THE TOL

In early Korean times, many babies did not survive to their first birthday. When the baby did survive this became a reason for great celebration. The tradition continues in modern day society with the Tol or First Birthday party. As you know, our boy just turned one so it was time to celebrate! Kalvis was decked out in his traditional Korean Hanbok, which was a gift from his foster mother.


Everyone gathered around to watch the Toljabee. On the table we placed a spool of thread, a violin, a paintbrush, money, a book, and a knife (in the case of course). Guided by his Papa, Kalvis sat at the table and chose the thread and the paintbrush. The thread symbolizes a long life and the paintbrush represents a life of creativity and an artisitc future for Kalvis.


After the Toljabee, we had a delicious Korean feast. I have to admit, Imants and I are getting better with each Korean meal we make! The kids opened their party favors, which included training chopsticks, and used them to eat their whole meal (minus some spicy stuff)!


Finally came the cake. We had the traditional Korean cake and sang an American Happy Birthday followed by the traditional Latvian Birthday song. A little bit of everything that has made our family what it is today.

Aunt Corey and family was sadly, not able to attend. They were buried under snow. :( They did join us in the singing... Thank God for Skype!!


At this point our little Birthday Boy was all partied out. One last picture with the Godparents and he was ready for a nap. He practically dove from my arms into his soft pillow.


This is not where the party ended though! I have more of our day to post. Hopefully I'll get a minute later in the day to type again. Tune in later....