I love China in the springtime

A few things that have brought a lot of joy recently:

• Flowering bushes. They smell soooooo good! Usually the smells that waft towards me as I walk to and from class are not very pleasant. But with the sweet smell of flowers in the air I find myself breathing deeper.
• Market fruit. Fresh pineapple, strawberries, mango, honeydew, peaches...I love the fruit in the springtime. It's becoming a tradition to buy a wide variety, chop it all up, and throw it in the fridge for quick and easy fruit salads.
• Flip flops. It's always a joyous day when I can blow off the dust that's been collecting on the flip flops since Thailand. Yes, such foot attire results in very dirty feet by the end of the day, but that's what soap and water were made for.
• Fresh flowers. Another springtime tradition for me. I try to keep fresh flowers stocked in my bedroom and living room. Right now it's lilies in the living room and roses in the bedroom.
• New family. By far, one of the greatest sources of joy of late. Getting to play a tiny part in the joyful process of a little girl being swept up in love. Watching some of the first tender moments of a daughter who has been so eagerly pursued and longed for. Reflecting on the love of the Father who has loved, pursued, and adopted me.