The month of May started a great wave of visitors for us.
First, Morgan’s parents were able to travel here and see us in person! We
traveled some and enjoyed being together in our city. It was a added blessing to have Grandma catch the kids up on their reading skills. Morgan’s agriculture
project has grown a lot in the past year. It was a joy to bring Morgan’s
parents and show them around the village and green houses. (Check the link for
his new web page, chinabridgegap.com)
During their visit we also had returning friends from Pismo ca. visit with their two children. It's always great to have people come along side the work going on here.
After the Joneses visit, my Mom came with my Aunt and 2
other long time family friends. Again, showing them around to all the areas we
are involved in, including Starfish-project and the green houses. I felt like
they left with a real taste of life here as well. They came and blessed us in
many ways!
The last visit was from Morgan’s sister and 9-year-old nephew.
We had a great time of catching up and watching the kids play together. We
traveled to different areas and enjoyed great food and tea!
After the wave of visitors passed it was time to get back to
our daily schedule and everyday life.
However, it’s hard to not have the stream of family around. I have to remember how fortunate we are that our family and friends take time to come so far to see us. I do know how lucky we are. We feel encouraged, loved, supported, and connected.
Connection to family and friends is huge. I love the social
media tools these days. Skype, facebook, even instagram. It keeps us updated on
peoples lives in a small way. Our kids know what their cousins did for 4th
of July or how they celebrated their birthday. We know who got married or who
had a baby. We see families’ together, American traditions, celebrations, and
even the sad news too. It’s not the same as face-to-face…No, not at all, but a
little is better than nothing! Yet, sometimes I wonder if Levi (2 years old)
thinks his grandparents live in a computer. Maybe he thinks they are blurry but
still he hears their voice. This past week, we got a chance to talk to my Dad
who always is trying to get Levi to say “grandpa” but Levi for the past year
has responded with the easy way out using the local word for Grandpa, “ye ye”.
Well this week Levi said ‘Papa!” Close enough! Sometimes I like to just sit the
computer on the table and let my Mom watch the kids scream and fight. It’s
life, of course my kids aren't perfect, but that's real, there was even a silly
yet touching moment of me yelling, “Levi don’t bite your sister!!” Hey Grandma
knows now, Levi has a biting issue right? I love the connection we have, I
could ask for more, but a little IS better than nothing. So when our family
comes here! Wow! It’s so amazing, in so many ways.
And, thanks to all of you who send pictures or notes via the
web. I just had a high school friend confirm some medical advise for a child. What
a blessing to know I can ask a question and have the answer! But if
anything…lay off the really yummy food we can’t get here. It looks so good!!
Just kidding we really don’t mind, just don’t say anything when we do come
visit America and gain 20 pounds!
Hope you all have a wonderful end to your summer. Keep posting!
