I was on the phone with Parvin and her sweet Mama the other day. They're on the way to Iran for NoRuz, the Persian new year. I wished Mama "saale no mobaarak"- Happy New Year, but a bit early. I don't think I'll be talking the them on the phone once they get there. Actually -NoRuz 2565 (1385) begins at 09:55:35 PM Tehran time on Monday March 20, 2006. After nine years, I would expect to know more Farsi, but I only know bits and pieces. It's very difficult to pick up on. I know some basics and some select "naughty bits" and that's about it! In harmony with the rebirth of nature, the Iranian New Year Celebration, or NOROOZ, always begins on the first day of spring. Nowruz ceremonies are symbolic representations of two ancient concepts - the End and the Rebirth; or Good and Evil. A few weeks before the New Year, Iranians clean and rearrange their homes. They make new clothes, bake pastries and germinate seeds as sign of renewal. On the eve of last Wednesday of the year, literally the eve of Red Wednesday or the eve of celebration, bonfires are lit in public places with the help of fire and light, it is hoped for enlightenment and happiness throughout the coming year. People leap over the flames, shouting: Give me your beautiful red color And take back my sickly pallor!