G....Bulletin....New year's traditions.....12/29/14

Baby New Year Tradition.....The tradition of using a baby to signify the New Year was started around 600 B.C. by the ancient Greeks, who, art the start of a year would carry a baby around in a basket. The purpose of it

was to honour Dionysius, the God of Fertility and symbolized his annual rebirth.

Eating Noodles..... Late on the evening of Decem ber 31st, people from Japan might eat a bowl of buckwheat noodles called "toshikoshisoba" (year crossing noodles) and listen for the sound of the Buddhist temple bells, which are rung 108 times at midnight. The sound of these bells is said to purify the listeners of the 108 sins or evil passions that 'plague every human being'

Gifts in Shoes..... In Greece, children leave their shoes by the fireside on New Year's Day, which, incidentally, is also the Festival of Saint Basil in Greece, with the hope that Saint Basil, who was famous for his kindness will come and fill their shoes with gifts.

Carrying a suitcase.....In Venezuela, Argentina, Bolivia, and Mexico, those with hopes of traveling in the New Year carry a suitcase around the house at midnight. Some people may even carry it around the block to ensure traveling at greater distances.

American Resolutions..... We learn that 40%-45% of American adults make one or more New Year's resolutions each year. These range from debt reduction to giving up bad habits. The most common resolutions appear to deal with weight loss, to exercise more and to giving up smoking. (Riddle #1....Clouds) Riddle # 2.....Music)