The kids have been counting down the days to christmas with the help of this magnetic cookie sheet. They love it! Each night before they go to bed, they choose a magnetic cookie and count how many sleeps are left before christmas. They are so excited!!!
We've been very busy preparing for christmas these past few weeks. The kids helped with the tree, painted some christmas decorations for their grandparents and teachers, baked some cookies and got an early visit from Santa!!! Thanks Unkie Chris...you're the best Santa ever!
Last year was our first Christmas with a gift for Mia under the tree. We also hung a christmas ornament to celebrate our LID. We chose a kimmidoll with a message of hope on it. I also attached a red thread around the doll and inscribed the year on it.
The red thread has a special meaning in Chinese folklore. The Chinese legend goes something like this: An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place, or circumtance. The thread may stretch or tangle, but will never break.
This year I also found an ornament for Mia. It's a 'Li Bien' ornament. In Chinese, the phrase Li Bien means 'inside'. The Li Bien ornament showcases the age old skill of inside painting, which originated in the Qing Dynasty. It is a respected Chinese art. Each ornament is delicately hand-painted through a tiny opening in the mouth-blown glass. This process requires great skill since the image is painted in reverse. I found this ornament to be very fitting since it is in the shape of a heart...Mia has been within or 'inside' our hearts for two christmases now.
This Christmas will be very special for our friends Chantal and Bob. They recently got the referral of their daughter (LID 29-03-2006). Isn't she the cutest!!!
They are presently waiting for their TA (Travel Approval) from China and should be travelling to be united with their daughter in January. We are so happy for them!!! Their 4 year wait is finally over.
To finish off, I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with joy and lots of happiness!
