Happy Year of the Monkey!

We kicked off the start of Chinese New Year yesterday with a visit to Josie's classroom.

 Her best friend Kaden is also adopted from China and his talented mom and I had fun sharing this special holiday with their classmates.

We used bubble wrap for firecrackers and I think Josie's teacher had just as much fun making noise as his students.

 We also passed out red envelopes filled with chocolate gold coins and Kaden's mom came up with a neat crafting activity where the kids could make a paper monkey and attach it to their paper lantern.

A fun time was had by all.  

Wishing you good health, good luck and much happiness throughout the year. 
 

Our 2015 Chinese New Year tree

If you've followed me for awhile, you know that we have a year-round decorative tree that receives multiple makeovers every other month (including some made-up holidays).

Now that my vintage Christmas ornaments are finally all packed up, Josie and I spent some time over the weekend working on her special tree. 

Her tree is now featuring an assortment of decorations celebrating the approaching Chinese New Year which begins February 8th.

I've said this each year, but of all the trees that I display in the sunroom throughout the year, I think the CNY tree is my favorite.

Someday Josie might not be as eager to help decorate her special tree, but I'm glad she enjoys celebrating her heritage.

 Happy Year of the Monkey!