David, Grace, Sarah and Emma Bellis

Yesterday saw Sarah on duty as part of her kindergarten's welcoming committee. Each morning several children stand outside and shake hands with all other pupils as they arrive.

It's not something I'd heard of before, is it a common practice?

Also we had a bit of a muddle in communications. I thought I was supposed to accompany Sarah and join in the welcome line, which I did, and had a wonderful time. Though about halfway through I realised that A) there was only one other parent present, and B) they weren't in the line. Ah, what the heck, noone asked me to leave so I had a happy quarter-hour spent kneeling down and wishing each new arrival a cheery "jo san" (good morning).

Here's Sarah's favourite teacher, Luk Lo-si, just before the crowds arrived.

Sarah enjoyed it. If she ends up with a career as a politician, we can blame it on this.