Historic Carthage, Missouri, courthouse decorated with a Christmas star. [Photo provided by Gabrielle Chen to en.wuxi.gov.cn]
Living in China, I missed the magical feeling of Christmas, until I found myself standing under the warm glow of a lantern and realized Chinese New Year was just around the corner.
When Chinese New Year arrived, a soft red glow overtook the city. Lanterns hung where Christmas lights once sparkled in snowy air, replacing winter shimmer with a deeper warmth and tradition. Families gathering around the TV to watch the Spring Festival Gala reminded me of Christmas mornings spent watching Charlie Brown specials.
Gabrielle Chen sees the legendary Route 66 sign while visiting her grandfather's house for Christmas. [Photo provided by Gabrielle Chen to en.wuxi.gov.cn]
During this holiday, there were no strangers – children, friends, and neighborhood aunties all wish me a happy Chinese New Year. My friends sent messages with the most important question of the season: "Did you eat?" followed by wishes for prosperity and health. Fireworks crackled across the sky, their reflections dancing across the buildings around me. The sight filled me with the same excitement I once felt watching Disney Christmas Day parades.
When I visited home for Christmas, I caught myself listening for the boom of fireworks and the clash of cymbals. Instead, I heard soft piano melodies and ringing sleigh bells. Hot cocoa replaced tea, wrapped presents replaced red packets, and I took my place beside the Christmas tree. Now, I realize what it truly means to have two homes.
The author, Gabrielle Chen, hailing from Kansas City, Kansas, the United States, has lived in Wuxi since 2024, accompanying her husband. She enjoys writing, traveling, and photography.
If you would like to share your Wuxi stories, then send us your writings at wuxiexpatstories@outlook.com.
Copyright © China Daily. All rights reserved.