A Busy Monday ...

This morning, I took Drew & Trey to Grace Chapel to head out for Super Summer Camp ~ they'll be gone 'til Friday. Although not many seniors were going, Drew was happy that there were a few of his great friends (Rocky, Tyler, Laura, etc.). There didn't appear to be too many 7th graders going either, but Trey was excited that there were a few of his great friends (Lars, Chris, & Spencer). There were lots of teens ~ Everyone seemed high energy and ready for a great week. Blessings on the leaders!

As I left the church, it was mid-day, and it was really special to be able to go to lunch with Robyn. Saying "good-bye" the last time before I go to China really brings to the forefront how close this adventure is ... 48 hours until we're at the airport!

Dave's been great supporting the family and our trip. His days now have blocks of time running errands to get us ready ... office max, hobby lobby, and the talk abouts from the motorhome were on his list today.

This evening, we hosted about a dozen teens for Money Matters, a multi-week class for young adults (staying out of debt, saving for retirement, being in control of your finances). They came and visited, had dinner, and then took over the basement for great teaching by Terry & Karen O (they are so dedicated to blessing people by faithfully teaching this material) and a video lesson by Dave Ramsey ~ his stuff is great!

On the main floor, we hosted a China Team meeting with brownies and homemade ice cream. We were able to review the itinerary in detail, practice some Chinese phrases (nee how!), share some packing ideas, learn more about each other, and pray together. It was an awesome evening. Erik shared with us that there are some people at church that are calling us the "Dream Team" because of how special the people in our group are ... I think that is right. It is such a great team and we are having so much fun connecting and pursuing excellence together. So, we'll be leaving soon to bring home the gold! We can't wait to meet the kiddos in our English Camp classes and just love, and love, and love on them. Thank you so much for your support and joining us on this adventure!

Ryan's commute between the two meetings was shortened to running up and down stairs :~) Afterward, Austin, Logan & Kelli stayed to help clean-up and get some final time together with Ryan.

I wonder whether Ryan's "good-byes" last night had that strange mixture of sadness & wonder that mine are now having (I'd ask him but he's working his last day from 8.30am to 9.30pm now)

Love, Sherrie