On January 7, our new "son" from China arrived. He is with us until the end of the school year. Tony has been a joy to have in our home. He is thoughtful, helpful, kind and has a good sense of humor. It has been interesting to experience America through Tony's eyes and to learn about China through Tony.

Waiting for Tony to arrive at the Des Moines airport. 

Back and forth across the airport hunting for a piece of Tony's missing luggage. The baggage lady did an admirable job of locating it before we left.

Tony with Royce, Matthew and Micah.

On the way home, we stopped at Subway in Carlisle which was an experience with someone who had never seen a Subway before. After we managed to get through the line, we sat down to eat. The manager (or owner) came over, dropped off some cookies and said "Welcome to America". I thought that was so kind.

Tony tells us he looks like a farmer. He is ready to help Royce and Matthew clean up brush and get some firewood.

Tony learned how to use a chain saw and chop wood.

Shoveling the driveway after the latest big snow. He tells us that in China the kids do the shoveling at school. Royce told him the janitor at Pella Christian would be glad to know that.





Recently, Royce and Matthew took Tony along with them to vote for a new county supervisor. (There was a special election because the current supervisor has been elected to state office). Tony was quite amazed that we could pick. In China, he told us, when you vote there is one choice.

Tony is fascinated by squirrels and loves to watch them in the yard. He thinks recliners are the best thing he has discovered in America and he that American food is great. So far, I would say the only thing he is not fond of is salsa.