CHINA: WE ARE HERE!

So far the traveling experiences have been memorable and eventful--but all safe! God is good. He has allowed us to arrive at Hong Kong as scheduled. We currently have a 5 hour lay-over and then will fly out to Xiamen. After we arrive to Xiamen, we meet the missionaries; connect with the Altrocks (the LST reps. on the trip with us); and prepare for our introduction meeting with our readers tonight @ 7:30 p.m.

There was a lot that went on just in the first day of traveling. Our flight from Omaha to Denver was an historic one for our teammate Julie Garcia, it was the first time for her to experience flying. When asked for her reaction to the flight she was quoted as saying: "All the school buses look like packages of gum!" So, things are looking up for Julie.

The two Mitches (making this the most Mitchin' LST trip EVER) went exploring through the Vancouver airport. Of course, there were copious amounts of salmon and maple syrup to be had. Don't worry: cheap Canadian Maple Leaf swag was purchased!

Tammy the Phan-tastic one has achieved a new Personal Record (PR). Most hours of sleep on an airplane: 10+ hours! Way to go Tammy! Needless to say, she's got energy.

Fun fact: Mitch R. got complimented on his facial hair in a men's room @ the Omaha airport.

What matters the most is that our team is still in tact; we still love each other; prayers are fervent; and the life-changing moments are drawing nearer. As mentioned above, tonight when we arrive in Jimei we will address our students for the first time. There will be a big meeting called the: LST Introduction Meeting. Everyone that has signed up for reading sessions with us will be invited to come and become introduced to us and the work we come to do. We are a tad tired but still excited about the fact that first-contact is only half the day away! We'll be sure to update tomorrow about how the info meeting goes; adjusting to the schedule laid out for us; and the first moments we have with the great people that the Spirit is going to position in the middle of our experience. Thanks for following along, for the love, and for the prayers!

~ Grace and Peace be with you