Red is In for Chinese New Year

by Jo Moore

The two-week-long Chinese New Year celebration is loaded with traditions, and though we don't live in a "Chinatown" culture, it is fun to enter into some of these traditions and give our lives an uplift and rest to the mid-winter blues, especially with the dull rainy days we've been experiencing.

Some of the practices are fun to read about, and when I was teaching second grade, it was a good excuse and a fun way to get the children to clean their desks and tidy up the classroom before we had our "family feast". The main practice before celebrating Chinese New Year is to clean house. It is very important that all the dirt and rubbish is swept out in order to greet the shiny new year. In homes, the dirt is to be swept out the back door, because if it goes out the front, it will also sweep away the good fortune that the new year would bring the family.

Other beliefs include paying all debts beforehand, and lending nothing on the day itself, as anyone who does will be lending all year. So don't lend your neighbor that cup of sugar! No bad language or negative terms are allowed on New Year's Day. Also, if you cry on New Year's Day, you will cry through the year. Therefore, children are tolerated and not spanked on that day, even if they get into mischief.

Red clothing is preferred to wear for this festive occasion, as red is considered a bright, happy color, sure to bring the wearer a sunny and bright future. It is believed that appearance and attitude during Chinese New Year sets the tone for the next year.

So pick something red from your closet, put on a smile, make sure your debts are paid, clean your house, and don't spank your children. Make plans to enjoy the weekend, and come up to the High Country Inn and enjoy a festive evening, where there will be lots of red, smiles, and good food. Chinese New Year celebration will be held Saturday, January 28, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Call for more information.

The High Country Inn will celebrate its fourth anniversary of business in February. Watch for special events, from Valentine's to Mardi Gras along with mid-winter overnight packages.