ChinaBird

Howdy Friends! I've been back in China just about a month now and I'm finally getting a chance to sit and write. Just as the seasons have been changing, so much has been changing here at SFCV. Back in September, I left China and headed back for 4 weeks of furlough, family and refreshment. It was a busy, yet wonderful time. So much happened....check it out. Chicago Arriving back in Chicago is always an amazing feeling. Chicago is my first home and I love it dearly. I was home for just 4 short days with family and friends, but it was oh so good to be able to embrace them once again and catch up. I must say, Moriah stole the cake! Over the summer, while I was in China, my Brother and Sister-in-law welcomed their third child, a girl, into the world: Moriah Elizabeth! Let me tell ya, she sure is a sweetie and she definitely stole my heart! Texas After a few days with family I headed down to the great state of Texas! I had only every drive through Texas but never stayed,...

Hey All! I'm so excited to share today's post with you all. I'm dying to tell you all about my 10 1/2 year old friend, Xander. This kid is amazing! When he first came to SFCV back in 2008, Xander struggled to control his Autistic "meltdowns", he couldn't self soothe nor did he know how to effectively communicate his wants, needs, or feelings. Although a sweet boy, he was at times aggressive. At our first meeting, back in 2013, I was greeted by Xander with a slap on the cheek and him throwing spit on me. Now, if you've met anyone with severe autism, then you know that these are common behaviors. Xander wasn't being rude or mean, nor did I think he was, but I will admit that I was surprised by his aggressive behaviors. Nearly one year later, I came back to volunteer at SFCV and I saw Xander. This time I was greeted by a waive and a high-five! I had to make sure I was greeting the same kid! His negative behaviors were gone and he was a very well- manner...