Monday, February 06, 2006

Kung Hay Fat Choy

This is The Fire of Creativity: May It Burn Throughout The New Year.

It's day 8 of the Chinese New Year of the Dog and being of Chinese heritage, although I hardly speak the language and have married a Caucasian, I cling to the superstitions and traditions of my ancestors. The circular candy tray is called "The Tray of Togetherness" and has an array of candy to start the New Year sweetly. After taking several pieces of candy from the tray, adults places a lucky red envelope (lai see) on the center compartment of the tray.

Each item represents some kind of good fortune.
  • Candied melon - growth and good health
  • Red melon seed - dyed red to symbolize joy, happiness, truth and sincerity
  • Lychee nut - strong family relationships
  • Coconut - togetherness
  • Peanuts - long life
  • Longnan - many good sons
  • Lotus seed - many children

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