Returning

As some of you know, I am returning to China this weekend to help arrange further exchanges between ETSU and Chinese institutions. I am the junior member of the party-- Dr. Jack Rhoton is going as is Dr. Hal Knight, our Dean. Dr. Weixing Chen, a young and extremely accomplished professor of International Studies is coming with us and will serve as our interpreter. I am excited about the programs we're working on, and I'll be delighted if we accomplish what we're hoping to, but it seems a little soon to be leaving home. I've just recovered from reentry. And yellow cat, butter only recently forgave me for being away so long.

I am gifted (or afflicted) with wanderlust, however I like spending time in the Southern Mountains. I love our small house with its surrounding trees. If I'm here too long though, I start to feel hemmed in, and I want to travel. But this is coming very soon.

Above: Butter naps on the couch.

Below: Jasmine, the younger of my cats, makes it hard to pack.