When I was growing up, the end of the year was always all about celebrations. I come from a small family so we found every and any excuse to party with our friends. Nowadays, the holiday season brings back fond childhood memories of my mom’s roast chicken and rekindles my hopes and aspirations for the year to come.
In this December issue, we take a look at the ways people are giving back to the community and helping those less fortunate. I’m excited to share the story of our little grassroots group who have been helping a small number of homeless people in Beijing and all the ways students at Beijing’s international schools are giving back to their community.
The end of the year is a time for charity bazaars and holiday fairs. An all-time bake sale favorite has always been adorable tasty cupcakes. Chef Lily Zhang from Theatre Tea shows us one of her easy cupcake recipes
(p. 28) that can be used all year round. Food brings people together and one of the best ways to make memories as a family is by sharing a great meal together. The Zaugg family spent an afternoon at one of our favorite family-friendly restaurants, Casa Talia. And for those who love to throw extravagant holiday parties at home, we’ve found Beijing’s most trusty catering services to turn you into the hostess with the mostess.
January 1 and Beyond gives you a glimpse at New Year’s traditions across cultures and time and as 2019 comes to an end, it’s time to make some resolutions for the new year.
From the beijingkids family, we wish you a happy holiday season and 新年快乐！
— Mina Yan
This article appeared in the beijingkids December 2019 Giving Back issue
