Gung Hay Fat Choy!

Happy Chinese New Year! We really enjoyed our first Chinese New Year celebration with almost 200 people from our church and community. The party was Saturday night, and Leila talked about it every day last week---she just couldn't wait! Our friends the Stuckmeyer's hosted the bash---complete with crafts, music, and LOTS of food. Leila was most excited to wear one of the traditional dresses we bought while in China. I don't think she knew or remembered that I bought them (enough to get her to age 10 or so), but when I pulled it out, the look on her face was priceless! As she primped and prepared for the prom, I mean the party, I was so thankful that our friends who had traveled to China before us had reminded us to buy these dresses. Leila looked so darn cute and she knew it. My favorite moment of the evening happened when I told her that I really wished I could wear a pretty dress like hers to the party. She looked at me like I had two heads and responded, 'Sorry, Mom. You're not Chinese." True. Thanks for the reminder.

Just in case you need a little lesson on Chinese New Year, click here! 2009 is the Year of the Ox. Leila, however, was born in the year of the Rooster (2005). According to the Chinese zodiac, Roosters are proud, determined, selfish, enthusiastic, candid and eccentric. Determined, enthusiastic, and candid---I agree wholeheartedly (even if I don't believe in zodiacs!) Happy Chinese New Year, everyone! We're excited to have a fun new holiday to celebrate each year.