Around the world and back

Hello again everyone. It’s been quite awhile (as usual) since my last update. Except this time, I think I have legitimate reasons for it! I’ve traveled half-way around the world, and internet “guidance” has recently been a little more tight and hasn’t allowed me to access my usual way onto sites like facebook and this blog.

Two weeks ago today was my Grandpa’s funeral in Bloomington, Indiana. As I mentioned, my friend Joe was able to help me get tickets at about half the price I would have had to pay. I also got to fly first class, which makes the long flight seem a LOT shorter. I wish I had been home for another reason, but it was still great to see everyone from my dad’s side. The funeral was sad, but also very hopeful with my dad (who led the funeral) talking about heaven and what it can mean to us. My cousin Michele and I read memories that all of our cousins had about him. It definitely seemed strange to not have him there with everyone else, but it’s a reality that everyone must face at some point.

The entire trip was about a week, and about 40 hours of it was spent traveling by plane or car. With the 12-hour time difference, my sleep schedule was really messed up! I just got back to normal about a week ago only to mess it up again to watch the NCAA Tournament this weekend!

Anyways, after I returned from America, I was told by the other teachers that we had a new boss! Apparently, the school has elections every 4 years during the school year for administrative positions. A different English teacher (Tony) will replace our old boss (Dominic). The little I’ve talked with Tony, I’m really excited to work with him. I think he understands our situation as foreigners very well and will do a great job supporting and communicating with us.

Last week, I attended my first completely Chinese wedding (Cory and Lara’s was a mixture of American and Chinese). It was for Elva, another teacher at our school who we also know from Mr. Mai’s. It’s difficult to describe a Chinese wedding. I think the best way to describe them is that they’re similar to our wedding receptions without the service that we usually do before it. Mandi, Cory, and I sat with other teachers from our school. It was fun as always getting to know some teachers better that we often only casually pass at our school.

Lastly, I’ve lately had a few great conversations with some Chinese friends about J and the Book. I’m grateful for the opportunities, and you can be thinking of them as well!

I hope you are all doing great and enjoying March Madness during the day while I’m staying up all night!