A Dol for a Doll

Traditional Korean "Hanbok"

A couple weekends ago, we attended a traditional Korean Dol celebrating the first birthday of LD‘s little friend, Vivi.  I was especially amused by a wonderful tradition, Doljabi,  where the celebrant picks up various items on the table that appeals to her, and whatever she chooses, it is said to predict her future.

Spectacular set-up

As guests of this ornate affair, I was blown away by every intricate detail, but what really excited me was the interactivity with the guests.  Upon entering, there was a selection of glass containers in which the guests would place their choice of “what will Vivi choose” which included:  Thread for long life, Money for wealth, Pencil for scholar, stethoscope for doctor, shoe for fashion, and paintbrush for artist.

Vivi's Doljabi

Of COURSE I selected FASHIONISTA – because… what ELSE would I be rooting for??  Money shmoney – it’s all about being cute, right?  In the end, little Vivi chose a paintbrush, much to the chagrin of her parents (who were secretly on my Team… “Team Fashionista” I’m sure!), but immediately following that heart-stopping moment, was a race for the dollar bill sitting amongst the choices.

Vivi, Proud of her life choices

Of course the attendees and their babies all cheered in sheer delight, while I sat in the back thinking… If I was Korean and this was LD‘s 1st birthday – I think I would have put all my money on “Doctor” since she would need to treat ME after all the money I’ve spent on her being a Fashionista!!

LD not a huge fan of the Paintbrush results. Would have preferred "Fashionista"

Unfortunately, LD could not disguise her despair after Vivi made her choices, so we thought we would hand the bawling baton over to Big Daddy:

Still not pleased. Oh Vivi, if only you chose "Fashionista"

Oh well.  At the end of the day, we all were so excited to celebrate this wonderful milestone in Vivi’s life.

photo credit: Jerome Weed, www.jeromeweed.wordpress.com

Happy 1st Birthday to our darling Vivi!  You epitomize the title “Beautiful Korean Doll”!

Stylishly yours,

db