Gung Hay Fat Choy!

This year is the Year of the Ox. Tips from my friend Katie Chin for celebrating the New Year with good fortune:

Customs and traditions are just as important as food when it comes to celebrating Chinese New Year. Here are a few of the fun and interesting customs that are followed to ensure good luck and favorable conditions for the new year:

• Refrain from using foul language or bad words on New Year's Day or they will follow you throughout the year
• Washing hair is not allowed because you will wash away your good luck for the year
• Greeting friends with oranges or tangerines during the new year will ensure that your friendships remain intact
• No sweeping on New Year's Day as you'll sweep all your good luck out the door
• Stepping into new shoes on New Year's morning to start your year off on the right foot (my personal favorite)
• Distribution of red envelopes (signifying joy and luck) filled with money to start the year with prosperity