Dragon Festival

Yesterday, we spent a beautiful, although hot, day at Lake Phalen for the annual Dragon Festival.  The Dragon Festival celebrates the numerous Asian cultures in Minnesota.  We enjoyed running into many of our friends and all the activities the day held.

 Visiting the Sleeping Dragon

 Awaking the Dragon with some Korean Drumming

 Dragon Dancing

 Dragon Boat Races

 Listening to a Folk Tale

 Korean Drumming with Marco (all the way from South Korea)

 Beautiful and talented Jang Mi Korean Dancers

 Cooling off in the shade

Rest time

Toy Drive

About one month ago, a great group of Korean adoptive families kicked off a toy drive to benefit the children in foster care in South Korea.  Due to some political issues in Korea, children are staying in foster care longer than ever while waiting to be united with their forever families.  The foster families are not equipped with enough toys to keep these toddlers' minds and bodies busy.  In just a short month, we gathered around 142 toys, which has filled 8 huge duffel bags.  Our family was one of the collection points for the toys.  Here my kids are with just a sampling of the toys.  Thanks to all who donated to such a wonderful cause.  I know the toys will be greatly appreciated and used. 

First Family Road Trip

We successfully nagivated our first family road trip last weekend.  This was also Lauren's first nights away from home and her own bed.  They were all such troopers and did wonderfully on our trip out to Bismarck, North Dakota for my cousin's wedding.  It really helped that Grandma Judy and Grandpa Al joined us...extra entertainment and hands to help.  We spent the first night at Grandma and Grandpa house to cut down on the drive time.  All three kids shared one room and loved it.  Then we hit the road for the long drive to North Dakota.  Once at the hotel the kids loved swimming in the pool on Friday and Saturday.  We all enjoyed the beautiful wedding on Saturday evening.  Sunday was a super long day in the car, as we headed home for Korean Culture Camp that would start the next day (upcoming post).  

 A road trip in Minnesota must include a picture by a statue of something huge (Blooming Praire Chicken). 

 Playing Pokemon a the hotel

 Hungry girl

 Grandma Judy and Great Grandma Betty

Bad lighting but cute family photo