(photo by Limages, Dreamstime.com)
Today I am a "traditionally correct" German/Pennsylvania Dutch descendant. I am eating pork and sauerkraut for dinner. I put the pork in the crock pot along with lots and lots of sauerkraut, and the smell in the house is reminding me how impatiently hungry I am. (The cats smell it, too!) Now all I have to do is peel some potatoes and mash them. And so my first meal of the New Year promises me good luck and prosperity during 2010!
At least that's what Pennsylvania Dutch tradition says. I don't believe in luck, and I certainly don't believe that prosperity is dependent on what I eat one day of the year. But since one of my favorite meals is pork and sauerkraut, I am always happy to follow this tradition.
Why pork? Some people say it is because it is difficult for a pig to look back as it has to turn around to see behind itself . So the pig is thought to be an animal that looks forward. We may all want to look forward on New Year's Day!
Is there anything we should not eat on New Year's Day? If you believe in luck (or the lack of it), you don't want to eat chicken. It is said that because a chicken scratches backwards, that signifies dwelling on the past and living with regret. Another chicken theory says that because a chicken has wings, your good luck could fly away.
So what are you eating this New Year's Day? Are you following a tradition common to where you live?
Thanks for stopping by my blog! :) I read your profile and had to add your blog to my faves. I am a children's book FANATIC and Mr. Putter is one of the best, IMHO! :) Pretty much anything Cynthia Rylant is good stuff. I think it will be a pleasure to get to know you, so I'll be back often. Happy blogging! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for responding! Unfortunately, I find many people have never heard of Mr. Putter; what a shame! The illustrations are as engaging as the story! I just copied your cabbage soup and will make it soon. I'll try your cornbread, too. I like cornbread (northern recipe) so the southern recipe should be even better!
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