HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR

Tomorrow marks the start of the Chinese Year of the Horse, a symbol of strength and integrity. For me, celebrating two New Year's Eves (my mum is Chinese) is like getting two fresh starts. Traditionally, we have a dinner on the eve of the new year - my family and I will be eating lobster noodles, an auspicious meal to mark the occasion. The lobster symbolises wealth and prosperity, literally, as they are expensive and figuratively, as they turn bright red once cooked, while the length of the noodles is a sign of longevity. In preparation, I've cleaned my house from top to bottom and we've planned another special meal with extended family on Sunday.

What the Chinese say about people born in the year of the horse
5 Chinese New Year traditions everyone can benefit from
The surprising meanings behind Chinese New Year dishes
Historical snapshots of the Los Angeles lion dance parade