The second-to-last week of teaching...

It's hard to believe that teaching is really and truly winding down in just two weeks. This week, we've talked with our classes about what to expect on the final exam, and Mike actually begins with graduate students' final exams next week already!

After the sports meet of three weeks ago and the national festival of last week (which also resulted in two days off from school), we are slightly relieved to be back to a "normal" week.

Hmmm... What is "normal" in China, living this life? I think the concept is fluid and changes... Whatever we are doing is normal!!

This week has had sweet times with students in class and out. Amanda has been studying with a new sister and has certainly caught the joy and excitement of new life! Just yesterday, out of the blue, another student asked deep questions, said she had been reading on her own, and would love to study! WOW!

It's absolutely amazing to find out that the Father has been working and touching lives all along... and with students we've known all semester or all year!

It's difficult to know how to lay a foundation this late in the semester but please think of us that we would be faithful to the hearts and opportunities that He has called us to. What a joy... but also a tough juggle with meeting with many at the same time! Please be thinking about us!

For now, our hearts are full and our bodies are a little weary. We are jubilantly tired :) Know what we mean...?

This week our hearts are beginning to turn slightly more to our time back in the States. What happiness awaits... and lots of busy-ness that comes with wanting to see so many people in a short time!

We will certainly spend lots of time in both Rochester and the Cities area (some time at First Free too!), so keep us in mind for getting together! We've love to have lunch, dinner, coffee (Coke for Mike!), or whatever with you! Let us know what is possible!

With much love and joy,

M+A