Expert: cms - 11/27/2001

Question
I live in America and I have a Chinese friend who is the sweetest person I know. Although she trys very hard to learn about our culture, she is still very homesick. On January 6th, she'll turn 17 and my friends and I want to surprise her with a birthday celebration that will remind her of her home. If possible, could you please help me figure out what sorts of traditional dishes, customs, colors, sayings, etc. that would make her birthday great. We just want to show her that we'll embrace her culture and traditions. Any ideas would be great, thank you so much!

Answer
I'm happy that what you all trying to do for a friend.In our chinese culture during birthday,normally will cook a bowl of soup noodles with a whole boil egg in the morning when the birthday girl wake up.The noodles means stay for longer life and egg represent birthday.For old folks/parent will give an ang pao *small red envelop which contains money* for the children.It's represent gd luck and well wishes.
For modern way,ppl will buy cakes but chinese will buy a bun-white flour bun and lotus seed flavour.I think you can get it from chinese restaurant or chinese coffee shop -special order!
But from my experience,for a 17 yrs old girl would prefer a party in modern way.e.g.cakes,ballons,buffet.Mayb you all can have a combination of chinese and modern party!Just email me if you have any problems.Sorry for the delay!Good Luck