Well, we are Amy, Buster, Caleb and new addition Emma Canfield. We have lived and worked in China for over three years now and thanks to some friends we made in Pensacola Florida we have this great website up and running (thanks Mel & Tony!). We call Florida in general home, but specifically the city of Pensacola is where we hang our hats and have some wonderful caring people in our home church who pray for us all the time. We miss the great folks at First City, but hopefuly this will be one way we can stay in touch more easily.
Previously we lived and worked in the city of Changhsa located in Hunan Province as English teachers. Amy and I taught there for about 18 months. During that time our family had some wonderful adventures, learned a lot about Chinese culture, saw some amazing stuff and met some terrific people ~ several of whom we still keep in touch with (and even a couple who live and work in Shanghai with us now)
Currently we live and work in Shanghai, where I am/was: a counselor in the counseling department, the Director of Student Affairs in the elementary division, the newly appointed Director of Athletics for a private school in the PuDong area. I’ve coached high school and middle school volleyball as well. Amy is probably actually more busy than I am as she has so many things going on in different areas. Amy is teaching Caleb at home (he is nearly 9 years old now!), which is more work than one might initially expect. His Chinese language ability is really starting to increase. We have been blessed with some great relatonships here among many different people, and we are still learning more and more about Chinese culture.
Even with all of the various work related activities, we prioritize our “spare” time around reaching and teaching those with an interest in the joy we have. We meet regularly on weekends/weeknights and whenever else folks are available.
We left our reply under Pictures. Do you have your pictures posted yet?
Grandpa Ricks and Paula
Hi Guys, I sure to miss you . Most of all I am sorry that I have not written to you more often. Bet you think I have forgotten all about you but never will. This is a wonderful web site and I’m thankfull for it also. Take Care, I LOVE YOU ALL, Aunt Squeak
I am Jesse,one of your student . Do you still remeber me ?
I felt so sorry I havn’t contact you in Shanghai. Now I have been busy for a really long time .
Will you all come back to US in this summer?
Hope you and your family have a great life and fun everyday!
God bless you !
Hi Amy & Buster,
Happy 12th Anniversary!!!
This must be a very special anniversary for the two of you now that you are celebrating with your son AND your daughter.
I have seen all of your pictures – she is just as beautiful as your son is handsome.
I thought about your anniversary all last week, but I forgot to mention it on the telephone. It’s August 5th here so I hope it was wonderful.
I will talk to you more when your mom & dad are here.
Luv U,
Mimi