Un-Chinese Thanksgiving Break

It’s only Saturday night, but so far this holiday weekend has been unusually un-Chinese. Thanksgiving night I enjoyed chicken breast and mashed potatoes at a Western restaurant with a Western friend, then was treated to a Starbucks cherry mocha something by a Chinese friend. Friday afternoon I got fries and a coffee at McDonald’s, then [...]

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Giving Thanks

As my second Thanksgiving in China approaches, I’m counting my blessings. And among the greatest blessings I have are my friends, particularly those in the States. You’ve written me emails and messaged me on facebook, you’ve sent me gifts and even PayPal-ed money my way. Big thanks. That’s all been necessary to my staying this [...]

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Beijing Excursion

Just got home from a weekend excursion to Beijing. My primary purpose was to see David Coleman, a friend and fellow youth leader, before he returned to Texas. He’s been to China many times, but this is the first time since I’ve been here. He’s also the first friend from home I’ve seen with the [...]

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Kiwi Birthday 2

So, my friend from New Zealand threw a second birthday party for this, his 40th birthday, and for this one, the main course was an entire roasted sheep. We had a good time at the “Sheep Up Tree,” and afterwards a few of us went to a place called Helen’s for hookah and a few [...]

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Kiwi Birthday

Tomorrow is my New Zealand friend Darryll’s birthday, so tonight our English study group treated him to a birthday dinner. These are some really great folks. Here are a few photos:

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