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CHINA Month 2: English Idioms & Chinese Hedgehogs

10/22/2017

Greetings friends and family!
This week I’m sharing some more stories from Qingdao! I hope they make you smile and laugh (and maybe cringe a little bit....because spicy octopus tentacles *shudders*).

This German home was build in the early 1900s as a hunting lodge for German officers.

CHINESE LANGUAGE SUCCESS

Just this week a man selling handmade bread from an outdoor stand in a local village nearby my apartment asked me a question that I recognized and knew how to answer!
He said some version of, “Where are you from?”
To which I excitedly replied, “I am American!” in Chinese (Shout-out to my Chinese teacher for making me repeat that phrase a hundred times).
When he nodded in understanding I felt like “The Breakfast Club” fist-pumping into the air with joy and accomplishment. You’ll be glad to know I waited to do the fist-pump until after I walked around the corner from his stand. Little wins, little wins!

This alleyway is filled with outdoor food shops. The whole street smells amazing!

CHINESE HEDGEHOGS

I know you're wondering why I was wearing a scarf, winter coat, and mittens? Because I've been living in SC and it's 56* in Qingdao and I'm freezing ALL THE TIME.

One of my new favorite things about China is that they have HEDGEHOGS. Yeah, you read that right, WILD CHINESE HEDGEHOGS. The first time one crossed my path in the dark and I was so sure it was a large rat. Yet, as the round creature scampered across the drive, I realized the walk was all wrong to be a rat. Upon closer investigation (because I have an animal addiction and HAD to know what it was), I was shocked to see a small little hedgehog minding his own business. It turns out that the Amur or Manchurian breed of hedgehog thrives throughout the east regions of Asia. Since then I have seen about three more of them during my evening walks around the city. This week, I actually caught my first one! He was not fazed by me at all, just sniffing around in my mittens, looking ADORABLE. When I set him back down, he leisurely shuffled off into the bushes. I cannot believe it. As I said, this is one of my new favorite things about China!

MY FIRST CHINESE WEDDING, sorta

I accidentally attended my first Chinese wedding ceremony when exploring another historical German ch-rch in Qingdao. Congratulations to the happy couple and thanks for being so willing to let me (and a bunch of other tourists) sit in on a part of your special day!

KOREAN FELLOWSHIP

This week I was blessed enough to be invited to attend a local Korean fellowship. If any of you know the details of my journey to China (and Qingdao specifically), you know that my Father placed in me a heart for the people of Korea. Qingdao is home to the second largest expat population of Koreans in all of China. Over 100,000 Koreans live and work in the city. My classroom’s largest demographic is TCKs from South Korea. I was so thrilled to find out from a Korean co-worker that her fellowship has a service with English translation. When she invited me to attend with her, I was thrilled. I was so touched by the congregation’s welcoming spirit and kindness towards me. They gave me a rose AND fed me lunch as a thank you for coming. I mean that's one way to win a girl over, right? Flowers and food!
(I was also SO EXCITED to finally get to use some of my Korean language skills… See, Mom? Watching all those KDramas DID actually come in handy!)
I am still seeking my Father’s guidance in finding a fellowship home here in China, but I really am hoping this will be the body He calls me to grow and serve alongside!

SPICY OCTOPUS TENTACLES

We headed into downtown Qingdao on Saturday and visited an open-air marketplace where I tried spicy octopus tentacles for the first time. It was spicy and chewy and quite awkward to eat, haha. I didn’t hate it, nor did I love it. Qingdao, being a coastal city, is renowned for their fresh and expertly prepared seafood dishes.

Afterwards, I bought the most gourmet ice-cream dessert (in a real waffle with strawberries, Hersey’s chocolate sauce, and topped with an Oreo) I’ve ever had in my life and it may have been life-changing.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE FAIL? (or teaching success?)

How to fail (or succeed) at teaching English as a second language 101 by ME.

English corner is held weekly in a restaurant open on the university campus. The owner is pretty strict about us leaving exactly at 8:00 PM when the employees officially get off for the evening. This week when it was time for the class to end I announced to all the students (about 20+ people) this:

“Hey guys, it’s 8:00 now. We should go before they give us the boot.”

I was suddenly struck by many looks of confusion, interest, and shock. In this room full of non-native English speakers, I had used one of the weirdest American idioms around.

One of the students said, “Teacher, B-O-O-T? Boot?”

When I nodded and he still looked perplexed, I suddenly decided it was easier to just demonstrate. Please enjoy the image of me standing in front of a group of Chinese university students, making a kicking gesture with my foot and attempting to explain the meaning and purpose of the idiom, “to give the boot”.

The AQI (Air Quality Index) was 177 on this day!

It's been another great week in China! I am thankful for my Father's faithfulness and comfort throughout the unknown that is my life currently.

My Middle Schoolers are still as awesome as ever, I'm totally crazy about these kids. In 7th grade we've just finished reading "The Outsiders". It felt like a true full circle moment for me read and teach this novel for the first time. The reason why is because the teacher who taught me "The Outsiders" when I was in 8th grade is also the man who our Father used to inspire me to become a teacher. Mr. Meister, when you read this, I want to say THANK YOU AGAIN for dreaming big and letting our Father use you in my life. I strove to teach my kids to "Stay Gold" and I hope I made you proud.

I want to challenge you all to say thank you to a teacher who had an impact on your life this week. If you can say it in person, write them an email, or send the thank you to heaven if you can't find any other way to get a hold of them, DO IT. Teachers ALWAYS need reminded that they made a difference.

Have a blessed week everyone!

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CHINA Month 2: Tea, Songs, & People

10/14/2017

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Hello all,
I hope you are well! I'm afraid there will be far less pictures and stories accompanying the blog today. This week was busy with jumping back into school and preparing for the end of Quarter 1 next week. Time is flying! Classes are going well and I look forward to seeing my students everyday. Getting back into the swing of things has been an adjustment, but I am so thrilled to be back in school and continue teaching my awesome kids.

During this week, I found my thoughts dwelling on the importance of relationships. Relationships with my students, fellow foreign staff, national staff, the communities I am a part of here in Qingdao... etc. I feel that a great part of my heart for being in China is centered around an intentional pursuit of heaven-honoring relationship building. Expressing love and compassion that does not come from me, but instead is a gift from One who loves far greater and deeper than I ever could. I recognize that here in China I am presenting the world around me with so much more than just myself.

A big part of my relationship building mindset is centered around getting to know China. I spent all morning and afternoon (Saturday) with two Chinese 'Sisters' I have gotten to know over the past almost two months. This week was the 6th Annual Qingdao International Tea Expo! I was so blessed to have these two new sisters be willing to take and teach me. I was the only foreigner in the entire exposition center, which gave me my first real feelings of celebrity in China. People were taking pictures of and with me, not to mention, everyone wanted to practice their English with me! I tried hundreds of different types of DELICIOUS teas and learned so much about Chinese tea history. The truth is, in China, tea is an art form. From the way it is grown, to the way it is made, right down to the way it is served... each and every step is a small, but deliberate cultural part of a larger, elegant craft. I really enjoyed every moment of learning and listening (AND TASTING). This time was also very special because I was building relationships with these wonderful national Sisters. I hope we will have many more days like today!

Another highlight this week was teaching/practicing oral English with local students at a nearby university. I cherish going to these classes and meeting so many willing to step out of their comfort zone and try something new. These people are far more determined and brave than I think I'll ever be.

This week I also had my first KTV (Chinese Karaoke) experience! A popular, fun activity for all ages, it is nothing like American karaoke (which I have never done, but have seen in movies... namely "High School Musical" LOL). Instead, you and a group of friends rent out a decorated soundproof room with big screens, snacks, loudspeakers, a disco ball with flashing light, and microphones... then you sing your hearts out! We had a blast! NOTE: I was sad to learn that Josh Groban does not make the best song choice for karaoke, unless... you know, you are ACTUALLY Josh Groban (but that totally didn't stop me from trying, haha).

Lastly, a really surprise to the end of my week was that I had my first parent teacher conference with a young student struggling in one of my classes. I was nervous (as I suppose most every teacher is before parent/teacher conferences), but ended up coming out of the conversation feeling so supported and partnered with through the experience. It was truly a productive meeting of shared ideas, thoughts, and genuine care for a young person's growth, development, and education. I am blessed to be a part of a community that seeks to put every student on the road to success as a team or a village as the old adage says! What an encouragement it was to my teacher's heart.

THINGS TO KEEP IN YOUR 'THOUGHTS'

Our administration led the staff in a big meeting this week, giving insight into the school's current status and plans for the future. A lot of decisions are being made and there are many variables playing into future growth and expansion of our school. Please consider asking for wisdom for our leaders, increased student enrollment, and movement in the hearts of local leadership.
China is cracking down (more so than they already do) on monitoring the internet. China is hoping to ban all VPNs (an external internet aid that gives me access to things like Google, Facebook, YouTube, THIS BLOG, etc) from being used in country. All content passing in and out of internet servers is being screened and monitored with messages considered 'unlawful' leading to arrests of local and expat alike. I have no concerns for myself, but think about the ramifications for others doing important international work in China. Please keep this situation and the future of their work in China in your thoughts.
My Chinese progresses slowly... my need for it increases daily.
I started the process of trying to get Benji to China. It's overwhelming and scary, but I miss him desperately.
I need to spend more time with my Father. In the business of this week and two weeks of travel and 'play', I have become lax in reading his Letters to me regularly. I recognize how importance this time spent with Him is, so I ask for you to think of me and keep me accountable in my relationship with Him.

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CHINA Month 2: October Holiday

10/7/2017

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After returning from fall trips last week, there was no school for the week of October 1st through the 8th. Two important holidays, National Day (The People’s Republic of China’s Independence Day) and Mid-Autumn Festival (the holiday with the MoonCakes), both fell during this week. This holiday break is not only for schools, but most businesses close for the week as well. People are meant to travel home or go on vacation to spend time with family.

It was so nice to have a break! It was a change, too though as I learned a few facts about 'holiday' season in China. Simple things I hadn't thought about, I saw first hand. For example, my favorite fruit salesman across the street was away for the week. Any sort of public transport and city streets were extremely crowded. Qingdao is a vacation destination for many in China. However, it was another great week of fun adventures and much needed rest. I have been looking forward to this break since I arrived because I knew I would finally have the opportunity to explore some of my own city!

My roommate from stateside orientation this past summer flew to visit me from where she teaches at one of our sister schools in the center of China. Three more girls we knew from orientation/training took a train from their city about two hours away on a day trip to visit Qingdao as well! It was wonderful to get to share thoughts, stories, and reflect on all we’ve been learning throughout our 'starting' weeks in China.

Here are some highlights (and some random facts about Qingdao)!!!

CLIMBING FUSHAN

An amazing part of living where I do in Qingdao is that my apartment's ‘front yard’ is the Yellow Sea and my ‘backyard’ is the bottom of the Mountain Fu (or FuShan: “Shan” = Mountain). One of my favorite things to do when living in upstate South Carolina was to go hiking. Benji and I practically went every weekend during the spring and summer (Chimney Rock State Park having been our favorite place for the past three years). I had been counting down the days until I would get to hike FuShan and see the incredible views from its peaks. It is so amazing how different the mountains feel here. You can’t help but look and them and know you are in Asia!

One of the unique things about FuShan is that it splits the city of Qingdao almost perfectly. Qingdao is on a peninsula and FuShan separates the North/South and the East/West districts of the city. This means no matter which way you face when you stand on it you are seeing mountains, sky, city, and sea.
I could write a long blog just on Kaylee and my arduous journey to the top of two out of four of Fushan’s peaks, but it would hardly be as exciting to read about it as it was to actually do. Let’s just touch on the main craziness we experienced.
The main trail? Yeah, we totally missed it. It was 100% off-roading for these two foreign girls.

Hiking? No, to use the work hiking is far too weak a word. We CLIMBED that mountain. We came across a herd of goats being protected and watched over by two determined watch dogs. That's when we really starting getting up the mountain. We discovered that we could find our way up by following random narrow goat trails up the mountain. GOATS FOR THE WIN.

In following the goat trails we stumbled across an awesome old German bunker and tunnel that had been built during the German occupation of Qingdao in the early 1900s (more on Qingdao's European history in a bit)! It was dark and mucky inside so we only went a little ways in... but I have a feeling this will be something I return to check out another time!

Our biggest mistake of the trek was when we ended up bloody and bruised after leaving the goat trails and passing through an entire forest of thorn brushes. Once we were in there was no turning back. We were hoping/thinking it would be a ‘short cut’ (we were SO VERY wrong).

Yet, even with a made-up trail, bloodied legs, goat poop covered sneakers, sweat and cloudy skies... climbing FuShan was one of the most exhilarating, most rewarding mountain experiences I have ever had in my life.

The pictures don’t do it justice. It was so majestic and shocking to stand on top and feel the ocean breeze whipping up the mountain. There was an overwhelming sense of accomplishment knowing that we discovered this view not at the end of some dirt trail or paved staircase. This was embracing nature’s authentically crafted ascent and it was incredible. I loved every second of it.
[Note: Next time I go… I’m avoiding any ‘short cuts’ that lead through thorny shrubbery. My legs look like I took a weed wacker to them. FOLLOW THE GOAT TRAILS ONLY. GOATS ARE SMART.]

QINGDAO ICONS

Our orientation group and my friend, our school's other MS English teacher spent an entire day in Downtown Qingdao on Wednesday. On this day we walked over 10 miles (+30,000 steps according to my step-counter) along Qingdao’s coast visiting some of the most famous city iconic landmarks. The famous May Fourth Square sculpture stands in the center of the business district of Qingdao. The significance of May Fourth in Qingdao and China's history comes after the city’s occupation by both the Germans and the country's by the Japanese. The protests that led to the May Fourth Movement influenced the Chinese expulsion of foreign power and rule in the country.

Due to the German occupation of Qingdao, the city has become known as one of these most unexpectedly “westernized” cities in the country. From the roads to the architecture, you will find buildings and city planning reflect an early European feel. Standing beneath Saint Michael’s Cathedral, built to reflect a 12th century German Cathedral, you wonder if you are still in China at all. The German influence, though they only remained in the Qingdao for a little over 20 years, is one of the most unique and iconic qualities of Qingdao.

THE OLYMPICS IN QINGDAO

We passed by the Olympic Sailing Center, where during the 2008 Beijing Olympics all the outdoor sailing events were held. Many Olympians from all over the world still come to Qingdao’s waters to train in the FuShan Bay (part of the Yellow Sea) at the training centre. Another thing that makes Qingdao's city planning unique is that it underwent major citywide renovations in preparation for hosting the Olympics.

WEIRD FOODS IN QINGDAO

So far, my blog has really only presented the delicious and amazing foods that I have tried while in China (so much for losing weight here… haha). I guess you all knew at some point I’d start trying weird things. By no intentional choice, this week became that week. I ate three very strange things during my holiday break.

First, scorpion. The weirdest part about it was that you pick the scorpions while they are alive and then watch them get cooked in oil. The build-up to eating them was a lot more dramatic than the actual moment of consumption. Apparently, a scorpion's poisonous stinger is neutralized when exposed to excessive heat. It was crunchy. Kaylee compared them to eating Funyuns or Pork Rinds. I kind of thought it just tasted like an overcooked piece of fish… flavored, crunchy air.

The second weird thing I tried this week was pig brain. Again, the freakiest part was actually thinking about what I was eating, once you ate it... it was like whatever. To be honest though, I’m not really a fan of this one. It was quite soft and a little slimy, even after boiled in a spicy broth. I'm pretty sure I will not be searching out this one again.
Lastly, I tried cow throat. In my defense, my friends only told me what this was AFTER I tried it. It was really chewy and rubbery, but I suppose not unlike an under-cooked noodle.

I don’t think I’ll embrace eating any of these things again, but… now I can say I have, right? That ought to earn me some cool points somewhere.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON THIS WEEK

To close, I ask for p—y--s in finding a rhythm again as I head into another week of school. I felt like I was just getting the hang of things and finding a routine when we went on fall trips then had a week off. Every teacher knows that coming back from break is always a little bit of a struggle for everyone. I am excited to get back to my students and continue working everyday to be a better teacher! (Though I am less enthusiastic about the stack of papers waiting on my desk still needing to be graded... so maybe p—y—s for that too, haha.)

Thank you to all who commented or sent me an email to check in and let me know you were thinking of me! It means so much to hear from friends and family across the globe! I am unsure what adventures I will stumble across in the coming week, but I am grateful to have a beloved Father who is walking with me and encouraging me to do my best.
Blessings to you all!

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CHINA Month 2: Seeing Shandong

9/29/2017

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I am finally home from the week long fall trip with our seventh grade students! It was absolutely incredible to travel throughout Shandong Province and see so many different cities within our region. We traveled far west from our coastal city of Qingdao and I was amazed to see the beautiful Chinese countryside. I realized that Qingdao feels very modern and westernized in comparison to the rest of Shandong (this is probably due to the fact that Qingdao was occupied by the Germans for 21 years. It was also developed in 2008 for the Beijing Olympic Games, in which Qingdao hosted sailing and mountain biking). I loved the authentic feel of each of the Chinese cities we traveled to, as well as, the amazing historical sites we were able to explore.

In addition to being an educational trip through Shandong, this trip had a central theme we studied every evening in small groups. Our theme this year was "JOY: Embracing the Unknown". We dove into the historical account of Joseph in Genesis. We discussed three main places in our lives that we can find new JOY (defined as happiness regardless of life circumstances). The three joys were, "Finding Joy in Your Pain", "Finding Joy in Your Responsibility", and "Finding Joy in Forgiveness". I felt so honored to get invest spiritually into my students lives on such a personal level. Not to mention that Joseph's story has been my favorite for many years! (I may have played a part in choosing and writing the theme this year, haha).

One of the other teachers asked me, "Do you know why Joseph is your favorite?"
"Not really," I replied. "I just know I've always loved his journey."
"I know why he is your favorite. Joseph is practically the patron saint of Third Culture Kids," was his reply. "Think about it."

I had never thought of sharing much with Joseph, other than a strong desire to emulate his faith and trust in his Father. Yet, when I contemplate all the change and transition Joseph experienced in his life, especially cultural transitions and a disconnect from his 'homeland', I suddenly realized that this really is probably a big part of my adoration for Joseph. It is my greatest hope that my Father will remain with me and give me even half of the success he gave Joseph. Yet, I realize those successes came at great personal cost to Joseph. Therefore, I will embrace my Father's JOY with all I have no matter what hardships come to pass in my life.

If you are interested in checking out the devotional booklet we wrote for the trip you can download it here:

"JOY: Embracing the Unknown" Devotional Booklet
File Size:	1457 kb
File Type:	docx

Download File

Below are a bunch of pictures and little summary write-ups of our journey through Shandong Province. I hope you enjoy!

MONDAY, September 25

Qingdao to QuFu to Tai'an

The first stop on our trip through Shandong Province was the city of QuFu (pronounced Chi-Fu), which is Confucius' hometown. It is a relatively small city (population 600,00) that is mainly surrounded by farmland and mountains. We visited the three main historical sites related to Confucius' life. The temple, his family mansion, and the ancient cemetery where he (and many other people) are buried beneath little hilly, barrows. Confucius lived, studied, and taught in QuFu from 551 BC – 479 BC. It was mind blowing for me to contemplate that some of these original sculptures and buildings had stood centuries before the Messiah had come to earth. I couldn't help, but be swept up in the ancient China feel the entire grounds gave me.

TUESDAY, September 26

Tai'an to Zibo

The second leg of our Shandong adventures was to hike up Mount Tai. This mountain is west of the city of Tai'an where we stayed overnight. Taishan (Tai "mountain") is a part of the "Five Great Mountains of China" at some points rising as high as 5,000 feet above sea level. It has been a center of trade and worship for over 3,000 years according to Chinese historical memoirs. In the forests covering the mountains are some of the oldest trees in all of China. My fit-band documented I took more than 21,000 steps that day! It was definitely painful, but every view was worth the pain of all those stairs! The little villages that decorated the mountain side path brought me so much joy. From making friends with stray dogs to spotting mules carrying supplies up the mountain to the little shops along the route, it felt like I was truly stepping away from the craziness of daily stress and finally breathing in some much needed mountain air while enjoying the view of creation's natural beauty.

WEDNESDAY, September 27

Zibo to Weifang

On our third day we traveled to the city of Zibo (tsi-pwo) to the Chinese National Football (soccer) Museum. My students LOVED this. The exhibits began with the ancient history of football in China. It had actually begun as a tactic/strategy during war times. Though the ancient dynasties in China, the game grew and evolved into a game of athletic skill and showmanship. The students really loved the modern FIFA exhibits which featured pictures, jerseys, and footballs signed by famous football players from around the world. From Beckham to Messi, even if you're not a football fan, you couldn't help but be impressed. After our time in the museum, our students played a game of football on a small field outside. After only a few minutes it seemed like the entire neighborhood had come out to watch a bunch of English speaking foreign students play football outside the museum. We'd drawn a lot of attention at every stop, but this one was different. Whereas before people who simply stare at us, these people stopped to cheer and take pictures of us all. It is quite powerful to me to think of how something like football can transcend all cultural barriers and differences without a single word.

THURSDAY, September 28

Weifang to Qingdao

On our last day, we visited the former site of Weixen Le Dao Yuan & Western Civilians Concentration Camp. This camp was created during World War II during the Japanese occupation of China. The camp was built to house foreigners (citizens of allied countries) living in China during that time. The most well-known person who lived and died in this camp is a man by the name of Eric Liddell. I studied the life of Liddell in fifth grade whilst I was homeschooled in Senegal, so travelling to the site was one of the things I was most looking forward to. Not only was Liddell and gold medal Olympian who, during the 1924 Olympics, refused to run in a certain race because it was on a Sunday, but he also was a Third Culture Kid who had been born and raised in China. He returned to China as an adult to teach and serve his Father to reach the Chinese. Liddell was given the option to leave when the Japanese invaded, but he chose to stay in China in order to continue serving. Liddell's legacy and testimony have been an inspiration and encouragement to many seeking to take a risk and follow in their Father's footsteps.

After visiting Weixian, our group spent two hours at a Chinese amusement park in Weifang. In truth, the park a humorous attempt as a cheap Disneyland knock-off, but we all had a blast! Then, we finally loaded back up on our bus and headed back towards home!

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CHINA Week 4: It's been a month?

9/23/2017

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Downtown Qingdao

The internet has been in and out all day today, so I am not sure when this blog will get posted (finally gave up on Saturday, so... Happy Sunday, everyone!). The biggest news of the week is that I have been in China FOR A MONTH! It has flown by far faster than I could have anticipated and yet, there are days where it feels like 100 years have passed.

Art Lock-in Event

First things first, I know you are all dying to know how the Art Lock-in went! It was very exciting and rewarding to spend time with my students and begin getting to know them more. Painting the walls was a blast! These kids totally shocked me with their creativity and talent. The murals are spectacularly detailed, uniquely beautiful, and full of the most unexpected fun. The downside of the lock-in was that I spent a night without rest and got a terrible cold in the following days. The day after my throat felt scratchy and my nose began to run. The coughing and sneezing continued for the rest of the week, but I finally feel on the mend today. Was it worth it? Absolutely!

The rest of this week was much more low key than my past few have been (and since I was sick, my body appreciated the slower pace). I had some great opportunities to put my Chinese into practice throughout the week. Though my language skills are still less than basic, I was able to tell a neighbor I was going to my friend’s house, ask a guard to open a gate for me, and recognize some simple phrases spoken by a cashier, a waiter, and the water man. It's all about those small victories, my friends!

Another highlight of my week, was getting to get involved with a expat 'service' project at a local university. I was able to some time with university students who were looking to practice and improve their English. My two-hour long conversation with these students was so fulfilling and such a special experience. There is a great vision with this volunteering opportunity and I plan to spend more time getting involved with university students in this way. If you can keep this work in your thoughts often, I know there will be many people who appreciate it!

Korean barbeque = heaven

COMING UP!

The next two weeks are going to be crazy awesome!

This coming week the entire middle school (6th through 8th grade) is headed out on Fall Trips (shout out to private school perks). I will be travelling as a chaperone with the 7th grade to many famous sites in the Shandong province. For 4 days and 3 nights, we—6 chaperones and 34 students—will travel by bus to a number of hours across the province. I am excited to see more of this awesome country I call home AND have another opportunity to get to know my students better! All the same, I ask that you p—y for safety in all things for our trip. Be expecting lots of pictures and stories in my next blog!

The following week, after we return from Fall Trips, school is out all week due to National Day in China. Here is a little background/introduction on this holiday:

“On October 1, 1949, the People's Republic of China was inaugurated. An official victory celebration and ceremony was held in Tian’anmen Square. Mao Zedong raised the first Communist national flag of China in person amid 300,000 soldiers and other people who were gathered at the square. In recent years, the National Day holidays were extended to one week. It is like the US 4th of July holidays, but it is much longer” (Source).

I am thankful to be spending this holiday in Qingdao in order to get to know my city better. My roommate from pre-field orientation/new staff training this summer is coming to visit and we’ve already discussed loads of ideas for what to do! Again, plan to see lots of pictures and hear lots of stories in that blog!

I am happy to end this short little update saying, it was a great week here in China! Week four saw so many things that are still unknown and frightening, but it has been so important for me to recognize how much I have to be thankful for in the past month. My Father has confirmed for me many times that this is where I am supposed to be right now. I hope to make Him (and all of you) proud of me!

Soli Deo Gloria!

Fushan (shan = mountain), I can't wait to hike this!

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CHINA Week 3: Successes & Struggles

9/16/2017

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I’ve started this blog a day early (Friday) because I’m not sure what condition I’ll be for tomorrow when I usually write. Tonight, I am staying overnight at school chaperoning a middle school and high school lock-in event. Our school just moved onto a new campus this year and tonight the students (and some of the faculty) are staying up all night to paint brand new murals on the empty white walls of our cafeteria. I am excited for this opportunity to get to know students better, as well as, put some of my own love, care, and creativity into this awesome building.

There are lots of stories to share this week, so I’ve split them into what I feel are successes and struggles.

THIS WEEK’S SUCCESSES

My roommate and I had no food at home, so we decided to walk about 15 minutes away from our house to eat at a little restaurant nearby. We then proceeded to order food with basically only pointing and pictures, haha. The staff members were so kind and accommodating and we had a great meal. It may not seem like that big of a deal, but when your language skills are next to nothing, something like that makes you feel quite brave and accomplished!

Feeling successful and happy with this delicious meal!

Since Qingdao is on the coast, the seafood served here is fresh and delicious!

I was finally able to apply for my permanent residency at the Immigration Bureau this week! It is so funny to think of myself as an immigrant to China, but being in that office made it really apparent to me that I am 100% in this for the long run. China is my new home! (or will be, as long as my residency gets approved… so p—y—s appreciated!)

Speaking of the immigration bureau and our time there. While my roommate (who is also new to China this year) and I were waiting in the lobby we started to practice some Chinese together. Thinking nothing of it we decided to learn the names of areas and rooms in a building. The most obvious and most important being our ability to recognize the word and characters for "restroom/bathroom" or in China the word is literally "toilet". I want you to picture this: two obviously foreign girls, sitting in a room full of Chinese staff and Korean immigrants, practicing saying the word “toilet” over and over and over again (because the tones are very important!). By the time we realized what we were doing, our Chinese pronunciation of “toilet” was fabulous and people all around us were staring and laughing. All I can say is, you’re welcome for the entertainment!

I am recommending everyone eats at HaiDiLao (海底捞火锅) at least once in their life! This was when we were barely getting started!

In celebration of a number things, I went out with a group of other teachers to a nationally famous Hot Pot place. If you are not familiar with hot pot, it is such a cool (and tasty) cultural experience. You buy whatever ingredients you like (everything from pig’s brain to bamboo) and then you cook it in a large simmering pot of broth at the center of your table. Everyone adds what they want (we had things like pork, tofu, shrimp, bamboo, noodles, sweet potatoes, broccoli, tomatoes, mushrooms, spices, & more) and you eat it in stages as you cook it. It is a fabulous meal for embracing friendships and fostering community, a great cultural experience, AND not to mention, it is both FUN and DELICIOUS! A cook came out and did an amazing traditional noodle dance (exactly what it sounds like and it was the coolest!), meanwhile, we devoured SO. MUCH. FOOD.

The service at this restaurant is renown throughout China for being the absolute best. I did not give it much thought until we were there. This place actually has the most INCREDIBLE service I have ever experienced. The staff were absolutely lovely, so fast, and just plain wonderful to us! Here are some of the little things that came with the meal, no extra charge:

Hot towels (multiple times during our meal)
Hairbands for the ladies to pull their hair back
Eye glasses cleaners for those wearing glasses
Aprons to cover your clothing (you needed it!)
An awesome cityscape, mountain, and ocean view
One of the members of our group had been ill and was coughing a bit. The staff heard her coughing and five minutes later brought out a ginger and Chinese date tea one the house with wishes from all the staff for her healing!
The family eating nearby us were given a FULL-SIZED CRIB for their infant while they ate. I’m talking fluffy pink pillows and all!
The staff checked on us constantly and saw to our needs before we even realized we needed them! I would 100% recommend trying this place if you ever go to China.

I should also add that the entire meal cost me individually $13 American dollars. 5+ star treatment for less money than a two-person meal at a cheap fast food place. Unbelievable!

You have not lived until you have seen a traditional Chinese noodle dance!

"火龙果" The name literally translates as "fire dragon fruit” and it is so good!

With this fresh start, I have committed myself to pursuing a heart of thankfulness and a habit for punctuality in my daily life. Thankfulness is something I believe will remind me of my Father’s goodness even when things get hard. Punctuality is something I’ve wanted to consciously improve upon for a long time. My mom said her dad (my grandfather) used to say, “If you’re not 15 minutes early, you’re late”. I like that mentality a lot. So far, my determination to foster both these things in my life has been extremely enriching.

The view from the restaurant window of ocean-side Qingdao (the ocean is just out of the picture on the right).

I BOUGHT PLANTS.
If you know me, you know that I love plants. Before leaving for China I had to rehome close to a total of 70 plants in my house. I’ve started in China with three: a spider plant (the first plant I ever raised was a spider plant! *waves to Franklin in Dr. Branyon’s house*), a fern, and A BONSAI TREE. Yeah, I’m excited about that one. And look at the amazing pot he is in! Can you be in love with a plant? I might be, haha.

TO BE NAMED <3

I ALSO BOUGHT A TEA KETTLE.
If you know me even more, I am addicted to tea. In fact, I brought an entire gallon Ziploc bag full of Irish Breakfast and Earl Grey in my luggage. Buying a tea kettle (also known as my source of life) was a moment full of happiness. I also tried to check out at the cash register by myself, thinking the cashier wouldn’t ask me anything I couldn’t figure out, but failed miserably. She kept asking me a question and I had no idea how to respond. PTL some wonderful “Chinese Angels,” as they call them here (Chinese nationals who spoke English and took pity on me), came over and translated that the cashier was asking me what kind of receipt I wanted. Once we got that cleared up I was good to go. I think I’m going to need many more “Chinese Angels” in the days to come. I am p—ying I meet lots of them!

Lastly, I have a sixth grader from France who told me I was his favorite teacher today. Shortly after on of my students from South Korea came and asked me for book suggestions because he likes English class and wants to read more. Those sweet, encouraging words make all my worries and struggles a lot less powerful.

My students in photography class were brainstorming different creative picture ideas.

THIS WEEK'S STRUGGLES

During the week, China celebrated a national holiday known as “Fortune God's Festival". It was on September 12 (July 22nd in the Chinese Lunar Calendar) and people commemorate the holiday by lighting fire crackers. They do this to celebrate the Fortune God’s Birthday in hopes of pleasing the him. This meant that ALL DAY LONG (and into the night too) there were loud fireworks being set off incessantly throughout the city. This celebration went on non-stop right outside of the school. It was distracting for both my students and me with the noise happening right beneath our windows. Yet at the end of the day, I was thankful for it because it opened my eyes to a very real need to consider when p--y--g for the Chinese people.

The pollution levels have been on the high side this week. Pollution in China is measured by the number of harmful chemicals in the air that are damaging to inhale. The average pollution level for an American city like Charlotte is 4. This week in Qingdao, it ranged between 60 – 120. In Beijing, it was closer to 200 this week. Other than having an app to keep track of the levels, a really good way to know when the pollution index is bad is to inspect how many mountains you can see. This week I was deprived of their beauty quite a bit. Those who have been here for many years tell me that the pollution only gets worse the colder it gets (because China still uses factory coal for heating).

The view from my classroom windows

School-wise, this week was one of my most difficult. “Why?” you ask. Well, it felt like everything that could possibly go wrong did. Technology, students, paperwork, teaching, home life, sleep, meetings, ALL OF IT. My computer stopped working, I lost documents I needed for class, one class was particularly antsy and distracted multiple days in a row, I got new students, I was late for a meeting because the printer jammed with the documents I needed for it, in my stress I literally taught an entire grammar lesson wrong… it was all these shockingly little things that just made me so flustered and discouraged. AND YET… the IT department fixed my computer, I found or recreated my documents, and I apologized to my students explaining to them that I had made a mistake, and retaught the lesson… In every struggle, my Father was there beside me working all these hardships out. I’m not going to lie though, there was still a day of tears. I wish I could sit here and type that everything is easy and I’m adjusting fabulously, but that would not be the whole truth. I’m liking being in China and being at my school so much, but it has in no way been easy. I have said this before, but my real struggle at the moment is that everything in my life is so NEW. Everything is so frighteningly and uncomfortably unfamiliar and I am realizing that I need far more humility and patience than I’ve ever even conceived about having before. Thankfully, I have felt the love and support of coworkers, my family, and friends across the ocean who just had a thought to send me a verse to remind me of my Father’s love. While everything in my life seems unstable, He remains steadfast. What a comfort to be remind that He is my captain and the boat remains steady in His hands!

At the Art Lock-in!

I hope you enjoyed reading another chapter in this new adventure. As always, thank you for taking the time to read. I’d love to hear from you! During this time when I can barely remember what I’m doing in the next minute, reminders that I am not forgotten by those I cherish are needed more than ever! Blessings!

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CHINA Week 2: Teacher, Student, ME

9/9/2017

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These two beautiful dragons can be found outside an art museum beside the beach in Qingdao.

As of yesterday, I have been in China for two weeks! I confess it all feels a little strange, as though I am in some sort of alternate universe or time warp. My days are full and busy. I come home exhausted, but excited for tomorrow. Everything around me feels awesomely strange and terrifyingly spectacular.

My first focus of this past week has really been settling into the school. Silly things like having to remind myself that every time I read an email and it says, “foreign staff”, it is actually talking about ME still throws me off. Haha. Teaching at a private international school is so different than teaching in the American public-school system. Though all my students are skilled English speakers, you do not ever forget that for most of them English is their second, or for some their third, language. You are reminded of this fact when you see something as simple as them typing on a keyboard with multiple languages marked on the keys. Or you are reminded when one of them is telling a story in class and suddenly cannot think of the word in English to describe something, so they turn to a friend who speaks the same language for help. You are reminded, especially during their 20-minute tea break in the morning, when you see plethora of snacks from all over the world being shared by children whose passport countries are thousands of miles away. And none of that is mentioning the wealth of global experience inside my classroom. Many of my students are sons and daughters of international businessmen who have lived and worked across the globe! The stories they have to share are incredible!

My classroom!

I feel so privileged to get to lead a classroom full of young people who are, without a doubt, the hardest working people I have ever met. These students come to class ready and excited to learn (it’s a little sad that this is surprising to me, I know). Currently, we are studying the writing process in class and I am blown away by how willing and interested my students are in expanding and improving their essay composition skills. I feel such excitement when my classes arrive and so proud at the end of class when my students leave. These emotions are unbelievably opposite of many days I experienced teaching in the U.S. Here’s an example: At my school, cell phones are banned during the entirety of the school day. Do you believe that in my last ten days of school I have not seen a single cell phone in the hands of a student even ONCE!? These are teenagers! Not one phone… before, during, or even after school as the students leave has been seen. This was shocking (but so beautiful) to me! Distraction due to cell phone usage during class was one of my greatest battles during my past three years of teaching. It is so refreshing to see and feel that these students come to school with the intention of learning!

Sunrise on the Yellow Sea, Qingdao

We hosted our middle/high school open house this week and I was so honored by the interest and concern of these parents for their children’s education. I have learned that many of my students even attend night academy classes in addition to attending regular school during the day. The social and cultural pressure for not only academic success, but also, for the value of education is unlike anything I could have imagined. It restores in me the feelings that my calling here, as a teacher, is so important. I want to be a blessing to these families and live up to these young scholars’ desire to learn, grow, and succeed.
The Head of School spoke in our morning staff devotions about the importance of keeping our school’s purpose in mind. It is not only a question of “WHAT” we teach, but “WHY” we teach that really sets our school apart from others. Yes, we are committed to training students at high academic levels, we are pursuing achievement that leads to opening doors for these third culture kids to attend elite universities worldwide, and we are seeking to give them a unique worldview and perspective on global citizenship. Yet, more than anything else, we are here to invest in the “WHY” of these students’ lives. “WHY” are these students walking through my classroom door? Words like: Purpose, truth, hope and LIFE are breathed and orated within the walls of this school.

Fishermen's bikes along the boat dock

In many Asian societies, people are viewed as part of a collective group. How you live your life is not about you, but how you affect and influence the society around you. Whilst I admire this unified perspective of humanity, I also recognize that as a teacher (called by my Father) my true passion is not simply for English Languages Arts, photography, or theatre (though I do love all these things). My passion and purpose is NOT to invest in numbers, but to invest in people… in INDIVIDUALS. A student with a name, a heart, a dream, a heaven loved soul and mind. I know it has only been two weeks, but one of the things I find myself most looking forward to in the next few years is pouring into the lives of these students one. by. one. To lock onto a Greater Love than my own and flood these children with it!

A few people asked for pictures of me... so you get a dorky selfie in my classroom!

The second thing I have been focused on in the past two weeks, is understanding the fact that I am just as much a student as I am a teacher. Right now, everything is learning moment for me. From going grocery shopping to taking public transportation or trying to greet my Chinese neighbor… every second of my life right now is part of my own student learning experience.

I officially started my Chinese lessons this week. It’s daunting, but my desire to learn the language feels almost like desperation. I want to be able to communicate and speak with people. My parents gave their entire lives’ service to the belief that our Father can speak every language, therefore, I believe that my learning Chinese is a great expression of my Father’s love for the people group around me. So, I find myself a student once again and quite unsure where to start. P--y--s for this are greatly appreciated!

Please don't be afraid to keep me accountable and ask me how my Chinese studies are going! (Also, notice the one book is titled "Chinese Made Easier" because the truth is there is no such thing as making it EASY! lol)

I know last week I bragged about not having jetlag, and I confess to you now that I spoke too soon. My jetlag seemed to have been delayed and I was hit hard this past week. I have come home so exhausted every day. Yet, a blessing of sleeping strangely has been that I have taken advantage of my early morning awake-ness to go exploring. I have walked around my neighborhood or to the ocean to take pictures. It was completely unexpected how many Chinese are extremely early risers. I went down to the beach to take pictures of the sunrise this past weekend and you would not believe at 5:30AM how many people were out! Running, biking, walking their dogs, fishermen out on their boats, street sweepers walking along gathering trash, group tai chi and yoga sessions beneath the golden morning sun… It would seem China is alive and thriving long before the ‘day’ is fully awake. I hope this attitude of making the most of the time you have rubs off on me!

Fishermen on the Yellow Sea at sunrise

Beaches along the Yellow Sea in Qingdao

As much as I am enjoying it here, I have had my difficult moments, too. Transitioning and trying to find a new normal, whilst jumping into a new life head first, has proven to be just as much overwhelming as it is disconcerting. And while I find myself not at all homesick for America as a place, every time I talk with my mom I start to get choked up because I miss my family. Again, it would seem that my Father is seeking to teach me patience with myself. Right now, time is what I need to figure most things out. I mean if Moses wandered the desert for 40 years before finding his way to the promised land, and early believers waited generations for the promised Savior, who then wait 30 years Himself before going into ministry… I feel like Someone is advising that I should give myself a lot longer than two weeks to really have it all worked out… right? I guess a culture of instant gratification has worn off on me more than I had expected. Just another thing to work on and continue to surrender to my Father!

Thank you for taking the time to read this long post! See you next week!

This Week's Hilarious Highlights
(in which surprisingly mostly have to do with the bathroom… sorry?)

Squat toilets: I have faint memories of using them as a child in Cameroon, but using them as an adult is quite different. Let’s just say I was in there a lot longer than usual and I really need to work on my leg muscles because squatting for long periods of time…. is a literal struggle.
Whilst we are discussing toilets, you should know that most places in China do not provide toilet paper, you bring your own when you go to the bathroom. This is not too shocking except for the fact that they also ask you not to flush your toilet paper because the piping in China is not that strong. I think at this rate I’m going to clog up over half of Qingdao’s piping system because I keep forgetting that I’m not supposed to flush toilet paper. Sorry, China.
I woke up a little late one day and forgot about not drinking out of the tap (China's water being unsafe due to high metal concentration and perhaps some bacteria, too). I spent the whole morning reading stories of people experiencing all sorts of reactions to the tap water (vomiting and diarrhea being the most mild) and I spent the entire day paranoid I was going to be struck by some horrible symptoms. Nothing happened to me at all and I’m praising heaven for it (though I plan to avoid experimenting any further with my stomach’s tolerance in the future).
Last night, I took a taxi by myself and got home using the words “yes”, “no”, and “thank you”. It was a 35 minute drive and it cost me $6.00. Miracles do happen. Ha.

A man practices Tai Chi on the edge of the pier facing the sunrise

Interested in seeing more pictures from China?
Check out my photography blog HERE.

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My First Week in CHINA

9/1/2017

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I’ve been in China for one week now!

It’s been a whirlwind adventure in the past seven days. I’ve flown across the world, moved into my new apartment, taught and entire week of school, met a bunch of awesome people (many of whose names I’ll probably be asking for over and over again in the coming months), walked and traveled to all sorts of places across the city, and tried some great (not to mention authentic, haha) Asian cuisine!

It's going to be an adjustment now living in a big city!

Some highlights and praises so far:

Flying from the U.S. to China was WAY easier that I had anticipated! That is not to say that I was not freaking out the whole way, I definitely was! However, I’ve found the Chinese people to be so much more accommodating and kind to foreigners than I had envisioned. It was a very long trip, but one in which I felt confident and comfortable asking for help. Plus, I have to say thank you to China for having so many signs with translations in English!
The school-provided apartment is so much nicer than I expected! It doesn’t feel small or “apartment-ish” (not at adjective, but I’m making it one) at all. With three bedrooms, two bathrooms, an office, dining room, kitchen (with a tiny hall pantry), living room, and a patio, my roommate and I are at a loss for what to do with so much space!
The neighborhood is super safe – gated with individual buildings having fobs to get inside. It’s also SO QUIET! I think that is not as common in a big city like this, but I am loving it!

This lotus blossom (a prominent symbol of life and beauty) sculpture stands in the center of my apartment community.

In addition, the apartment is super close to of lots of little shops and restaurants, it is within a 10-minute walk of the beach, it is right beneath a number beautiful Chinese mountains (we are in the Shandong province – the character “shan” meaning mountain itself), within a 20 minute walk of two giant malls, and it has numerous opportunities for public transport closeby.
Public transport is hard if you do not know Chinese, but super convenient. So far, I’ve taken a public bus and a taxi, and with the help of coworkers who speak Chinese it’s been really fun. The driving culture in China is VERY different than the states, but similar to what I grew up with in Senegal (ie: feels like chaotic danger, but actually very controlled within the norms country. Oh, and also crowded. VERY CROWDED.).

With over nine million people in this city, you park where you find space. The side walk, the street, in front of a doorway... all legal!

I started school! It is hard to jump into classes only two days off the plane, but my coworkers, administration, and students have been so gracious and helpful. I am overwhelmed and feeling very incompetent, but it is such a comfort and blessing to know that I am in a safe place to learn and grow along with my students!
Speaking of my students, I adore them! I have students from over thirty countries in 6th through 8th grade and they are some of the sweetest, most hardworking kids I have ever met. I am teaching all new courses (6TH, 7TH, and 8TH grade English, & Middle School Photography I), but the English department at the school has been walking with me day by day until I get my rhythm.

Downtown I spotted this Chinese mail 'truck'!

I have had next to no struggles with jet lag. Have I been tired? Definitely. But I haven’t had any trouble falling asleep or getting up early… another great blessing when I have to catch a school-provided bus with other teachers at 6:25AM!
The food = delicious! The school has a system set up where in your first week or two other staff either provide or invite newbies to supper. It has been so nice not having to worry about what/how we will eat every day! It has also been so helpful in meeting and building relationships within the school community.

There really is so much more to tell, but I am going to leave it at that for the time being! 

Wandering the streets of my neighborhood, I spotted more than one stray cat.

I stumbled across this little bridge in an overgrown garden in my apartment complex.

The hard parts

Currently, my greatest struggle is jumping into a new school, new age group, new curriculum, etc. I have felt unprecedented support from everyone at the school, but is difficult for me to feel like I am not carrying my weight by not ‘having it all together’. (Meaning the only person not giving me grace and understanding seems to be myself!) HUMILITY, something to work on no doubt.

My apartment complex is one of the luckier ones to have buildings with elevators.

I have felt the Father walking beside me every step of the way, though I find myself trying to accomplish and fix everything on my own (old habits die hard). If you think to join me in pr@y3r for these things I would be most appreciative. I am really enjoying it here and anxious to start Chinese classes next week. However, with school pressure, I worry about finding a balance for work, study, relationships and rest (with hopefully some ‘play’ in there every now and then!).

Thank you for all your love and support. I know so many people were lifting me up to the Father throughout the process of getting to China (finally!). Now that I am here, I covet those continued pra@y3rs with a grateful heart and an overwhelming sense of joy!

Be on the lookout for more blogs and be sure to send me questions as ideas for what to write about in the future!

Soli Deo Gloria

MORE PICTURES

The apartment complex has lots of little gardens and I love it!

The sounds, smells, and sights of the city are at times overwhelming (in the best way)!

There are lots of cameras everywhere. Somebody *big* likes to know where everyone is!

After sunset in a neighborhood near the school.

Mountains or Beach? We have both!

I'll leave you with this image. This character (a double symbol of happiness) is commonly posted around the home/community of a couple on their wedding day!

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Countdown to China Update: ZERO

8/22/2017

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“All my bags are packed
I’m ready to go
I’m standing here
Outside your door
I hate to wake you up to say goodbye”

This John Denver song has been stuck in my ALL. DAY. LONG. Partially… because my sister and I did a little cover of it for one of my video blogs… mostly because it is actually happening.

That’s right! My Chinese visa arrived yesterday and I’m FINALLY leaving for China! There are ZERO days left in this countdown! For the past six weeks (that I have been delayed), my life has felt as though it were on pause. No movement, no clear direction, just an unknown state of waiting. Now, with the arrival of my passport, it is as though somebody has suddenly pressed fast forward and we're speeding ahead! I feel like we skipped something in the middle, the part that was supposed to feel natural... but nevertheless, it's now: ready or not…!

School started this week, so at this point I am missing the entire first week. I must say the administration, faculty and staff have been SO supportive and encouraging during the days of stress, anxiety and many, many questions. Though the transition will look a lot different than I had anticipated, I am grateful to already have felt so welcome by my co-workers even from far away.

This blog will not be long. Just a little note to say, “I’m going!” My total flight time is about 17 hours (with a five-hour layover in Beijing), so I’m planning on spending this day of travel doing a lot of praying and a lot of sleeping. I am committing to memory this verse shared with me by a family friend:

“Our soul waits for the Lord;
    he is our help and our shield.
For our heart is glad in him,
    because we trust in his holy name.
Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us,
    even as we hope in you.”
Psalm 33:20-22

I am so ready to go, yet so torn in saying goodbye to my family and my puppy. I realize that I am blessed with a lot of love in my life. How amazing it is to see this in such a real way. In these past few weeks of waiting, I have had some of the most fulfilling and healing conversations of my life. Leaving everything and everyone you know behind opens up the most amazing opportunities to have deep, heartfelt conversation -- conversations that are really ones you might forget to have unless you gain the knowledge that one of you is dying. It sounds bad when I word it that way, but it is wonderful. Telling people what they mean to you, sharing memories with a golden purpose, healing relationships that had been worn and tried... there is nothing quite so beautiful! No matter what the future holds, these conversations, these moments of tenderness and love, will be treasured into eternity... of that I have no doubt.

Don’t get the wrong idea though! This is not the end, but the beginning of a great adventure with the King of heaven leading the way!

Thank you to all of you who prayed for me during this whole process! I hope you will keep me in your prayers as I travel, arrive, and jump into the school year! THANK YOU!

The next blog I post will from CHINA!!!!!! I cannot wait! :)

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Countdown to China Update: I'M STILL HERE

8/5/2017

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“For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end--
it will not lie.
If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.”
Habakkuk 2:3 (ESV)

You know that scene in Star Wars? It’s the one in “A New Hope” when Luke Skywalker and Obi-Won Kenobi are in the Cantina trying to convince Han Solo to help them escape on his ship (because they’re being tracked down by Stormtroopers). When Han finally agrees to let them aboard Luke is like, “I better get out of here quick!” and he and Obi-Won rush away. Han Solo turns to Chewbacca and is all, “We’re going to make so much money out of this guy!” when suddenly a small voice rings out, “I’m still here! I’m still here! See, I came back?!”
… and there sits little Luke Skywalker... looking awkward and confused and, as he said, STILL THERE for some strange reason.

WELL, THAT’S ME RIGHT NOW.

Now, any true Star Wars fan is probably going to say, “I don’t remember that scene” and that’s probably because it is not actually in the movie, but a clever kid-created reenactment by Kid Snippets (see 4:26) that makes me laugh every time I watch it. Yet, each time I try to explain to people where I am right now in the process of leaving for China... I feel just like that lost and confused little Luke Skywalker unable to process anything except for the fact that he's still here. He made his plans, prepared what he needed, went to leave and somehow he never actually made it out the door. It’s rough, man.

That being said, here’s where I am at the moment. My original arrival date in China was scheduled as JULY 29, 2017. As you are well aware, that day has sadly come and gone. At this point in time I am still waiting on my work permit to arrive from China. It’s really out of my hands right now. As soon as my work permit is issued I will be able to formally apply for my VISA which, if approved, hopefully should be processed with about a week turn around. Then, I’ll likely fly out the very next day.

But, we’re not there yet!

So... I find myself living at home (for the first time in eight years mind you), driving my parents and siblings crazy with stress levels and saltwater production working at extremely high levels, and staring at suitcases that are *kind of* ready to go. The school in China tells me that it’s actually pretty normal for teachers to be delayed and that I'm not the only one. Though this fact definitely makes me feel less at fault, it does little to ease the pressure I feel building. I want to yell, “COME ON CHINA! I HAVE LESSONS TO PLAN, A LANGUAGE TO LEARN, A CLASSROOM TO ORGANIZE, AND A TWELVE HOUR TIME DIFFERENCE TO ADJUST TO! HELP ME OUT A LITTLE!”

Still, there ARE positives to having been delayed. I’ve had more time with my family and my dog. I’ve had lots of time to take naps and get rested up before I hit the ground running in China. I’ve had more time to pack, and repack, and then start all over and repack again. I’ve felt the necessity to reach out to God for strength, comfort, and understanding. I’ve also had time to put into practice some of the leaving ‘strategies’ I learned at orientation. The most helpful has been building my RAFT.

R = reconciling with people you’ve fallen out with
A = affirming relationships/individuals who have made an impact on your life
F = farewell, saying goodbye to people, places, and things
T = think destination, think and pray about what lies ahead!

When I look at the big picture, I honestly can’t be too disappointed or discouraged by this delay. The truth is that I am confident that Jesus called me to go. Therefore, I know He will get me there in His timing. I'm praying really hard that I will not be arriving day before or especially after school has already started (August 22), but if I do, then it just means I’ll have no choice, but to lean on God 100% in order to not freak out and do my best... and if I'm leaning on Him, then I know I cannot fail.

I can only beg again for you to join me in prayer for the coming days!
Thank you for all your sweet messages and support!

Also, make sure to subscribe and send me your mailing address! I’m sending out prayer cards currently and I’d love for you to get one!

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CHINESE LANGUAGE SUCCESS

CHINESE HEDGEHOGS

MY FIRST CHINESE WEDDING, sorta

KOREAN FELLOWSHIP

SPICY OCTOPUS TENTACLES

ENGLISH LANGUAGE FAIL? (or teaching success?)

THINGS TO KEEP IN YOUR 'THOUGHTS'

CLIMBING FUSHAN

QINGDAO ICONS

THE OLYMPICS IN QINGDAO

WEIRD FOODS IN QINGDAO

FINAL THOUGHTS ON THIS WEEK

MONDAY, September 25

Qingdao to QuFu to Tai'an

TUESDAY, September 26

Tai'an to Zibo

WEDNESDAY, September 27

Zibo to Weifang

THURSDAY, September 28

Weifang to Qingdao

Art Lock-in Event

COMING UP!

THIS WEEK’S SUCCESSES

THIS WEEK'S STRUGGLES

This Week's Hilarious Highlights(in which surprisingly mostly have to do with the bathroom… sorry?)

Interested in seeing more pictures from China? ​Check out my photography blog ﻿﻿HERE﻿﻿.

Some highlights and praises so far:

The hard parts

Soli Deo Gloria

MORE PICTURES

Also, make sure to subscribe and send me your mailing address! I’m sending out prayer cards currently and I’d love for you to get one!

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This Week's Hilarious Highlights
(in which surprisingly mostly have to do with the bathroom… sorry?)

Interested in seeing more pictures from China?
Check out my photography blog HERE.