MY BIRTHDAY! (Email Update)

Email Update

Short Version:
Birthday Party Update- thank you for praying!
“Why not have a storying workshop where people can learn the stories and how to use them in the villages?”
“Will you carry wood, eat grass, and tell stories?” (testing in villages…)

Birthday…Update
Thank you all for your prayers for my birthday party. One of our story-crafters “Precious,” helped prepare special food, and shared the story of Jesus’ birth. I followed with a brief testimony in Kahani language about what His birth meant in my life. It was a blessing to share my birthday with so many of our friends from such a wide variety of backgrounds.

“Why not have a storying workshop…?”
This past week, our housemate, Vivian, organized a workshop to motivate local leaders to support the translation work that is happening. Robin and I also did a short presentation on stories. The result from the presentation is the idea to have a two-day storying workshop for the local leaders to learn the Kahani stories and how to use them use them in their ministries and in evang. in the villages. While there is still much to plan, the tentative dates are February 20-21st. This is a huge step in transitioning the work we’ve done in the past year into the hands of nationals. It is our prayer when our time in this project is finished, we can leave knowing that His Word, through these stories, is going forth! Please pray now that He would be preparing those who will come and develop a desire to share the stories in the villages!

(picture: dancing at my birthday party!)
“Will you carry wood, eat grass, and tell stories?”
Our house helper, “Anna,” asked us this today as we started making plans to visit her mother’s village next week to test stories. She is excited to visit her family and show us her mother’s village. She has planned that we’ll sleep in a different place each night, staying for three nights, we think. Pray that the trip will go well, we’ll be able to test stories, as well as listen to their stories, and that above all, we would be a light to “Anna” and her extended family.

Picture: Left to right: Me, Vivian (our housemate, originally from Guatemala), Robin- roasting marshmallows and keeping warm by the fire we have several times a week at our home during the winter!

PRAISE AND PRAYER:
Praise for encouraging moments with story-crafters.
Praise for Robin and me coming to some decisions regarding the rest of the stories for the set.
Praise for the blessing of being able to share a story and testimony with many at my birthday party.
Prayer for testing in villages- the next few weeks, and continuing to adjust stories.
Prayer for beginning plans for the storying workshop! (currently scheduled for: Feb 20-21).

Til All Have Heard,

~ Elizabeth
“Like the ten spies, we too can be pessimists; or like the two spies, optimists. Like the ten, we can put our difficulties between us and God and say we are not able; or like the two, we can put God between the difficulties and ourselves and say we are able!” ~Henrietta C. Mears

“Is anything to hard for the Lord? No!” ~Genesis 18:14

Cost of not obeying God

Joining God requires major adjustments. The reality of adjusting to Godholds true throughout Scripture. David could not continue herding sheep onthe hillsides and become king of Israel. Jonah had to overcome a majorprejudice in order to preach to the people of Nineveh. Peter and others hadto leave their fishing business in order to follow Jesus. Obeying God willalways come at a cost. But few people take into account the cost of not obeying God. It is always much higher.

--Henry Blackaby

Places In-Between (Journal Entry)

So much to do, yet today, I did nothing story-related. Of course, the day isn’t over yet. It feels a little strange, kind-of like I didn’t do anything important of valuable.

I'm trying to take it easy and rest. And boy, that's not as easy as it sounds!!! Of course it’s easy when it’s the only thing to do- on vacation for example, or on a Sunday afternoon when that’s just what you do. But for me, in this place, there is always one more thing to do. One more story to check, one more neighbor to visit. One more phone call to make, on more issue to discuss. It’s never ending. But today, I've been trying to just rest.

Lord, I’ve been thinking about something recently. Coming back here after this. Coming back to continue working on stories. I haven’t felt this idea at all until about two weeks ago. And yet, this past week showed me that perhaps there are enough workers and others who can continue the work without us- wow, wouldn’t that be great? I guess only time will tell if I feel that my work here is done. Of course, my two year-commitment will be done soon, and yes, I’ll go home then. But beyond that, is my work here finished? Only You know!

I’m listening to “The Places in Between” right now, narrated by the author- it’s about his trip across Afghanistan. And is really amazing. I want to use some of his audio clips in a language/culture learning class to give an example of detail, and certain things that we might easily overlook, but we can gain so much information from. It’s been really neat to listen to it- and wonder if I might find myself in a similar situation or place one day. Of course, so much of it applies just to men- but it does give an insight to their life and ways- which I may never get first-hand experience at.

"Home is the niecest word there is" (Email to Parents)

Mommy and Daddy,

Laura Ingles Wilder (Little House on the Prairie)said, “I’ve decided something. ‘Home’ is the nicest word there is.”

Even though I’m not at home right now, I think I might have to agree. While it’s still many months away, at least it’s within this same year…

I enjoyed watching Little House today, while sipping on that caramel hot chocolate you sent, and dipping my chocolate covered candy in it…You would never know that in a few days, I’ll be sleeping next to scrawling kids, scratching the fleas, eating grass, carrying grass and wood on my head, and cooking bread by a fire.

I love you.

~ Elizabeth

Kahani Art!

"Grace" and I painted some 'aparn' - traditional Kahani art while I was in her village this last time.

Burned out... (Journal Entry)

Anyway, I’m feeling burned out somewhat…and unsure of what to do next in this project. It’s not that I don’t have things to do. I have too many to count, so many things that I even forgot something important I needed to do….

You know what, I think I’m feeling overwhelmed by it all- and stressed because I don’t know the answers…I know I never will know the answers, but even just a few hints would be helpful, you know?

Do I go to the village regardless of if Judy responds to my email or not? There are things to change in the stories, but if she doesn’t respond, would it be just a waste? No, nothing’s ever a waste, but with so much to do- is it the wisest way to spend time?

Anyway…Father, give me wisdom- help me to have PAITENCE…I feel a little bit like I’m just rushing through this- even knowing that another recording will be necessary, but part of me just doesn’t care, I just want to get it done. I know these thoughts are wrong, and I need to wait and take a step back and enjoy it too…

(picture: Ganga ["Grace"]- a new story-crafter)

Precious said today that people don’t really see how God can forgive them. She also told Robin another day that we can’t do sins against God directly, only to other people. Wow- these are things that are MAJOR in getting the gospel communicated- how then can it be accomplished? How will these people know about you? Will they ever? I’m crying for them now. Precious, Ganga, Aunty, Uncle, Ulka, our landlord and his family, Ganga’s aunt, her mother, her father, her several brothers and their wives. What about the principal, the dukandars (shopkeepers) upstairs, the neighbors we gave cakes too, the neighbor who wanted to know where You came from, and why You died. The village we first lived in, Joyti, Bicky, his wife, their parents, their brothers, Deepa, Gaitree, Panna.

What will it take? When will we know? Will we ever know? Will we ever see them turn to you? What else do they need? How can these stories be exciting? These stories need to be ones THEY WANT TO TELL…and REALLY BELIEVE….

Yes, we are getting some recordings- but they are just recordings. They are even fairly biblical. But, so what- we can easily have someone translate the Book- hey they are already doing that- we can have someone read that into a recorder, and play it- we can even get them to use emotion…but to TELL a STORY…what will it take? Why haven’t we reached that point yet? How can I work with Ganga, who doesn’t speak English, how can I communicate to her, how can I get her to have motivation to work on stories? How can I also have patience to know when to stop working and focus on building the relationship?

There just seems to be so much to do…so much to do…and as if the work that needs to be done is just mundane stuff- the recordings aren’t even exciting…the stories are confusing in English, let alone another language…no wonder Ganga can’t get it…

Father, show me what to do…please, clearly show me...

Here are some lyrics I’ve heard recently...

Lord I’ll count it all joy, when my travels close me in on every side.
Lord, I’ll count it all joy, when this road of faith runs through the darkest night.
For I know your at work in me.
Yes, I know, your provide all the grace I’ll need.

You have always been my rock
I will trust you forever, forever.
You have never failed me God.
I’ll trust you forever, forever.

Lord, I’ll count it all joy, when the weight of sorrow draws me to my knees.
Every heartache and pain, in your mighty hands as your forming Christ in me.
And I know that your word is true.
Yes, I know every trial you’ll pull me through.

Merry Christmas!

Vivian, Neetu, her little brother and I rode the motorcycle to a Christmas Day service at the Leprosy Mission down the road!

Precious, her grandmother, a neighbor, and her mother - we visited them, and several other neighbors on Christmas day!

Email Update!

Email Update- December 17, 2006

Short Version:
“Grace” – a new story crafter
“Are you going to invite me to your birthday party?”
What do these people really need to know to follow HIM?
The Himalayas…a constant encouragement.

A New Story-Crafter
We’ve started crafting stories with a new friend, “Grace”- (the relative of one of our neighbors). This involves taking trips to her village (15 minutes on the motorcycle, and about 45 minutes hike down to her village). Living in the village a few days a week to craft and test stories has been a blessing. Fetching water, fire wood (all on my head, of course), making rotis (flat, round bread) by fire-light, unsure of where the next spot will be to go to the bathroom, conversing in the village language, etc, etc- the fun never ends.

“Grace” a new story-crafter and me working on stories…
wrapped in our shawls to keep warm!

Are you going to invite me for your birthday?
All of our neighbors and even a few others have asked me this question recently. They all know my birthday is on the 21st of December, and they are all expecting a party with food and dancing. So, attempting to be culturally appropriate, we’ll arrange a party. I’m also hoping two of our story-crafters will be there, and I’ll ask one to tell the story of Jesus’ birth. I hope to follow the story, by sharing a short testimony of what the birth of this baby means in my life. It will be exciting to have the house filled with people- from the lowest class to the highest, and three different religions—most non-believers, but many of whom have heard some or all of the stories we have thus far.

What do these people really need to know to follow HIM?
As Robin and I have been meeting to discuss additional stories to add to the set, this question has been laying heavy on my heart and mind. Since we are planning to do only 24-26 stories, it’s not possible to focus on all the qualities and characteristics that could draw someone to Him. Thus, we have to make some decisions about what stories to do, and what characteristics to draw out. We have learned so much from the past year and are able to make some good “guesses.” However, it’s hard to accept that we won’t ever really know what’s best. We can try what we think would be best-- but then must fully TRUST that HE will take are of the rest.

As I praise him for the work that has been done and also ask him to help me trust Him with the work that remains, He has directed me to this verse…the words that David encouraged Solomon with as he got ready to build the temple.

“Be strong and courageous and do the work. Don’t be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by the size of the task, for the Lord God is with you! He will not fail you or forsake you.
He will see to it that all the work…is finished correctly.!
~ 1 Chronicles 28:20 (NLT)

The Himalayas – December brings cold weather, but also beautiful, clear views of the ‘snow mountains!’ Being able to wake up every morning and see the mountains (not these in particular, but other ones) constantly reminds me that just as the mountains stand firm no matter what happens- our Father is also there, no matter how good or how bad things may be. What a blessing to always be reminded of this.

PRAISE AND PRAYER:
Praise for a new story-crafter.
Praise for being able to make more progress on our previous stories.
Praise for staying healthy.
Prayer for all of our story-crafters (Nathan, Precious, Grace) as they continue adjust previous stories.
Prayer for my birthday party- that it would be another opportunity to demonstrate His love to the Kahani people. Also pray for my testimony- as I figure out how to say everything I want to in the Kahani language.
Prayer for guidance in deciding more stories for the set.

As you think about what this Christmas season means, don’t forget that so many people still don’t know its meaning. Pray for those across the street from you as well as the Kahani people- that HIS STORY would become real in their hearts!!!

Have a wonderful Christmas!

Til All Have Heard,

~ Elizabeth

"She has all her teeth!" (Email to friend back home)

(Part of an email to a friend back home)

...As the older women in the village were examining me one day, one of them was about 2 inches from my face- talking about my nose, and hair, and eyebrows and teeth. One said, “Look at how white her teeth are!” Another one said, “Oh my, look, they’re all there too!” (meaning my teeth!)
Then it was a show of who had teeth and who didn’t, and which ones were missing, and why, and for how long, etc, etc, etc. I wonder if there is a story in the Book about teeth- they would for sure connect with that one!!! :)

Anyway, crafting and testing stories in the villages has been going well. It’s physically draining as we fetch water and wood for the fire daily, among other village chores. However, it’s emotionally refreshing to be among the people whom these stories are for! Pray for “Grace” our new story-crafter- she’s a fairly good story-teller, and willing to help. Pray that she’ll realize that her aunts and sisters-in-law can provide useful feedback and that her aunts and sisters-in-law will listen and want to help. Of course, above all, pray that all of them realize the Truth within the stories…(see a picture of one of the little boys with his goats in "Grace's" village).

I hope you are enjoying the Christmas season!!!

~ Elizabeth

This time next year...I won't be here anymore... (Journal Entry)

I started thinking today, during our prayer time today, that one day, I won’t be here anymore. In fact, this time next near, I won’t be here – this is my last December 10 in "Kahan"- most likely. Time is flying by, really.

After I leave, I won’t hear Precious's voice singing loudly “Shout to the Lord.” I won’t see look of surprise and wonder on the village women’s faces when they hear me talk in their language. I won’t taste the daal and rice- the watery kind in the village, or Panna’s nice thick kind in our home. I won’t hear Nathan tell me again how these stories will never be finished. I won’t see his reaction when he completes a story- or tells it to someone else. I won’t feel the cold wind blow through me as I drive the motorcycle down the mountains back from a crafting session. I won’t feel the heat of the sun, and the sweat dripping down my back as I trek to a village.

I won’t be surrounded by children asking, “take one more picture, one more, one more…” I won’t feel the scratching of the grass in my hair after returning from the river and cutting grass with the village women. I won’t wonder about where to go to the bathroom. I won’t wonder if I’ll eat once or twice the following day. I won’t hear people say, “I love this story,” or “Tell this story again, I want to learn it.” I won’t hear people say, “You are like my daughter, we are your family here.” I won’t wear six layers of clothes at once (unless we’re sledding, maybe). I won’t have soup at least 5 times a week for dinner. I won’t have a habit of sleeping in three difference places within one week. I won’t hear people say, “This is (or isn't!) a good story.”

I will feel the warmth of a heater. I will see lots of white people as opposed to dark skinned people. I will hear my language being spoken by everyone! I will taste taco salad, and ice cream on a frequent basis- or as much as I like. I’ll actually have more of a variety in choice about what I wear, where I go, and what I eat. I will have electricity 100% of the time, I think. I will have more than just two people to talk to in my language. I will miss my neighbors calling to me from their porch, asking how I am, or why my clothes don’t match, or if I've eaten breakfast yet.

I will wonder what Ganga, Nathan and Precious are doing and if they have forgotten all the stories. I will wonder about Anne's aunt, and if the stories she heard had any impact at all. I will think about the first draft of our creation story, to the last draft and how much it changed. I will have a car versus a motorcycle. I will sit in front of the fire in the winter, and next to the pool in the summer. I will cut grass with a lawn mower as opposed to a knife. I will carry things using my hand, not my head. I will go trekking for recreation, not out of necessity. Bathing will not be an hour long process, and will not be determined by the outside temperature, or the electrical current, or how long it has been since the last time I had bathed.

Of course, there will still be traffic. There will still be food occasionally I don’t care for. There will still be cold and hot weather. There will still be times I can’t communicate- either in my language or another. There will still be people who don’t like what I have to say, and others who love it. There will still be things I love and hate. There will still be exciting and encouraging moments, and discouraging and frustrating ones. There will still be emails to write and calls to make.

Somehow, I’m already anticipating the emotion I will feel when it comes time to leave. Yes, I’ll be happy in many ways- but actually, so sad in many other ways. I don’t know exactly what my emotions might be, but I can anticipate that it will be hard- even leaving now, would be hard…there is still so much work to do- so many people who need to hear…we are only two people…and Nathan, Precious, Ganga are only three more….how much can we do? Of course, the number of people who have interacted with these stories is so much more than that- but still….

How will they all know?

Lord, please do something amazing among these people. They need you so bad- like we do, like I do- I need you, every day I need you. Help me to realize that every day, and help these people to see their need for you too…

Sick... :( (Email to Parents)

Well, I woke up early this morning- as I have the past week (3, 4am)- but this morning, my stomach hurt really bad. I got up and got sick...The stomach pain didn’t go away, and I feel like at any moment I might throw up.

I got back in bed- 2 hours later, I was still awake- but had succeeded in praying for all the Kahani people I know by name...I prayed for the stories, for the work, for wisdom…

Then I got sick twice more…but the stomach pain subsided somewhat. Though I currently feel like if I move two inches, I’ll throw up. Vivian made tea, and I drank the whole cup…we’ll see what happens.

I don’t know if I’ll get to the village or not. I’m so frustrated…I even prayed last night that I wouldn’t’ get sick…if seems like we’re doing all the right things, so why would this happen? I know the Enemy is working too. Vivian said maybe we were getting close to getting things done, and he wants to stop it any way he can. EVEN THOUGH I KNOW God will work it all out in the end, it seems like Satan has the victory right now….

The weather is also most gloomy- has been for three days now- so foggy I can’t see our neighbors house…probably not the best for driving anyway…though I’m sure it would clear up by the time I would leave….

I even feel like I’ve been doing okay with resting and relaxing, since I know that when I don’t do that, HE will often make me so sick, I’m forced to stay in bed…but even it doesn’t feel like that’s why I’m sick…

And since I thought I was going to the village, I had caught up on emails and written many postcards already, there’s not a whole lot I can do from my bed…. “Work-related” that is….I mean, there is always stuff to do I guess….but…it just seems like good timing for the village trip as far as the other work is concerned…

I don’t know- probably better to trust HIM who knows than try to rationalize it in my own mind….

You know, I think, “oh, well, at least you weren’t in the village last night and had this to deal with this morning- where would you have even gone to the bathroom?” The other part of me says, “at least I would have already been in the village- perhaps some work would already be done, I would have just had to deal with it, instead of having to deal with it here/on the way….”

Anyway…I’ll call or write again and let you know if I end up staying- if I do not write again, then assume I got better somehow (or not) and headed to the village…

Love ya.

~ Elizabeth
P.S. The blanket you got is such a comfort to me right now…I just want to hold it and squeeze it- it’s amazingly new, and clean and soft, and warm…and everything opposite to everything here right now…

Breaking point... (Journal Entry)

I do feel like I’m bending to the point of breaking in some ways. I had a long talk with Nathan today about story stuff. Some was encouraging, but most was frustrating, He’s frustrated- just trying to understand things, and I’m frustrated for the same reasons he is- why do we have to keep making these changes, and knowing that it will NEVER be perfect…

It was okay, but hard…I wanted to cry as Nathan asked for the 10th time, “tell me, do you have one story that has been finished as of yet? Will you ever? What is the point, what is the aim? Why? The first story- why is it not done yet???

I explained, “The girl who did our first stories, she helped us for a little while, but then left the work- and the stories she did have mistakes in them. Tomorrow, I’m going to another village basically start over again…and I have no idea if it will work or not. If not, I’ll have to try and find someone else, and start over again…” I wanted to ask him, “Do you think I’m not frustrated by all this? Do you think I want to keep doing these stories? I’m trying to keep my enthusiasm so someone here is excited about this…but how do you think I feel driving over here daily in the freezing cold, rain…and then driving home in the dark- I’m here from America without my family, I don’t even know the language…you think I’m enjoying doing the stories over and over and over again?

I’m not sure if he ever got how I felt, I tried to remain calm. If I had gone too much into it, I would have cried, and both his cousin and sister were sleeping in the other room, and if I had cried in front of him, I’m not sure how that would have made him feel…what to do?

Anyway, there is much to do- I have to get ready to start over on the stories tomorrow….and have to figure out how to say everything in Kahani…and, have to pack and figure out how much stuff to take, and what to take and what not to take…and have to get the stories ready to go…

Stand Lyrics

~ by Rascal Flatts
You feel like a candle in a hurricane.
Just like a picture with a broken frame.
Alone and helpless, like you’ve lost your fight.
But you’ll be alright. You’ll be alright

Chorus:
Cause when push comes to shove,
You taste what you’re made of
You might bend til you break
Cause it’s all you can take.
On your knees you look up
Decide you’ve had enough
You get mad, you get strong
Wipe your hands, shake it off,
Then you stand. Then you stand.

Life is like a novel, with the end ripped out.
The edge of a canyon with only one way down
Take what your given before it’s gone.
Start holding on, keep holding on.

Chorus:
Cause when push comes to shove,
You taste what you’re made of
You might bend til you break
Cause it’s all you can take.
On your knees you look up
Decide you’ve had enough
You get mad, you get strong
Wipe your hands, shake it off,
Then you stand. Then you stand.

Bridge:
Every time you get up and get back in the race
One more small piece of you starts to fall into place

Random notes (Email to Parents)

Robin and I had a good talk tonight about expectations and communication. We both shared things that we were assuming, and it was good to go ahead and talk about it. It was also good to re-evaluate how we're doing the work and the best way to approach things.

So, my back hurts again…don’t know what to do- I’m half minded to ask Vivian to pray for it every night- that seemed to work last time. And we don’t have electricity. Nothing unusual, but makes it hard to take a bath…or wash clothes- especially since I need to bathe. And need to soak these clothes in hot water to disinfect them from the scabies thing….

I’m planning to finish testing with Anne's Aunt on Sunday. I may ask Anne's aunt if she would want to craft a story- but please pray for that. I’m not sure if I should do that now, or later…she is CLOSER as far as location, and she does have more of a community around her to share with- but still….what’s the best solution- I don’t know. I am planning to meet with Nathan again on Monday evening.

Have a great weekend- tell the kids I miss them a lot.

~ Elizabeth

Not enough time in the day.

November 29, 2006

Somehow even though there are 24 hours in a day, so far, very little has been accomplished- why? I’m not sure. I have noticed myself being REALLY tired in the evenings- and I’m pretty sure it’s from being surrounded by Kahani/Hindi for most of the day- and actively participating, trying to understand. My brain is just tired. And some of that energy is being spent being frustrated why I can’t understand/speak more.

Can I get up earlier to study? Can I stay up later? Maybe I should fast more- to have time to myself? Actually, I’m going to start fasting once a week- I would start tomorrow, Thursday- that is the day many Kahani people fast. Of course, my motive for fasting shouldn’t be to get away from people, but to get closer to Him…

It seems like I never have enough time to do anything substantial. It seems I get organizing done, and other random little things- but never big things- never studying, never reading through the testing results, never listening to Anita’s aunt and trying to decipher her answers, never reading a book for more than 2 minutes, never replying very much to any email, never learning the story until the last minute…

And you know what- it seems like it’s not just here and now that this has happened, but for many years. I think when I taught at George Read Middle I was like this too- always organizing, re-aranging the classroom, but never planning lessons. Always gathering materials to use, but never figuring out how to present them to the class. Always making notes, but never following up on them. Was I like this in college and high school? I think perhaps I was. Planning out when to study, but rarely doing it- and if I did, I’d have to take a break every few minutes. Always starting a paper, and never rewviewing it- thank goodness for Mommy always doing that for me. Always getting the books out of the library, but never reading them. And yet, when I set my mind to something I do it completely, and to the best of my ability...

I don’t know why, but I’m finding it more frustrating now than ever before.

Yes, living life here takes longer somehow. I had to get stitches taken out- those things take time, and yes, I’m somehow really tired today. Somehow, I just feel like the whole day goes by, and I’ve done nothing that really matters- nothing that will make a dent in the work we have. We have so much to do- yet almost a whole week is going to go by, and what have we done towards reaching the goal? NOTHING!!!!!!! Okay, a tiny bit- about 5 hours of work (the testing with Anita’s aunt). Average 1 hour a day. Um…somehow I don’t feel that’s enough. Okay, some language time has been in there too…but still…

And yet, as I write this I don’t feel like saying, “Okay, then why don’t you get busy and start doing something then?” I just don’t feel very motivated…partly because it’s cold, and the other part- because…well, honestly, it seems to daunting….and yes, the more I let it grow, the more daunting it will become- I must start in, and take little steps towards climbing the mountain of work. I must press forward- I can’t wait here in the camp any longer.

Father, please, please be with Robin and me in our meeting tonight. You know that I haven’t prepared as I probably should have. You know that we both have ideas of things to try and do, and neither of us knows what’s best. You know that my heart is in the village- and after talking with many people, it seems like that’s where I should go- not just for my heart’s sake, but for the project. Help me to be accepting of her ideas too- help us both to be honest with each other- but firm if we need to be.

I will miss the mountains...(Journal Entry)

As I watch the sun rise over the mountains across the valley, I thank you Lord for the sun and for the mountains. Especially the mountains. Like you, they are always there. Every morning, no matter what, they are there. I think besides the people, the mountains will be what I miss most of all from my life here. It is like a daily reminder of your faithfulness. A daily encouragement that you are the same today as you were when you lead your people through the Red Sea. A daily challenge to serve you to the fullest- with as much strength as a mountain can demonstrate. With as much courage as it would take to climb the mountain. For while we don’t have to climb too many tall physical mountains, the emotional and spiritual mountains we must climb are indeed high- but then again, not higher than you have already planned for us.

If I didn’t know better, I would probably end up worshipping the mountains!!! Thankfully, I worship the CREATOR of the mountains- who is even greater…wow, that can blow one away…Something greater than the tallest snow-cap peak? Something stronger, bolder? Yes, yes! Amazing to even consider!

Update from Family's Visit

Update- November 24, 2006

Short Version:
“I wouldn’t trade this for a 5-star hotel” (Family Visit)
Back to work…
P & P

“I wouldn’t trade this for a 5-star hotel”
In spite of our “squatty-potty,” bucket bath, and other things may have not been the most comfortable, this was the statement my mom made as we walked to our house helper’s village.

My family started out in Thailand, overlapping with some of my training- which gave them opportunity to meet some of the trainers, and several of my friends. We then headed to my home in “Kahan” where in addition to visiting a village, we also spent time meeting our story-crafters, back-translators and other friends. Being able to see, hear, smell, and taste where I live was an experience I’m sure they will never forget, and one that I’m so glad I was able to share with them.

Picture: In our house helper’s village



Back to work…
I travel via train and bus back to "Kahan" this evening (Friday morning Eastern Standard Time time). Robin arrives back Monday morning. We will sit down early next week to figure out what needs to happen to accomplish the goals we have in front of us. We have a goal to complete our 12 stories by the end of the year. This date has been pushed back twice already for various reasons- the main one being a result of findings from testing in the villages. For example, the serpent in the Fall story is seen as a god! We want to be sure the stories are communicating clearly, easy to remember, biblically accurate, and culturally sensitive – getting all these pieces to fit together takes time!

(Picture: Visiting some ruins in the capitol city)

P&P
Praise for a safe and enjoyable trip with my family.
Praise for their health- only one day of stomach stuff for Mommy, Daddy and Natalie- but the rest of the time they were fine!
Praise for training- I co-taught the language section of the training for the new teams, and had a great time doing that!
Praise for a Thanksgiving spent with my family.

Prayer for traveling back to Kahan tonight.
Prayer for my parents as they have a layover in Bangkok and will be traveling from Bankok back to JFK, America tomorrow.
Prayer for re-adjustment back to life and work in Kahan.
Prayer for Robin and I as we press toward our goal of completing this initial 12 story set by the end of the year.

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and enjoy the Winter season!!

Till All Have Heard,

~ Elizabeth

Re: Goodbye came so soon (Email back to Daddy)

Daddy and Mommy,

Great. I’m glad you are all set up. Try to sleep some. I have no idea how the lay-over will affect your jet-lag when you get back. It’s good you are getting home on Saturday to rest then and on Sunday also….do be careful driving home, look both ways ;)

Thanks for emailing.

I couldn’t sleep past 6:00am this morning- longing for just 5 more minutes with you. Man, it’s hard to be apart. So much of me just wants to ditch this whole thing and come home. And the rest of me then prompts: “If you don’t do the Stories for the Kahani people, who will?” Then I think, “someone else…I don’t care…” – then I think, “How in the world could I call myself a follower of Him and “NOT CARE” – and of course it’s not that I don’t care, it’s just that I care more about being with you right now. Truly the verses about “leaving family, and denying oneself” – are coming more true to me. It is a huge cost- for myself, and also for you…I think Heaven will be even more sweeter since we have spent this time apart.

I got a missed call from Bicky about 20 minutes ago…you know it’s like it was from God…a little message saying, “the Kahani people are still there, and still “NEED” you to finish the work…” – not that they “NEED” me and not that I can “finish the work” – but HE wants me to be a part of what HE is doing….how can I say no?

While I do feel resistant about returning to work, I also feel more motivated to get it done asap- but not necessarily just rushing through, but making it good- like you said Mommy…doing my best…it’s not for the Kahani people anyway, it’s for HIM- if the Kahani people benefit in some way, that fine. It wno't even be from what I will do, but HIM doing it all anyway! I do feel encouraged about getting these things accomplished, and I hope I will only be a “perfectionist” as much as needed- to double and triple check things, but beyond that, I cannot control, and should learn to let go….

Thinking of you all trekking to and from Panna’s village is amazing…wow….like I said before- it seems like it was 5 minutes ago, but also as if it was 5 years ago….I think because it is such a different place…it also seems like it had to have been a different time/century too…what a funny feeling…

Please process your thoughts with me too as you get back into life at home, and even in the airport….don’t lose the thoughts and reactions you have too quickly…I want to hear your feelings…or at least read them :)

I love you lots….

~ Elizabeth

Re: Goodbye came so soon (Email reply from Daddy)

Elizabeth,

I just read all your email and I wouldn't have changed ONE thing.

I loved the whole time. We miss you so much. I am on the floor in the airport where there is an internet connection but no electricity.

Love so much. Miss you a lot already.

Daddy.

Goodbye came so soon (Email to Parents)

(written after my family came to visit)

Mommy and Daddy,

....You know, it’s so strange being here all of the sudden, alone. I don’t remember if it was Danette or Carolyn who was talking to me about you coming maybe a month ago, and made that statement: “It’s great…when they do leave, it’s somewhat of a relief- that they came and survived, but there is also an “aloneness” that hits you. I definitely feel that.

What’s more strange is somehow, work is still waiting for me…I feel so distanced from it- not in a bad way, just as if it’s been so long…and it has been a long time…I also really want to be with you- strange, I don’t feel the urge to be HOME necessarily, but just to be with you…

I didn’t realize saying goodbye at the airport would come so soon. Had I to do it over again, there would be some things I’d do differently, but isn’t that always the case? I hope I didn't seem to rushed, or stressed or concerned with logistics and details that I didn’t rest and spend time with you enough. Sometimes I get too concerned with the details- I guess I felt more of a responsibility for you than I ever had before. Suddenly I was taking care of those who have taken care of me. It was good for me, and I enjoyed it…but certainly something I hadn't really been through before!

You were amazing- I’m so proud of you for coming over here…wow, Daddy- you were the one I was most concerned about- and you were drinking lemon juice off the street, and taking bicycle rickshaws all by yourself….wow! And even bargaining for a carpet! Mommy, you being forced to step back from being the one to hold everything together and follow my lead must have been challenging for you. I hope it was enjoyable to sit back a little, but I’m sure stressful at times too. Natalie- you eating the food and liking a lot of it- that was super- at least trying it- that was all I asked for, and you did it! Good for you. Mark- I appreciate all your help too--- out of everyone, it was clear that you have been to a third world country before, and that helped a lot in the culture shock.

You all have to come visit again, of course… :) I’ll let you catch your breath from this trip first…but seriously….you’re welcome anytime…it’s a 14 hour flight from Chicago, so I hear… :)

I love you all so much- and it’s going to be hard getting back to work, but knowing that you know what my life is like will make it easier in phone conversations, and describing life here to you- and in turn, that will make my life easier, and thus make my work easier too :)

Goodnight.

~ Elizabeth

The VILLAGE!

(Email from Mommy to friends/family back home)

Our trip to Punna’s village was definitely a highlight of our trip. I would not have traded that trip for a five star hotel!

Punna, the househelper, is a quiet little woman who looks much older than she is (31), perhaps because she has given birth to six children, starting when she was 14 years old. Also, village life is rough and her skin reveals a lot of exposure to the elements. She was clearly excited about having us come to visit, but before we left Elizabeth’s house to trek to her home, she pulled Elizabeth aside and asked her, “What can I feed your family when they come?” Her family is too poor to have anything to share with guests, but she would have been scorned if she had entertained guests without feeding them. Elizabeth gave her some biscuits and snacks so she would have something to offer us, along with her delicious chai.

After lunch, we followed Punna along the road, drinking in amazing mountainous views, as we trekked for about and hour down a path and some steep steps and another rocky path, down the mountain, through her village to her little home. Actually, they recently expanded it from one room to two rooms. We were greeted warmly by her husband and his brother and two children, as well as all of Punna’s children. We took a seat on the concrete wall just outside of their home, and her husband quickly brought out a carpet (which was probably dirtier than the ground) and insisted we sit on it.

I turned to gaze at the amazing scenery and was startled to see, about four feet in front of me, a carefully placed DEAD black calf hanging in a tree. I eyed Elizabeth and she was a little shocked too. We later found out that the calf was killed by a tiger and they put it in the tree so that the mother would continue to give milk – I guess all she has to do is SEE the calf to produce!

Punna greeted all of her children and nursed her youngest and then got to work at the fire in her home so she could make us some chai. By the way, the chai here is excellent, but it’s a good thing I don’t know how to make it because I can tell it is very rich (must be that fresh cow’s milk)!!

We gave Punna one of the quilted pot holders that we sewed at home and she put it to use right away. The little piece of beautiful quilted fabric looked very out of place in her dark, smoke-filled home. After Punna served everyone chai and snacks, we shared our chocolate and Jolly Ranchers, which everyone thoroughly enjoyed!

The kids were a little shy at first, but Dave showed them how to “high five” and they began warming up. Then he mooed like a cow, which evidently sounded pretty authentic because Punna’s cow mooed back! Dave continued to moo and the cow responded EVERY time. We were all in stitches! It’s amazing how much fun we could have despite not knowing each other’s language.

The kids showed us a game where one person stands in the middle and the others circle around and in the end, everyone chases one person. Dave and Elizabeth and Mark and Natalie all played and actually did pretty well running around the mountain paths! Punna and her husband just laughed and laughed. They also thought it was quite funny that our children (and Dave, of course!) wanted to learn how to go fetch water. Punna’s oldest daughter led them down the path to the water and they all came back with full containers, the girls all carrying them on their heads!

After many laughs and photos, the time came to say good bye. They all followed us for quite a while and then just the oldest daughter led us up the mountain until we assured her we could find our way.

As we walked home we saw once again the beauty of the scenery and how the mountains are dotted with a myriad of villages similar to that one, all speaking the language that Elizabeth is using for the stories. The sight brought new meaning to “the fields are ripe unto harvest,” for these people seem to be just WAITING for the Good News. Their welcoming spirit makes them easy to be with and there is a charm to their different way of life that is attractive. How could it be that there is NO MESSAGE here?? Surely God has his children here among the millions in these mountains. I knew there were places yet to be reached, but these people seem so accessible and ready. I am comforted by knowing that Elizabeth is getting the work started, but it is just the beginning.

Imagine being the one who brings the Truth to these people! What a privilege and honor and adventure that would be! We met with two believers here and questioned them about their opinions of how to effectively share the stories. They both felt that the village people would listen more to a foreigner because someone who was willing to leave their home and come that far must have a special message that they should pay attention to. It was interesting to hear their thoughts.

Obviously we are all changed by experience here. We have a new passion for praying over these people and a much broader picture of God’s Kingdom.

~ Jane Anne

Can't Find Words to Describe it...

(Natalie and Elizabeth decorating Elizabeth's mini Christmas tree!)

(Email from Mommy to friends/family back home)


Hello Everyone,

It's been a little while since we wrote for many reasons. It's not as easy to connect from here because the internet is via phone and electricity is on and off. Also, we have just been processing all of this and trying to adjust to this VERY different life and VERY different place. Even though we have seen many pictures and videos, nothing could prepare us for the sights and smells at the end of the world.

During our 24 hours in the capitol, we stayed at a lovely guest house which is an oasis in the middle of a nightmare. While there, one of Elizabeth's friends visited with us and we had a lovely time together. It has been so great to meet her friends and hear their stories.

That evening we left for the train station. Words cannot describe the heartache that I felt as we walked through this black, dark place. We got to the spot by the tracks where we were to meet our train and I turned and saw three little boys looking up at me with huge longing eyes. I smiled and one of them smiled back, the sweetest and most unexpected smile. I was overcome. I have never felt such heartache. We ended up having to wait there for nearly an hour so we made friends with these little ones with smiles and gum. We were in their home. When it got late, they laid down on the black concrete next to the trains and went to sleep.

Looking over the tracks, it seemed there was movement in the blackness. Yes, there were rats running around and people walking across the tracks using them as a bathroom. Could there be a darker place anywhere on this earth?

Elizabeth got us seats in the nicest part of the train so there were beds to sleep on through the night ride. I wish I could have slept. Finally, the morning light crept through the curtain by my head and I peeked out to see fields dotted with people squatting. I keep searching my mind for words to describe what I see and there just aren't any. The dirt and filth and poverty are overwhelming.

We rode to the last stop on the train and then got into a taxi for a 3 hour ride through treacherous mountain roads, through roadside towns with cows roaming and people going about their daily routine. All five of us were in a very small taxi but we were glad to be together.

Finally the taxi stopped on the road and we got out and climbed down some rocky, steep, very unsafe steps to Elizabeth's home, which is on top of another dwelling. Though we've seen videos, it looks so different - smaller, darker, more closed in and yet close to the other people. You have to walk outside to go to the bedroom or bathroom.

Nothing is routine for us. None of our habits work here. Everything from brushing teeth and going to the bathroom to making a meal require our full concentration and involve a much different process than at home. There is one sink to use for everything and you can't put that water in your mouth, so you have to really think about what you are doing. And the bathroom ?Let's just say we should all be thankful for those comforts we take for granted!

How could our child survive, let alone love, this life?? Well, she doesn't love every aspect of this life. She is clearly here out of obedience, just doing what God designed her to do and therein lies the joy.

Elizabeth is an excellent hostess - it is very gratifiying as her mother to see her serving in such a mature, gracious way. She anticipates our every need and tries her best to make us comfortable. And she is a great cook!!! There's only room for one in the "kitchen" so she is on her own and quite capable. Why does that surprise me?

It's encouraging to see how the neighbors and people here were so happy to have Elizabeth back. Their faces just light up when they see her. She has such a genuine rapport with the people AND SHE CAN SPEAK THEIR LANGUAGE! It's just fascinating to watch her speak so naturally and normally with the people. AMAZING.

The house helper,?comes each day and makes (delicious) chai?(tea) and has tea with us out on the porch (hallway) and she fixes (the same) lunch each day (rice and daal - and Natalie likes it!!), as well as washes dishes, sweeps the (impossible to clean) floors and washes (by hand) the clothes. It's interesting to see her interact with Elizabeth's other friends who are obviously of a much higher station than her. Normally these people would not interact, but they are laughing together and enjoying each other like good friends. To me this is such a testimony of God's influence on this home.

Somehow, we were able to enjoy a sweet time of visiting with these ladies, even though we could not speak their language. Of course, Dave speaks everybody's language!!! None of these gals are believers, but they are certainly learning about the unique love of God just by being in this home.

It is cold here, but pretty warm during the day (outside - there is no heat in the houses). The cold is probably the hardest aspect of life here for Elizabeth. She really dislikes being cold and there is no warm place to go.

Today we are going to visit the house helper's village. It will be quite a trip.

The scenery here is beautiful. The Himalayas are just beyond the mountain tops around us. We are at the top of the mountains.

We have a whole new understanding and appreciation for Elizabeth's life and work here.

It will be very difficult to say good bye. We will take the long trek back to the capitol on Monday (maybe some Benadryl will work for me where the sleep medicine didn't work on the night train)

All for now.

Love,

Jane Anne

Taxi Ride

(Email from Mommy to Home Group)

India is - indescribable - that is not necessarily a good thing -

Dave and I had to ride by ourselves from the airport at midnight in a taxi to our guest house - our scariest moment so far. It was a death defyng ride with a driver who got lost and seemed mad at every other car. Dave decided that red lights mean "go" in this country.

Then somehow we all arrived at this wonderful guest house - an oasis in the midst of a nightmare.

We spend a day here and catch an all night train to some place where we get a taxi (!) and ride for 3 hours to the mountains where Elizabeth lives. We are repacking everything so we can leave some stuff here and all go in one taxi.

Safari!

(The girls in our Thai hats...at the Orchid farm)

(Email from Mommy to family back home)

Hi Everybody, Our last day here in Chiang Mai we went on a Safari which included an elephant ride and bamboo rafting and an ox cart ride. After we rode the elephants, we stopped at a lovely spot for a buffet lunch - right there in the mountains of Chiang Mai by the waterfalls and beautiful banana trees and sweet Thai people.



(Riding elephants!)

















We went to the Sunday Market yesterday after a long hike down the mt - unbelievable hiking conditions - somehow we made it! It's a jungle out there! We are tired from so much activity and looking forward to getting to Elizabeth's home and resting! But first we have to get through the capitol, etc. We travel there tomorrow and will spend about 24 hrs. there as we pass through. Thanks for your prayers!!













HIKING!

Disney world? (Family Visit)

(picture: playing a game on the boat ride)

(Another email from my mom to her sisters at home)

We went on a neat boat ride today - amazing extremes - poverty and wealth right next to each other. Natalie has been a little sick, but is doing okay

I had my first experience with a squattie pottie - and no toilet paper - thank goodness i had some napkins - poor natalie had to use is half dozen times cause her stomach was upset. NONE of these places have toilet paper!! she said.

The place where we are staying has lots of Workers traveling thru - VERYinteresting people . I admire them so much. and then i think, my word, Elizabeth is one of them...

We are all really doing well so far. I have a feeling that could change on tues. but we will expect the best and plan for the worst! Dave is doing GREAT - unbelievably great - and Elizabeth just loes everything he does.

Yesterday we were in a computer store trying to get some of our dvds copied and this Thai guy was helping dave - Elizabeth and I practically were rolling on the floor watching it all. The guy finally turned to us and siaid (having not spoken hardly any english so far) "he is funny." Dave does not act like he is in a foreign country. He acts like he is in Disney world!

Thanks for thinking of us!

love, Jane Anne

Thai food is good! (Family Visit)

(Email from my mom to their friends at home)

Hi Everybody,

We are having an amazing time. I will try to give you some highlights.
First - we are all healthy - PTL!!!!!

Thai food is really GOOD! Yesterday we took the kids and one of the mks to a THAI cooking class while E was in training. It was so much fun. We even had fire in our woks! Mark might be a natural chef - he was so smooth with that knife! Our teachers were Thai, but spoke English - basically - it was somewhat of an "open air" kitchen in a rural area - a little scary to begin with, but the chefs were SO friendly, helpful and talented. It was really well run and managed. We cooked for 4 hours! The food we made was awesome - and we have the recipes - finding the ingredients at home might be a challenge, but worth looking for!

We took the kids cross county buggy riding - like an ATV vehicle, but much safer. I drove Natalie, and Dave and Mark took turns driving. It was unbelievable. We went up a mountain, met farmers harvesting grass, cows sharing our "path" and saw amazing views and heard amazing QUIET. It was so much fun - a little scary too, but mostly fun!

Last night while the kids hung out playing cards with the other kids, we and some "questers" went to dinner - ugh! more food! we ate light, and mainly went for the fellowship - it was WONDERFUL talking with these guys about their projects and experiences and hearing about HOW MUCH THEY WISH THEIR FAMILIES WOULD VISIT THEM. One guy is from MD and we enjoyed talking about crabs and Eastern shore stuff. This guy almost died just a few days ago when he and a few of the other guys climbed Mt. Everest on their vacation (he got altitude sickness). We laughed a lot together and were honored to be in the presence of these faithful servants and hear of the joy in their work, as well as the pains of missing family too. Please pray for them as they are in dangerous places.

This morning for the last day of training the whole group met together and told all the stories they have worked on the past couple weeks. Elizabeth told two of them - David and Bathsheeba and Paul and Silas. It was an amazing time in the Word. As they shared so naturally, the truths were overwhelming - the power of the Word. What struck me most was that these "stories" were far from the sweet sunday school stories that i think of. In reality, people's lives were greatly disrupted by the Lord - like sandpaper - going against the grain. It was a precious time that none of us will soon forget.

Dave and I have learned - by trial and error - how to get around on the motorbike, so while Elizabeth has been in training, we have been able to get out and about (and lost and found)- Dave has made some friends in the market - which means he must be pretty memorable, because the market is huge and crowded. He talks to EVERYONE. He doesn't seem to realize that he is a foreigner. And the people just love him - and hope to make a sale!

So, I have decided that Elizabeth gets her adventuresome side from her father. He is enjoying all of this very much.

We went into a McDonalds - a little different here - they greet you at the door, open the door for you, charge 25 cents for an ice cream cone dipped in chocolate, and when I tried to clean up our trash, they came and took it from me!

Thanks so much for your pr support - this is the easy part of our trip- we leave here on tues for the hills of India.

Love, Jane Anne

Everything is going well (Family Visit)

Hi Everybody,

So far, so good! We are feeling pretty normal now with our new schedule. That's pretty great since it is completely opposite to U.S. time! Mark and Natalie have made good friends with the kids here which is really nice for both parties. The parents of these kids are the ones that Elizabeth stays with quite often when she travels through her capitol city. They are doing a similar project with a group of people there.

Tonight I think Mark and Natalie are going to stay with their new friends while Dave and I go with Elizabeth and her friends, Christy and her husband and baby, out for dinner.

Dave and Elizabeth and I went to the Night Market together (we ride motorbikes there - quite a thrill!) and Elizabeth and I were quite entertained as Dave struck up conversations with all of these people - who do not know English. It was a whole new experience trying to make purchases by BARGAINING. Elizabeth is VERY good at it.

The other night we rode the bikes into town (Natalie and Elizabeth and I are on one bike) and saw the lantern festival up close. WOW - it was amazing. We ate at an American restraurant - the best shrimp and other American food (carrot cake to die for!) and half the price of what we would pay in US.

We are all doing well and enjoying sharing training with Elizabeth as well as opportunities to see this unbelievable country.

Tomorrow we may ride and elelphant and go bamboo rafting! -

More later - as we have a chance. Thanks for all your thoughts!

Love, Jane Anne

First Impressions (Family Visit!)

(My parents, my brother Mark, and sister, Natatlie came to visit me in Thailand and India. I'll post some of the emails my mom send home during their stay here, since I didn't write much during that time!! This is an email my mom wrote to her sisters and brothers the day after they arrived in Thailand).

----------------------------------------------------

This is the first chance we have had to write. We arrived late last night and found our accomodations here in Chiang Mai to be similar to Sandy Cove type accomodations - their old cabins. We have a nice bungalow type place with 2 bedrooms and livng area inbetween, and a large bathroom area.

Last night, as we drove from the airport, we saw lanterns lighting the sky as the people are involved in a 3 day tradition of lighting the lanterns and sending the up to the sky, thinking that they are getting rid of their sins at the lantern goes up. Hopefully it doesn't come back down!! It's so amazing that each of the kids have read that little book called Tubby and The Lantern when they were younger. I had no idea that this practice was still going on!

We didn't sleep a whole lot on the plane - lots of movies. It was a LONG time, but we were sitting 4 across and it was good to be together and not have to climb over strangers to get out of our seats. They served us lots of food, but Natalie didn't really like any of it, so she ate lots of snacks

This morning at 10:30 Elizabeth woke us up - it did not feel like we wanted to get up, but we did and we have been at her training sessions. Now Dave and the kids are swimming in a nice pool here with some of the kids from Elizabeth's training. I am in a training session with Elizabeth and they are in small groups so I am getting a chance to email.

It is absolutely wonderful to be here with Elizabeth - I cannot describe how great it is just to be with her. We are having a great time just laughing together and enjoying each other's company.

It is very HOT here. But it feels nice. There is AC in our room for 1 dollar an hour.

We plan to go into the city for a festival tonight - should be interesting!

Well, that's alll for now. I'll write again when I can.

Thanks for praying us here!

Love,

Jane Anne

Email to Friends at Home in America

Hey Paltan! ('group' in Hindi)

It’s been a while since I’ve written- so sorry about that!! :( I hope you are all doing really well. I miss you lots!!!

1) India Update:
- Kahani- that’s the language I’ve been learning the past several months- it’s about equal to the amount of Hindi I know. It’s similar, has a lot of similar vocabulary, but also some words that are completely different. An interesting thing about the verbs. In Hindi sometimes the “command” form is the past tense in Kumaoni. For example, in Hindi, “karo” would mean, “Do it” but in Kumaoni if you say, “Oo kamr saf karo” – that would mean, “He cleaned the room.” Anyway, I still have lots to learn. Spending time out in the village helps my language so much…though it doesn’t help my stomach!!! Some villages I go to don’t have proper bathrooms, and sometimes the water I’m given is the same water the cows drink from…but all of that just adds to the excitement of being here

- Village life- I love it. I really enjoy it- fetching water, carrying large bundles of fresh cut grass 45 minutes up a steep mountain on the top of my head…there’s no end to the excitement! Of course, I know if I were to live here for months at a time, I might think otherwise, but at least for now, it’s a joy to be out with the village folk!

- The storying work…it’s going well. We have 12 stories we’ve been working on – There is quite a lot of working involved…making the stories, recording them, getting them back-translated (from Kahani into English, just to make sure we didn’t miss anything), testing the stories- (playing them for people and asking them questions, as well as checking to see if they can remember the stories), re-doing the story if it was too confusing at first, re-back-translating, re-testing, sending to our supervisors, re-testing, etc, etc, etc….It’s a lot of work…We are hoping to get a lot more done in the months of December and January, because mose village folks aren’t doing much then, since it’s too cold to do much work!!! We’ve also been getting some of their cultural stories- did you know that they have certain gods that are representative only of their area? It’s interesting to hear their stories too.

2) Thailand Update: (I’m here right now for some training)
- I went dirtbiking for the second time in Thailand- it was lots of fun- I think I fell more, but I have learned that the main thing when you fall is to get as far away from the bike as possible, so it doesn’t land on top of you (that happened the first time!!!!)
- I also went bungee jumping…that was pretty thrilling!!!
- I’ve also enjoyed two intense games of Frisbee, and will get to play once more next week- I’m going to bring my family along too!!!
- Of course, training is going on too- that’s going well!!! :)

DIRTBIKING! (that’s me on the left!)

3) My parents and Mark and Natatlie are arriving today- I’m SO EXCITED!!! They’ll be here in Thailand for about 10 days, then we all head to India for the trip of their lives!!! We’ll be going to where I live, and yes, getting to take a trip to the village!!! Then we’ll be back in Delhi for some sightseeing! They leave India the day after Thanksgiving.

I would love to hear what’s happening with all of you- please don’t’ forget me over here….I certainly haven’t forgotten you- though I apologize for not writing as often…. I miss you!!

~ Liz

My family is on their way!!! (Email Update)

November 4, 2006

My parents, and younger brother and sister have started the journey to this side of the world!!! I’m so excited to see all of them! Tomorrow, I will be flying to meet them in Bangkok!!!
Below is our itinerary for the next two weeks.

Our Itinerary:
November 5- Parents Arrive! (enjoy some of training and meeting others involved in One-Story, as well as see some sights of Thailand!)
November 14th- 2 Flights from Thailand to the capitol city of the country I’m working in.
November 15th- Day in the capitol city.
November 15th - night train to “Kahan” – a few days to enjoy my “home” and hopefully get to met our story-crafters, back-translators, and a trip to the village! J
November 20th- night train back to the capitol city
November 21- arrive in the capitol city – a few days to do some sightseeing, and enjoy Thanksgiving together.
November 24th- 2 Flights back to Bangkok, then USA.

Please be praying for:
1) My parents, Mark and Natalie as they adjust both to Thai culture, and Kahani culture.
2) My expectations and their expectations to be minimal…that we will enjoy being together and let little frustrations not frustrate us too much!
3) How He might use this trip to encourage and challenge all of us.
4) Safety in all the travels!!

Thanks so much!!

~ Elizabeth