Let's start at the very beginning...

(Friday, January 27, 2012)

Hello everyone!

I am officially starting my China blog. I've been encouraged by a number of people to blog about my experiences on my upcoming trip, so I caved to peer pressure and this is the result! But let's back up for a bit. Quick life update:

I am a currently a junior at Messiah College, majoring in international business. However, I will be taking this semester off from school to intern for Actuant Corporation in Shanghai, China. Actuant is a diversified industrial company with operations in countries worldwide. It is also the company my dad works for, so thanks are in order to him for helping secure me this incredible opportunity. Thanks, Dad! I will be working in finance and global sourcing, and also teaching English in the office. If you would like to know more about Actuant, you can check out their website here.

In case you're wondering about the name of my blog, laowai (老

外) is a Chinese word that means "foreigner" --  in particular a white, western, foreigner. Being the glass-half-full type of person I am, I decided to embrace this title that will undoubtedly be used to refer to me on a regular basis.

I leave for China in just four days, and could not be more excited! It is truly a dream come true. I have no idea what to expect, but I'm prepared to go in with an open heart and mind, offering each day to the Lord for the glory of his Kingdom.

My cup overflows with blessings. May I always honor my Creator, the one who fills my cup.