Little Ladybugs Special Dinner

Since yesterday was LL's birthday we went to dinner at a local Chinese Buffet. She still favors the flavor of Chinese food over anything I make. So naturally we indulged her in some familiar foods for her special day. As soon as we arrived she said, "O-o-h!". Then she promptly took her coat off and headed for the buffet. Perhaps she is remembering all those delicious buffet-style meals we had in Hefei, LOL! We have to work on her inside voice and outside voice as she gets a little boisterous and forgets where she is. A good example is her yelling "Ge-ge, Ge-ge!!" (Chinese word for big brother) across the restaurant when she knew he was going to get her some ice cream. If she weren't so darn cute in those little sprout piggytails we may have gotten some nasty looks. But instead she got away with it. Our meal was good, as always, and then it was time for her gift. We chose to give her another kitty. She already has many but they are her absolute favorite thing on the planet. So how could we NOT do it? She also got kitty bubblebath for her spa nights with Mama. Spa night is when she gets a massage with lavender, manicure, pedicure and extra snuggling time before bed. I LOVE these times!!! Sons are awesome but that is one thing they'd never have let me get away with!

On Saturday we are celebrating LL's birthday with family along with the Chinese New Year. Our house is decked out in red. We've got couplets on the doors, Nian hanging in the living room, red lanterns in the kitchen, papercuts on the windows and Lai See (red envelopes) stuffed and ready to give out. I've also made a trip (or two) to the local Asian market and put together a Tray of Togetherness. Plus, we're having rice cake for dessert. Let's hope everyone eats what I've found! I'm just going to tell them to be adventurous and open-minded. And Auntie Ke-Ke is making sushi and fried wontons. How fortunate LL is to have someone so talented (and willing) to add these special touches to the celebration. I'll post more photos when the day is done and I can catch my breath.

I'm off to sweep the last of the dirt out the door (while it's still OK) and let the good luck in. Tonight I am preparing a special fish dinner to celebrate loved one's who've passed away and remember what made them so dear to us. Gung Hay Fat Choy!! That is, "Best Wishes and Congratulations. Have a Prosperous and Good Year!"