Happy New Year

Happy New Year to Everyone. May the Year of the Rat bring you good health and prosperity!

Ok, Chinese New Year was techincally on the 7th. Our local chapter of Families with Children from China hosted their New Year's Celebration. Our whole family attended and had a great time. It's always so fun to see all the children interact and have a good time. My favorite part is seeing all the families formed through adoption. Of course the little ones in their silks and squeaky shoes are beyond adorable. Seeing the parents, grand parents, younger and older siblings coming together for the celebration is also very special.

We also had a major Proud Parent experience at the party. Lilianna particpates in a kids culture and program on Saturdays. The 4 year old class did a "dance" on stage. Last year, Lily was extremely hesitant to go on stage. She cried and clung to me. This year, the show was on a much larger stage *and* parents couldn't accompany the children. We weren't sure if Lily would actually participate. Two days before the performance, she started voicing concerns about going on stage. We assured her that it's be fine, but Lily remained skeptical. So our hearts soared when her class lined up to go on stage and Lily willing went! No tears, no fears and no drama. She just went and did a great job! Now, she didn't look relaxed on stage, but this was a major accomplishment and we were just thrilled. It's so wonderful to see your child take a big step and conquer a fear!