Happy Chinese New year

Courtesy of the US Embassy, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

CONG XI FA CAI

I would like to wish all of my Chinese friends in Malaysia and back home in the US a very happy, healthy and prosperous Year of Snake. Last night I enjoyed a reunion dinner with my Chinese family here in Penang. As usual it was a wonderful meal, the traditional Steamboat, which we call a Mongolian Hotpot back home. And as usual I ate too much, but after all it is only once a year. Returning back home it was nice to see all of the red lights and decorations adorning people's homes in condos or single family homes.  A little later in the evening the sound of firecrackers became almost deafening. From my balcony we could see a myriad of colorful fireworks displays. The noise and fireworks will continue for at least a week, if not two. And the eating will continue for a few more days too.

The celebrations are reminiscent of our Christmas, New Year and July Fourth rolled into one. If you have never witnessed a Chinese New Year celebration in Asia, You should really make an effort to do so. If you are celebrating please drive home carefully.