Year of the Water Dragon

Today starts the Chinese New Year, the year of the Water Dragon.

Gong Xi Fa Cai (Mandarin) ~ Gong Hey Fat Choy (Cantonese)

恭禧發財

While vacationing in Las Vegas last week, the first thing I noticed were the decorations being hung in all the casinos in preparation of the Chinese New Year. Everywhere I went firecrackers, lanterns, and dragons were on display. We visited the Bellagio gardens and enjoyed the spectacular and colorful gardens.

 The dragon symbolizes power and good fortune.

 These dragons represent earth and fire.

I-Ching coins decorate the dancing water 

pond that is filled with 200 Koi fish.

Standing on the balcony at the Palazzo (I believe) 

this red and gold dragon decorates the foyer.  

Good Luck Foods to Celebrate the Chinese New Year

Dumplings ~ wealth

Noodles ~ longevity

Mandarins, Tangerines, Oranges ~ happiness and good luck

Spring Rolls ~ wealth and good fortune

Fish ~ abundance

Chinese New Year Top 10 Superstitions

No Cleaning ~ cleaning is done the day before to 

                                     sweep away bad luck

No Washing Hair ~ don't want to wash away good luck

No Crying ~ children are not spanked or disciplined on this day

No Sharp Objects ~ don't want to cut off good luck

Red is Good ~ good luck and good fortune

I believe I will order some Chinese food, wear red, not clean my house, refrain from crying, and keep away from sharp objects. It couldn't hurt. Are you planning on celebrating the Chinese New Year?