Learn about one of the most delightful (and eagerly anticipated) New Year’s traditions in Japan. Receiving (New Year’s pocket money) is a fun and culturally significant practice that kids eagerly look forward to every year in Japan. It’s also an excellent opportunity to teach children about money, savings and . Otoshidama is the celebratory money given to children during the , typically by parents, grandparents, relatives or family friends. It is a way of wishing good fortune and prosperity in the coming year. The custom dates back hundreds of years and symbolizes the passing of good luck and blessings to children. Originally, otoshidama wasn’t a gift of money—it was (rice cakes)! Mochi were considered symbols of the soul or vitality for the new year. Families believed that the (New Year’s God) would share energy with them at the start of the year, giving them the strength and good fortune to carry through the year ahead. The mochi, which represented this divine power, was divided among family members. By the Edo period, people started giving other items, like gifts or money. By the 1960s, as Japan’s economy grew, giving money became the norm and otoshidama became a tradition mostly for children. The amount of money given to children as otoshidama can vary widely depending on the family, the child’s age and their relationship to the giver. Here’s a general guideline for parents (however, you can ultimately decide the most appropriate amount for your family): While otoshidama is often given in cash, it’s important to note that the amount is just symbolic. The emphasis is on the gesture and the blessing of good fortune, not the financial value. Otoshidama is often gifted during the first few days of the New Year (from Hatsumode, the first shrine visit, to January 3) but can also continue throughout the month of January. Otoshidama is traditionally given in a special envelope called お年玉袋 ( ) or ポチ袋 ( ). These envelopes are typically beautifully decorated with auspicious designs, such as cranes, tortoises or kimonos, symbolizing good health and long life. Some Japanese people write the name of the recipient on the front of the envelope and their own name on the back but this is optional. Envelopes in various designs are available in most general stores, such as 100-yen shops, supermarkets and around Japan. They are often sold in sets for use during the New Year holiday period. When giving otoshidama, it is customary for the giver to hand over the envelope personally with a smile and a few well-wishing words for the child’s future success and happiness. If your child receives an envelope from others, it’s best to teach them not to open it immediately; it’s customary for children to wait until later to open it. In today’s digital world, gift cards are sometimes given instead of cash. Various cashless services, such as , also offer cashless money transfer methods with an otoshidama design. When it comes to giving otoshidama, there are a few things you should know to avoid any awkward situations. Here are some key points to keep in mind: Although otoshidama is traditionally given from elders to younger people, with the hierarchy of your boss being above you, giving your boss’s kids money is considered impolite. If you really want to give something, it’s better to offer a small gift like a toy or some stationery. Similarly, it’s considered disrespectful to give your parents an otoshidama. Instead, you can give them an —a New Year’s gift that represents gratitude for the continued support during the previous year and a greeting to the new year. Money should always be wrapped when given—never hand it over bare—even if it is for your own kids. If you’re in desperate need of an envelope but can’t find one, just wrap the money in a clean piece of paper (a napkin or even tissue paper works fine). Just make sure to apologize for the informality as you gift it. Money is money, but it is important to prepare it in good condition before you give it to someone as a gift. It’s best to prepare clean bills and ¥500 coins in the amount needed for each child. This custom of giving “clean” money for celebratory gifts is a common courtesy in Japan—like at . So, for parents, it’s best to lead by example. Consider giving your kids getting crisp notes and shiny coins as a learning experience! While it’s less common these days, amounts with numbers like fours and nines should be avoided. In Japan, these numbers are associated with death and suffering. For example, giving gifts with amounts like ¥400 or ¥4,000, or ¥900 or ¥9,000, may be considered bad luck. Due to the celebratory aspect of otoshidama, it’s considered bad manners to give otoshidama to children who are mourning family members or people they were very close with. If you really want to give something, change the wording to something like “pocket money” instead, and refrain from using a decorated envelope. For many children in Japan, receiving otoshidama is an exciting moment, but the next step is often even more important—deciding what to do with it! Here are some typical ways that children handle their otoshidama: Some adults may be excited to hear that otoshidama is not nessesarily limited to children in Japan. Here are a few specific cases where otoshidama might be given to adults: In families where young adults have not yet moved out or are still financially dependent, grandparents or older relatives may continue to give otoshidama. Sometimes, older relatives give otoshidama to young adults as a gesture of good fortune, even if the young person is financially independent or employed. This practice is less about financial support and more about wishing prosperity and success for the coming year. At some lucky companies, bosses and managers may provide small gifts or vouchers to employees during the company 新年会 ( ; “New Year’s party”). It’s also not uncommon for some Japanese bosses to privately hand otoshidama in cash form to their subordinates, as a sort of year-end bonus, especially at locally owned establishments.None
Brandon Stroud scores 16 as South Florida knocks off Webber International 106-49Article content Exiting Alberta on a snowy evening can be an affordable yuletide adventure riding Via Rail’s The Canadian to Vancouver. The romance of the rails isn’t just a thing of the art deco travel posters of the 1920s. Depending on your accommodation choices, The Canadian offers unique opportunities to enjoy the paragon of design before her mid-century elegance gets a new flagship. If you don’t want to leave the ground or skid around on the highway to the coast, consider trundling through picture-perfect scenery by rail at a leisurely pace over 30 to 36 hours toward temperatures that can easily be 30 degrees warmer than Edmonton — but accommodations can feel cramped or spacious, depending on what you need (and what you pay for). You can wish for a glimpse of a moose, lynx or bear while hoping that for their own wild sakes, they stay far away from the Iron Horse. Chances are very good of spotting nimble and athletic mountain sheep from the resident Jasper herd, sure-footed at various elevations on the steep mountainside. While The Canadian is pulled over in a remote siding for 20 minutes and snow falls on the lounge like an inside-out snowglobe, you can sip an Okanagan wine to the tune of live music — on our journey, the folk singer-songwriter duo of Zach and Brie — and you may be able to observe an adult male elk browsing on dried foliage like it were prime Alberta hay, just a few feet from your window. Glimpses of Canada’s economy drivers are frequent, from pumpjacks harvesting oil to sheaves of railroad ties piled like giant beaver dams. You can watch Canada’s heavy industry roll west on wheels while imports zing inland in containers. A sleep through much of B.C.’s interior, and then before you know it, the rain-swollen rivers and berry farms of the Fraser Valley and the working waterfront, tugs, and bridge-building of the busy port of Vancouver, Western Canada is on parade. Challenges of time and space Variations of cruising and sleeping vary widely and must be chosen carefully in advance. With a full train and another one not coming along for a few more days, what you picked is what you get. If you have top-dollar cash, consider the sumptuous leather-panelled Cadillac car, which has a private bar and an elevated viewing lounge. Private sleeper-plus cabins come with elevated price tags, but depending on your size and mobility, it may be challenging to get up the small ladder to the top bunk or even into your own private bathroom. If you want the convenience of being able to nap prone but don’t hanker for the compressed realities of a sleeper cabin, consider a lower berth. A regular lower berth may be the best value for the money for those who are older or not too limber. Families can tuck kids accustomed to bunkie sleeping up in the top berths. The berths fold up for comfortable sitting during the day. Space is at a premium — think carry-on or backpack or both. Standard suitcases must be stowed in the baggage car. Travelling by day and stopping off at points like Jasper or Kamloops is more affordable — but journey legs will be ticketed separately. If you have the time, it offers an affordable option, again, compared to the luxury of a cabin. Among the challenges: a stripped-down winter schedule means there won’t be another train along in an hour — or even in a day — and due to the finite number of rail systems and the volume of freight, layovers in sidings can wreak havoc on arrivals and departures. Don’t expect the timing to be perfect — watch those connections, and allow plenty of time. The country’s only cross-country passenger train can spend unscheduled time laying over in a siding when it’s a freight train’s turn to go through. Or a bunch of them. A plan to catch a train in Edmonton at 12:08 a.m. can turn into boarding at 4:45 a.m. and finally pulling out at 6:30 a.m. Even if the time is mostly made up, lickety-split, arrival can be two hours late in Vancouver, which can affect forward connections to Vancouver Island or out of Vancouver International Airport. Downloading the free ViaRail app will help track actual departure times. And though you’re bound for fairer weather, bring those gloves as the handrails to clamber up steep steps into the car can be brittle cold. We observed a slight side-to-side sway sometimes but none of the ups and downs that can lead to motion sickness on rough seas — just some slight jiggles in the vestibules between cars as you go through passenger sleeper cars to the activities car (stocked with games, puzzles, tea, coffee, and snacks of pastries, granola bars.) In the forward dining car, art deco-tinged Noritake ironstone is laid out with white linens amid birds of Canada etched into glass panels. Diners are assigned seating windows and good meals are served family style. Those travelling with sleeper-plus privileges can enjoy entrees like rack of lamb, maple-dijon glazed chicken and succulent blackened salmon. Wines and beers can be ordered for an additional charge, depending on your ticket class. There are three-prong outlets for sleep apnea machines or charging devices in the private cabins, but not in the berths, as of our journey on Dec. 19. At the Vancouver end — historic Pacific Station. A taxi to the Vancouver International Airport runs in the vicinity of $45. A bus to a shuttle to the Tsawwassen ferry was on time — but the train was late. Hertz has a rental outlet but arrangements in advance are recommended. A few nearby hotels may offer pickup from in-house shuttles. If you’re visiting Vancouver Island and returning to Edmonton via commercial airline, Westjet and Air Canada offer flights from Victoria, Nanaimo, and Comox so you save on ferries and time.
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INFLUENCER Dominique Brown has tragically died at 34, reportedly due to a severe allergic reaction during an industry event. Witnesses claim she unknowingly consumed food containing an allergen at a BoxLunch event on Thursday. Several influencers who were present claimed the food item was unmarked, and Brown had allegedly been assured it was free of the allergen before the reaction occurred. A user on X, known as @hideyagrannies, alleged that Dominique Brown was her mother's best friend for the past ten years and was reportedly allergic to peanuts. The user made a startling claim, stating that when Brown asked to be taken to a hospital after feeling unwell, “everyone said no and took pictures first.” They wrote: "She was my moms best friend of 10 years. She asked if there was peanuts in the food and everyone told her no. "When she instantly felt bad she asked someone to take her to the hospital, everyone said no and to take pictures first. So sad." Dominique's brother expressed his gratitude to her fans by commenting on her final Instagram post. He wrote on Friday: “Hi everyone, this is @pramos313 – Dominique’s brother. “I wanted to take a a moment to say thank you to her social media fam for showing her so much love and light. "Disney did bring her joy, but it was unparalleled that she found a community who loved her and Disney as much as she did. "I will miss my sister and best friend and that infectious smile she always had. Thank you, truly, from the bottom of my heart.” Brown, a California-based influencer known online as HellooDomo, built her platform around Disney-inspired content. In 2018, she co-founded BlackGirlDisney alongside Mia Von after recognising a lack of representation within the Disney influencer community. Together, they established an inclusive space for women of colour who share a passion for Disney’s movies and theme parks. Numerous Disney influencers expressed their grief in the comments of Brown's final video, with many highlighting her warm, friendly personality and commending her dedication to fostering a safe and supportive community. Tatiana Kelley, who goes by Dapper on the Daily online, said: "The kindest most genuine person in this community ...we will miss you Domo [...] “Thank you for touching our lives with your joy & wit & for being so incredibly welcoming to us all." Main St Muse, real name Katy Lane, added: "I’m so happy I got to hug you last week. "Your positivity and passion for life will always inspire me ❤️ you were and will continue to be the good in the world Dom.” It comes after a beauty influencer tragically died of cancer aged just 42. Lilian Martins Gomes, was better known to her one million Instagram followers as Lili Spada. The Brazilian revealed this summer that she was battling cancer. Lili, who created content about plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures, then announced that she would be taking an indefinite break from social media due to her “delicate health situation.” Her team also said: “All her focus is entirely on her recovery at this time.” She died on Wednesday, announced the Brazilian Centre for Hydroliposuction who she was partnered with. They said all their activities would be suspended for two days to honour the influencer as their “hearts are in mourning”. More to follow... For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun .
Breakthrough technology sees how cholesterol causes heart attacksKYIV: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Friday that “several” wounded North Korean soldiers died after being captured by Ukrainian forces, as he accused Russia of throwing them into battle with “minimal protection.” Ukraine and its western allies say North Korea has sent thousands of soldiers to support Russia’s army, in what is seen as a major escalation in the nearly three-year war following Moscow’s 2022 invasion. “Today there were reports about several soldiers from North Korea. Our soldiers managed to take them prisoner. But they were very seriously wounded and could not be resuscitated,” Zelensky said in an evening address posted on social media. South Korea’s spy agency said earlier on Friday that a North Korean soldier who was captured while fighting in Russia’s war against Ukraine had died of his wounds. Zelensky did not specify how many North Koreans had died after being captured by Ukrainian troops. Zelensky had earlier said that nearly 3,000 North Korean soldiers had been “killed or wounded” so far as they joined Russia’s forces in combat in its western Kursk border region, where Ukraine mounted a shock incursion in August. South Korea’s intelligence service had previously put the number of killed or wounded North Koreans at 1,000, saying the high casualty rate could be down to an unfamiliar battlefield environment and their lack of capability to counter drone attacks. The White House on Friday confirmed the South Korean estimates, saying that Pyongyang’s troops were being sent to their deaths in futile attacks by generals who see them as “expendable.” “We also have reports of North Korean soldiers taking their own lives rather than surrendering to Ukrainian forces, likely out of fear of reprisal against their families in North Korea in the event that they’re captured,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters. North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A landmark defense pact between Pyongyang and Moscow signed in June came into force this month, with Russian President Vladimir Putin hailing it as a “breakthrough document.” North Korean state media said Friday that Putin sent a New Year’s message to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying: “The bilateral ties between our two countries have been elevated after our talks in June in Pyongyang.” Seoul’s military believes that North Korea was seeking to modernize its conventional warfare capabilities through combat experience gained in the Russia-Ukraine war. NATO chief Mark Rutte had also said that Moscow was providing support to Pyongyang’s missile and nuclear programs in exchange for the troops. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said Monday that Pyongyang is reportedly “preparing for the rotation or additional deployment of soldiers” and supplying “240mm rocket launchers and 170mm self-propelled artillery” to the Russian army. Pyongyang’s involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine had prompted warnings from Seoul. South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol, currently suspended, said in November that Seoul was “not ruling out the possibility of providing weapons” to Kyiv, which would mark a major shift to a long-standing policy barring the sale of weapons to countries in active conflict.Why The GEO Group, Inc. (NYSE:GEO) Could Be Worth WatchingMANY people are showing off their decorated trees ahead of Christmas - and one traveller gave fans a peek into how she gets her home ready. Annelise filmed a tour about her lounge, which was decked out with a Harrods-themed tree. From classic teddy bears to large tartan bow, Annelise had themed every inch of her festive tree. She had also kept the Harrods theme for her family’s stockings. Hanging by the fireplace were branded ones from the famous department store in Mayfair. She wrote: “Christmas2024. Harrods Inspired Tree. “Kitchen and bedroom still needs to be finished. #christmasdecor #gypsytiktok #fyp #travellertok.” On her @annalises account, she showed how she also added large toy soldiers to her lounge, along with Santa sacks by the fire. She had also doubled up on the fire this year, putting a virtual crackling fireplace on her TV for extra ambience. To add a splash of colour to her home, she placed tartan sofa covers on her couches, which will no doubt help to protect them too. Many people were hugely impressed with her colourful set-up, with one saying: “This looks unreal I’m loving it! Wow.” Another added: “Best tree ive seen.” And a third commented: “absolutely adore this, so cosy and childhood memories unlocked.” From over the top decorations to young children receiving Rolex watches, a gypsy from Cambridge has revealed the traveller family Christmas traditions. Chantelle, the stay-at-home gypsy wife, who also refers to herself as the ‘ Gypsy Cleaning Queen ’, told Fabulous: “Because travellers have big families, they want to go all out for the children. “Christmas is a big thing in my family. I come from a Christian home. “When I was little and we lived in a house, my granny and grandad had everyone living under one roof, so my granny would go insane with the decorations and the food. “My granny had train tracks in the room that you could actually sit on. “Families will get together and travellers will do things bigger - they always want to go that extra mile.” When it comes to December 25th, Chantelle revealed that in the gypsy community it is a very busy day and where food is concerned, nothing is done by halves. She said: “When I was [living] at home, Christmas was very hectic. Everyone gets together. All of the children are there, everyone’s running around. The women are all in the kitchen." My granny had train tracks in the room that you could actually sit on Not only is food in the traveller community on the next level, but the gifts are too. Chantelle claimed: “With some gypsies, it is more for show. Some gypsies will get their kids Rolexes for Christmas. HERE we take a look at some of the traditions many gypsies follow... Family-Centric Living : The family is the cornerstone of Romani life, with extended families often living close to one another. Elders are highly respected and play a crucial role in decision-making and maintaining cultural traditions. Nomadic Heritage : Many Gypsy communities maintain a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving seasonally to find work or attend cultural gatherings. This tradition is deeply rooted in their history and identity. Distinctive Décor : Romani homes, whether they are caravans or fixed abodes, are often brightly decorated with vibrant colours and intricate patterns. These decorations reflect their rich cultural heritage and love for beauty. Communal Gatherings : Social gatherings are a significant part of Gypsy life. Celebrations, such as weddings and religious festivals, are grand affairs involving music, dance, and feasting, often stretching over several days. Spiritual Practices : Many Gypsy families incorporate a blend of Christian beliefs and traditional spiritual practices. Homes may feature religious icons and amulets believed to offer protection and bring good fortune. Craftsmanship and Artistry : Romani people are renowned for their craftsmanship, particularly in metalwork, woodwork, and textiles. These skills are often passed down through generations and are a source of both pride and livelihood. Hospitality : Hospitality is a valued tradition. Guests are treated with great respect and generosity, often being offered the best food and drink available as a sign of honour and goodwill. Sharing Stories : Storytelling is a vital part of Romani culture, preserving history, morals, and lessons through generations. Elders often share tales that are both entertaining and educational. “For me, I’m grateful for something small, that’s how I’ve been brought up. But a lot of travellers expect big presents - they expect designer clothes. “A lot of travellers go to the extreme. I can understand children having earrings and gold bangles, but I’ve seen kids get designer watches. “One year we got a big giant go kart and bikes and things like that. We got things that we could actually use. “When you live on a site, the kids would go outside and play with their toys and show all the other children.”
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