2008 The Year of The Rat …
The Year of The Rat … and that’s enough reason to celebrate! Last night we were once again treated to a delectable dinner of traditional, 
absolutely scrumptious Chinese food at our good friend’s, Dennis and Phyllis Hancey. I wish I would have taken a picture of my steaming plate full savory goodness before I started to devour it, but I was overcome by the spell of the delicious aroma’s and … I just ate.
Our first invite to celebrate the Chinese New Year’s at their home must have been 1979 or 1980. At that time the guest list was small. In fact, we mi
ght have been the only guests. We were amazed at the dishes that came out of Dennis’s kitchen. It was way beyond the fried rice and a can of chow mien over canned noodles like I was used to preparing. Dennis spent 2 1/2 years in Taiwan on a mission for our church and when he came home he became a gourmet chef. I have never, EVER tasted better Chinese cooking anywhere.
Over the years neighbors, friends and family members have vied for a coveted spot on the Hancey’s guest list (which has grown to probably over 35 couples). Phyllis, ever the gracious hostess gathers table decorations, china, silverware, table cloths and makes beautiful hand made invitations. There are lists to make and shopping trips to make … everything is made from scratch. Den
nis & Phyllis wash, cut, and prepare food for several days in advance so Dennis can have it ready to cook on the Saturday of the party … and pretty much that is all he can do the entire day. I have no idea how he manages to get everything finished to perfection at the same time.
He is expert at egg soup, lion heads, fried rice, sweet and sour chicken, chicken cashew, beef stir fry with vegetables, paper wrapped chicken, spring rolls, egg rolls … you name it we’ve loved it. He finishes up the meal with litchi nuts and sherbet or ice cream. We never, I mean NEVER stick to any kind of a diet the night of the Hancey Chinese New Year’s party!!! Dennis & Phyllis thank you both for the wonderful night out! We look forward to it every year!
Some facts I discovered about the 15 day traditional celebration:
1. Welcome the gods of the heavens and earth. Refrain from meat eating this day to ensure long and happy lives.
2. The Chinese pray to their ancestors and the gods and are extra kind to dogs and feed them well.
3 & 4th days: I really like this one. Sons-in-laws pay respects to their parents-in-law on the 3rd and 4th day.
5. People stay home to welcome the God of Wealth. Visiting can bring bad luck.
6 – 10th days: Now you go visiting relatives and friends and pray in the temples for good health and fortune.
7. Eat noodles to promote longevity and raw fish for success.
8. Family reunion dinners.
9. Make offerings to the Jade Emperor
10 – 12 Invite friends and relatives to dinner.
13. Enough rich food already! Now eat simple rice congee and mustard greens to cleanse the system
13. Prepare to celebrate the Lantern Festival (a day for lovers) which is held on the 15th night. Parades and more parades!
I was born the Year of the Pig … (Those born in these years are pigs too! 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007) Don’t let it get you down. Pigs are: “Intellectually curious, honest and tolerant, can be relied upon for their loyalty and often make true friends for life.” I like this description too … “Stubbornly optimistic, the Pig will not tolerate those with well meaning advice on how to be a Pig… Their main goal in life is serving others… Pig people love to read, are generally thirsty for knowledge, and not readily talkative, but if presented with an opportunity to discuss topics of interested with like-minded individuals Pigs may find themselves talking non-stop for hours!”
Technorati Tags: Chinese New Year’s, Year of the Rat, Chinese New Year traditions
Every year growing up I was jealous you and dad got to go to his New Year’s party! The jealousy continues! hehe.
I don’t know if I should be grateful that I got to go with you three years ago when dad was sick or if I wish I had never gone. Now I know what I am missing every year. (wiping drool off my chin)
All I can say is you’re too kind. We have treasured your friendship over the years and am honored that you continue to be our good friends. Friendships are priceless.