Tonight is the CCTV Chinese Lunar New Year Gala, a television event that is watched by upwards of 700 million people...that's more than twice the US population. I won't be watching because 1) I don't have a working television and 2) Even if I understood everything that was being said, it ultimately is just a big talent show "with Chinese characteristics." Not my cup of tea. That knife is dull.
I am spending this Lunar New Year, in comparison to last year's Spring Festival-on-the-move, here in Beibei, studying a little Chinese, reading, journaling, running (which I just returned home from; hats and gloves required), and preparing for my life after Peace Corps, all while huddled close to my electric heater wearing several layers of clothing, hats and gloves required.
Sitemate Kristen, who leaves Beibei for her first Spring Festival-on-the-move tomorrow, and I love to eat out (or maybe we just hate to cook) but right now, its almost impossible to find any restaurant that's open. Luckily, my Waiban dropped off a gift yesterday that is coming in handy when the belly growls:
These are dumplings (饺子 jiǎozi) and are "one of the quintessential foods eaten during the Spring Festival." As you can see from the image, I couldn't wait to open the package until after took a picture - they are that good (or maybe I was that hungry)! A little boiling water and 10 minutes = lunch or dinner when China decides to have a holiday and won't feed you. And how can they not be good? Yes, that's a chef Jackie Chan thumbs-up!
Fireworks have been poppin' outside all day and I expect more tonight...maybe I will even light off a few myself (wink)
Happy Chinese Lunar New Year, world!
I love and miss you all,
Phil
蓝麦飞
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