LuLu Grant and Phoebe McChesney, both Chinese adoptees raised in the United States, share their complex experiences regarding identity, particularly during Lunar New Year celebrations. Grant, who was adopted from Fuzhou, China, struggled with accepting her heritage in her early years, but later found herself seeking connection with her birth family during the Spring Festival. She acknowledges the mixed emotions that come with this journey, highlighting that it is not solely about joy but also encompasses sadness and loss as she confronts the realities of her past.

Similarly, McChesney faced challenges in embracing her Chinese background while growing up in Illinois. Her parents made efforts to instill Chinese cultural practices into their family life, but the experience of being part of two worlds often proved difficult. As the Lunar New Year approaches, both women reflect on their feelings of belonging and identity, recognizing that their experiences as adoptees shape their perceptions of cultural celebration and family dynamics.

The story sheds light on the larger narrative of how international adoption influences identity formation, particularly regarding cultural festivals like the Lunar New Year. It emphasizes the importance of understanding one's heritage while also acknowledging the unique struggles that adoptees may face in reconciling their dual identities. The celebrations become a time for introspection and connection, not only with their adoptive families but also with their roots, highlighting the significance of cultural identity in personal growth and familial connections.