As in the past, this year, WBFN showcased its activities and programs for three days in the MC Atrium. While we were preparing the setup of our booths and the children’s artwork on the Friday before the event, we got word that the WBG had just advised staff to work from home on Monday and Tuesday of the next week, because they expected major traffic disruptions in Washington DC caused by 45 visiting heads of states. You can well imagine our dismay. Several months of preparation and the prospect of no one to see our exhibits on the first two days of the 3-day exhibition! But in spite of this, on Monday and Tuesday April 12 and 13 the attendance at the exhibits was quite nice, and we received many positive reactions to the layout with the more active participation and visibility of the male spouses, the English teachers and the quilters.

The new tree designed by several of our members that explains our organization was eye-catching. Unfortunately, the Washington International School choir director got severely burned, so she had to cancel the concert. The impromptu substitute concert by Otaviano Canuto and his colleague Morana Song was very moving and touching, and illustrated exactly what WBFN is all about: a caring place for the families.

The organizers of “Fashions from the East” put a lot of effort into getting costumes and models. Although until the very last moment we were not sure if we would have enough models, somehow they all showed up and more—it would seem that modeling can be contagious!—and all ended very well. Asmin Sen not only came up with the idea behind this dashing show, she also participated in it as a model with her daughter and prepared in addition a beautifully designed coffee ceremony. The Book Project had a prominent and inviting setting for their sale. And visitors to the exhibit could easily participate in the various interesting workshops offered by WBFN members.

Maaike le Grand