Little Ladybug's Journey: Chinese New Year Lantern Festival

Three beautiful Chinese Princesses, Kayla, Emily, and Kira

We had a fabulous night last night to cap off our wonderful two weeks of Chinese New Year! We went with our very good friends, Michele Black and her two beautiful girls Kira and Kayla. We all met at PF Chang's restaurant in downtown Portland to begin our night. All three girls looked absolutely stunning in their Chinese dresses, and as always grabbed the attention of everyone in the place. What three Chinese angels they are! So sweet!

After dinner we headed to Lan Su Chinese Gardens in Portland to see the Lantern Festival and the dragon dance. It was lovely in the gardens with hundreds of multi-colored lanterns all in the water and throughout the gardens. Many hanging red lanterns were hung throughout as well. The girls loved looking at the pretty floating lanterns, but they really came alive and paid close attention when the show began on stage. The Chinese dancers came out first and did a beautiful performance, followed by the dragon dance! The dragon was introduced by some quick fireworks and then made his way up on the stage to the beat of the gongs, cymbals, and drums. The dragon dance lasted about 20 minutes and was enjoyed by all of us! As Emily said when it was done, "Not done, want to see more dragon."

After the dance we, of course, visited the gift shop where Kira and Emily each picked out a new stuffed dragon! The girls also had the opportunity to see the dragon up close and waited very patiently in line for their turn!

What a great night with friends and a joyous time to celebrate our girls' heritage and background. Can't wait till next year!

Enjoy the photos!
Kathy