Home Again in China

We are safely back in China and staying in Beijing for the weekend
before we trek to Harbin on Monday morning. Kanyon was great on all the
flights except when he woke up from his naps all cranky and crying, but
that was only for a little bit before he settled back down. We had a bit
of a layover in Seoul so we were able to take advantage of the super
coolness of the airport and use the great kids' playground near our gate.

Now we are at Beijing training and getting updates on the organization
and what's been going on in China. We have another full day of meetings
on Sunday before we head back to Harbin on Monday morning at 9:40 AM
flying home.

It's been great to be back in China, and Kanyon sure does enjoy all the
people and seeing all the cars. Plus today at lunch he was stuffing his
face with some spicy tofu dish and some spicy chicken and carrots, 2 of
the staples of Chinese dinning. I guess he is really at home in China
and it sure showed today in his happy smile and constant talking (not
yet words still but getting closer).

Today's the day

Today's the day the travel begins from Texas to China. We finally got all the bags packed after taking over our aunt's house (while they're gone) and making a huge mess of the dining room with all our stuff. While it seemed like the things would never fit into the bags, everything made it's way to the bag. We even had some room for an extra trip to Walmart to pack some last minute food goodies.

The carry-ons are packed and loaded with snacks for Kanyon and M'Lynn. One full bag with nothing but snacks is a much for the mini flight to Dallas, but hopefully enough for the long haul to China. And the laptops are loaded with movies to entertain the kid for a while. We've again packed the new toy to reveal on the flight. Let's hope Kanyon still likes motorcycles and Hummers.

The summer has been great and busy at the same time. We've traveled tons of miles, seen almost everyone, and spent time playing with family. While it's always sad to leave, we are looking forward to being 'home' again in China and meeting all the new students. We can't wait!

Tuesday Morning Image

As we finished out our time here in the states for the summer, we had a great time fishing on the Taylor Ranch. We had a great summer visiting friends and family as we traveled around and back and forth. Please remember the travel/transition back to China. Also remember the friends and family who remain in the states as this time is as big a transition for them as it is for us.

Tuesday Morning Image

What an upgrade! Due to the Cash for Clunkers program my family finally retired Big Bertha after 396,000 miles. M'Lynn even took the old car out for it's last spin. Throughout the summer we have been traveling around by car and soon will board the plane back to China. Please remember the travel back to China, specifically for good health, good behavior on the 12 hour flight, and safety for us and our luggage.

Volume 3, Issue 8

With 9 days remaining in our time in the states, we are reminded of all the wonderful people who are behind us supporting the work done in China. Each time we hear someone say how much they enjoy the newsletters or email updates, we are encouraged and spurred on to continue the work set before us.

During the summer, we traveled and spoke at numerous fellowships and other gatherings. We hope you guys enjoyed the talks and for those who weren’t able to make an event we hope to see you guys next year.

Committed…

…to build relationships
We remain committed during the coming year to build relationships with our students, colleagues, and community members. Some of these relationships continue from last year and some will be new. Please remember these relationships especially with the group of 6 roommates we began last year, Zhou Jie our housekeeper, Summer a former student studying in Germany, all of our Pakistani friends and their families, and Young, a new relationship started at the end of the last term.

…to live as servants
Through the many activates during the year we live as servants of the Father, the school, and the students. We are looking forward to beginning some new activities for the students this coming year including more get-togethers with movies, food, games or other events. As well, we will continue to participate in the school events, English corner meetings, and office hours to provide any help we can to the students.

…to testify truth
In all we do in China, we are reminded of our Father and the way we are all called to testify truth in all things. As the semester progresses we will be able to see more clearly the ways truth can be incorporated into lessons, events and conversations. Please remember all the relationships asking for opportunities to testify truth and open hearts and minds to receive this truth.

…to serve in China
We are committed to serve in China long term and need your partnership. We are asking for more monthly and annual pledges that continue year after year. Currently we’ve raised 63% of our 2009-10 goal, lacking about $12,000 before we are fully funded. Please consider any way you can help. And thank you all for your support.