Stahlke Adoption

Anniversary Meal

This Monday, September 23, marks the fifth anniversary of Peter's adoption. Last August 18 was the 8th adoption anniversary for the other five children. Because this year is five years for Peter, we chose to celebrate closer to his date, and last night the children prepared a festive Ukrainian meal.

Paul baked bread and made varenyki, which are dumplings filled with potato or sauerkraut. Adam deep-fried some delicious potato pancakes, while the girls prepared multiple plates of crudite. David's job was the punch, which isn't Ukrainian, but is a tradition at special events in our family. Its hallmark is the floating pomegranate seeds. Peter helped set the table, since he arrived shortly before the meal started because of participation in his first-ever cross-country meet.

Jonathan had shopped earlier in the day (between teaching classes!) in Ukrainian Village near the Loop. He bought several desserts, cabbage rolls, and pickled herring (which many children chose to eat first).

After some very difficult months, it was rewarding to spend a pleasant evening with good friends and family. The children reveled in the event, as often happens when we serve Ukrainian foods.

posted by Stahlkes @ 9:18 AM