Start of the Holiday Season

As the semester rolls on, we are happy to have the opportunities to take part in some new traditions as well as old.  We had a Friendsgiving celebration and enjoyed the turkey, potatoes, and pumpkin pie.  We feel extremely thankful for our new journey, our new friends, and our support from back home.

The schools have been putting on a few events recently and the latest was a wonderful Tree-Lighting ceremony for Christmas.  This included wonderful music, bazaar booths, games, food, treats, and a spot for kids to buy holiday presents in secret.  It was a lovely night and got us in the spirit of Christmas.

 

We continue to wander and explore, but changed it up a bit by making return visits to some fun spots.  Taking in the beauty of Yuyuan Garden (and the crazy accompanying shops) as well as a repeat visit to the library where Kara scored her new library card.

Just like old times at the library - crafts and chaos

 

Random diner   -     One of a million Christmas shops

We're still here

It's been a rough and crazy few weeks, but the Naks are still kicking.  Kara was down with a nasty cold for a bit, Ben was hit hard by strep throat, and Pip is dealing with her annual winter cough.  Throw in the fact that our computer died and it's made for a long gap in posts.  The girls have been busy at school with race day, book character dress up day, pajama day and more.  They certainly stay active; Nina always has a fair amount of homework, and Pip is making some strides toward reading.  Nina was the Xiǎo laoshi (little teacher) in her Chinese class and it is amazing to see what she can already do.

Pajama day  ---  Character day (Elephant and Princess in Black)

                                            Reading to the bus stop crew

Strategery    --------     Staff vs. students volleyball game

Ben has started his varsity coaching career and the girls' basketball team has earned their first victory in five years.  Here's to hoping for more fun and success for the squad.  Ben also got out to watch some basketball when Georgia Tech took on the drama-filled UCLA team here.  We spent the night at a hotel afterwards (which had HBO in English and played a Harry Potter marathon followed by You've Got Mail!) and then explored the nature park of the Baoshan district.