Miscellaneous Happenings

Hello all,
This past Saturday night, I boarded a 21 passenger bus with 24 other men who teach at ISB to embark on yet another mamorable experience... Wheelchair Rugby (previously known as Murderball) was the venue, and we would be watching New Zealand do battle with Australia. A huge rivalry regardless of the sport. To add to the plot, we had numerous Aussies and Kiwis along for the trip. Needless to say, it was definately spirited... Spirited in many ways...
After the Aussies won in the final seconds, we watched the British vs. the Germans. The match was not as fun to watch as the first, but the end of the match was memorable... You see, the Brits had a woman on their team. Josephene Pearson made the team and became the focus of our groups attention near the end. We wanted to see her play, so we began to chant "Jo-Si-Phene.. Jo-Si-Phene.....!" She got a huge grin on her face and some of her fellow teammates joined in on the coaching advice of us "Experts." And... would you believe it? The coach put her in, and the whole place erupted.... So, I can now add to my coaching repoitoire that I have had input into the Paralympics!!!
After the rugby matches, we headed downtown to an area called SanLitoon (spelling?), for a few. On our way there, I just marvelled at the fact that we really are in China. I'd have never thought that I would say that if you asked me a few years ago...
In this first month here, we've also met some amazing people. Some of our fellow teachers have taught in virtually every corner of the earth. And the stories that they have are unbelievable. We are mere rookies in this realm, but have already experienced a ton!!!
These fellow teachers have also been a lifeline for us as a family, and as educators. We couldn't do this without them. It will be nice in the future when we can take new folks under our wings and help them in their transition.
Well, that's enough for now. Laurie and I get to make a quick trip to The Wall tomorrow as she is going to set up for a field trip. The guy who is taking her and I get along really well, and he is letting me tag along!!! So, hopefully we'll have another story to tell. And pics to include too...
Until next time, God Bless and drop us a line!!!!

Riley and Crew