It is really hard to describe how beautiful the simple things in the States appear after coming from the dust, concrete jungle of Beijing, that also frequently struggles with polluted air and a press of humanity. This morning I took a few minutes to marvel at the flowers popping through the dirt in the garden. It is even funny to think 'even the dirt seems clean!' I guess our middle son must be processing through the same thoughts as he played in his Pop-pop's backyard with his brother “hey, you don't even have to watch out for the poop in the grass!” I guess the literally thousands of dogs in our neighborhood back home in Beijing have left a clear impression on him! Whew … the other adventure of the day was sorting through the mountain ... read more

We split up after landing in Chicago. My wife and 3 kids went to take a connecting flight to the Philly area, while I sat outside O'Hare on the curb waiting for the CoachUSA bus to the South Bend. Oh how I love America air. Even though it wasn't a particularly great day, the brisk fresh air was so refreshing. The bus took a few hours and it was wonderfull to see our good friends in Elkhart. They had the America Bed (see the picture) all made up and ready for my arrival. They also had spruced up the van, 4 new tires, new distributor cab, wires, and an oil change! What a blessing!!! (i found myself taking time to just praise the Lord out loud for blessing us with such phenomenal friends on the drive ... read more

A sunny and warm day in Beijing. I went for a run this morning with the gentleman who's van we will be borrowing for our journey. He has been such a blessing and is having it gone over again prior to our arrival in the States next week. As described by him it is a solid vehicle. Garage kept by one elderly owner for 18 years, it is a 1990 Ford Econline 150 conversion van with 86,000 miles. Our friend reaffirmed today that he hopes we can help added 10-15,000 miles to odometer! God is so good to our family to bless with such great friends!!! ... read more