The Year of The Tiger, what does this mean to you.?  Well, everyone who knows me knows that I am certainly someone who loves to wear animal prints, but a little research taught me that it has nothing to do with your choice of clothing.

 

Every tear between January 15 and February 20 we observe the Chinese New Year.  In China this is the most important holiday.  In 2022 it started on February 1 and will continue for 15 days.  There are many myths contributed to the Chines New Year, but it is a time when family members come home for traditional reunions.  You may also see fake money being burned which is said will bring fortune and good luck.

 

It is believed that this is the time to fight off monsters that may come.  A traditional parade may be held with paper monsters and a lot of firecrackers being put off.  It is believed that the firecracker will scare off the monsters.

 

Another myth is that there is no showering, sweeping, or throwing out garbage as this will get rid of good luck.  Red is the color of the event and if you decorate your house in red it will ward off the monsters. Red paper lanterns are used to decorate, and this will also scare off the monsters.

 

You will find that most people will be wearing red clothing.  Traditionally dumplings will be eaten every day.  Red envelopes will be used to fill with lucky money for the children.

 

In the United States you may not be subjected to this celebration unless you reside in a large city which observes the Chinese New Year.  San Francisco has a large China Town.

 

Several years ago, I had the opportunity to travel to San Francisco as a representative of the National Fairs and Festivals Association.  This was during the period of their New Year observance.  There were parades every night with many, many firecrackers.  I wondered why and now I know.  The celebration ends with a Lantern Festival and parade.  I am very glad that I had the opportunity to be a part of this cultural celebration.

 

Every year there is a different Zodiac sign used.  The year I was there it was the Year of the Snake.

 

If you have small children, there is still time to plan a celebration which will serve as an introduction to the Chinese Culture.

 

I have three very important birthdays this month.  My grandson, Ben Queen and my daughters Leslie Pruitt and Lisa Lang.  I wish them much happiness and many more birthdays in good health.  Valentine’s Day is here, and it is a time to express your love.  Be sure to let those closest to you know how much you love them.  The best gift I ever got on this day was Lisa and Leslie. They were born on the 13th and there is no gift that could top them.  I hope you have a loving holiday surrounded by those you love.

 

Take care, stay safe and be healthy and until next week “Now. You. Have. Heard. It. Through. The. Grapevine.”

 

Editor's Note: Photo shows Blogger Rosalyn Queen surrounded by her twin daughters, Lisa Lang, left, and Leslie Pruitt.