It’s hard to believe our trip to the US is about to come to a close! We’re hopping a plane back to China this coming Monday, September 19.
As many of you know, we came here because of my husband’s lawsuit (you can learn more about that here). The lawsuit still continues. And I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t hard.
It IS hard.
And when you’re facing hardship, as we are, sometimes you’re running low on inspiration. Sometimes you need to find ways to recharge and reconnect with everything that’s good and right and beautiful in this world.
That’s why I’m so grateful to you. It’s people like you that have inspired me and motivated me in the hard times.
This photo essay is dedicated to all of the people — even those not present in the photos I’ve shared below — who have stood by us with support, encouragement and warm smiles.
Thank you for being there for us.
Hugs from my friend Judy in Idaho.
Hanging out with my fabulous sister Sue and my niece.
Meeting up with my husband’s dear colleague Susanne.
At home with my loving stepmom and dad, who have been among our greatest supporters.
Dinner with Cheryl and Donna, two of our amazing supporters in Idaho.
Out and about with my Uncle Roy (yes, Uncle Roy, the chi is balanced and life is good).
Meeting with Susan Blumberg-Kason and her kids in Chicago’s Chinatown.
My dear Uncle Robert and Aunt Dolly, who graciously invited us out to Tommy’s, a vegetarian restaurant in Cleveland that I’ve missed for years.
Stopping at the Root Cafe in Lakewood, Ohio with Jillian, who really cheered me up over a tasty lemon almond vegan muffin.
My friend Kathryn, who is a librarian extraordinaire in Idaho and one of the few people I’ve met who has dared to learn Chinese.
An unexpected birthday party in Idaho with my friends Judy, Donna and Janice (with a birthday balloon)! They even remembered my favorite tea is mint.
Scott and Jan, who charmed us with their smiles and laughter over a generous lunch that was their treat (thank you for that).
An unforgettable evening filled with good conversation, lots of empathy and great Asian food with Gail, a longtime friend of the family.
Meeting with my dear friend and writing/business mentor Bill Doll, who has been an incredible supporter.
Enjoying the goldenrod at its peak with the one guy who inspires me everyday — thank you, Jun Yu.
I’ll be taking a break from blogging next week. Wishing you all a happy Mid-Autumn Festival!
Love that you have so many supporters as you guys fight on!
If you were on the West Coast, Andy and I would feed you vegetarian meals. Or at least pry the yolks out of the mooncakes for you.
Thanks Autumn! You are so sweet and always hilarious…if there’s ever anyone I’d want to help pry the yolks out of my mooncakes, it would be you. Ha ha!
Wow! What a fantastic group of supporters!
You’re looking really good–strong and healthy. Have a good trip back.
Thanks Nicki! I am feeling a lot better. I think being at home and meeting with people was a big energy boost for me.
It is good to see there are so many people behind you when the revolution is going on. I may not give you any financial help, what I can do is to cheer you up. Good luck, my friends.
Thank you Lao Zhang! Just being there for us means a lot.
lots of lunch and dinner time
Ha ha, yes indeed!
Oh these photos were so sweet Jocelyn. You have so many people that love and support you here in the states. I’m glad you were able to fall back on some people for emotional support! Everyone here on the blogosphere is also supporting you and Jun! Jia you and have a safe journey to China!
Thank you so much Mary for saying that! Your comment made me smile! 🙂
I’m glad you got to visit so many people who care about you during what must be a hard time. I hope everything gets sorted out with his degree! Graduate school is tough enough, but add discrimination on top of that and I can’t imagine what it must feel like. It’s great that you support each other in the hard times.
Thank you Monica! 🙂