Countdown!
5 more days in Hailar
17 more days in China
22 more days until I return to Minneapolis
There have been so many contradicting emotions flooding me lately which have prevented me from properly updating you. Perhaps after I return to the states and sort through my thoughts (and pictures) you will receive a more detailed description of my last month here.
In the meantime, I'll give you the abridged version of the past few weeks and my upcoming plans.
May 13th - May 18th
I spent a wonderful week on vacation out East with a family from Minnesota. We did life together and I was blessed to see a bit of the work they've been doing. I also had a ton of 'kiddo' time which brought me great joy.
May 21st - May 25th
This was my last week at the second school I had been visiting. Unlike most things, saying 'goodbye' does not get easier with practice.
May 26th - June 1st
This will be my last week at the main school I visit. I will have to bid 'farewell' to each of the 20 classes that I visit. I have developed deeper friendships with these teachers and anticipate quite a few lunches and dinners together throughout the week. I will also be meeting with all the Camp Shamineau employers, who are dear friends, for the last time this week.
June 2nd - June 10th
I will fly to Beijing on the evening of the 2nd. In Beijing I plan to meet with a few friends, both Americans from the States and Chinese friends whom I met through Shamineau, for some sight-seeing experiences. Thankfully, God has provided free lodging for me while I am there, so I will be able to afford a side trip to Tianjin.
June 10th - June 13th.
I plan to take a train from Beijing to Tianjin to visit some teachers I met during May holiday. These Americans work at an international school, which I plan to visit with an interest for future possibilities.
June 14th
I fly out of Beijing for Chicago, IL!
June 14th - 19th (or so)
Home with the 'rents. Laundry, picture swapping with my South American traveled sister, and French toast.
June 19thish
Minneapolis: Julie's basement.