the lucky bamboo

Back around summer of 2006, just after our paperwork was recognized by China, Brian came home with a little lucky bamboo plant, shaped into a heart.  It was a reflection of our journey to China and something we could take care of while we waited.  We gave our families lucky bamboos for Christmas that year so they could do the same. 

Ours has been through much: our Great Dane/Lab knocked it over with his tail breaking the vase and scattering the bamboo and rocks all over the living room, cats batting, pulling, clawing, chewing the leaves, and constant moves around the house in hopes of finding a safe spot.  About a year ago, it settled on the kitchen counter next to the sink where it has simply endured the cat abuse and doubles as a cat water bowl.  Somehow this little plant has thrived through all of this - I think I know why!  May Emerson be as strong and resiliant as her symbolic sibling: