Happy Chinese New Year, the year of the rabbit, to one and all.
We went to the New Year Festival at the El Dorado mall. It was packed with booths and people. Standing room only at the performances. Food, jewelry, lovely crafts and touristy souvenirs for sale, and, of course, many golden rabbit figures.
The man doing calligraphy was amazing. Each brush stroke was perfect. Of course, there was music, dancing and performances on stage.
Later, outide, we watched the Lion Dancers going into various Chinese-owned stores, dancing in and out to bring good luck. Drummers kept the beat. As the dancers left, they set off fireworks to drive away evil spirits.
One man had his dog perched on his shoulders (see photo). When the firecrackers went off the dog jumped off in panic, trying to run. The man caught the dog in midair and rushed it around the corner away from the noise and smoke.
The Chinese New year is celebrated on the second new moon following the Winter Solstice which occurred on January 22 of this year (2023). It marks the end of winter and beginning of spring.
Last year, the year of the Tiger, was all about making big changes but in this Year of the Rabbit, you are to step back and chill out. This year is about cultivating peace and patience.
Take your time and Dream Big. Dream of Panama and leaning Spanish at our school.
