2009 has been an exciting and adventurous year for the Chan clan!
In April, Evan had the opportunity to finally go to China to volunteer with an organization called International China Concern (ICC). If you remember, he had tried to go in 2008, but had to back out at the last minute because of work demands. But with Gabi just over a year, the timing was just right this time. His three-week trip was an amazing opportunity for him to work with disabled orphans and also use his Mandarin skills translating for the team.
In November, Stephanie was also able to go overseas to do volunteer work. She spent two weeks with a team of 12 people to Thailand and Burma to work with women and children who have been or are at risk for being trafficked or forced into the sex industry. This was an incredible life-changing experience for everyone involved. The team also brought technical skills and, in addition to lots of gadget donations like video games, cameras, and cell phones, we updated their website and computer networks (check out their new site at thegardenofhope.org, some of Steph's pics were also used on the site!).
Gabi has been growing and changing by leaps and bounds this year. As she approaches the big TWO, she is talking up a storm, mostly in English, but some Chinese and signing too, freely sharing her opinions and observations all the time. She has also become quite independent, wanting to do things all by herself, all the time. She is discovering zippers, buttons, buckles and snaps, loves to draw and read, build with her Lego Duplo blocks and Mr. Potatohead, and play pretend cooking/shopping with her stuffed animals. She still takes classes at The Little Gym, where she loves hanging on the bars, going upside down, jumping, and climbing up the rock incline.
While we did not make any big family trips this year, we were happy to do small local road trips, including Lake Tahoe (Jan & Feb), Santa Cruz (Mar), Sausalito (May), Yosemite (July), and Santa Barbara (Oct) for Stephanie's cousin's wedding. Our tent is now too small for family camping trips, so Gabi has inherited it as her play & reading area where she keeps lots of stuffed animals.
Maybe the biggest news of all for this year is that the Chan clan is growing! We are expecting Baby Chan #2 to make an appearance in January 2010. The pregnancy has been smooth, though more tiring with a toddler around. We are all excited and looking forward to our new addition, including Gabi, who excitedly points out babies all the time and is learning to be very nurturing and caring through her stuffed animals and dolls.
We hope this Christmas card finds you and your family well. 2009 has been an exciting and adventurous year for the Chan clan! Please check out our family blog at friedcalamari.blogspot.com for our Christmas Update and future family updates, adventures, and musings!
-the Chan Clan
PS, Baby Chan #2 decided not to wait until 2010 to make an appearance! More details and photos coming soon!
