Walked the Wall for China's abandoned and disabled

International China Concern is making waves, improving the lives of many young people with disabilities in Changsha and neighboring-city Hengyang. So proud to have this organization in our own community! Inside orphanages they are raising standards of care. They are empowering disabled adults with job skills and semi-independent living. Personally, I think ICC's initiative offering therapy to families with special-needs kids and thereby prevent abandonment is so exciting and brilliant! 

Last weekend our family and visiting friends -- Emily & Jesse and their sweet baby Ezekiel -- joined Walk the Wall march to raise awareness and funds. A group of Drew's coworkers participated. We exchanged smiles with lots of kids and staff who we know from the orphanage. Wheelchairs rolled alongside the 1500 who walked. In a nation that's a little sensitive about public demonstrations, that's a privilege and a great success.

Here's to Changsha's special-needs folks -- dignified, capable and valuable.

International China Concern website.

counting the graces

thank you Father for

unexpectedly, classes are over, so I won't miss any while in MN, and I have all of Dec. to write two term papers

Mike singing songs from preschool

Amy posting a wise and loving letter from Grandpa Gordy; Julia sharing encouraging insights in email

cousins new babies: Essie and Gordon

kids' imaginative, cooperative play on the sunporch -- hangers, a tent and a bench become a moon-bound manned space rocket

Auntie Wang's joyful support this week

Julie will have rides to China Place -- only you could have arranged that so perfectly

raincoats and rainboots for a stormy morning walk to school, to keep the boys dry and warm

Drew has to work on a project after-hours but he has such a good attitude about it