Chinese New Year 2020 - The Year of the Rat

Self | 1/23/20 | Self

[Dacula]

I am asking for assistance in respecting neighbors that have lived in my neighborhood for two+ years.

Each year they decorate their home as we do for Christmas. This year I would like to respect their religion and customs but giving them a present for the Lunar New Year - January 23rd.

[ThanhPhero]

Small amounts of money in the celebratory envelopes you can buy at any oriental store. Give to young children and old folks.
In Việt Nam that is called Lì Xì (lee see). A five dollar bill or a two dollar bill. American dollar bills are considered particularly lucky especially if new and crisp.

[clearcarbon]

"Chinese New Year 2020 - The Year of the Rat"

Does that mean the Chinese now own all of the LMSM?

[MeganC]

Last year I gave out crisp, brand new $2 bills.

I gave the kids $2 and the adults $8.

[ThanhPhero]

I can't find those in the banks here, just some worn ones. I will be back in Việt Nam for next Tếtand want to take at least 50 crisp $2 bills with me. This year I sent money to my friends in Việt Nam to give out for me. I can't send money in the mail because there is no way to hide USD because of all the electronic telltales in the bills so I just send it by a money transfer service. Back in 07 my daughter and I were in Cam Đức for Tết and walked around the town giving out the envelopes to all the small children we met and to the ancient ones, too, 5000đ to the little ones and 20,000đ to the old ones.

[Dacula]

I was wrong. January 25th is the Lunar new year.

[Dacula]

I went to several banks this morning to get as many crisp $2 bills as possible.

I also went to a Korean market and promptly told to go to a Chinese store close by. Apparently different customs and traditions.

I have had fun the past few days in my journey. I have learned more about culture than I have at any time in my life.

I bought several pounds of Mandarin oranges, enough for me to spell ‘Hello” and send my son a text with a picture that I learned how to spell “Hello’ in Mandarin. A pun was intended.text

[Dacula]

Is a red gift bag appropriate?

How do I address the family? I have never met them and want to be respectful.

[Dacula]

I found out that tonight is the traditional start of the New Year. I have ordered gifts that will not arrive until late tomorrow. Should I give them what I have now and the other items later?

[Dacula]

Can you give a container of M&Ms?

[Dacula]

First gift was presented and greeted with much pleasure. They were very pleased. Probably more shocked than anything else.

I did my best.

I can always count on my Chinese Counterparts when they fly into the L.A. Office to bring certain things to the BBQ I host for them while they are here.

Cherry’s, Grapes, Watermelon, Oranges, Chinese Whiskey, and Green Peppers for me to cook on the Grille.

The real kick is the group picture at the the end of the Evening / Party in front of my Fireplace which hangs above my 3x5 Trump Banner. Nothing but big smiles! :)

Good Luck!

[MotorCityBuck]

Cool.
Thanks for the reply as it reminds me to wish them a Happy New Year.

[Dacula]

Since I am a novice, I found this link to be helpful.

https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/festivals/chinese-new-year-greetings.htm

[Sir Napsalot]

Sorry, I didn’t see your post earlier. My reply would be too late anyway.

[ThanhPhero]

That’s a good one with the oranges.