People we love and beautiful places

Friday, September 12, 2025

It's overcast in Chilliwack this morning. I admire the snapdragons in a flower border.

We're renewing our acquaintance with Western comfort food - and oh my, this one's good. I make a traditional breakfast - 

GrandmaD taught me how she made scrambled eggs: the most tender scramble ever.

- Heat fat (bacon, butter, oil, or?) in a saucepan on medium or low heat.

- In a bowl, whip together equal amounts of flour and milk (up to 1 Tbsp per egg). 

- Then whisk in the eggs. 

- Fry with the lid on, slowly , stirring gently and occasionally. 

My tip: when it's almost done, turn off the burner, and sprinkle 1-2 Tbsp water around the edge of the pan. Pop the lid back on and let it steam a minute or two. It will rise like a quiche.

W stays fast asleep until 10 AM, after taking the night shift with Mom. (He can fall back asleep when he wakes, unlike me.) He eats the second half of the breakfast while I make Mom a snack and coffee. W gives her a Bible lesson which she enjoys. I take pictures of family memories, including funeral bulletins for my sister-in-law

and a dear nephew. Gone so soon - we talk about them and keep their memories alive.

I take Canadian cough drops to Indonesia (Buckey's). I can't find them until the fourth try: only a less-used pharmacy has them in stock. I also zip to the butcher for my favorite smoked sausage. Three rings can keep me happy all year: they're eaten when I'm craving non-Indonesian tastes (not often).

I'm back before noon. Mom and I check old photos, organize her tabletop items into little Indonesian woven baskets. She uses her foot massager ... and all the while, we chat. Before she heads for an another nap at 1 PM, I heat the pillow for her hip and straighten her blankets. "I'm not like I used to be," she says, creaming the dry skin on face and forearms.

I make a late lunch at 3 PM, put the leftovers in the freezer for future meals, and clean up. Mom eats like a sparrow but I'm happy when she eats at all.

W and I walk past a neighbor's yard, where the flowers are as pretty as the ones in Mom's yard used to be.

Saturday

We sleep in the room that was mine as a teen. It's full of family photos and memorabilia.

On our last morning, we talk, eat, and pray. Norm drops by for a howdy, too. Mom is the queen of photos so we take pictures together.

We leave before noon: W is hungry for a 5 Guys burger so we split one on our way to see his mom. So greasy. But good flavor.

40 miles (60 km) away, W's mom has communion with us and blesses us on our journey.

When we cross the border from Canada to the USA, we're in farming country. Some American things we never see in Indonesia: dune buggies, anyone?

How about shiny farming equipment of all sizes? I tell W I'd rather have a tractor of my own than ten gold rings. Much more useful!

We need to run errands on our way back to Seattle and get in about 7 PM. 

There's one last chore tonight. We grunt and groan, swapping the pianos in the entry and my office. Our Kawai has moved back from our daughter's place in TX and then a son's WA apartment. Someone has purchased the old Weber, which has a wonderful resonance and the original ivory keys. It's going to an 8-yr-old who wants to learn to play.

Sunday

We're on the road at 7 AM. Breakfast is at a pub restaurant; we invite the couple at the next table to join us at Montesano Assembly, where we're speaking.

One of Kirsten's dearest friends Leanna made the connection for us to be here. It's a delight to meet her husband and boys.

People are responsive and kind. I like the sign tucked in a corner:

We watch the kids participate in worship with a spontaneous circle dance.

Dustin, who we met years ago on a Middle East tour, is the pastor. He and his wife Rebekah take us for lunch at a good taco place. We haven't had Mexican food like this since we left the USA. So yummy. And what rich conversation.

We head out at 3 PM. On the western side of the state, tree farms line the highway with rows and rows of pines, firs, and other winter greens. These will be cut for Christmas and shipped to city vendors. People will carefully choose the tree to suit their homes and budget at Christmastime.

We drive across the state, almost 5 hours. I read an email: friends of our have been accepted as leaders of a sister congregation in Jakarta. Others are preparing to return to their homeland. It's both a thrill and a pang: things change and people move here and there on the journey of faith.

We pass through beautiful mountain country.

The hills turn dry and brown as the high plains fly by.

Apple orchards are being harvested on the eastern mountain ridges.

The sun lowers and reflects off the lakes and rivers.

A double rainbow dazzles us for many miles as we get approach our destination: the Tri Cities.

We reach the hotel at 8 PM, ready for rest. Goodnight, all.

Read more:

*In God I trust; I am not afraid. What can a mere mortal do to me? Psalm 56:11

Meanwhile the church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and was built up. Living in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers. Acts 9:31

Moravian Prayer: In you, O God, we place our trust. We trust that you will guide us to salvation, like a shepherd guides his sheep home. May we always remember to turn to you in prayer. Amen.

Friends who become family

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

It's been a while since we hosted over 100 people in a week, but here we go.

Movie night? We look forward to the evening. However, it means getting out of bed by 5 AM to cook. When I reach the back kitchen, W already has a bit pot of water boiling for 3 kg (6.5 lbs) of spaghetti. After that's done, the same water is used for vegetables (cheesy cream sauce is made while I wait). Finally the bakso (meatball-like flour balls) are boiled, drained, and marinaded in black pepper sauce. Whenever a utensil needs a rinse, it goes into the water. We end up with a rich broth for the helpers to take home.

While food is boiling, I bake sausages (curry sauce) and chicken nuggets (sweet and sour sauce). They're stored in the oven or covered with thick towels so they stay warm all day. Here, no one gets sick from food that sits on the counter all day in 80o (27oC) heat. 

'

Today I only need to make a few sauces. I double the recipe for curry and black pepper sauces every second month and freeze them. Today I thaw last month's extras so I'm finished with the stove by 8 AM.

The cutlery, tablecloths, and trays come out. I write a list for the helpers (cut fruit and salads, cook rice, bake cheese balls, etc.) They probably know all that, but a checklist doesn't hurt. 

While W makes a trip to town, I postpone my nap in case our passport courier comes by. But our renewed Canadian passports are delivered in the afternoon.

When W returns, I make a simple lunch of warmed-up spinach paneer plus Korean black bean ramen. After writing a bit, there's a little window for a nap.

The mid-afternoon women's study on the next hill is rich in friendship and sharing life. What a blessing to know these women. Tetty, who facilitates today, is a wonderful hostess.

I'm back home in time for last-minute chores. The university students and young adults are usually hungry when they come. For some, it's their biggest meal of the month. For the most part, we've adjusted the seasoning to their taste. Some will add gobs of sambal (hot sauce).

Birthday kids always eat first!

We post labels above the dishes so people know what food they are eating. Most attendees are respectful of the amount specified for the first round through the kitchen. For example, we limit meats to 3 of each kind so everyone can taste them. The hungry can return for seconds, of course.

After years of menu-testing, our "kids" complain if we leave out a familiar dish: "But I was looking forward to the curry sausages (cheese balls, green salad, etc.)! I can't believe you didn't make it this time." So I cook the same old same old: (*prepared by the helpers when they arrive at 3 PM)

• roasted potatoes
• spaghetti
• creamed vegetables
• curried breakfast sausages
• black pepper meatballs
• sweet & sour chicken
• rice*
• mayo eggs*
• cheese balls*
• green salad*

What's for dessert during intermission?

• cookies
• banana bread
• chips and snacks (lots today! = whatever they bring to share)
• fruit and yogurt*

Usually the helpers take leftovers home for their families. Tonight we set some food aside for tomorrow's dinner. I cooked extra portions to make sure there's enough for today and tomorrow.

The tables are noisy and interactive. Later, a few people tell us about their new acquaintances and making new friends.

21 countries are represented and about a third of attendees are first-timers. 120 people signed up between Monday and today so many did not get to come. 

People on the waiting list are happy when someone drops out and they move into the guest list.

The Porch is full, too. The breeze cools the garden and the house.

The movie is a hit! "Lion" examines the longing for family. We ask these questions at the end: "what kind of family do you want to build in the future?" And, "how will you work toward creating a family that cherishes each member and wants to stay connected?"

There's a slough of selfies at the end.

Wait a minute or two and a crowd rushes over to be in the photo.

It's the liveliest and most emotional movie night to date. Many talk about the meaning of family and how they appreciate being our "kids" (after they've been here 3X.) We affirm their good decisions and pray for them throughout the month. The last person goes out the gate and we lock up after 11 PM.

Thursday

All hikers cancel or are unavailable so W and I head uphill together for a 4 km walk with Anton on the leash. The neighborhoods are being dressed for Sunday's Hari Merdeka (Independence Day.)

Kiki, Veronica, and Troy join us for lunch at Hidupan, a downtown restaurant with an excellent vegan buffet. We're celebrating Kiki's return to health after a fall and serious concussion.

The helpers go home at 3 PM as usual. I rest before heating up main dishes and arranging desserts. Will there be enough food? I cook another 1kg/2 lbs of spaghetti and sauce, just in case. Before guests arrive at 5:30 PM, the dishes and serving pieces are out, the tables are ready, and recycling pails are in place. 

Everyone brings food to share - it's good to have extra bowls and serving trays! The tables fill with almost 30 people.

The travelogue is fascinating! Chandra and Titik use maps, photos, and videos to bring their trip to life for us. 

I listen as I bag up the leftovers and tidy the kitchen.

The evening wraps up before 9 PM with warm goodbyes and the leftover food gone. What a privilege to have a venue to host friends.

Friday

We have a good walk - the weather is perfect, 20oC/68oF, and the breeze is cool. We meet 1-year-old beagle Molly, who is up for adoption to a good family. (Contact me if you're interested.)

They're making steady progress on the project.

More spaces are cleaned and cleared out.

Painting is ongoing and systems that were ripped out are being replaced. We need replacements for cabinet hardware that's been stolen.

I have to put on a sweater: it's too cold to sit on the Porch without it. The chimes sing, the birds chirp, and the dog keeps bringing back a ball to throw. 

I talk to Mom, who reminds me that I used to set the table when she had people over. I'd tidy the kitchen and do dishes for her like IbuS is doing for us this morning. "I sure missed you when you married and moved away," Mom says. "Suddenly here was no one to help when people came over."

My hosting DNA was passed down by my mom. The skills of making people "feel at home" were learned from watching her, my aunties, and the grandmothers host big and small gatherings in their homes. However, they didn't have the resources we do now. Everything was cooked from fresh ingredients and food they canned or pickled themselves. Their homes were small and their kitchens limited. We squeezed in and made fond memories anyhow.

Read more:

*Just as I have watched over them to pluck up and break down, so I will watch over them to build and to plant, said the Lord. Jeremiah 31:28

*You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. It is written: “‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.’” 

So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God. Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister. Romans 14:10-13

*For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly. Titus 2:11-12

Moravian Prayer: God of compassion, forgive us when we get distracted by the things of this world and fail to set our sights on you. Help us remember these things are fleeting and do not last, but your love is forever. Amen.

Goodbye, hello, and catching up

Saturday, May 24, 2025

After the dawn walk, I'm hungry for pancakes. But when I start cooking, I decide on crepes. All the batter needs is more milk. I heat 3 little frying pans and before long, dozens of crepes are heaped on the serving dish.

Jenn and Adam L have been here for the past week-and-a-half. I invite them down but they had a big supper last night and decline ... until they smell the crepes. We have a nice breakfast together. Then we wander over to a nearby house to pray for God's favor. The dogs romp through the yard while we imagine what the future may hold.

The flowers for Round Table Sunday are bright and cheery. The garden is fluttering with yellow and purple blooms but I am in a red mood when I roam the flowerbeds. I ram the few flowers I find between maidenhead fern fronds. PakG takes 12 bud vases to the hall and helps Alice's team with tomorrow's setup.

And just like that, before noon our friends wave goodbye. It's been a pleasure having them with us - a time of healing and joy. They take the shuttle to the Jakarta airport, heading to a vacation in the islands tomorrow.

All the dogs get groomed by 2 guys who arrive on their motorcycle, complete with their gear. We probably couldn't afford to have poodles in the States. The duo charges 1/10 the USA price (1/20 for Anton) to clean and clip the dogs. A bonus is that we don't have to go to the groomers; they come to us.

Bailey gets a weird "helmet head" cut so I take him into my office and cut a round cap with a Teflon scrapbooking scissor.

Better. While I'm in the mood, I cut 1-3" off my own hair to neaten it up. (But I use salon scissors on my own head.)

Talman drops by in late afternoon. He was a faithful movie night "son-of-the-heart" before he moved to live and work in Turkey. He's back for a short visit. We're delighted when he makes time for us.

Jenn and Adam arrive safely at the Jakarta airport and check out the new Grand Anara Hotel. It looks good. Thank you, God, for traveling mercies.

Sunday

Mom and I talk at 4:30 a.m. and my rib is still aching from Friday's wipeout. W takes Anton and Juno for the early morning walk. It's the first walk I've missed since A arrived a month ago.

Anton is a happy boy with his new haircut. He loves the fenced yard and probably knows every inch by now. He plays endless games of "fetch" and plows down plants and pots to find the ball, no matter how long it takes. Oh oh - our garden is becoming a wreck; I'm an indifferent thrower and the ball often rolls into the flower beds.

There's a good team serving together today at IES Bandung.

My heart is immersed in the generosity of God and his love for his creation. How good he is to all of us. He invites each person out of the kingdom of darkness into his glorious kingdom of light. I am sometimes overcome by wonder at his goodness and patience.

W orders Mike Pizza for lunch. I sit outside and admire the green garden; it's nature's reward for the past few weeks of overcast skies and rain. It's unusual to have such a long stretch without sunshine most of the day, less like Bandung and more like Chilliwack where we grew up.

We put away our Sunday gear and change out of our Sunday clothes. Then we unpack the dozen bud vases from the hall and spread the flowers around the room. Something in them smells wonderful.

Last week's bouquet is still going strong in the entry.

I love reading on the Porch when there's time to rest. The serene setting soothes the busy mind. An endless "fetch" game keeps the energetic youngster occupied. We're debating whether the nickname acquired by chewing flip-flops will stick: Monster. He's big and active enough to pull it off.

I come inside when I'm in danger of being eaten alive by mosquitoes. Their larvae thrive in the wet pockets of the garden bromeliads and ferns. We sign an agreement for the future of our work. It is the result of 4 years of questions and negotiations.

Monday

The newsletter for next month takes shape in the early morning hours.  Might as well write while things are quiet. This week we need to finish several major projects, in addition to our normal schedule. 

W checks if he has a meeting this morning. While I wait for him, I color my hair with a DIY kit from the USA. We can't buy "blond" color here most of the time. (Not doing a color change, just roughing its texture for more body.)

There are many ways to survive if you're creative. One popular option is to rent a costume and ask for money along the streets. This guy is on the bandwagon.

Tract housing is the most common building style in the neighboring city of KBP, where we're headed. We have a few bedding options to check out and W picks up some storage baskets. 

It's wonderful to hug Claudia's neck - and have lunch with Josh. Catching up on what our friends are doing provides direction for prayer and connects the hearts.

IKEA has nothing for us in the AS-IS section, which is our first go-to when we get in the door.

Back home, the fridge is full. W's baskets corral some odd-shaped bags of food.

IbuS has changed the linens in the guest room and set up for the next arrivals, whoever that will be. We have food packages left from a previous order so there's no cooking today.

Tuesday

After a 3-mile walk, we make some calls and get to work. Today the helpers have a marathon of baking. First comes 7 loaves o fbanana bread - thanks for the sweet bananas, Veronica! They bake 5 pumpkin pies with the little pumpkins we got last week at the fruit stand. They send lunch to a friend along with some loaves ... the whole yard and the house smell of fresh-baked goods.

We need eggs, butter, and vegetables so it's off to the store. Two American young adults must be "fresh off the boat." Standing on the store steps, they look only at their peers, chatter and laugh loudly! and seem unaware of anything but themselves. Passersby avoid eye contact, though a smile and "good morning" are a normal greeting.

We send lunch downhill to our friends. V sent up bananas; we return the favor with banana bread. The team comes over to discuss our work over tea, fresh pumpkin pie, and banana bread. What would we do without IbuS and IbuA?! They leave mid-afternoon but I freeze a counter-ful of baking after it cools down.

Wednesday

Walk. Call the son with a birthday? He's a wonderful man with a good family. He'll be busy with them when his birthday rolls around on his side of the world. 

Our prayers for blessing are that our kids - including Timothy - are blessed = so they can bless others with streams of the Living Water that Jesus promised his followers.

Anton's in a mood! He prances, dances, and riles up Juno, a true feat of energy.

Back home, I heat up yesterday's leftover tea and hit the desk for more editing. This book is a slog: the topic is generally covered in the introduction so the rest is details and case studies. My mind slides around the words and ideas. I remove repetitions and clarify a few things but they could have published it without my help. (Yes, it will be better with help.) The hoya flowers smell heavenly on the Porch.

W and I read through Sunday's talk (his writing this week) and head out the door for lunch. We skipped our date breakfast today to talk to our moms and get to work. We both need a break by midday. Look at this unassuming little bloom. I love finding things like this when we walk.

The yardman had typhoid fever for the past weeks but he's back on the job. The lawn-ish plants have grown in his absence. The weed-whacker drones on and on; we go inside and close the doors to focus on work. Outdoor maintenance is a must-do chore if you don't want snakes and other critters migrating into the house.

Read more:

*Only you know the human heart. 1 Kings 8:39

*Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the Lord.

Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart

    —they do no wrong but follow his ways.

You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed.

Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees!

Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands.

I will praise you with an upright heart as I learn your righteous laws.

I will obey your decrees; do not utterly forsake me. Psalm 119:1-8

*When Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him, he said of him, “Here is truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit!” Nathanael asked him, “Where did you get to know me?” John 1:47-48

Moravian Prayer: Omniscient Lord, God, and Spiritus, creator of each of us, we are yours by your will if not our own. Give increase to our leanings to find you and to be found by you. May we be kind. Amen.