At school yesterday we took the kids trick or treating around the block. I didn’t get much but two small bags of skittles. The kids got a good amount. One of the places we visited was one of the student’s home (four floors in an apartment building in Tianmu, $!). They gave out a lot of candy and Oreos. That reminds me of the rich house on the block in my old neighborhood. They gave out king size candy bars. Hehe… Thanks to the students sharing their candy, I got my treat and I was happy. Cookies and milk, I love it.

A friend drew this for me a few years ago.

“Still thinking of you. It must be such a thrill to be able to go to another country and spend time and work and sight see and learn all about them and their culture.

I remember the look in your eyes when I was talking to you at Erica’s party, when you said ‘I WANT TO TRAVEL.’ This is only the first part of that dream of traveling. You are so fortunate to be able to follow your dreams. You worked hard and learned the language and now you are teaching English over there. Continue on like you are doing and you will be able to fill all those dreams of yours. I pray you will anyway.

I love you very much. Be careful and live all your dreams.”

God Bless
Nana

Hi Nana,

You’re right. I am very fortunate that I am able to follow my dreams. I was brought up in a loving family and was supported by my parents until I finished college, even when I was really mischievous. I can see where I’m going in the next two years but after that I’m not sure yet. I’ll hope for the best. Thanks for you wishes and encouragement. Love you too.
Smile,
Ben

Today was the first day it’s rained in a long time. I’m not sad that rainy days are here because the weather has been so nice for the past few weeks. I remember a lot more rain last year. Last Sunday the weather was sunny and hot. It was Chris’s idea to go for a hike. We hiked Thumb mountain (姆指山, I remember the characters this way but thumb mŭzhĭ should be 拇指). It was great fun and a good exercise. Chinese style hiking is fun. Ropes made out of electric cords and ladders that are just ghetto. Just think Chinese and how they like to rig things together using whatever materials on hand. Here’s the rest of the photos. I’m getting attacked by mosquitos. I remember this from last year. I can’t sit still any longer.