Kung Hei Fat Choy!

... or Happy New Year, in celebration of the Chinese Year of the Dragon which began on Monday 23 January 2012.  A special time to remember the family and wish everyone peace and prosperity in the months ahead.  Over a sixth of the world's population celebrates the Chinese New Year, the most important festival in Chinese culture.  I'm not sure why I have such an affinity with the Far East, but many of the customs and rituals have great appeal.  The date of this lunar festival varies from year to year, but always occurs on the new moon in late January / early February  (next year's falls on 10th February).  Houses are cleaned throughout to dispose of any remaining back luck from the old year and clear the way for new good luck to enter; special food is prepared; red and gold decorations to symbolise luck and wealth are displayed indoors and around entrances, as well as beautiful blossom and symbolic plants such as mandarin oranges. Traditionally parents and grandparents give children Hong Bao, red gift envelopes, containing sweets or money.  Buying new clothes and having a hair cut are also very popular to make the most of this auspicious time.  Along with the chance to reflect and give thanks, celebrations from feasting to and fireworks creates such collective positive energy and attitude.  The outcome is a wonderful sense of uplift and optimisim for the future.  So wherever you are, may good fortune come your way: Kung Hei Fat Choy!