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A New Year's Day in the Life
posted Tuesday, 1 January 2008
China doesn’t really celebrate the Western New Year. Oh, yes they make a fuss on television and the President waffles on for a bit, Jackie Chan sings some god-awful song and everyone bashes on regardless.
That, however, doesn’t prevent them from taking advantage of the public holiday and going shopping. I studiously avoided the main shopping area today. It was probably heaving with people.
Instead, I tried to investigate other activities. How do the Liuzhou people spend New Year’s Day (when they are not shopping)? It was a lovely sunny day, if a bit cold, and the locals were out in force.
First thing you have to do is get in the holiday spirit by buying a balloon.
Of course, you could also spend some time feeling sorry for the vendor below trying to unload pig shaped balloons. (Seems she was the model for the balloons, too!)
These balloons are left over from last Chinese New Year and in the dying days of the Year of the Pig are not exactly going like hot cakes. She has to unload then by February 6th then it will be another eleven years before the pig comes round again. Next month, we will only be buying Rat balloons.
Those of a more romantic disposition may prefer to spend some time with a loved one. Just be sure not to pick one who spends all his time on his mobile, totally ignoring you. Oh, while stinking you out with his socks.
Of course, some people have taken years to develop a more romantic style.
Then again, you may have no one to be romantic with. All is not lost. Just grab a magazine and, making sure to take your shoes off, settle down for a good read.
I don't know why, but everywhere I went today, people were taking their shoes off. Is it International No Shoe Day or something? (I don't know if the shoeless girl above is related to the pig lady, but their shoes are identical. Most suspicious!)
Anyway, those with a longer attention span than can be occupied by a mere magazine can, of course, substitute a book. Shoes are kept on while reading books.
Those of a more practical bent can occupy themselves in local handicrafts.
Those who are more sporting could indulge in some mild pastimes such as a bit of fishing.
Or some Chinese Chess.
But most popular was the Majiang (Mahjong) pavilion in the local park. They were so engrossed in their games that they didn't even notice the crazy laowai taking their pictures.
Or you could do what Chinese people usually spend their holidays doing. Eating!
A lovely day! Hopefully, the first of many this year.
1. Spanish left...
Wednesday, 2 January 2008 1:15 am
What a great day! Feliz2008 from Spain and with my shoes off!
2. Kimmie left...
Wednesday, 2 January 2008 3:31 am :: http://overthemoonwithjoy.blogspot.com
Hi~
I really enjoyed your post...the picture are really great. Happy New Year!
3. Kimmie left...
Wednesday, 2 January 2008 3:38 am :: http://overthemoonwithjoy.blogspot.com
I just read your sidebar about the little girl that was found in the old
woman's home...what an incredibly sad story. She has no hope in her eyes,
my heart breaks for her.
I would love to hear more about her...any updates?
4. JOHN O left...
Wednesday, 2 January 2008 5:32 am
CAN'T THANK YOU ENOUGH FOR POSTING THESE PHOTO'S - WHAT A GREAT START TO
THE NEW YEAR! : )
6. canrun left...
Wednesday, 2 January 2008 1:45 pm
"Just be sure not to pick one who spends all his time on his mobile,
totally ignoring you."