I was able to return to our old stomping grounds in Chengdu for 4 days last week to attend a homeschool conference. It was so much fun. Not only did I learn a lot, but it was also good to see the people and things I’ve missed since we moved. First, I really really miss Chengdu’s food. It’s amazing. They are famous for their spicy foods. In our new city, GL, they are known for a sour spicy flavor that I’m still getting used to. . . haven’t quite grown to love it, but I can now say I don’t mind it at least.

As soon as I arrived in Chengdu, I dropped my bags and went straight to Food Street (a beloved street lined with food stalls). I ate slowly and enjoyed my two favorite things that GL doesn’t have and I have missed so much – a peanut smoothie (it tastes like peanut butter fudge) and spicy potatoes. They compliment each other so well

Peanut Smoothie and spicy potatoes!

After the 2 day conference, I went to visit our former Ayi and stayed with their family for one night. It was so so so good to see them!! Since the last time I saw them sweet baby Aiden was added to their family, and the Father spared Liu De Hai’s life by providing a kidney transplant for him. They have walked through many many struggles. . . and we have tried to walk alongside them. It was so good to see them, and to see them doing well. It was also hard to leave them when it was time to go. Though we still talk weekly, one night was too short to catch up on 1 year apart.

Sweet baby Aiden (that’s his English name, obviously)! He’s 9 months old!

Baby Aiden and Liu De Hai are both miracles in this picture! Please PR for LDH’s mom (seated to his right) who has not yet received the Good News.

He’s a happy little fella!

Big sister Liu Si Yu (11 years old) and baby brother (9 months old)

My sweet sweet friend Tracy! We were able to have dinner twice, and I also stayed with her one night. It was so good to catch up! I’m so thankful for a friend like her in this country where we can pick up right where we left off!