Conference in Beijing and a Quick Trip to Xi'an

Last weekend we had the opportunity to travel to Beijing with 13 other KIA teachers and attend the ISC (International Schools China) Conference. ISC is a group of 6 like minded schools located around all the country and their yearly conference is amazing! We spent time with teachers who understand what our school is like and the unique challenges we face here and we had the chance to worship as a community of like minded people and ask for His guidance in our schools. We also attended workshops intended to give new ideas in the classroom, as well as workshops meant to assist on a more personal level. 

I attended one about living a life of transition and was blown away at how much change we weather in a year. This is not a new idea, but to be reminded and to know that there are ways of not only coping, but thriving in the change is SO reassuring. We, especially me, have been struggling lately to keep our heads above water with work, Fellowship, friends, school work (Eric is taking classes), extra-curricular clubs (MUN and SGA), and the day to day tasks that go along with living here. I have felt so weighed down just trying to survive and sitting there in that workshop, I realized that part of that heaviness and sense of being overwhelmed has come from a shifting support system. My closest China friend left this past June and although I feel like I have dealt well with her loss, I haven't replaced the support she offered me. I have been told that each year we lose people and gain new ones and you have to keep your heart open to them, but head knowledge and actual follow through are two separate issues. I was given a revelation and now I am hoping to work to right the situation.

If you talk to the Father, please lift up the following:

1. A strong support system here and that we would be willing to open our hearts to both new and old friends.

2. That the constant feeling of being overwhelmed would be replaced by His peace. 

Jasmine tea ice cream in Beijing!

A huge blessing in our lives is the chance for travel. After the conference we had a three day break for National Holiday and we were able to travel with some friends to Xi'an and see the sights. We biked around the city wall, saw the Terracotta Warriors, visited a pagoda, ate amazing food, and generally had a great time with friends. 

Xi'an, in front of the Danyan Pagoda

Xi'an city wall

Terracotta Warriors! 

So cool!

Thanks all, for stopping by. We covet your prayers!