Happy Chinese New Year

I received a free teaching kit from Panda Express. It included activities, a short dvd, and coupon cards.

On the back of the above card is the coupon for a free kid's meal with the purchase of an adult meal. Unfortunately there is not a Panda Express within reasonable driving distance from my house. We plan to make a special trip into the town closest to us that does have a Panda Express.

The kids made lanterns and New Year envelopes. The tradition is that an elder gives their children (or usually grandchildren) a red envelope with money. The money must be an even number. Odd numbers are considered unlucky (so is the number 4). The child recieves the envelope with both hands and wishes their elder a Happy New Year in Chinese. They wait until the elder leaves to look inside and count their money. I had fun surprising the kids with their envelopes.

We did end the day with Chinese food. We had egg rolls (to represent wealth) and fried rice (to symbolize harmony and plenty).

Chinese New Year lasts for 15 days. The last day will be February 18 and is the day of the Lantern Festival.