Through the Chinese social media platform, we got to know Rongrong and her family. I secretly booked flights to Shanghai for my whole family because we wanted to experience China firsthand and finally meet the friends we had connected with online. Before we landed in Shanghai, I got a haircut and shaved my beard because I wanted to make a good impression on my Chinese friends.

　　The meetings with Rongrong"s family still move me emotionally. Seeing how much people were touched by my original post from a year ago was incredible - it was also how Rongrong and I first connected. I reached out to her to let her know the post between our families had gone viral and to prepare for the influx of attention. Meeting Rongrong and her family in China was an amazing experience. I was struck by how friendly, welcoming, and helpful everyone was. It was a very surreal experience then, and it still feels surreal now.

　　During our trip to Shanghai, my daughter grew two new baby teeth, which my wife jokingly pointed out as a symbol of the friendship that had taken root between our families. Now, nothing has changed. We talk every day, whether it"s about work, kids" doctor appointments, possible trips, or food.

　　Last year, when we went to the Disney in the US, I remembered our time with Rongrong"s family at Shanghai Disney. I missed them and sent gifts to Tiutiu, Rongrong"s daughter in China. Later, for my daughter"s birthday, Rongrong even sent Hanfu and panda toys all the way from afar, which made us feel even closer. During the New Year, I taught my daughter to say it in Chinese while recording a short video to wish my Chinese friends a happy New Year.

　　We were deeply honored that our meeting in Shanghai drew so much attention from people online.