That welcoming phrase, in both Chinese and English, has been a constant “ding” on my cell phone.
After almost 4 years, I finally announced my return to Luzhou in my China WeChat moments, a platform somewhat similar to Facebook and What’s App.
“To all my Chinese faithful friends, former students and colleagues,” I wrote. “I’ll be landing in Luzhou on November 10 and leave for Vientiane, Laos, my next teaching placement, on December 8. During my stay, I will be going through ALL my 80 boxes of things and 15 huge bags of books. I have so much stuff! No, I am not taking everything with me. I will announce in my moments the days you are welcome to come take whatever you want. I have quite a few English books which some of you might be interested in. There will also be wall pictures, house decorations, toys, stuffed animals and table-top items which I don’t want. Anyone coming will be welcome to take whatever you want a reminder of Teacher Connie. And I suggest bringing big bags. The more you take, the happier I will be.”
Connie’s Time Line
November 9, I will be flying out of the Indianapolis airport at 5:05 a.m. Central to begin my journey. I’m absolutely spending the night. I don’t think my older brother would appreciate driving me 1 1/2 hours from Marshall, Illinois at 1 a.m.
My wonderful dad did that once in February, many, many years ago, in horrible snow and ice on I-70. I was heading back to my teaching placement in Taiwan after a 1-month winter break. I remember trucks and cars sliding right and left off the Interstate as we crept oh-so-carefully along. My mom and I insisted we just forget it, turn around and go home. I’d be missing my flight but better miss the flight than end up in an accident.
My obstinate, stubborn father refused.
The result was we did make it on time, with the airport crazily having received not even a dusting of snow or ice.
That also ended any of my same-day, same-night drives to the Indy Airport. From then on, I did overnights at the local hotels.
So think of me on November 8 as I settle comfortably in my Indy accommodations, on my way to another teaching adventure overseas.
And my China rescues, Lucy and Beanie? Stay tuned, folks, for pictures and a truly remarkable story of their forever-home adoption. (If you missed their story before, check out the previous entry: https://connieinchina.org/2023/05/07/rescue-dogs-from-china-awaiting-a-new-home/)
connie's space 
We would welcome you here in Crawfordsville for a bit to eat on your way to Indy if it worked for you. We’ve never done Turkey Run or Shades … Don can’t hike, if you feel a need for a hike we could meet you there and have lunch at the Lodge on us. Can only imagine how busy you are and the days will go so quickly. So excited for you!
Hugs!!!
A Sunday AM “Good Morning” You are full of such happy news today as you have wanted this decision for such a long time. I know your “Mom” has mixed feelings, but this is your purpose ….so go for it. I am so thankful to be on your “mailing list” so I can keep up with your adventures.
Maybe I have already mentioned it, but I have now found an EUB MUSEUM in Dayton, Oh that is interested in my items from Sierra Leone. I have already sent 20 books relating to Africa to them and am now thinking of African items. Gradually I hope to start placing items.
It is Sunday AM and I am now on my way to church. Attended 2 funerals this week – I am now in that “stage” So I trust that no matter when or where you go, we will continue to chat. My “bestest” thoughts and concerns are with you ….all the way. Lilburne