Our neighbours in a nearby mews development celebrated  the recent arrival
of their latest child with a party.

This prompted my Chinese wife to recount a tradition that many Chinese
families have, of sending out red-dyed boiled eggs and preserved ginger in a
bundle; this acts as an announcement & invitation to meet the new family
member and make a gift for the child.

I couldn't help thinking of the parallels between this and a traditional
English Christening ceremony where invitations are issued (quite apart from
the religious overtones) and gifts are given.

As a I have a natural interest in these customs (which most regrettably are
often  fast disappearing) I would be interested in hearing from Chinese
friends and colleagues as to the meaning and observance of the Red Eggs &
Ginger tradition?  Is it still widely observed?

Also there may be other cultures that have a similar custom?

if you have anything to share on this subject perhaps you would be kind
enough to email me on the subject?   [log in to unmask]

With thanks
Roger

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