What were you grateful for this week?
Friends. 

What was the most challenging part of this week?
Getting soaked in the rain. 

Tell us about a “wow” moment you had this week.
A wow moment was talking with [my host family’s daughter] all about her summer plans! She works so hard in school and deserves a break. She is looking forward to her birthday later this month, as well as a vacation to Western China next month! 

Tell us about your week! 
This week was pretty different because the kids are officially out of school for summer holiday! I am so proud of them. With them being home a lot more, my hours and schedule has changed, I have been able to spend even more time with them! It has been so fun! Just when I think we cannot become better friends, we do! I love it! People are my favorite part of traveling for sure.

This week I had an epic experience on my way to church. I walk about 12 minutes to the subway station nearest my apartment. Once I am there, I get on the subway for about 40 minutes. Upon reaching my stop, I walk for about another 10 minutes. One Sunday, it just so happened to be pouring rain! I had an umbrella and everything, but I still got drenched on my back, arms, and shoulders. Once I was almost to church I had the thought, “Dang, if I was in America this would not be happening to me!” Surprisingly though, instead of making me sad or homesick, it made me realize how incredible these experiences I am having in China are. And even though some of them are less than comfortable or glamorous-they are making me a more well-rounded person, and giving me memories to last a lifetime!