, decoration, material, food, and clothing. It is also the tradition that every family thoroughly cleans the house to sweep away any ill-fortune in hopes to make way for good incoming luck. Windows and doors will be decorated with red colour paper cut outs with popular themes of "happiness", "wealth", and "longevity". On the Eve of Chinese New Year, supper is a feast with families. Food will include such items as pigs, ducks, chicken and sweet delicacies. The family will end the night with firecrackers. Early the next morning, children will greet their parents by wishing them a healthy and happy new year, and receive money in red paper envelopes. The Chinese New Year tradition is to reconcile, forget all grudges and sincerely wish peace and happiness for everyone.