Today was Chinese New Year and Kelly always tries to do something nice for the kids … Asian and Caucasian combined.  As I got home late last night from taking Jacob back to school after a brilliant Denver Broncos victory in Super Bowl 50, I walked into the house decorated with little candy bags for each of the kids.

And a big ‘ol bag of shrimp chips.  Mmmmmmm (sarcasm)…

This afternoon after returning from work, the kitchen was alive with activity as Kelly and some of the girls worked to prepare a Chinese dinner for our family and Kelly’s parents.

Kelly was a whirling dervish in the kitchen trying to get everything prepared so that it was ready at the same time.

While some just sat and looked pretty.

Finally, everything was ready and on the table!

The family gathered together, preparing to give thanks for all the many blessings over the last year, especially the three new ones that were not here last year!  Kelly made a comment about how she was sure that most Chinese people start their Chinese New Year dinner with prayer!

After dinner, Kelly’s parents presented the kids with traditional red envelopes filled with money and candy.

Riley helped Caleb open his envelope and survey the contents!

Ashley doesn’t seem to have any confusion over what the envelopes are for!

While Max enjoys a little Oolong Tea!

It was a nice way to remember the culture and keep some of the traditions that these kids have enjoyed while they were in China.  The food was great, the fellowship was awesome, and the memories were many.

Cameron