January 26th is the start of Chinese New Year this year. This is the year of the Ox which symbolizes hard work, stubbornness and patience. This will be a relief after a roller coaster Year of the Rat in 2008. Chinese New Year celebrations last for 15 days

Ox years include
1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009

Oh, and by the way, our new President is an ox, born in Aug. 1961.

The Ox or the Buffalo sign symbolizes prosperity through fortitude and hard work. A person born during this year will be dependable, calm and methodical. A patient and tireless worker, he sticks to routine and conventions. Although he is generally fair-minded and a good listener, it is difficult to make him change his views as he is stubborn and often has strong prejudices.

The best way to celebrate Chinese New Year is through food.
Here are a few of my favorite Asian- inspired cook books.

The Breath of a Wok: Unlocking the Spirit of Chinese Wok Cooking Through Recipes and Lore

and

Hot Sour Salty Sweet: A Culinary Journey Through Southeast Asia

and

Seductions of Rice

Here is to a year of good luck, good food, progressive politics and new hope!