"Xing Nian Kuai Le!" - Happy Chinese New Year!

Happy New Year Everyone!! Its the Year of the Ox in the Chinese Calendar and we are all looking forward to a wonderful and prosperous New Year. I thought I'd snap this picture of my family's ancestral altar to share. Every (Chinese) New Year and on the Anniversary of each of my family's passing, we light incense to spend a few moments to pay our respects and to honor the memory of my Paternal Grandfather, Grandmother (the one my little niece who's set to arrive in May will be named after) and Great Grandmother. This is traditional to honor just your father's family tree. However, we're a bit modern, so also pictured, and therefore honored, are my Aunt (my Dad's youngest sister who died of breast cancer) and my Maternal Grandmother. I snapped this picture before all the food was brought out, which I'll enjoy later on tonight when I get home. But the lights will be left on all day.

Note: I was careful not to use the word "altar" because I don't want you all to think we are "praying to our ancestors" as if they were a god. We are just speaking to their spirits to thank them for all that they have given us to provide the life and opportunities we have before us. I also used the phrase "spend a few moments to pay our respects and honor" instead of the word "pray."

The year 2009 has been so very good to me so far. So many great things have been happening to me with this paper and glue hobby of mine, and I'm having a blast!! Just this past weekend at CHA Anaheim, I was able to get Copic Marker Certified by Marianne Walker herself!!

I have about 30 or so Copic Sketch Markers now and I just received my Copic Spica Glitter Pens too, so I'm set to go. Now I just have to practice, practice and practice!! I wanna be like Suzy when I grow up. She's amazing with Copic coloring techniques. If you need Copic markers, please do consider Embellish-Online. Barb has quite a selection of fabulous colors!! (to be had a great price if you use that "Glitter" coupon code.) Here's Suzy and me at the Copic's class this past Saturday. It was wonderful to finally meet this very talented lady in person. She's a sweetheart!!

And most importantly for the New 2009 Year, I'm happy to state that I'm no longer "dark and twisty" to borrow Christina's description of Mer on Grey's Anatomy. :) I'm finally healthy, happy and terrific emotionally wise. I'm ready to move on...no more thoughts of ex's, etc., anymore.

Xing Nian Kuai Le! May the New Year bring you health, prosperity and much much happiness!