Day By Day
AJ will be one year old next month. So, of course I’m having a party! I’m so thankful that he’s comfortable around big crowds, because I couldn’t seem to narrow down my list of friends to invite. So many people have supported us through the adoption process, and I want them all to celebrate AJ with us.
In Korea, celebrating the 1st birthday is a very big deal. Years and years ago, it was just a big deal that the child survived its first year. That isnt the issue anymore, but the tradition remains. The celebration is called a Tol. The baby is dressed in a Hanbok (which we received as a gift from AJ’s foster parents). The celebration revolves mostly around food (my guests will have no problem with that!) and culminates with the Toljabee ceremony. This is a traditional event where several items are laid out on a table. Each item represents a well wish (longevity, many descendants), career path (doctor, teacher, cable guy), or strong attribute ( generosity, integrity) . The child is set in front of the table, and whatever items they pick up first is said to be what they will excel in most. Though AJ’s picks wont hold too much weight in our house, it does sound like a fun thing to do, and a great way to honor his heritage. I plan to ask some close friends to help out by bringing an item for the table, hopefully something important to them.
I had considered making a few Korean dishes, but the recipes I’ve found are really pretty intense. So, I will probably order a few things from the Korean restaurant nearby. That way, I can spend my time working on the cupcakes. 
Yay parties!