Umbles in Cambodia

December's Birthday Bonanza!

2012-01-17T16:15:00.002+07:00

December just so happens to be the month in which all three of our children were born, and this December was the first year of celebrating four birthdays in one month (including Jesus' at Christmas). Whew! It was quite the busy month. It's fun to celebrate the uniqueness of each of our special blessings, but one day, practicality may win out and we'll end up with one big birthday bash for all three!

Juliana's celebration (celebrated a day early) was multi-faceted: first, a trip with Daddy to get her child-size guitar (a preschool graduation gift 2 yrs ago) restrung and tuned, as the strings had all broken long ago. (She doesn't actually know how to play yet, but don't tell her that. : ) ) Then, a family trip to a Christmas craft fair called Coconuts and Holly, sponsored by a Christian NGO (non-government organization) that works with vulnerable and trafficked women, etc. Then a date with Mommy for some Christmas treats (at said fair) and finally, candles in the requested banana muffins for dessert.

The guitar shop guy fixing her guitar = happiness!

Kids Corner crafts at Coconuts and Holly

Juliana's SEVEN already!

Aslan turned ONE on the 10th, and his celebration was rather low-key. He "opened" presents (with help from older siblings) and enjoyed his first taste of cake - banana cake with lemon icing from a local cafe.

"Oohh... fire!"

"This doesn't taste like pureed bananas."

Kai turned four on the 17th, but due to a wedding at our next-door neighbor's that day, we celebrated it the night before. He requested banana bread, so I made him one - then realized that all three birthdays were unintentionally celebrated with banana-flavored baked goods! That evening, he opened gifts at a restaurant, and then we surprised the kids by going to a new (for us) indoor playground called Monkey Business. He (and Juliana and Aslan) loved it, and it was a great way to honor our little monkey!

Which is more exciting - turning 4 or eating banana "bob"?

Mommy and Daddy's gift is met with a big grin

Sliding down the huge bouncy-slide at Monkey Business

What great kids they are, and what fun birthday memories!

Random Catch-up

2012-01-16T16:29:00.000+07:00

The following pictures and stories are random snippets from the past three months that are worth including in a blog, but don't necessarily go together. So here's a "catch all" post of random glimpses into our lives...

Kai and Juliana standing in fromt of the wall of Thanksgiving

We started a new tradition this past Thanksgiving - listing things we're grateful for on pumpkins and decorating our wall with them for the season. A fun family activity that kept our blessings before us for several weeks, not just one day. : )

Our landlord with Kai and Juliana, showing the cross-section
of a jack fruit which he just picked and cut from a tree in our yard

Victorious predator and his handicapped prey

The day before Thanksgiving, our cat Simon, while chasing a rat, somehow caused it to fall from our second-story porch onto the concrete below. It wasn't killed by the fall, but must have been maimed, for it made very little effort to move after that. Of course, as rats are a major nuisance to our family, we can't say we were too sorry, and left it to it's demise in an abandoned lot next door. (This is one of the better-looking rats we've seen, though! And yes, we've seen our share up close...)

Our Silly Screen-licker

"Yummy! And what a fun texture..."

Aslan is a wonderful little boy, but he sure keeps us on our toes as he finds very interesting ways to spend his time! He's fallen on the concrete steps, broken a bottle of hot sauce he snatched from the open fridge, has eaten (or attempted to eat) countless strange objects not fit for human consumption, and one day, we discovered him trying to lick the window screen. Sigh.... (You can join us in praying for his safety and health, and especially peace of mind for his mommy!)

"Silverware?..."

"...I don't need any silverware."

While Gerry Keener visited Phnom Penh on a recent Asia trip, he treated the EMM team to dinner at a Chinese noodle restaurant. We all really enjoyed the delicious noodle soup, but Kai had his own very special way of enjoying those noodles. : )

Juliana enjoying Thanksgiving Day lunch

This Thanksgiving, instead of joining with other families to celebrate, we enjoyed a semi-traditional meal I made for lunch before we headed out of the city for two nights/days of mini-vacation at a nearby resort. Rather than try for an expensive, imported turkey from the grocery store, we complemented home-made bread stuffing, baked corn and frosted pumpkin bars with a local rotisserie chicken!

- Bethany

School Days Snapshots - Juliana

2011-12-19T16:19:00.000+07:00

So, after getting Kai settled into the preschool routine, rearranging our living room to establish a "school" area, and sorting through a new curriculum for the year (My Father's World), Juliana's homeschool teacher got her act together and FINALLY started school on November 8th! (One of the many blessings of homeschooling - flexibility of schedule!) We are off to a great start with first grade, and Juliana is enjoying school and learning so much already. We are very thankful for the discovery of MFW (thanks again, Vicky K and Kelly M!) - it's a good fit for us this year, with the addition of great read-aloud books from Sonlight curriculum.

(The bummer was that our househelper Nyaw took sick that first week of school and had poor health for the following month, making life extra difficult for awhile. We went "offline" for about a month while tending household chores in the evenings instead of emailing or blogging. She's better now - PTL! - but more on that later...)

First day of First Grade - and we're ready to go!

Our sidekick is also ready to learn - when he's not napping or destroying the house!

So proud!

Juliana showing Daddy and Kai her scroll of the alphabet

Smiling while copying her memory work from Proverbs - her handwriting looks great!

Authentic, no?

Sporting the Bible Times costume she helped make

Juliana's favorite subjects are "art and read-alouds" (when I read books to her), and she's a very energetic girl, so loves riding her bike and playing outside when we take breaks. She's also very silly and loves to daydream, so a major part of my job is to keep her on task. : )

Juliana, you're doing a great job and growing so fast - it's gonna be a good year!

- Bethany, a.k.a. Mrs. Mommy

A Rough Patch

2011-12-19T08:43:00.000+07:00

Like many foreigners living in Cambodia (and even many Cambodians), we have a househelper who works for us, doing the many mundane tasks that need done on a daily basis which take so much longer to do here than in America. Our helper's name is Nyaw, but we refer to her as Aunt, which translates to "Om" (older aunt) for our kids and to "Ming" (younger aunt) for Ryan and I, but we all call her Om since that's what the kids call her. Confusing, I know. Anyway, Om is a believer who's worked for several missionary families and is a wonderful worker, almost bordering on workaholic. : ) She is a great cook (we eat a majority of Khmer dishes) and we depend upon her meticulous housekeeping skills to keep the dust and mud of Cambodian living at bay. She rarely asks off work, and until last year, was rarely sick. Then she began to have episodes of dizziness and weakness/fatigue shortly before we left for the USA in the spring, which continued sporadically after we returned.
The week that we started homeschool, Om got the flu or something like it, but had a hard time recovering, with more spells of dizziness and weakness for the next four weeks or so which prevented her from coming or staying at work. Since she normally keeps our house whipped into shape while Ryan works and I teach and tend the kids, things got messy pretty quickly. (In the dry season, if floors aren't swept every day, the tile floors get gritty and slippery.) We spent a lot of time tending household tasks late into the night that weren't getting done during the day, and praying for Om's health to improve. It was emotionally draining, not knowing each day if she could work and what to do to resolve the situation as our own energy was quickly waning. I write all this for you to know our experience (not to throw a pity party!) and to give you a picture into our lives here as best I can, knowing most of our friends in America can't relate to having househelp at all!
Finally, after consulting with teammate and nurse Debbie Coats, we took Om to a clinic ourselves to see if we could get to the bottom of the issue (she'd been to a clinic at least once in that time). That was two weeks ago, and after correcting the dosage of medication she was already taking (for mild depression and insomnia), she soon improved and is now back to her cheerful, hard-working self! We are so grateful, especially because when things were bad, we all thought (including her) that she may have to be done working for us, and we would miss her very much. The "bottom of the issue" seems to be that somewhere along the way, she was given advice that made her think it best to decrease her "medicine for the heart path" (translation = psychiatric meds) to one-fourth her usual dose. I believe that may have contributed to her physical ailments, compounded by a stomach ulcer which probably came largely from worrying.

Rejoicing in Om's recovery

So, for now, the worst seems to be behind us. We are all grateful to the Lord (Om's a believer) for her recovery and for God's faithfulness when we felt overwhelmed by the situation. Thanks to those who knew about it and were praying for her and us!

School Days Snapshots - Kai

2011-12-05T15:26:00.000+07:00

Our sweet son Kai is enjoying the opportunity to go to preschool part-time this year, and even though he got a late start (he began the third week of October, everyone else's 11th week of school) - as you can see from the last photo, he's been off to a GREAT start!

Our family stands in front of Hope School's "Early Learning Center" on Kai's first day of preschool

Big sister leads the way as Kai poses with his HUGE Lightning McQueen backpack

The Early Learning Center (playground area behind bushes on right)

Waiting with classmates against the wall for game instructions

Kai with Miss Fairbank, his teacher from Australia

The first week of December, Kai earned the preschool Super Kid Award - for settling so well into school!

Way to go, Kai - we're so proud of you and all that you're learning!

Bon Voyage and Welcome Home!

2011-10-05T17:00:00.003+07:00

Starting our trip around the world at Newark International late on 9/24/11

Kai watching airplanes during our layover in Taiwan

Keeping busy while awake on the last leg of our journey to Phnom Penh

A VERY happy reunion - and we think Simon missed us, too!

Jet lag has not been easy on any of us - and sometimes you'd just rather sleep than eat!

Visiting with Sokheang (former dorm director) while he was in town (Nyaw, our helper, beside Bethany)

Prayer time at PPMC our first Sunday back

As you can see from the above, we're back in Phnom Penh, getting over jeg lag and readjusting to life in Cambodia. It's good to be back, but we're finding our "re-entry" both smoother and still not-as-smooth as we might have thought. We assumed since we've already lived here three years and had a house and friends waiting for us that this transition would be no big deal. And God's grace has been carrying us these last days in a special way. But living in a cooler place full of comfort and convenience for five months has given us a bit of culture shock again - we're being reminded how long it can take to do anything, how many things can break/not work at the same time, and how much the heat saps one's energy. So, to give you an idea, I've made a list of blessings and challenges we're experiencing to share with you...
(in no particular order)

We're grateful...

1. for teammates who met us at the airport (after months of tending things for us in our absence).

2. to sleep in our own beds again.

3. for a supernatural joy that Bethany experienced the first three days straight. : )

4. that we all slept in until 7:30 am this morning (our 9th morning back).

5. to reconnect with our wonderful househelper Nyaw (affectionately called Om/Omie) and for her delicious cooking and hard work on our behalf.

6. for the warm welcome we received on Sunday at "Khmer church" and to see many familiar faces and reconnect with friends at "English church" (as the kids call our two services).

7. that we haven't seen any rats yet and only heard them one night so far.

8. that we recall a lot of Khmer - haven't forgotten it all!

9. that Aslan has fairly quickly readjusted to the heat and his initial heat/diaper rash has cleared up.

10. that for the most part this feels like home.

We struggle...

1. with wanting to wage war on every mosquito, ant and strange-looking bug we see in our living space.

2. to patiently wait for the end of jet lag and the return of the energy we once knew.

3. to accept that one cannot get as much done here in a day as one can in America - that's just how it is.

4. (at times) to communicate well in Khmer and to remember some words that once came easily.

5. with getting time alone with the Lord, especially when the whole family wakes between 5:00-7:00 am.

6. with wanting to get everything sorted and organized NOW so we can find the things we're looking for...

7. with the way our children have seemingly regressed in knowing how to behave - their version of culture shock and transition stress?

8. with feeling out-of-place, like this isn't as much "home" as we'd remembered.

Thanks for keeping us in your prayers during this transition - we know from experience that "this, too, shall pass" but it's sometimes hard to keep it all in perspective. But we DO believe the sun is there even when we can't see it shine - as is the case now fairly often here in the rainy seaon!

Friends - a HUGE blessing!

2011-09-14T02:59:00.003+07:00

We are so thankful for the many opportunities we've had these past five months to connect with friends and supporters who've been such an encouragement and blessing to us. We want to give a "shout out" to a few of these dear people and show you their beautiful faces... : )

(Note: this album is NOT exhaustive - too many faces to show everyone who's been wonderful to us!

That, and we don't have photos of all of you!)

Brad and Julie Heller; Alexis and Kylie

Jess Miller

Aaron and Laura Kauffman; Abby, Sophie and Asher
Jason and Sonia Peifer

Jen Eby

Wanda and Missy Bachman (missing Lee)

Missy King, Carolina (5 wks) and Campbell (missing Matt, Kaden, Kaycee and Callie)

Christopher Friesen

Gerry and Carey Davis; Graham and Carter

Andy and Sarah Byler; Ruby, Sophie and Ezra

- Bethany

Family Photos (continued)

2011-09-13T22:49:00.003+07:00

For some reason I couldn't add these photos to the last post, but here's a few more family shots from our summer...

Kai, cousin Ariah Freed, and Juliana playing dress-up

Easter egg hunt at MaMa and PaPa Freed's

And it wasn't just the littlest ones hunting - big "kids" hunt too!

An early spring picnic with the "Ecuadorian cousins" (Randy and Melanie Umble family)

Grandparent Glory! (Ryan's parents with all 7 grandkids)

Extended Umble Reunion/Picnic at Leatherman's

Cousins and Pillow Pals at "December/August birthday" party

- Bethany

Family Gatherings

2011-08-30T08:39:00.000+07:00

We've absolutely loved having the chance to reconnect with our families while on furlough! In Cambodia, something we really miss is celebrating holidays and birthdays together, so the celebrations, gatherings and reunions we've been a part of this summer have been extra-special. Juliana and Kai are especially enjoying the opportunity to get to know their cousins, and we've all enjoyed fun times with many relatives on both sides of our families.

The Freed Family (with family friend Sarunas from Lithuania, in black t-shirt)

Aslan enjoys a warm day with MaMa Freed

Juliana helps PaPa Freed tend his flowerbeds

Aslan with Great-Grandma Susanna Umble

The Umble Family

Playing Uno with Uncle Barry (Freed)

Exploring a creek at a local park with Ryan's brothers and family

Celebrating MaMa Freed's August birthday and surprising Juliana and Kai with an off-season celebration of their December birthdays (since they usually don't get to celebrate with extended family)

- Bethany

Sharing about our Ministry

2011-08-30T04:58:00.000+07:00

This summer, we've had the privilege of sharing about our past three years in Cambodia at nine different churches or gatherings. The following are snapshots from our sharing at River of Life Worship Center in Lock Haven, PA in August.

Bethany shares a slideshow especially for children about our home and lives in Cambodia

Ryan answers questions from Pastor Tom Seaman

Bethany and Aslan join Ryan in answering questions from an attentive audience

Bethany explains artifacts and information on Cambodia to interested listeners

- Bethany

Summer Furlough

2011-08-30T04:18:00.000+07:00

I'll bet you thought we'd never write another blog post, didn't you? Rather than falling off the face of the earth, we've been in Pennsylvania, USA, for the past four months, on missionary furlough. We've been blessed to see many of you, reconnect with family and friends, make new memories in our homeland, and share in a handful of churches about our ministry in Cambodia. It's been a much busier summer than we anticipated; after bouncing between three houses, making several trips and covering lots of miles in a borrowed minivan, we're looking forward to returning to our home and friends in Cambodia soon. We're currently unsure of our exact leaving date due to our support not yet totaling 100%, (we're hopeful to leave on September 7), but we know that His ways (and timing!) are perfect!
Thanks so much to all of you who have invested in us, take an interest in our ministry, carry us in your prayers, and support us from afar - we couldn't do this without you!
Please enjoy the following posts of our summer in pictures, and let us know if you'd like to receive our quarterly ministry newsletter.

Introducing Aslan Ross Umble!

2011-01-26T16:14:00.004+07:00

Well of course we're a bit overdue with this post (did we really think we could break that habit?), but here's the story of our third child's (overdue) birth, in words and pictures...

On December 10, 2010, being 11 days overdue, I was scheduled for induction at Sripat Hospital in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I was hooked up to my pitocin IV and settled in to await labor, watching videos with Ryan to pass the time. Three hours later, contractions started; another three hours and two pushes later - Aslan Ross Umble joined our family! What relief and delight to hold another healthy, beautiful baby!

So glad to finally hold our bundle, and so glad to be done waiting (and done working so hard!)Proud Daddy, grateful Mommy, shocked Aslan : )

What a cutie! He looks very much like Juliana and Kai did at birth.

Super-excited big sister Juliana

Tentative big brother Kai

Dr. Supreeya, the awesome Thai OB/GYN who "caught" Aslan on his quick exit!

Aslan, nine days old and checking us out

We are so blessed and grateful for this new gift from the Lord! Thanks to all who prayed for his safe arrival, and celebrated with us from afar. Though different from Juliana's and Kai's births in the US, my experience in Thailand was wonderful and I would recommend it to anyone. We definitely felt surrounded by grace and the support of a surrogate "family" while we were in Thailand.

- Bethany

Tourists in Thailand

2010-12-09T12:05:00.007+07:00

While we've been waiting for our baby's arrival, we've been enjoying time to rest, read, home school, sleep in, catch up on communication, rest, and read some more. We've also spent a few days out, enjoying some of the many things Chiang Mai has to offer.

Here we are at a botanical garden, where the kids got a big kick out of feeding the fish
(sorry, sideways again!)

The garden also had a (very) mini-zoo...

... and fun paddle boats. (But have you ever tried to paddle-boat 8 1/2 months pregnant?!)

We enjoyed a delicious dinner at a restaurant called Duke's, where the kiddie meals were enormous - well, all the servings were big, actually!

Kai ate most of his meal, a feat that amazed his parents! : )

Another day, we went to the Chiang Mai Zoo, which was really nice and in a beautiful setting

A highlight for all of us was buying food to feed a hippo family (father, mother and baby)

Here's a view from above the hippo's mouth! Teeth run all the way down it's throat, or so it seemed.

Juliana and Kai enjoy a close-up look at a giraffe

We've enjoyed playing "tourists" here in Chiang Mai, but are starting to miss our home and friends in Cambodia, where we know the language and how to get around. We're thankful for this restful season - but hopefully we meet our little one soon!

- Bethany

Initial Weeks in Thailand

2010-12-06T16:32:00.009+07:00

(Amazing! We're actually up to current events... or getting very close.)

As most of you know, we're in Thailand right now, awaiting the birth of our third child and second son (so they tell us). We are staying at The Juniper Tree, a guest house/resort in Chiang Mai for Christian workers/missionaries in Asia. It's been a wonderful time to rest and prepare for the upcoming changes in our family and schedule, and we've enjoyed being a part of the community here.

This is our house, a two-room "cabin" on stilts with a big porch for playing, reading, and riding scooter and tricycle.

The first full day of our stay, Missy King's care package arrived to brighten our days of waiting. We had such fun checking out the goodies - games, toys and reading material! So thoughtful - thanks again, Missy!

Juliana and Kai enjoy the freedom to roam paths through beautifully-landscaped gardens on the property

An extra blessing at Juniper Tree - free laundry service! Every morning (except Sunday), our laundry gets tagged with our room number and dropped off, to be picked up clean and pressed the same evening. Here Juliana's concentrating on safety-pinning laundry with tags...

...while Kai goofs off with the lids to the safety-pin containers!

Another special treat of our time here was making a connection from Pennsylvania... This is Joyce and Lee Mummau, serving with IGo (Institute for Global Opportunities) in Chiang Mai. Ryan worked with Joyce's sister Pauline Boll at S. Clyde Weaver's in East Petersburg, and Bethany's family has attended the same church (Gingrich's Mennonite) with Joyce's brother Robert Weaver's family since before Bethany was born. They contacted us, invited us to their church, and home afterward for a delicious Sunday dinner that reminded us of growing up in PA!

On the second week of our stay, we visited a pool resort with EMM missionary friends also in town to have a baby, and the kids LOVED the high slide - a highlight of the day!

Juliana was great at going down the slide all by herself!

Kai enjoyed the big slide sitting on Daddy's lap, but was game for one this size all by himself!

Here the kids are enjoying a play-place at a local mall. For 30 baht a child (about $1), the kids had a blast in the big play area, especially the great slide into the ball pit

(sorry, this pic is sideways!)

Juliana made a friend in our first weeks here named David. His family is from New Zealand, but live in Singapore. They work with HCJB Global, the same agency Ryan's brother Randy serves with in Ecuador.

If it isn't obvious, we're enjoying our time here in Chiang Mai. Still waiting on our baby's arrival (one week late today!), but we're being blessed in the waiting - while trying to be patient!

- Bethany

October Snapshots...Continued

2010-12-06T16:09:00.002+07:00

Juliana gives Kai a physical/check-up. Perhaps to see if he's in tip-top shape to travel to Thailand the beginning of November?

Juliana works diligently on her handwriting work for home school. She's learning lots of new things in kindergarten this fall - and doing a great job!

Since there aren't too many photos showing the upcoming addition, here's a pregnant picture for those wanting to see the belly. : )

Allison (on far left), daughter of Sopheary and Mades from PPMC, celebrated her 3rd birthday the end of October. Kai and Juliana were happy to help her celebrate, but Kai didn't want in the picture. (Davey Will, cousin to Allison and son of Sopheaktra and Mark, is beside Juliana.)

- Bethany

October Snapshots

2010-12-06T15:13:00.003+07:00

A few more "catch-up" snapshots from the month of October...

Over the Khmer Buddhist holiday of Pchum Ben at the beginning of October, we enjoyed a short visit to Kompong Thom province to visit the families of some friends from PPMC. In the photos above and below, we shared a meal and an afternoon siesta with the family of Chomno, a former dorm student who returned to his province to work in a new dormitory for a Christian ministry. We also visited Sophea's (another dorm student) family, but forgot to take photos!

October and November are the tail-end of the rainy season in Cambodia, but still capable of damaging downpours. These photos are from one particular storm that left much of the city of Phnom Penh underwater. We were fortunate that water didn't come into our first-floor rooms (though some leaked through the walls!), but many others had standing water in their homes.

Juliana demonstrates the depths of the water

We use the outside "porch" area to store stuff, and even kept boxes for friends who were moving houses, so made a mad scramble to get cardboard boxes out of the flood zone!

Oh, the adventures of living in a tropical climate! : )

Snapshots from Phnom Penh Mennonite Church

2010-11-12T14:34:00.017+07:00

Which font is easier for you to read in the sign above? (After quite some time in language study, we're happy to say that we can read both.)
We see this sign on Sunday mornings as we gather to worship with our brothers and sisters at Phnom Penh Mennonite Church. The congregation is made up primarily of universtity students and a handful of young families. Following are some pictures from recent congregation events.

Our EMM regional representatives, Skip and Carol Tobin (L) pray with the elders and I as we commission a new elder team for the church. L to R Dady, Sokhom, Mades, and Sopheary. (Picture taken October 2.)

Ryan will continue to play the role of advisor to the elder team as they provide leadership for the congregation. Though each elder is very busy with responsibilities outside of congregational life, the Tobins and I are very hopeful about what God will do through this team of elders as we work together. Will you pause for a moment and say a prayer for this team, that they may work in a spirit of unity as they discern God's vision for the congregation life and ministry?

After Sunday morning services, many young people enjoy visiting together. Recently, the congregation has also enjoyed fellowship meals/potlucks about once a month. Above, people fill their plates at the food table.

How's it taste? Chumnap and Chenna give a thumbs up...

Davey Will and Allison enjoy some drinks together. Juliana and Kai enjoy playing with these two and some other young friends at the church.

Before preaching a sermon one Sunday morning, Bethany helped me perform a skit called "A Servant." (Kai wanted to be with Mommy and Daddy, so he was "helping" too!)

At the present, we do not have a pastor at the church, so the elders and I are taking turns preaching or inviting an outside speaker to preach. Last month I preached my first sermon in Khmer. I was grateful to hear from a few of the folks that they understood about 90% of what I said.

We're grateful to be growing in our relationships with friends at PPMC. It's not just our job or role as missionaries, more and more we're able to really worship and find friendship in this context. We praise God for the ways we are able to give and receive from brothers and sisters here in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

-Ryan

Summer Snapshots - August

2010-10-13T22:43:00.005+07:00

Though several months ago, here's a couple pictures of events that took place in August...

This photo marks the last Sunday before we said, "Good-bye" to our friend Kosal, who is now in New Holland, PA serving with MCC's International Visitor Exchange Program. We will miss Kosal, but we look forward to the possibility of him meeting some family members in PA.

With Kai and Juliana at our kitchen table, sit Mary, Sreymom, and Chhayrorn. These three students from the women's dorm volunteered to help with some of the dorm director tasks during the interim month between the former director and the new one. We hosted them and thanked them with a pizza supper.

Moniroth (R) joins Sokheang (L) and I in providing leadership for the Dormitory ministry. We are excited about the passion she has for healthy community life.

Homeschool Begins! Sitting at our kitchen table, Bethany reads to Juliana. We're using Sonlight Curriculum, and are excited about reading so many books to/with Juliana.

Friday night is regularly "Family Night" at our household. The idea/concept was shared with us by another missionary family. We take turns choosing the fun activity each week and then enjoy it together. Here Kai is helping Bethany make the pizza (and taking a few nibbles of the yummy mozzarella.)

-Ryan

Bethany's Trip to the USA

2010-09-01T22:10:00.003+07:00

In July, I had the blessing of being able to fly back to PA to participate in a dear friend's wedding. I was "home" for just 6 days, in an attempt to not leave Ryan and the kids for longer than necessary. It was too short a time for all the visits I wished I could've made - but the time I had with family, the bride and groom, and a couple friends was precious!

I arrived on my brother Barry's birthday, so we caught up over his birthday meal at Shady Maple Smorgasbord. So much yummy, PA Dutch food at once was a bit overwhelming! Here he's opening his gift from Cambodia

The next day, the Freed family gathered at my brother Jon's new home, and we took a photo op

I was so blessed by time spent with dear friend Jen Eby...

... and a surprise evening with best-friend-from-childhood Missy Bachman : )

Here I am with the gorgeous bride, Jess Miller, dear friend since we were counselors together at Kenbrook Bible Camp in 1997

Jess and Paul McCormick (10 July 2010) - the lovely couple!

I also had the pleasure of meeting my sister-in-law Alex (married to Ryan's brother Rodney) for the first time, a year after their wedding in France (which Ryan attended alone). I spent one-and-a-half days with the Umble family, and was grateful that my time coincided with a family reunion on my father-in-law's side.

After a whirlwind week, I was back on the plane to fly home to my wonderful husband and two great kids! It was so great to see family, friends and good ol' PA, but my heart is here in Cambodia with my own family and where God has called us to live and serve.
- Bethany

PS. This is old news, but in case you haven't heard, we are expecting our third child around November 29. I just realized that due to sporadic posting, we hadn't yet announced my pregnancy on this blog. : )

Summer Snapshots - July

2010-08-23T21:54:00.004+07:00

We celebrated American Independence by attending the Embassy Fourth of July party...

...of which a major highlight for the kids was climbing on a John Deere tractor (an unusual sight!)

After Bethany's 10-day trip to the USA for a friend's wedding (separate blog to follow), we spent some quality family time trying out Kidz Cool, a playground/water park

The huge, inflatable water slide was a hit, though Daddy got tired of sliding down repeatedly with both kids (pregnant Mommy wasn't taking any chances!)

On July 17, Stephane and Sophal were married in her hometown of Kompong Cham. They plan to live in France, Stephane's homeland.

Here are most of the women from the dorm (and a few guy friends) decked out in their wedding finery
Bethany and Kai at the wedding banquet

We all enjoyed a Saturday morning swimming at a resort outside of town - especially the kids!

Summer Snapshots - June

2010-08-23T21:07:00.005+07:00

On Juliana's last day of Hope International Preschool, we all escorted her to school and thanked/said goodbye to her teachers and teachers' aids

Juliana and Mrs. Katy, her Preschool II teacher from New Zealand

The last weekend in June, we took a quick trip via public bus to the beach for a mini-vacation

Enjoying the beach the first night

Sophal, the Women's Dorm director, resigned from her role in June in order to get married

(photo above taken earlier this spring)

The students threw her a "goodbye" party at the Women's Dorm, and many people from both dorms, our church and other friends came to bless her and wish her the best

Hosting the Women's Dorm

2010-06-22T15:41:00.005+07:00

Here are some photos from two Sundays in May (yes, we're behind again -oh well!) when we hosted the young women from the EMM Dorm in two parts. We had a great time visiting over a delicious meal of Beef Lok Lak (a popular dish - you'll have to come try it sometime!) and fresh fruit. Afterwards, we played a homemade version of Pictionary together - such fun with such great groups of girls!

Sony, KimEng, Chairon, Mary, Ousa, Sokheng and Savong pose with Juliana

Eating lunch outside on ricemats. Our helper Nyaw is second from the right (wearing pink) and her daughter Sreyleak is in front center. Stephan, Director Sophal's French fiancé, is on the right beside Nyaw.

My teammates attempt to decipher my drawings...

... and we got the point! Even though my picture looked really silly. : )

"Little Sophal" gestures to her picture as her teamies guess

Juliana and I pose with Kimbau, SreyMom, Sophuoen, Sunra, Ganyara, Sophal and Sophea

We pray that as these young women experience Christian community and study the Bible together, they would grow in knowing God's love for them and want to live for Him!
- Bethany

On the Road Again

2010-05-07T14:01:00.010+07:00

In early April, we set out as a family for the small village of Mesang. Ryan usually travels there once a month to touch base with John and Debbie Coats' staff while they are in the U.S., but we decided to go out as a family this time. "It's kind of like going camping!" Juliana said, commenting on the rustic setting as compared to Phnom Penh. Indeed the trip was a fun adventure. As we traveled we listened to children's tapes and counted Caterpillar machinery along side the main road that is being repaired. At one point Juliana commented, "I know why we're going to Mesang. We're going to tell other people about God's love!" We then had a brief, but meaningful discussion about different ways we can show people God's love. It's great to know that Juliana is picking up the importance of receiving and sharing God's love.
Activities included a Bible study with the Coats' staff, visiting some of the staff at their houses, and a children's program/party. Following are a couple pics of the trip...

Our tiny van on a small road with dry rice fields on either side.

Water buffalo on the side road. A common sight during travel in Cambodia.

Afternoon rest time on the porch of the house we stayed at.

An after-lunch picture with friends

We attended a Christian children's program one morning. Here the children are singing songs. Fun activities at the program included hitting a clay pot while blindfolded.

We were grateful for the opportunity to connect to people who are so special to John and Debbie and experience rural life together as a family.

-Ryan

Resurrection Day Celebration

2010-04-05T19:06:00.004+07:00

Happy Easter! We want to share with you some of the special memories we made this weekend as we reflected on the amazing sacrifice Jesus Christ made as he gave his life for us - and then rose again, conquering death and giving those who believe LIFE FOREVER!
Easter is a great time for making meaningful memories as a family, and although participating in some of the American traditions we enjoyed as kids takes extra effort here in Cambodia, we were grateful for the chance to hide eggs, enjoy some candy, make Resurrection Eggs (go here for more details), and dye eggs.
We'd looked forward to celebrating Resurrection Sunday with our Khmer family of believers here in Phnom Penh, and it was a special day. Ryan had the opportunity to preach in the worship service (in English) - he shared the joyful message that because of Christ's resurrection, we need not fear death. Then we hosted the whole church (more than 5o people) at our house for an Easter dinner, American-style! The menu included a smoked ham (generously given by the John Hoover family, visiting from PA in January), baked corn, cooked green beans, raw carrots and cucumbers (to stretch the meal!), rice and khaw (a Cambodian stew with pork meat and hard-boiled eggs) -since a meal for Cambodians isn't really complete without rice! We also shared some store-bought candy and homemade peanut butter eggs to complete the meal and stay true to American Easter tradition. : ) Thanks to Auntie Joanne, we enjoyed an Easter egg hunt on Saturday. We woke up to rain, which is unusual this time of year, so had it indoors instead of in the yard. Without her Easter package, we wouldn't have been able to make Resurrection Eggs, since colored, plastic eggs are not to be found here. (Thanks again, Joanne!)

We don't have pictures of the yummy meal, since we were busy serving it to everyone (cafeteria-style so we'd have enough for all), but after the main course, Juliana and I passed out sweets to everyone because "life with Jesus is sweet!"

We had given advance notice to anyone wanting to enjoy an American Easter tradition to bring a hard-boiled duck egg (chicken eggs are all brown, but duck eggs are white). Here, I'm explaining how to color with crayons on the outside and then dunk the eggs in one of three available colors for dying.

Church members enjoy drawing and making designs on their eggs

Checking to see if the right color has been achieved...

... and inspecting the resulting decorated egg!

This was the first time most of our guests had ever dyed Easter eggs, and they really enjoyed the experience! We explained that the eggs are symbolic of the new life that we can have in Christ - and that it's also okay to eat them if they wanted to!

Pastor Dady shows his beautifully-decorated egg (above), while Mades and Sopheary display theirs (below).

It was really special to host our church family, to share American food and some of our cultural traditions with them, and to celebrate the new life we have in Jesus. He is risen - He is risen indeed!

- Bethany

A Few Kid Pics

2010-03-23T20:46:00.006+07:00

"I just wanna go back to America,"Juliana sometimes says, "because there's not so many mosquitoes there." Indeed there seem to be more mosquitoes in Cambodia than in our "neck of the woods"in PA. However, Juliana's statement is not so much an indicator of discontentment in living in Cambodia, but more an expression of frustration with the damage that mosquitoes here can do to our family. In all reality, both Juliana and Kai seem to enjoy life in Cambodia and we are so grateful for that. Following are a couple snapshots of them having fun...Sitting on the hammock together and the giggles that ensue

Juliana sports her homemade Superman cape which makes her run faster : )

With the hot season heating up, Juliana and Kai are getting good use out of our inflatable pool.
- Ryan

Retreat in Thailand (Back Issue #7)

2010-03-09T16:23:00.008+07:00

From February 17-21, our family had the privilege of fellowshiping with members of our EMM "family" of workers in Asia at a retreat held in a beautiful setting about 3 hours west of Bangkok. We don't have lots of pictures to share from this wonderful and inspiring week for a couple reasons: a) at such events we tend to focus more on what's happening than remembering to record it pictorially, and b) many of our fellow participants serve in sensitive locations and we can't share their photos/names on the web. But we do have a few worth sharing, so here they are!

Kai actually fell asleep standing/leaning on Ryan's lap in the van on the way to the resort. : )

Juliana had a more comfortable-looking spot for her nap!

One of Juliana's buddies of the week, two-and-a-half year old Lia.

More friends enjoy the big swing outside the dining area. The resort had a pool, and was situated right near the River Quay, so was actually quite comfortable (compared to Cambodian heat this time of year!).

Our friend Julia, who serves the deaf community in Bible translation work in the Philippines (and is deaf herself).

When we left Thailand to return (very refreshed!) to Cambodia, Kai was fascinated with the windows of the airplane, but...

...not so happy when the flight attendants tried to enforce the rule about not shutting them during the flight. (Is that just an Asia thing? I don't remember not being allowed to shut the windows on flights over North America... but one is not allowed to close the "blinds" while flying here.) We had a great time in Thailand, but were glad to arrive back on Cambodian soil again!

- Bethany

Vacation in Thailand (Back Issue #6)

2010-03-06T13:28:00.006+07:00

On February 12, our family and my visiting brother Barry, traveled to Thailand for a vacation at Dolphin Bay, near Hua Hin. We spent the first night in Bangkok at a mission guest house, then traveled by taxi to the beach. Here's a glimpse of our trip in photos...

Getting ready to fly from Phnom Penh to Bangkok

About to go through Passport Control in Suvarnabhumi Airport (I can't pronounce it either!)

Riding a water taxi to a Thai/European restaurant on a pier along the river

Ryan, Benji (stuffed animal), Juliana...
...Bethany, Kai, Loofy (stuffed animal) and Barry before eating one of our best Thai meals ever!

The view of Dolphin Bay (Gulf of Thailand) from the Juniper Tree Resort (we were just across a small street from the beach)
Playing in the warm water

One day we rented kayaks and sailed to an island about 1.4 km away. We were looking forward to a fun excursion and checking out the beach on Monkey Island - but got more than we bargained for! Juliana played it cool while I did all the paddling...

... but when we got there, one of the monkeys the island is named for came onto our kayak, attracted to the bags we'd put our things in to keep them dry. Before I really knew what was happening, he stole the ziploc bag I'd just taken the camera out of - making off with my cell phone and our room key! (Worst part: we didn't remember that the room key was in the bag until we'd rowed back across the bay!) While I comforted a scared Juliana and bewildered Kai, Ryan and Barry rose to the challenge of getting my cell phone back. The glass/plastic front was cracked and the keypad was missing - since the monkey cracked it against a rock to get to the soft, chewy center (or so I assume)!! Needless to say, we'd had enough of the naughty monkeys and turned right around to paddle back to shore. (Then discovered that Ryan and Barry needed to return and look for the room key, since it was the only one Juniper Tree had for our room! They both got sunburned in the process.) It makes a good story, but if we never get that close to monkeys again it will be too soon!

Returning from Monkey Island (in background) with Kai
Juliana and Ryan, with the beautiful shoreline as a destination

Kai really enjoyed the children's pool, separated from the deeper pools by a wall

Uncle Barry tows Juliana in the deep part of the big pool (Ryan and Kai in background)
Getting ready to leave Juniper Tree. We stayed in a suite on the ground floor of the building on the right, and really enjoyed our time. We returned to Bangkok with Barry on Feb. 16, since he was flying home early on the 17th, and we were traveling to an EMM Retreat on the same day. -Bethany

Bits & Pieces, "Uncle Barry!," etc. (Back Issue # 5)

2010-03-06T10:58:00.007+07:00

More catching up - making our way through January and February! : )

Here's a birthday photo of Ryan with the really expensive cheesecake that his wife lovingly made him (my idea, not his). You're only 31 once, but this was almost ridiculous, considering that the spring form pan came from Bangkok (carried back from my medical trip), the cream cheese was imported from Australia or somewhere, and the graham crackers were imported from the USA (and imports of odd items that only expats know what to do with cost an arm and a leg here!). The things we do for love!

My older brother, Barry Freed, came for a two-week visit the beginning of February. We enjoyed showing him our lives here, spending time with Uncle Barry, and then going on vacation with him in Thailand. He did an excellent job of chronicling his trip with albums on Facebook - if you're his friend, check them out. : ) The photo above captures the doubly-sweet treat of greeting him at the airport and eating Dairy Queen ice cream together!

Pastor Dady and his wife SreyRoth welcomed their third child and second son, Benjamin, into their family a few days before Barry arrived. We got to visit them still in the hospital, since it's standard to stay in the hospital for 5 days after delivery (no matter how the child was born).

Since we were on that side of the city, we played at the playground again, this time trying out the jungle gym with Uncle Barry. : )

Some Christmas gifts and other goodies came along with Barry, and here Kai is thrilled with his new trucks, two of which make very realistic truck noises. He refers to the ambulance now as "Wheee-oooo, Wheee-oooo!" Thanks again, everyone who sent stuff!

We'd been wanting to go on a river cruise on the Tonle Sap river here in Phnom Penh sometime, and Barry's presence made the perfect excuse to finally do it. We took a picnic supper on this boat, and had the boat to ourselves (besides the female captain and her assistant).

Watching the sunset from the boat and viewing the riverfront action from the water was a neat experience.

Here we are enjoying breakfast together at home.

It just so happened that Barry's trip coincided with the first-ever PPMC "potluck" meal held at our house. Sopheaktra Hem (married to Mark Fender) initiated it, taking the idea from their time in California on home assignment. It was a great time of fellowship, even though something brought in that day made many of the attendees spend the next day in the bathroom, me included. : ) What's a little intestinal trouble among friends, anyway?

Praying before diving in to the food contributions. The Men's Dorm and Women's Dorm each brought a collectively-prepared dish, and Barry even made a chocolate wacky cake, which was devoured in about 4 minutes, no kidding! By our estimation, it was a success, and plans are to continue having such gatherings here about once a month. We're glad to use our large yard to foster fellowship like this!

- Bethany

Christmas Break/Vacation (Back Issue # 4)

2010-03-05T14:33:00.004+07:00

Juliana had a three-and-a-half week break from preschool over Christmas/New Year's, and we took the opportunity to get out of town for some R & R. We decided to check out Kampot, a sleepy little town along a river that's become a tourist and vacation destination. We stayed at a place called "The Mango Trees" in French (I forget the translation, and we couldn't say it right, anyway!), which had neat bungalows right along the riverside, a lot of room to run and play, and good food. We enjoyed five refreshing days there - and coincidentally overlapped a few of those days with another missionary family who are good friends of ours from Phnom Penh!

We enjoyed time on the water in kayaks, and even took a night boat ride upriver to see some phosphorescent algae that glowed when disturbed in the water. There were also hundreds of fireflies in the trees nearby, so we had quite the show! It was so beautiful, but sadly we can't show you how cool it looked - so you'll just have to come see it yourself sometime. ; ) What an awesome display of the Maker's creativity!

Another fun treat was visiting the Baker-Evens family. They used to live in the house we live in now, but moved to Kampot in August 09 to work with victims of land eviction. Juliana especially enjoyed playing with her old preschool classmate and all the kiddos had fun climbing around on the trains at the station next door (a French NGO is repairing the track and refurbishing the railway).

Here are Chris and Sam(antha) Baker-Evens with sons Isaac and Patrick. (Patrick went to Hope before they moved.) Chris is Australian and Sam is from the US.

Ryan enjoyed playing some ping-pong at the resort with Kai and Juliana. No, Kai wasn't chewing on the paddle...

When we ate meals at the resort, we would eat on "piers" built over the water. Such beautiful scenery, and so fun to feed the fish while while eating breakfast!

This is Juliana doing Starfall (www.starfall.com; an educational, phonics website to which Nana Umble introduced us) at a yummy cafe in town. Juliana met her "twin" there (same birthday), and Bethany got to hear the owner's amazing testimony of God's faithfulness in rescuing her from trafficking, giving her loving foster parents, and a husband who became a Christian and now pastors a local fellowship!

Enjoying one of the swings at The Mango Trees resort. Juliana and Kai brought their own bikes and had fun riding around the grounds. It was a great vacation, although a bit too short!

After we returned to the city, we took another morning to go to a playground on the opposite side of town. Kai LOVED the rocking animals, and would probably have stayed all day if it were possible!

Here Juliana gets a great, big push on the swings by her Daddy, Swing Pusher Extraordinaire!

- Bethany

Traditional Dance (Blog Back Issue #3)

2010-02-27T22:06:00.003+07:00

This is a clip of three young women from Phnom Penh Mennonite Church doing a traditional dance in the Christmas program on December 27, 2009. They are (from L): Thavy, Sony, and Sophea. Didn't they do a great job? : )

Celebrating Christmas (Blog Back-Issue #2)

2010-02-27T16:43:00.006+07:00

Here are some bits and pieces from our Christmas celebrations and festivities in December...

In the middle of December, we made a weekend-trip to Kompong Cham, the home province of Srey Roth, Pastor Dady's wife. We joined her mother's family for their Christmas service and dedication of the newly-constructed church building/house, which included a great pageant/concert by the children and youth.

The day before Christmas, I was finally feeling good enough to tackle my desired project of baking Christmas cookies for our family and several other families. Ming Nyaw's daughters, SreyMom and SreyLaek, stopped by in time to get in on the fun - perhaps the first time they made Christmas cookies? Despite some gas-stove issues, the cookies turned out pretty well!

Christmas morning, the kids wanted to open up the MOUNDS of gifts lovingly sent by our family and MST (thanks again, guys!) before eating a proper breakfast - who wouldn't? - so we stopped for a bread break amidst the gifts and wrapping when our bellies grumbled.

Our tree was up in the corner of our upstairs room/bedroom, and along with the stockings, really helped to make it "feel" like Christmas in the tropical heat.

Christmas night, our family enjoyed cookies and a showing of "The VeggieTales Christmas Special" video in the family room, and Juliana and Kai got extra silly, thanks to the antics of those crazy vegetables and some added sugar in the bloodstream!

The following Sunday, Phnom Penh Mennonite Church celebrated Jesus' birth in typically festive style. Along with lots of Christmas songs and special sharing, several members performed a special, Khmer-style "opera," lip-syncing along to the CD which told the story of Christ's birth. Above, Joseph and Mary praise God in "song." : )

Here the three Wise Men entertain the audience as they search for the new King. I couldn't understand everything said, but the congregation got a bang out of their part of the performance. : )

Lots of gifts were given out in the service as well. Mothers, leaders, and random-drawing winners were among those blessed with small tokens of Christmas joy by PPMC. Here, the children of the congregation receive gifts. (L to R: Kai, Juliana, Mittaphum, Daniel, Rachel, ____, Davey Will, and Allison.) It was a great day of celebrating the Lord's birth with brothers and sisters in Christ!

- Bethany

December Birthdays (Blog Back-Issue #1)

2010-02-27T11:10:00.011+07:00

Dear Blog Readers,

We are doing some blog back-issues for the past 3 months because we have many pictures and stories we've not yet shared here. December was a busy and difficult month for us. Besides the busyness of 2 birthdays (Juliana on the 4th and Kai on the 17th) and Christmas celebrations, we were saddened to experience a miscarriage. We were 9 weeks pregnant when we miscarried on December 15th. So within two days we mourned the loss of our baby and celebrated the life of our 2-year old son. We sensed God's grace in special ways and felt very cared for by family and friends here and in the U.S. Thanks to the many of you who prayed for us and sent encouraging e-mails our way!

Birthday Bits:
Juliana had been looking forward to her 5th birthday party for quite a long time and frequently asked us, "How many days 'til my birthday?" On her big day, she got to go shopping for new sandals with Mommy, ride bumper cars with Daddy, and eat macaroni and cheese with the whole family.
Above: Daddy and the birthday girl at the bumper-car rink which we had almost to ourselves in the late afternoon. It was good that it was nearly empty, considering there were no seatbelts in the bumper cars and Juliana was excited, but also a bit nervous about her first experience in this kind of entertainment.

The next day, we had five of Juliana's preschool friends over for a party. Mommy made a yummy cake. Here we're singing. Other activities included facepainting, playing in the sandbox, and musical chairs...

Here Juliana poses for a picture with her friend Hannah after receiving a finger print/doodle pad for her birthday.

As for Kai, his party was much more low-key. We celebrated it as a family, inviting Nyaw, our househelper, to join us.

This boy knows what to do in front of a camera!

A family friend offered to make a cake for Kai's birthday because of Bethany being in the hospital and weak from the miscarriage when she would have liked to be baking. Kai loves cars, trucks, and trains so we were blessed that it was such an appropriate cake, complete with a little car on top.

We love our children and were happy to celebrate their birthdays. As we experienced the loss of a little baby in the same month, we were reminded again to not take for granted the wonderful gift of life that God has given us and our two little ones (who aren't so little anymore!).
- Ryan

Our New Home, Part Two

2010-01-20T20:12:00.006+07:00

Welcome to the second half of the tour of our new place!
One of the best things about our new home is our neighbors. We get to interact with our neighbors much more than at our old place, primarily because only half of our first floor is indoors. The rest of the space feels like a big open porch, great for biking and all kinds of fun activities!
Above: Juliana and her neighbor friend Liza play with our neighbor's puppies. So fun!

One of the two downstairs rooms in our new place is the kitchen/dining room. We eat many good Khmer and American meals here. While most of our lunch and supper meals are rice and stirfries, we often enjoy yogurt, oatmeal, bread, or Bethany's homemade granola for breakfast.

Juliana poses in our family room on the first floor. Though there's quite a few toys in this room, the toys get played with mostly outside. VeggieTales and other fun DVD's get played in this room.

The second floor of our house is made from a dark wood and not a lot of overhead light. We like the cabin-like feel of this floor. This is Ryan and Bethany's bed. We have no closets in the house, so as you can see, we make good use of under-bed storage opportunities. (No picure of Juliana and Kai's room, which is pretty small and only holds their beds, a changing table, and a couple of fans.)

With Simon contentedly on her lap, Bethany sits in the 2nd floor office. Email-checking, accounting work, and most other computer-related tasks get done in this room.

We continue to enjoy the new house and look forward to sharing it with others. Who knows, someday maybe we will use it to host you!

-Ryan

Our New Home, Part One

2009-11-11T16:53:00.003+07:00

On September 23rd, our family moved into a new house! It's a traditional-style, concrete-downstairs-wooden-upstairs house, which are plentiful in the countryside but in the minority in the city. After some weeks of adjusting to a much smaller living space, we all agree that we really like it, especially that we're outdoors so much more of the time. We're grateful for a decent-sized yard where Juliana and Kai can ride bike, swim in a wading pool, and play in safety.

In the photo below, Juliana is sitting on the only stairs to the second floor, so when it's raining, we get wet if we need to go up or down. : ) (The rainy season is nearly over, though, and we're looking forward to the cool/dry season - my favorite!) This house is cooler than our other house, which was made all of concrete and kept the heat in at night.

Juliana and Kai enjoy playing in the sandbox that we bought. A motorbike-pulled cart delivered the sand for a whopping $5!

Another feature of our new home is the abundance of wildlife such as birds, geckos, lizards, snails, etc. Some creatures we don't appreciate as much, like the rodents, spiders, ants and mosquitos that are more prevalent here than at our old place. We actually took in a domesticated animal as well - introducing our cat, _______! (We're still just calling him Kitty, since he'd been named Stoopid and we have yet to all agree on a new name!)

Above, a huge snail we discovered on a water tank, and below, a very shy lizard that lives in the corner of our yard and loves to sunbathe.

More to come, but that's good for starters! : )

Wedding Bells in France

2009-09-08T15:03:00.010+07:00

When I flew out of Cambodia on Wednesday, August 19th, I didn't know how rich the next few days would be. My destination was France. My purpose was to attend the wedding of Rodney (younger brother) and Alex (Alexandra).

We were disappointed that our whole family couldn't go, but Bethany, Juliana, and Kai did well at holding down the home fort while I enjoyed time at the wedding and reconnecting with my parents.

Here's Juliana and Kai trying to sneak into my suitcase

It was wonderful to finally meet Alex and to share supper with the soon-to-be-married couple on Thursday evening.

On Friday afternoon, Rodney, Alex and I welcomed our parents to the area too.

The wedding was beautiful, and I'm not just talking about the bride and groom (pictured above)

I had the honor of being Rodney's best man. Somehow it wasn't hard to say "Cheese!" in France.

The wedding reception was held at an old stone castle. It was a photographer's delight. Here the newlyweds pose with Mom, Dad, and I.

One of the best parts of my time in France was just simply seeing Rodney and Alex interact together. I witnessed love as I saw them experience laughter and tears together. I'm so glad they can be together and share in the wonderful gift of marriage.

-Ryan

August Beach Vacation

2009-09-02T17:12:00.007+07:00

On July 29, our family left Phnom Penh to spend the next nine days on vacation at the Cambodian seaside. The town of Sihanoukville (named for a former king) is a pleasant destination, much different from the congested capital. We had been there as a family in December, and stayed at a Hotel School that trains students in the hospitality business while practicing on actual guests. We decided to head to Don Bosco Hotel School again, and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Since it was the middle of the rainy season (not a high tourist time), we were the only guests for most of the time we were there!

a photo of the Hotel from the Don Bosco website

We had great food all week, and loved the fresh rolls at every meal!

Not only was it rainy season, but contrary to the rain-then-sun-then-more-rain of Phnom Penh, it rained for several days at a time in Sihanoukville. That, and the fact that during the rainy season, the Gulf of Thailand is pretty rough with big waves, we only went to the beach a couple times. So, in addition to watching Tom and Jerry, Discovery Channel, and DVDs, building pillow-houses, bouncing on the beds a little (the kids) and getting on the Internet (the adults)...

...when the clouds parted, we went swimming in the hotel pool. Juliana and Kai enjoyed playing in the water with Mommy and Daddy, and practicing the things they've been learning in weekly swim lessons (June-Sept).

In between raindrops, Ryan also had the chance to practice driving a motorbike on the less-congested streets. We all enjoyed going out as a family on the bike, and Juliana and Kai loved to have Daddy as their driver! Kai and Juliana in their towel cocoons, Kai's favorite thing to do after a bath

We had a great time on our vacation. It was so long and so relaxing that we actually started to miss the routine of regular life at home, which was our sign that the vacation was almost too long! Ironically, upon our return to "real life," 3/4ths of our family passed around a virus that knocked us out for a few days with fever, sore throat and headache. Upon recovery, we hastily prepared for a week-long separation, the details of which will be shared in the next post!

- Bethany

Hello?... Hello!

2009-09-02T16:55:00.005+07:00

Dear blog readers, we apologize for seemingly disappearing from BlogLand the past month and a half. We were away, then very busy, then on different continents, then even busier... you get the idea! We will attempt to catch you up on our recent happenings in a series of posts, and hope to return to our bi-weekly posting habits. : )

A Week With the Coats Family

2009-07-19T14:46:00.021+07:00

On Monday of last week, our family made a four-hour journey into the beautiful Cambodian countryside east of Phnom Penh to visit John, Debbie, Micah and Jesse Coats in their home village of Mesang. The Coats family joined EMM last summer, but have lived in Cambodia for more than 16 years, so they have a wealth of knowledge and experience in cross-cultural ministry to Khmers. This was our first trip out to Mesang as a whole family, and it was good to learn more about John and Debbie's ministry involvements. Their backgrounds are in agriculture and health care, and their ministries have included well-digging, beginning a Tuberculosis clinic, teaching Khmer church leaders, leading Bible studies, tutoring schoolchildren in math, and beginning a character-training program for children. Currently, John works mostly with the kid's program and tutoring, while nurse Debbie is hoping to begin an important research study on B1-deficiency in infants next month. John gives math instruction to struggling students

Our visit fell during the transplanting stage of the rice growing season, so we saw lots of workers out in the fields, transplanting rice from seedbeds like the one above, where the rice is first planted and grown densely, to other (usually flooded) fields where the plants are spaced further apart to bring greater yield. Due to a lot of young people moving to the city for work, there's a labor shortage, and workers now earn about $2.50 for a day of transplanting (more than it was before). It looked like back-breaking work!

A transplanted field of rice

The house above was our home for the week. It's about a kilometer away from the Coats' house, and was built for a family in their former mission who ended their assignment early. The Coats' kept the house to use for visiting teams, etc. The design of the bedroom part of the house, patterned after John's design for their house (which we don't have photos of) allows for great ventilation. As you see below, the thatch walls have lots of double "window" panels that open up to allow the most breeze through (the bottom ones are all closed in this photo). It's a genius plan, and not very typical to traditional, stilted Khmer houses.

Juliana and Kai play at the Coats' water pump (J's feet are resting on the levers where one stands to pump water with the feet, somewhat like an exercise machine!)

We got to do lots of bike-riding as a family, since one of their bikes had a toddler seat for Kai. (We hope to have one made for our own bike here.) Another highlight, especially for the kids, was Jesse's free-range flock of chickens which ran around the property, and the family's two kittens, Velvet and Quilt. Below, Velvet patiently allows Juliana to pet him, something he apparently doesn't do for the Coats'!

15-year-old Micah and 12-year-old Jesse give Kai and Juliana shoulder rides

Our last full day there, while I visited a provincial hospital with Debbie (a child from their village was being treated for meningitis), Ryan, Juliana and Kai went to visit a nearby fish hatchery. The owner, Mr. Sombat, showed them how he uses a net to catch the fish. The kids also enjoyed a ride on a swing on the property. On Friday morning, we packed up our van, ate breakfast with the Coats', and began the return trip home. Outside of the fact that the night sounds of the countryside (LOUD frogs after the rains) and sleeping in a new place made Kai scream for a couple hours a few of the nights, we had a really good week in Mesang. Thanks, Coats family, for your friendship and hospitality!

- Bethany

Recent Snapshots...

2009-07-13T06:28:00.007+07:00

Here we are celebrating the completion of our Khmer Level II University class at a party with our classmates and teacher. Professor Para is in the blue shirt to the left of Ryan.
We have begun studying with private language helpers and will consider starting the 3rd Level of university class in October.

Kai and Ryan showing some American Colors at the U.S. Embassy's 4th of July party. Though no fireworks at the event, it was fun to eat some American food, have Juliana's face painted, play on the playground equipment, and watch an acrobatic performance.

Big news for Phnom Penh Mennonite Church! For the first time ever, a delegation from the church was sent to attend the Mennonite World Conference in Paraguay last week! Anna Showalter (who served in Cambodia with EMM's YES program several years ago) spear-headed the whole idea, Franklin Mennonite Conference financially supported the trip, and Ryan took care of the travel and registration details. Chomno and Kosal (above) are excited and grateful for the opportunity to connect with Mennonite believers from around the world. They are excited for what the experience means for them personally and for the Phnom Penh Mennonite congregation. We are excited to hear from them about their experience and the fresh vision they have for Christian community life. (They return the 21st of July.)

Before you leave the blog, Juliana asks you to, "Say cheese!" She loves taking pictures with the camera that her creative Mommy helped her fashion.

-Ryan

School's Out!

2009-06-22T09:40:00.005+07:00

Even though the weather here has been toasty since March and it's felt like summer 3 months already, "summer break" began last week as Hope International School finished the year on the 12th of June. We've been blessed to be a part of this wonderful school community, and Juliana enjoyed her first year at the preschool, making friends from all over the world. The last day of preschool there was a party - here we are posing for a "Last Day" photo with the brownies that Juliana took in to share.

Juliana with preschool teachers and assistants - Miss Sopheak and Miss Somphoa from Cambodia (standing in the back), Miss Rose from the Philippines (kneeling on left) and Mrs. Katy from New Zealand (and Josiah snuck in, too!)

Since school's out, Juliana's added playing "school" to her make-believe play repertoire. She also recently got play-married to her brother Kai (despite her previous declaration to never marry so that she wouldn't have to leave her beloved family! When asked for comment, she replied, "It's just pretend married, when I'm little.") Here are a few "wedding photos" of the newlywed couple...

"You may now kiss the groom." Note the ring on her finger, and the headband with attached wig of long, fake hair. (Thanks, MawMaw!)

We've also rediscovered a book on our shelf - 501 TV-Free Activities for Kids - which has already contributed to the creativity in our household - just in time for summer break! Juliana and I made a hobby horse together out of an old mop-stick, cloth diapers, one of Daddy's socks, and other odds-and-ends. We're currently in the process of turning two milk-powder cans into stilts, so there's no end in sight to the creativity around here!

And in other news, Ryan and I are entering our last week of classes at Institute of Foreign Languages for this term. We will miss our wonderful teacher, Phara, as he doesn't teach the 3rd and 4th levels. This past weekend, one of our classmates hosted a carry-in dinner party, and we had fun sharing Western and Asian food dishes with each other. We tried kimchi (sp?), the Korean staple made from pickled Chinese cabbage, garlic, hot chilies, etc. Our Korean and Khmer friends enjoyed baked corn, PA-style, and someone's chocolate brownies received a favorable review from at least one uninitiated Korean. It's been fun to learn more about other cultures, in addition to our Khmer culture discoveries.

-Bethany

Family Devotions, 4-Year-Old Preachers, etc.

2009-05-28T06:58:00.013+07:00

To give a glimpse into our family life, I wanted to share on the theme of family devotions. Though our devotions schedule is far from regular, spending this kind of time together has proved to be be a special and enjoyable for us. It's a challenge to keep them meaningful for the adults and relevant for the kids. So, what's it look like? Well, we often have a short time of reading a Bible story, singing a couple songs together, and prayer. We are currently using a children's Bible story book and then each night one of the three oldest members of the family gets to choose a song (usually from a CD) that we sing along to. We don't sit around and solemnly sing, however. Most times we're burning off some of our supper calories by dancing around together. Juliana and Kai love to move to the music.

Bethany reading and Juliana checking out the pictures.

Daddy loves singing and dancing with his two little ones.

Other recent tidbits about the kids...

Juliana recently got a hair cut, a pretty significant one too. In the hot weather, having her hair off her neck will help to prevent the heat rash that she's often had in the past.

The new and improved Juliana!

One of Juliana's recent pretend activities has been leading church services. It's kind of a one-person show. She plays the roles of moderator, worship leader, and preacher.

"Testing, testing; is this on?"

Juliana makes a joyful noise and leads "the congregation" in one of her imaginative praise songs. Lyrics often include phrases that go something like this: "Jesus, you are the Christ; no one can do it. You are the one. Praise the God of the Lord!"

Though I have never heard her preach about being a peacemaker, I recently saw her practice it in her play. She was pretending to be the third of the "Three Little Pigs" and I was the "Big Bad Wolf." When I was tired of huffing and puffing at her brick house, I told her I wanted to come in so I could eat her. Her response surprised me; instead of taunting me or preparing boiling water under the chimney, she invited me in for a meal. She said something like, "Don't eat me. I'll make you some food." The Big Bad Wolf received her generosity, but was a bit baffled when he heard that both menu items were primarily pork products. (Maybe that explains what happened to the 1st and 2nd little pig...)

The third little pig with her delicious spread of "moo-suki ham sauce drink and too-ie vegetable drinking sausage ham"

Juliana and Kai wearing our motorbike helmets just after Bethany and I returned home from Khmer language class. Perhaps they will need some time to grow into them...

-Ryan

Ahhhhhh..... Family Vacation!

2009-05-13T10:28:00.007+07:00

After the SEAARetreat, we took an overnight train across Thailand to Chiang Mai, to spend four relaxing days in Chiang Mai at the Juniper Tree, a resort for Christian missionaries/workers. We had our own Thai-style, wooden-stilted, two-room "cabin" to sleep in, and meals were served family-style in the main dining hall, where we got to know other workers over delicious Asian and Western food (and more amazing, homemade bread!). We swam in the pool, read, watched Veggie Tales, ate ice cream, went to the Maesa Elephant Camp as a family, and to the mall on a date as a couple. In other words, in was a wonderful vacation!!

Here are some excited, first-timers on the overnight train. After settling in, we watched a DVD on the laptop, and once our beds were made up, tried to sleep as much as we could with the many stops and starts of the train over the 13-hour trip.

Our first-class cabin was cozy, with two bunk beds which were about 30 inches wide. Juliana and Ryan were on the top bunk, with Bethany and Kai underneath. It wasn't the most restful night!

At the Juniper Tree, Juliana and Kai loved to play on the slide in the indoor play area of the dining hall.

Visiting a guinea pig on the property. It made us lonely for Dad/PaPa Umble. : )

The opening elephant parade at Maesa Elephant Camp, about an hour away from the resort.

The elephants were taught to paint with a brush held in their trunks, and were really good artists (for elephants)! Paintings were on sale from 1500-6500 baht ($42-$185). And the highlight was getting to actually ride an elephant for a half-hour, up-and-down-hill trip! It was a really fun experience, except that I was afraid Kai would fall out of my arms on the way down - he kept slipping off my lap due to the steep incline. Thankfully, no mishaps!

And a taste of Lancaster County in the Central Airport Plaza in Chiang Mai, Thailand!! On our date (Thanks, Debbie Coats!) we found an Auntie Anne's Pretzel shop and indulged in sweet, buttery goodness. Mmmmmmm!
-Bethany

SEAAR

2009-05-13T09:28:00.005+07:00

We recently spent a week and a half in Thailand. The first 6 days were to join other missionaries and workers serving in Asia at the SouthEast Asia Anabaptist Retreat, or SEAAR. (The rest of the time was family vacation; more on that later.) We gathered an hour south of Bangkok at Baan Phu Waan, a Catholic training/retreat center, a beautiful campus on which to spend time connecting with new and old friends from six different agencies. Our theme was "Becoming a People of Prayer" and a highlight of the time was the worship and prayer times we had as a group. Childcare was provided by a short-term missions team (RMM's REACH) from the US serving in Thailand, so Juliana and Kai had fun making new friends too.

A time of prayer ministry for Julia Bange, missionary to the deaf in Philippines (DOOR), interpreted by her translator, Tina.

Storytelling with the youngest MKs.

Juliana's group cooled off one afternoon with water balloons and a hose. (White spot in foreground is J's balloon in mid-explosion. : )

Our family in the dining room, where we enjoyed many delicious meals, including the most amazing, homemade, raisin-nut-wheat bread!

- Bethany

Wedding Season

2009-05-13T08:54:00.005+07:00

We'll be doing some catch-up posts, since while traveling and vacationing recently, we took a break from real life - including our blog. : )

It's that time of year... In April we attended two weddings in one week. On Saturday, April 25th, we attended the wedding of Sokheang and Rotha, friends from Phnom Penh Mennonite Church. Sokheang also directs the Men's Dorm. The wedding was held at the bride's home in Kompong Chnang, a province we'd never visited before. It was a good trip, with several Khmer friends joining us on the trip, and even more hitching a ride on the way home.

Weddings are a fun time to get REALLY dressed up and made up and socialize. Here's a table of friends having a good time at the nyam kaa (reception).

Here's a family photo from the day. Children don't usually get as decked out for weddings as the adults, and it was a good thing we didn't go to a lot of bother for Kai's outfit, since half of it came off as soon as we were done eating! It was a very, very hot day, but fun to celebrate with the newlyweds! Many blessings on your marriage, Sokheang and Rotha!

A Week to Remember

2009-04-21T11:09:00.012+07:00

This past week, which marked the Khmer New Year, our family spent five days in a rural village in the province of Kompong Thom, about 3 hrs drive from Phnom Penh. We went in response to the invitation of our house helper, Ming Nyaw, staying with the family of her older sister. The experience was an excellent opportunity to learn more about Khmer culture and to experience rural Cambodian life. Though challenging in many ways, we are grateful for what we learned from the week.

The house was a traditional Khmer house, cement on ground floor and wooden on the second floor. It had electricity, and even a generator for when the village electric wasn’t available (a daily occurrence). There was a well nearby the house and water was pumped up through a hose to large cement holding troughs. When needed, water was then dipped out of these tanks to wash dishes, shower, or flush the toilet.

The owners of the house, the family of Nyaw's older sister, were farmers. They grew cashews, cucumbers, and some other vegetables. Here we are showing off cashew fruits. (The cashew grows in the seedpod on the top.)

The fruit is much larger than the nut, and is a bit bitter in taste. We had the opportunity to eat the fruit dipped in syrup made of palm sugar.

Khmer families typically gather together to celebrate the New Year, so we got to meet and interact with many of Nyaw’s relatives. One day we went with several of the youth and children to a small lake where we played in the water. Juliana and Kai had a grand time there! Later in the week we hiked a mountain together.

The youth/children enjoyed watching Kai eat and kept him entertained.

Proof that playing with cars is a boyhood activity that transcends age, language and culture.

One day we traveled an hour and a half to visit friends from Phnom Penh Mennonite Church. There we enjoyed visiting, and were served a tasty lunch. Juliana also enjoyed serving lunch... to the chickens! (She had good practice with her Paw-Paw’s chickens in Atglen, PA.)

Here we are with Nyaw (center in pink/black/white stripes) and some of her children and extended family members. We were on the grounds of a Buddhist pagoda, which also serves as a community gathering place for the Khmer New Year. Here we got to see some dancing (the group dances remind us a bit of country line dancing) and buy some drinks. Though there was not much in the way of farm animals, exhibits, or tractor displays, the whole event had the feel of a Lancaster County fall fair.

On Friday afternoon we were happy to arrive back home in Phnom Penh. We were feeling physically and emotionally tired from the lack of sleep, the lack of predictable routine, and the lack of space to just be alone as a family.

Our prayer is that God will continue to lead us into deeper understandings of Khmer culture. We aren't planning on giving up our American citizenship, but as servants of Christ, we want to follow the example of Paul, who said, "I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some."(I Cor 9:22) May God grant us grace to discover ways to clearly model and articulate God's truth and grace to our friends in this culture.

- Ryan

Turning Up the Heat

2009-04-07T14:49:00.006+07:00

Indeed. It's getting rather warm here in Cambodia, and as the heat increases, so does the frequency of power outages. We've been blessed where we live to not experience as many and as lengthy blackouts as some other parts of the city (not sure exactly why), but it's still a bummer. Just when you really want to be able to count on consistent airflow from your nearest fan, you may instead be sitting in your sweat, praying for the power to come back on... : )

The change of temperature has also marked another change in the Umble home. We began a new schedule of language study last week - Ryan and I are studying together for the first time! We are taking the Institute of Foreign Language's Level II Khmer, and it's going really well. As you may recall, Ryan studied Level I there, but I spent the last 6 months with a private tutor. I was curious how it would be to jump in at the second level, not having taken IFL's first course, but so far, so good. We were also a bit concerned about the childcare situation, but needn't have worried. Nyaw, our house helper, agreed to lengthen her work day by an hour and a half to enable us to take the class together. (She hadn't really watched the kids before - we took turns studying and tending them ourselves.) Juliana and Kai are usually both napping when we leave for class at 3:30 pm, and then they play with "Om" (older aunt) until we return by 6:15 pm. We're thinking it will also be a boost for them to learn Khmer, as they play and communicate more directly with her. (No parents around for Juliana to request an English translation!)

Lokru (teacher) Phara, our professor at IFL is a jovial and knowledgeable instructor

"Om Nyaw" and her rambunctious charges

Next week is Khmer New Year, the biggest holiday of the year. It's actually three days long, but most of the city empties out for the entire week as people travel to their hometowns to celebrate with family. We'll be joining Nyaw and some of her children for a five-day visit to their relatives in Kompong Thom. We're looking forward to a lot of new cultural learning experiences, but we hear that it might be a week lacking in sleep due to the noisy, late-night festivities that accompany the celebration. We'll let you know all about it in a couple weeks! : )

- Bethany

Recent Highlights

2009-03-23T09:49:00.007+07:00

Well, it's finally Spring! In the US the seasonal change is more drastic. Here it's just getting warmer and we are getting ready for April, the hottest month of the year in Cambodia.

Highlights of the past several weeks have been...
-Learning new songs to sing in Khmer and in English. Ryan bought some Khmer worship C.D.'s recently and Juliana has enjoyed learning Bible Story songs by listening to Focus on the Family's "Sing through the Bible" that her Auntie Joanne sent to her.

Juliana singing and drumming...

-Fun conversations with our house helper, Nyaw. We continue to find great joy in growing in our relationship with her. We also enjoy the opportunity for us to practice our language skills with her.

Nyaw with two of her daughters, their friends, and our little ones.

-Ryan bought a guitar with Christmas money and hopes to learn to play half as well as his older brother Randy. (Check out http://www.umbles.com/music.htm )

-Juliana has enjoyed biking, drawing, and speaking other languages. She is a self-proclaimed linguist. Besides English and some Khmer, she claims to be able to speak Korean, Chinese, Spanish, and German. If we try to join her in speaking her version of one of these languages, she is quick to say, "You're not saying it right!" She's sharp and creative, but at the present it's not very fun to be her student. :)

Biking and Walking.

-Kai enjoys using his little legs and has even occasionally practiced running. He's not at all interested in a pacifier/nuk, but we'll often find him with one of his cloths hanging out of his mouth. Especially during times of teething, he finds much comfort sucking on one of his cloths. In some ways, he reminds us of the "Peanuts"character, Linus.

The man and his cloth

Well, that's all for now. May you and your family enjoy the sights and sounds of Spring!

-Ryan

Dorm Retreat: To the Beach and Back Again!

2009-03-09T16:25:00.011+07:00

The last weekend in February, our family had the pleasure of joining students from the Men's and Women's Dorms on the Annual Dorm Retreat. This time, the destination was the beach town of Sihanoukville, Kompong Saum Province. About forty Khmer and four Americans - us! - traveled on a rented tour bus about four hours to take a dip in the ocean, enjoy seafood-laden meals, play games, hear sharing from the Word, pray together, play on the beach, and visit a near-by rock formation/waterfall. On Saturday night, as the guest speaker shared and invited the students to consider placing their trust in Jesus Christ, two female students accepted the pastor's invitation! They were prayed for by the group, and we are excited by their steps of faith.

It was a lot of travel for a short weekend, but the journey there and back factored large in the whole experience. Our time on the bus included love song singing sessions (in a call/response style popular in Khmer Karaoke videos), rounds of worship music accompanied by guitar, guessing games and silly group games, and a Khmer comedy DVD. There were more stops (for snacks, potty, etc.) than the Americans thought necessary, who are used to trying to make time in "getting there." We reflected afterward that our Khmer friends live well the truth of the journey being more important than the destination. There were lots of opportunities en route to absorb Khmer language and culture, laugh, interact, learn more names, and join in the fun. We think the students are a great group of young people, and we really enjoyed the time together. Our kids did well, too (for the most part!). Sleeping with all four of us in one tiny room always has its challenges. By the time we arrived home Sunday night at 7 pm, we were exhausted! A full weekend, but we're looking forward to the retreat next year!

At one "pit stop," Kosal pretends to drive the bus

Singing a silly song Saturday evening

Juliana and her friend Sophea (So-PEE-a) play in the sand

Kai and Pengin by the beautiful, clear water

Our whole group, minus Sokheang, the cameraman (Sophal, WD Director, in white hat in middle)

- Bethany

Kids Walking and Talking...

2009-02-24T15:36:00.002+07:00

Ah, the joy of having children! As any parent knows, there is something amazing about seeing one's children passing significant milestones. The biggest family news around here is that Kai's having fun learning how to walk around. Granted he sometimes looks like he's not quite sober as he stumbles around, but it's great fun to watch. We've praised his efforts so much that when he walks and we're not looking/praising, he does the cheering himself by saying something that is the equivalent of "Yea! I did it!" He's also becoming more adventourous in eating more "un-pureed big people food." He loves bread, bananas, oranges, and carrots. Below is a picture of the little guy before he had his face wiped after a messy meal.

Juliana continues to amaze us with the way her mind works. She is very observant and asks terrific questions. One of her favorite story books is one about the life of Job. As we read to her, her thoughful theological questions sometimes leave us with no other option but to say, "That's a great question Juliana, I'm not sure how to answer that..."

The way that Juliana articulates her love for her brother and her parents is also quite cute. During one meal she said, "I wanted to share my bread with 'bapes' (Kai's nickname, based on the word 'baby') because I love him and I want him to be my friend." Before going to bed one night, she said, "I love Daddy the best and Mommy the best and I don't want to get married because I want to stay with them." She's really thinking ahead isn't she? Below is a shot of the the little smirking girl. -Ryan

Fun with Parents/Grandparents-Part 3

2009-02-09T10:30:00.003+07:00

Our vacation time together was a wonderful time of relaxing and connecting more with Mom and Dad/Maw-Maw and Paw-Paw.

Eating breakfast at the guesthouse where we stayed

Daddy and Juliana posing for a picture with a young crew of traditional "Apsara" dancers. We ate supper at a garden restaurant that also had a live show which included traditional Khmer music and dance.

And what would vacation in January be without some outdoor swimming! Here Kai and Paw-Paw enjoy splashing in the cool water.

Juliana's first experience in a jacuzzi was quite amusing. She laughed up a storm as she felt the jets shoot water against her legs. It was too funny!

At the close of Mom and Dad's time with us here in Cambodia, I asked them, "When people ask you how we are doing, what will you tell them?" After some thought they said that they will share that it seems we're adjusting well to life here. We were happy to hear this. As we continue to go through the "growing pains"of making Cambodia "home," it was helpful to see ourselves through Mom and Dad's eyes and to recognize the progress we've made in being ourselves, learners, and blessings here in this land.

-Ryan

Fun with Parents/Grandparents-Part 2

2009-02-07T17:18:00.002+07:00

While Mom and Dad were here, we took a vacation trip six hours North to Siem Reap, the most popular tourist area in Cambodia. During one of the days there we took a day to walk around several of the ancient stone temples.

A smiling group. (Juliana was more interested in a new-found flower than seeing some old buildings...)

"Maw-maw", Juliana, and "Paw-paw." This was the first temple we saw and Juliana still had a good amount of energy. She, her brother and her Daddy only lasted half the day of hiking and sightseeing. They chose a nap instead of seeing the famous, "Angkor Wat."

Dad and Bethany in front of "Ankgor Wat," the temple complex that is displayed on the Cambodian flag. The day was fun, but tiring. The rest of the vacation was a bit more relaxing...

Fun with Parents/Grandparents-Part 1

2009-02-02T19:58:00.004+07:00

The past several weeks have been a whirlwind of activity as we had a blast hosting Mom and Dad Freed. It was a real privilege and treat for us to have them here as they got to experience what life and ministry is like in Cambodia. This is the first of several blogs we'll post about our time together. This blog will feature various activities we did in Phnom Penh, our home city.

Mom and Dad enjoying good ol' Asian "Bubble Tea."

Dad, Mom, Bethany, and Les Frey at Toul Sleng Genocide Museum. (Les was in Cambodia for a short time with Global Disciples, doing some agricultural teaching.)

Dad gives Juliana a "Whoop-dee-doo" and gets lots of giggles in return.

Dad talks with Piseth after the Sunday service at Phnom Penh Mennonite Church. Piseth was the moderator for the service and translated for Dad during sharing/testimony time.

Stay tuned for the next blog within a few days...

New Look for '09 and Grandparent Glory

2009-01-12T16:51:00.010+07:00

We've had a hard time keeping up with all the happenings around here lately, so before I get into the most current, most exciting news, I'm going to make you wait and start with some older news to catch you up. : ) (I guess you could always read bottom up, but that'd be cheating!)

On New Year's Day, Kai finally received his very first haircut!

This is how long his curly locks were before the cut...

This was right before the shearing.

Here we have the freshly-shorn boy (who cooperated for the most part, held by Daddy and distracted by Juliana's Cinderella movie) and the stylist. He looks very different!

Okay, so the big news around here is that we have visitors of the personal, familial variety! Mom and Dad Freed arrived at the airport around 11:30 pm Friday (our time) after traveling over 28 hours to get here. They reported uneventful flights, and so far, jet lag has not seemed to bother them too much. We're so grateful to be able to spend lots of time together, and are planning to travel on Friday to Siem Reap, home of the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat, for a week of vacation.

"Maw-maw" and "Paw-paw" and grandchildren at an outdoor restaurant (Kai seems to be wondering where he can get a cool hat like Maw-maw's/Juliana's)

Paw-paw and Kai getting (re)aquainted. So far Kai is really enjoying his grandparents, which is a blessing and noteworthy, since he surely doesn't remember them from 9 months ago.

We were also very blessed, overwhelmed and thankful for the two, full suitcases of gifts, etc. that came along with them. We feel extremely loved and cared for! Thanks a million to all who contributed to the stash of goodies - we love you, too!

Checking out the gifts after Christmas came again

A special treat for all of us are/were Nana Umble's banana muffins, per Juliana's request. They made it fine all the way to Cambodia - mmmmmmm! (So did the sweet potato bread, Auntie Joanne!)

- Bethany

Christmas, etc.

2009-01-06T08:37:00.002+07:00

Well, as I’m sure is the case for many families in the U.S., much has happened in the life of our family over the past several weeks.

One thing we did this year to make Christmas special here in Cambodia was singing some Christmas carols by candlelight after our suppers during the last two weeks before Christmas. Juliana now recognizes more carols than her two favorites: “Silent Night” and “Away in a Manger.”

Following are some snapshots of Christmas day and the days following...

We enjoyed receiving many Christmas cards from Church family and friends. We also had fun opening thoughtful gifts from our MST on Christmas day...

Juliana quickly leafs through one of her gifts: a Cinderella Storybook.

Here Kai poses with a puzzle he has thoroughly enjoyed chewing on.

Sandwiched in-between Christmas and the New Year, we enjoyed a few days at the beach. While many in the U.S. were experiencing cold weather, we traveled four hours to enjoy the water and the sun.

Juliana eats a snack on our rice-mat.

Bethany and Kai enjoy the warm waters. Kai loved his first ocean experience!

Our Christmas vacation time was very relaxing and refreshing. It felt like it did for us what a vacation is supposed to do. Life is busy and challenging, but we enter this new year excited to learn, grow, and be a blessing... -Ryan

Umble Holiday Snapshots

2008-12-23T21:25:00.005+07:00

The following are a collection of recent pictures, giving you some snapshots into recent events during the holiday season here in Cambodia...

"Merry Christmas!" from a Cambodian Santa.

Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus (center) in Phnom Penh Mennonite Church's Christmas play. The church did a fantastic job of organizing a joyful Christmas celebration.

Bethany stands with her language teacher, Socheata, for a picture at Khmer School of Language's Christmas party.

We recently had the pleasure of hosting "Yey" and "Tah" (grandmother and grandfather) and their family. Because this family, as our first landlords, was the first Cambodian family that we interacted with on a regular basis, they will always have a special place in our hearts.

And of course, Kai turned the big "1" on December 17th. The little porker had a cake (appropriately) in the shape of a pig. Though not as sweet as American cake, it was yummy and Kai had no problem enjoying his first taste of dessert.

Juliana did a fantastic job playing a sheep as part of Hope School's Christmas Concert. We were impressed by how well she remembered the lyrics and music to the songs they sang. She's got the Umble musical gift.

Merry Christmas from us to you!

May you enjoy this season of celebrating our generous God,

and may we all grow more like Him, being people of generosity...

-Ryan

Birthdays All Around...

2008-12-15T16:09:00.005+07:00

A very special event happened on 4 December 2008 (as we write the date here): Juliana Raine Umble turned the Big 4! We celebrated this once-in-a-lifetime, "golden" birthday by packing a picnic breakfast to eat at a new playground downtown. Mommy and Daddy took the day off language study to party, and we all had a good time. Enjoying the "suen-ko-maa" (playground) on her big day

After an afternoon of making whoopie pies to share at preschool, Mommy got tired of the never-ending process and dumped remaining batter in a cake pan for an impromtu whoopie cake - delicious with peanut butter icing! Juliana was tickled pink.
Here she shows the balloon gifts she received from Ginny, talented Korean missionary that lives next door to us with her family.

And just for fun, some pix of the younger brother who will have his own birthday in two days!

Proving that he knows what to do when the camera comes out, and sporting his "I need a haircut!" hairdo

- Bethany

A Pedagog and a Party

2008-12-08T19:42:00.009+07:00

For those of you who wait for each new blog post, I apologize: I worked on the following post last week, saved it to finish later when a sleeping child awoke, and then the week got away from me and it never got posted. So, a week later...For the past two and a half months, we've been studying Khmer in a classroom setting, Ryan at the Institute of Foreign Languages, and I at the Khmer School of Language. I'm finally getting around to introducing you to Socheata, my language teacher. She's a student herself - after teaching at KSL in the morning, she studies Geography (to be a teacher) at the Royal University of Phnom Penh in the afternoon. She's young, full of energy and lots of fun. We have a good time together, and she's a good teacher.

Two Wednesdays ago, we had the privilege of being invited to a neighbor's birthday party. The birthday girl turned ONE, and it was quite the party! Lots of people, lots of good food ("Bine-hoy" - rice noodles eaten with fried pork, pineapples, cucumbers, etc., wrapped in lettuce and dipped in a yummy sauce, and delicious skewers of seasoned meat eaten with a spicy "salad"), lots of children's birthday party songs on karaoke, and then, lots of cake. Traditionally, Cambodians didn't celebrate birthdays (we've heard of people that don't really know when they were born, but consider themselves a year older on Khmer New Year), but the birthday thing has certainly caught on in recent years (at least in more well-off circles). It was very fun to hang out with the neighbors gathered there, and to learn to know some of them better.

In photos above, Ree-ZA (in green dress and party hat) checks out her cake after guests feasted, then admired the tower of cakes.

Hello and Good-bye

2008-12-03T14:16:00.006+07:00

Hello, Coats Family!

When Darrell and Susan Caldwell returned to the U.S. this past spring after twelve years of service with EMM, we were the only long-term EMM workers in Cambodia. Well, we're no longer alone! We are excited to introduce you to John and Debbie Coats and their boys, Micah(14) and Jesse (12). Join us in thanking God for the new relationship we are establishing with this EMM family!

Though new to EMM, the Coats family isn't new to Cambodia. They have been working here for about 17 years! They've had experience in medicine, agriculture, and church planting. Currently they are operating a tuberculosis clinic, providing mentoring and support to local church leaders, and running a character-shaping program for children. They've just recently joined EMM and we are excited to get to know them and help support each other in ministry.

John, Debbie, and Jesse live 3-4 hours outside of the city and Micah is boarding at his high school here in Phnom Penh. Because of the distance that separates us, we may not see them much more frequently than once a month, but we'll look forward to our times together.

Hello and Good-bye, Don and Keith!
Last weekend we had good opportunities to spend time with Skip and Carol Tobin and John and Debbie. We also had the honor of hosting/visiting with Don Sensenig, former long-term EMM missionary to Vietnam, and Keith Weaver, moderator of Lancaster Mennonite Conference. Don and Keith were in nearby Vietnam for some meetings between the Mennonite Church and the Vietnamese Government. Because they were close to Cambodia, they decided to swing over and it was a joy to have them with us for a few days. They were able to learn more of what EMM and MCC are doing here in Cambodia. Below, Keith and Don join in a time of prayer at our house.

Good-bye, Greta!

This morning, Bethany took Greta Kauffman, the one year EMM mission intern, to the airport. Greta has served and learned here in Cambodia for the past year. She is planning on going to medical school, so was interested in getting her feet wet in medical mission work. She helped Debbie Coats with some medical research and served in some clinics here in Phnom Penh. We regularly hosted Greta for supper once a week and we will miss her. Juliana and Kai have enjoyed having an "aunt" around. Below is a recent picture of Greta and our family.

Hello, care package!

We were excited to receive a care package this past week with all kinds of fun items for the kids and Lancaster County treats. (Thanks Ted and Ann!) Below Juliana and Kai are having fun with the box the goodies came in...

Most likely the highlight of this week will be Juliana's birthday. It's her golden one, so she'll be four on the fourth! We're plan to celebrate with a trip to a local playground area and, instead of cake, homemade whoopie pies. We plan to share these PA Dutch treats with Juliana's pre-school class as well as some neighbors and friends. Come on by and we'll share some with you too...

-Ryan

Cold Weather, Colds, and Warmed Hearts

2008-11-19T15:07:00.002+07:00

On Monday, I road on the back of a motorcycle to language class wearing a short-sleeved shirt, as usual. However, this specific Monday I realized that I was almost shivering. The phrase, "It's cold today," is a new one for us to be using here in Phnom Penh. The climate is changing...

With the climate change has come our share of colds. Bethany was the first to come down with a cold, passing it to Juliana, and then Juliana to Kai, and now I've got a bit of a sore throat. It was hard to hear Juliana and Kai echoing coughs back and forth through several nights this past weekend. They both are on antibiotics and we're seeing some improvement. We look forward to returning to good health.

Juliana's excited about the weather because she now gets to wear pajamas to bed! She's thrilled about the new "jammies" that Bethany picked out for her at a nearby market the other week. (She's also sporting her new haircut!)

What's cool weather without doing some baking? Last week marked the first time our family made cookies together here in Cambodia. We made a batch of chocolate- and butterscotch-chip oatmeal cookies. Above, Kai is doing his part in helping the process.

Our hearts have been warmed with the visit of Skip and Carol Tobin, EMM Regional Reps. for Cambodia. We enjoyed spending time together this past weekend, visiting and "checking up" on how we're doing. We continue to appreciate the servant leaders that they are.

Above and below are two pictures of the church Ministry Team meeting that Skip and Carol led at our house with the Phnom Penh Mennonite Church.

That's all for this week. Blessings to you from afar!

-Ryan

Wedding Weekend - Part Three

2008-11-11T17:16:00.003+07:00

Ryan provided transportation for the wedding party's location shoot in the afternoon, so got in on the fun outdoor shots taken in Stung Treng Town near the Mekong River.

Is this a gorgeous wedding party photo or what?! Notice the "un-da-new" (rainbow) in the sky. And now's a good time to explain that Khmer brides become quick-change artists at their weddings - SreyPenh wore at least 8 different wedding gowns throughout the day, probably more. (You may have noticed in the pictures, she wears a different gown in almost every one.) It depends on the bride and the financial status of the family - some brides may change as many as 20 times!

The reception was held in the evening at a restaurant several km. from the bride's home. Here's the happy couple cutting cake. It was then offered to their parents before they ate, and not served to all the guests present. (We only saw children and family eating any.)

Juliana became buddies with Soda (emphasis on the last syllable), one of the young women who travelled with us from Phnom Penh. She, like most other female guests at the reception, wore a very fancy evening gown (different than what she wore to the morning ceremony) and VERY heavy makeup. (We weren't clued in on the two-dress tradition, and I personally opted to pass on the inch-thick makeup application. PTL for the grace extended to clued-out foreigners!)

Kai gets a dance in with the groom. Well, sort of. : )

The weary travellers on the way back to Phnom Penh...

...and the horrible, rush-hour traffic jam that greeted us once we got into downtown PP!

All in all, it was a worthwhile trip, and a blessing to celebrate with Sopheak and SreyPenh as they start their marriage together!

Wedding Weekend - Part Two

2008-11-11T16:56:00.003+07:00

Sorry, I really did mean to get back to this before a week went by. Anyway, continuing with the wedding...

Here we are sharing breakfast with other wedding ceremony guests. We are eating a rice-noodle soup called "baw-baw lote." The families provide wedding guests with breakfast and lunch, and then even more guests are invited to the evening reception!

During the ceremony, the groom and bride washed each other's feet. In traditional Buddhist weddings, only the woman washes her husband's feet. This was a believer's wedding, so they shared the symbolism together.

Here, Sopheak and SreyPenh exchange wedding rings.

Wearing silk outfits purchased just for this event, we get our photo taken with the new couple!!
Side note: I (Bethany) actually had my outfit tailored just for me. Cambodia is amazing that way - if you can't find what you're looking for, find someone to custom-make it. Since my feet are large for Asian shoe sizes, I actually found a shop to custom-make leather dress shoes - for $15! Imagine!!

(Continued in additional post)

Wedding Weekend - Part One

2008-11-04T15:20:00.002+07:00

This past Thursday, our family and a few friends hit the road for a long trip to Stung Treng, a province in northern Cambodia, bordering Laos. We were on our way to attend the wedding of our friend Sopheak, and we had a great time learning more about Cambodian wedding culture, getting outside of the city, enjoying fruit fresh from the tree, seeing dolphins jump in the Mekong River, and celebrating with the friends and family present for the wedding and reception.

Ryan drove the EMM van (he's getting really good at driving like a Cambodian - which is a little bit scary at times!) and Sophal (Women's Dorm Director), Soda and Pala (former dorm students), and Greta Kauffman (EMM intern) came with us. We stopped at Sophal's aunt's citrus orchard on the way, and enjoyed fresh orange juice in the grove. We slept the night at a guest house in Kratie (pronounced Kraw-jeh), stopped a bit on the banks of the Mekong River to see an endangered species of dolphins jumping in the water, and arrived at the SreyPenh (the bride)'s house on Friday afternoon.

At 7 a.m. Saturday morning, we joined the other guests in the traditional Khmer wedding proceedings. That is, getting in line behind the groom for a walk with family and wedding guests from a different location (maybe a kilometer away) to the bride's house, where she waits with her family. The guests all help to carry the "dowry gifts," which are food (fresh meat, veggies, fruit, desserts, etc.) that will be shared at the meals provided for the guests. In the photo above, Sopheak (in gold), wearing traditional dress and flanked by his parents, is waiting until the guests are all in order for the procession to begin. (We understand that some weddings start even earlier than this!)

Here, SreyPenh offers Sopheak a drink (coconut juice) to refresh him from the trek (which was not even a kilometer in this case, but such is the tradition). She is also wearing traditional dress, as Khmer royalty would have worn in centuries past.

Sopheak and SreyPenh before entering the house

Another tradition of Khmer weddings is to broadcast the proceedings and traditional wedding music from loudspeakers throughout the neighborhood and surrounding area. Even though we weren't always sure what was going on, the neighbors a couple km.'s away woud have known what was happening!

Well, due to some internet issues we seem to be having with the blog site, I'll have to make this into a two-part post and share the rest of the wedding photos later. Stay tuned for the rest of the story!

EMM Friends and Our Pastor's Graduation

2008-10-27T15:22:00.010+07:00

One of the highlights of this past week was spending time with Dave Harnish and Jimm Derksen, EMM staff workers from Salunga, PA who were visiting parts of Asia. It was good to see these two again and we were greatly encouraged by our times of fellowship and an encouraging time of prayer before they took off this past Thursday.

Though we don't have any pictures of Dave, here's a picture of Jimm in our house, sipping a fresh "duk doan" (coconut water).

Another highlight from this week for me was going to Phnom Penh Bible school for it's 14th annual graduation ceremony. Here is the school's auditorium.

The speaker for the event reminded the graduating class and all those attending the ceremony that though there are many kinds of leaders in our world, Christian leaders must seek, above all else, to be faithful Christ-like leaders.
The reason I went to the graduation was to support Pastor Dady. Dady, pictured here with his wife, son and daughter, is the pastor of Phnom Penh Mennonite church. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in Christian Ministry. Join us in praying for Pastor Dady and his family. He is a dedicated, passionate young man juggling responsibilities of family, university studies (he's continuing to study English), and part-time work with the church.

-Ryan

Ryan's Language Class, Etc.

2008-10-20T14:38:00.004+07:00

Greetings from Cambodia! Many of you reading this blog are experiencing cooler temps and enjoy seeing the changing colors of leaves. Well, that's not our experience. It's still hot and green and so it doesn't really feel like fall to us.
Yesterday, as I listened to a song by Fernando Ortega based on Psalm 104, I was encouraged to join creation in it's song. Whatever climate we're in, creation is singing (and longs to sing more fully) the praises of our God. What is creation's song? Well, Ortega states it like this: "Glory, Halleluia, Glory to the Lamb. All praises and honor, forever, Amen." Our creator God is so powerful and so loving. May we, Christ's followers, fully surrender ourselves to Him that he may receive maximum honor from our lives.
If our family is going to communicate with Cambodian people about our majestic and merciful God, we've got to be able to speak the language of our listeners. We've been reminded in some of our missionary training that God was a language learner. As he came in the person of Jesus, he learned Hebrew and Aramaic. So we're following his footsteps, wanting to meet people where they are.
It's facinating to Bethany and I how excited people here get when we use the Khmer that we do know. "Oh, you speak the Khmer language very well!" When our Khmer neighbors run into Westerners, they're often tourists or English teachers who don't have a similar interest in communicating with Cambodian people in their native language.
In learning Khmer, we say to the Cambodian people that their language and culture are important to us. As they learn to see Christ in us, broken people though we are, we pray that they will also come to recognize that they are incredibly important to Him. We hope and pray that these people will receive God's grace, share it with others, and let their lives join creation in singing to their creator, "Glory, Halleluia, Glory to our God. All praises and honor, forever, and ever Amen."
Thanks for your thoughts, prayers, and love from afar...
-Ryan

P.S. Enjoy the pics below...
Here's the sign for the language school that I attend from 7:30-9:00 am, Monday-Friday. Notice the sign is written in Khmer (top), English (bottom left), and French (bottom right.) Cambodia was a French colony at one time.

"Lo Crew (teacher) Para" and I standing in front of the white board, which he uses to teach us all kinds of Khmer consonants, vowels, vocabulary and grammar. I really appreciate his enthusiasm for teaching and his friendly personality.

While I'm studying Khmer, Kai is hard at work learning the trade of "play." He's fond of chewing on anything he get's his hands on, knocking down towers, playing peek-a-boo, and laughing at his big sister's crazy antics. Here's Kai playing with Allison, the daughter of friends from church.

And here's Juliana, learning how to look like her daddy when he had a gotee. (Yes, she did get some of the ice cream in her mouth...)

Back to School

2008-10-13T16:53:00.002+07:00

Although we've been learning Khmer ever since we arrived in Cambodia six months ago (tonight!), we recently stepped up our studies by enrolling in language courses where, in addition to listening and speaking, we're going to attempt to learn to read and write. Last week, to aid our study of the Khmer alphabet, I bought and hung two posters on the walls of our dining room. Now, as we eat our American breakfasts and Khmer lunches and suppers, we get to study the never-ending (or so they seem!) consonants and vowels. And just in case anyone out there is interested in studying them a bit, too, I'll give you an introduction.

In the poster above, each block showcases a consonant in the upper-left corner, a subscript in the lower-left corner (I haven't really learned what they're all about, but I believe mainly used to spell words that have two consonants beside each other), a picture of a word that begins with that consonant, and the word spelled in small letters in the bottom-right corner. Red consonants are first series (with an "-aw" sound) and blue consonants are second series (with an "-oh" sound). So, reading across the top, the letters are Kaw, Khaw, Koh, Khoh, Ngoh. (And the k without the h behind sounds more like our g, but now I'm getting technical...)

This is a close-up of the numbers 0-9 on the bottom right of the same poster. Starting on the left top (with zero) and reading down two columns, the numbers are shown characterized by an animal with the black numeric script beside it on the right. Thankfully, the arabic numerals we're used to in the west are recognized and used universally as well, or we'd be lost just trying to find an address or get a phone number!

And here we have the 23 vowels, which each have a first and second series sound as well, making for nearly 46 vowel sounds! One knows (once one has mastered the alphabet, that is!) which sound to use by the series of the consonant with which it's used in conjuction - oh, and as far as position, the vowels can go over top, beside, or below the consonant. (For example, in the photo with the numbers, two vowels are seen on the bottom left -the grey circle represents the location of a consonant.) Also, for your viewing pleasure, an assortment of pictures/words of Southeast Asian food.

*Side note: The fruit in the center of the poster (third row, third column from left) is called durian (English) or Too-rain (Khmer), and to many (I'm not one of them) is considered a delicacy. It is large, about the size of a football, has soft, yellow-white flesh, a VERY pungent odor and a unique taste. In my own opinion, the smell is a cross between sweaty, old gym clothes and rotten eggs, and the taste reminds me of an onion omelet. We have heard of airlines that forbid travel with said fruit, hotels prohibiting its consumption on their premises, and a wife who can always tell hours later after her husband indulges his durian cravings - his breath gives him away!)

So, on the days when learning the Khmer alphabet is more than we can grasp, we try to take lessons from our kids and either not let it scare us...

... or just grin and bear it anyway!

PS. Language Learning Update: We've had a recent change of plans, and Ryan and I are actually taking two different courses - he's still at the university (Institute of Foreign Languages), but I'm now studying with a tutor at Khmer School of Language. We are each happy with our teacher/tutor, and the arrangement is working well.

- Bethany

Welcome to our Home - Part Two

2008-10-06T15:45:00.006+07:00

On this post we'll continue the tour of our home, started in the last post. Welcome to the second floor of our home.

First we'll see Juliana's room. Notice our little "almost four-year-old" sound asleep in her little blue "tent" which keeps the mosquitoes away while she sleeps. The mosquitoes here aren't too bad, but we've woken up with some polka-dotted arms and legs when we've slept without a net or when we've not stayed completely covered up with a sheet.

Next we have Bethany, my, and Kai's room. Little Kai is hiding behind the rungs of his crib. He had just woken up from a nap, so he wasn't too happy I took this shot.

This is the family room with a bookshelf and sofa opposite the wall pictured. This is where bed-time stories are read and DVD's are watched. The multi-colored foam squares below the T.V. are to prevent Kai from chewing on the remotes.

This tour brought to you in part by Children's Tylenol, which helps fussy teething babies, like the one here, reclaim their photogenic smile.

-Ryan

Dad Turns 60!

2008-10-06T14:34:00.005+07:00

Today, October 6th, 2008 is a special day indeed. It marks the 6oth birthday of one of my most favorite persons, my dad! To those of you who know him, you understand why I deeply appreciate him. To those of you who don't know him, you're missing out. I love you Dad!

See the 60 year old man in the pictures below...

Family Photo, Summer 2007 at Swampy Hollow Farm

With Juliana and Mom, Summer 2007 at our home at Turtle Hill Rd.

Wtih Mom, Juliana, and Kai during some special months of living together at 530 Valley Ave, Early Spring 2008

-Ryan

Welcome to Our Home - Part One

2008-09-23T16:54:00.012+07:00

We've been wanting to give you a tour of our home for a while, but were waiting until we were able to "rip-jahm" (organize) a bit more. But if we were to wait until everything was where we want it and neatly arranged, you'd probably never get to see it! So, just like I would say if you were here to take a tour in person, "Please excuse the mess!" and enjoy photos from House 0A, Street Tapun, Phnom Penh, Cambodia...

This is our first-floor living room, facing out to the street.

Here are Juliana and Kai playing in the living room (looking in from the front doors, with the dining room in the background)

A family meal around the dining room table

Our wonderful housekeeper, Ming (younger aunt) Nyaw, cooks a meal in the "outside kitchen" (which isn't really outside, but in a tiny room at the back of the house). It's separated from the "main" kitchen by a door (photo on right taken from that doorway facing in toward the front of the house.)

(Side note: the clear, glass cupboard on the right is where we keep our pantry/dry good items, and we call it the "ant cupboard." We don't keep ants in it - the name comes from the fact that this type of cupboard stands in "ant cups" which are filled with water or talc powder - which ants won't cross - to keep ants from getting into one's food supply. The ants here are a very determined bunch, and will get everywhere and anywhere if you're not careful!)

This shot is taken from the back of the "gonline da lan" (place to put a car), standing right outside the screen door from the main kitchen. It's big enough for 3 cars, we're told, but we mostly use it to park the EMM van; keep the trash and recycleables until they're thrown to the street for the trash men or given away to the recycle collectors, respectively; and to have visitors park their motorbikes inside.

Well, that's enough of a tour for this week, since we really do need to clean up a bit in some of the rooms. Also, the kids are napping in two of them! : )

But I thought I'd leave you with a photo from a recent outing to a Bubble Tea restaurant. Bubble teas are pretty popular in Asia, and usually consist of a milk-based, flavored tea with large, black, tapioca pearls in the bottom of the glass. I've never been one for things floating (or sinking!) in my beverages, but these are really tasty drinks. They're served with enormous straws through which one sucks the tea and tapioca pearls. Juliana especially likes these teas, and we've been to three different BT resaurants already! (The ones you see in the photo below are (L to R) honeydew, coffee, and almond.)

- Bethany

Muddy Roads, Pure Hearts

2008-09-15T19:12:00.005+07:00

As many were rolling out of bed in Phnom Penh this past Saturday, I was rolling out of the capital in the EMM van. Destination? Kompong Cham, one of Cambodia’s rural provinces. I proudly drove the group of 11 university students and Sophal, the women’s dorm director to visit the family of Chairon, a third year student. What incredible young people I had the opportunity to travel with! The eleven hour round trip was filled with loud conversation, laughter, and the singing together of a wide selection of Christian worship songs. The purpose of the trip was to strengthen the relationship between Chairon’s family and EMM's dorm, to recruit potential dorm students, and to discern ways in which the current students can be praying for her family and her home village.

Highlights of the trip include:
--Having my first taste of fried tarantula. I am being truthful when I say the little bugger’s legs actually did taste good. Hungry, anyone?
--Driving for 2 hrs. on the worst road I have been on in my life. (Not an exaggeration). This road made PennDot’s workmanship look good. The rainy season had created a muddy, bumpy, puddle-filled semblance of a road. Thankfully we only had to stop once on this road because the spare tire which was located under the vehicle was dislodged from its home.
--Most of my interactions with the dorm students have been in the setting of a worship service or a brief conversation at one of the dorms. Therefore, I was grateful for the opportunity to have an extended period of time to relate with them in a context where they could “let their hair down.”
--Coming home to my lovely wife and two children was the closing highlight of the day. It’s rare that I spend the whole day away from them, so it was good to be back home.

Enjoy the pictures below,
Ryan

Chairon's Family's house with the EMM van parked in front.

The stundents enjoying the noon meal on a traditional Cambodian rice mat.

Posing for a picture before we departed. Chairon's family in back and university dorm students and I in front.

The Latest Edition

2008-09-08T10:53:00.007+07:00

We realized recently that we're due for some updates on various situations and experiences we've written about recently. Sorry to keep you hanging on the household plumbing saga and the family's health! As far as the indoor flooding, we are back to being on dry land when it rains - the worker came while we were in Thailand and cleaned out the clog in the pipes. (Not to get into too many yucky details, plumbing here is generally pretty wimpy, and it's very typical to put used toilet tissue into a wastebasket in the bathroom instead of flushing it - sometimes the septic system can't handle it. We hadn't needed to do that at the other house we lived in, and were hoping not to have to here. Pray that our system - with a little TLC - will handle its load from now on!)

Photo above: Our new home (the AC unit you see is not ours - we use fans and sweat!)

And our family is healthy again, though it was a rough ride. The day that Ryan wrote about needing to take Kai to a doctor, we went to an international clinic (the doctor and nurse we saw were Khmer but spoke English) at 9 pm, concerned that Kai was dehydrating since he couldn't keep anything inside. He received good care and recovered in a few more days. So, after the sickness that started with Juliana, went to Kai, was passed to Daddy and then on to Mommy, we are all back to good health (PTL!).

Three-quarters of the recovered crew

Kai has some more milestones to report. He's been busy cutting more teeth - the total count is up to 6! He was not himself the weeks when two or three of the top four were trying to come through the gums almost all at the same time, but he's less cranky recently since they're almost all in now. His other big news is his new mobility! Our days of just sitting him on his play mat and knowing he'd stay there are over - he's very happy to scoot on his well-padded bottom to explore places that look interesting. We just had a "jee-ung" (worker) here this morning to talk about installing gates for the stairs, in hopes of avoiding a tumble down the concrete, non-carpeted steps!

Showing off his new teeth

Being mobile has interesting moments (getting stuck under a dining room chair being one of them!)

Oh, and he's learning to drive a tuk-tuk, too! (Sok, another tuk-tuk driver/friend, and Kai)

Thank you for praying for us and asking how we are when we forget to give updates. - Bethany

To Thailand, New Holland, and Back

2008-08-27T16:13:00.011+07:00

After a long day and a half of traveling North in Cambodia, we crossed the border into Thailand last Thursday. The reason for our journey? A three-day get-together of EMM workers from Southeast Asia, hosted by Skip and Carol Tobin. (Upper Left: A glimpse of Thailand's green rice fields.)

We had a wonderful time interacting with the group of 11 adults and 4 children. We came away from the retreat feeling very encouraged in our faith. Though we don’t have a large EMM Cambodia team to support us, we are grateful for the team we have with these brothers and sisters. We gathered together regularly for meals, worship, Bible study, and prayer. We were blessed by how meaningful the times of prayer for one another were.

A highlight of the weekend was having the opportunity to attend an Isaan-style church service. (Bethany and Kai missed out on this because Kai was sick.) The Isaan people are a people group in Thailand. Skip and Carol Tobin helped to plant this church. The worship group lead the singing using some uniquely Isaan instruments. Though Juliana and I couldn’t sing along, we clapped our hands and enjoyed the joyful noises that were being made to the Lord.

After the service we enjoyed a meal of sticky rice (which you eat with your hands) and all kinds of “fixin’s.”

Here is Juliana, after the meal, playing a xylophone-like instrument with the help of one of the members of the worship band.

While driving in Thailand, Skip pointed out this New Holland tractor retail shop. What a surprise to see this reminder of rural Lancaster County on the other side of the world!

We enjoyed the scenery as we traveled. Here’s a view of Cambodia, close to the Thai border.

The one dissapointment of the trip was Juliana and Kai being sick. Juliana was sick as we traveled to Thailand and Kai was sick as we came home. Juliana is better now, but Kai is still suffering from something in his digestive system. We'll see a doctor tomorrow and hope he'll recover soon.

Can you guess who's feeling sick in who's feeling like himself in this picture? These two grow more and more special to us every day. We are blessed to be their parents...

Until next time,

Ryan

When It Rains, It Pours

2008-08-18T10:49:00.001+07:00

As is probably the case with all “new home” dwellers, some things come to light about a new residence only after you’ve actually lived in the house. When we first began to clean and prepare our apartment in the month of July, a few times we came to the house we noticed some puddles on the floor after a rain, and wondered from where it was coming. Then once when the FMC team was here, our guest bathroom drain backed up and flooded the bathroom with sewer water. The mystery deepened when, after very hard rains this past Thursday and Friday, we noticed that the puddles we remembered from before were reappearing, but that the water actually seeped through the walls!? We had our suspicions, which were confirmed Friday evening as our kitchen flooded with rain-/sewer-water. Our diagnosis? A clog in the pipe that runs from the house to the nearby sewer-water drain, that, during torrential downpours (which we’ve had several lately – this is the rainy season, after all) allows rain and sewer water to back up into the pipe that leads to the guest bathroom. This means that when we get flooded, the water is coming simultaneously from the pipe in the kitchen that combines the rain spouts with the bathroom drain water, the overflow in the bathroom itself (which on a bad day flows out into the guest bedroom, down the stairs, and across the hall into the office), and leaking through the walls. Needless to say, such nastiness has significantly added to the stress level of late. Ryan figures the solution to the problem is a visit from a roto-rooter (does Cambodia have such things?) and a new pipe to redirect the rain water away from the pipe that already can’t handle its load. As of this writing, the landlady has been to the house, but the worker who does the fixing has not. Therefore, in light of said problem and the general lack of organization to our home currently, we’re waiting to post pictures of our home until a later date. Stay tuned, but hopefully the saga does not continue!
- Bethany

Fussiness and First Teeth

2008-08-18T10:34:00.002+07:00

Our dear Kai, the most easy-going and laid-back member of the family, went through a stage last month of fussiness and irritability that was most unlike him. We figured it was teething time, but his mouth gave no proof of our suspicions. Until… the last week of July - voila! – not just one, but two bottom, baby teeth made an appearance! And just this week, he cut his top left tooth, with the right obviously in hot pursuit of the goal. It makes for a most endearing grin. And we thought he couldn’t get any cuter…

Waving from his highchair, our little man shares the smile for which he's known!

Showing off his two front teeth two weeks ago

With our good friend Sopheak, who recently returned from a year in Canada as a participant with MCC's International Visitors Exchange Program

3-2-1-PRESCHOOL!

2008-08-18T10:17:00.002+07:00

Juliana had been asking if it was August ever since June, when the decision was made to enroll her in preschool at Hope International School (http://www.hopeschool-cambodia.org/). She was so excited to begin her educational career that it was her favorite topic of conversation, both with family and with new people we’d meet. Well, the anticipation is over, as Hope opened its doors to students on August 11, and as far as we can tell, preschool is meeting Juliana’s expectations. She attends on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and enjoys playing pretend with other children, painting, playing in sand, and swinging on tire swings. (An interesting note is that the building was already familiar to Juliana since the Preschool moved into the house the Caldwell’s had lived in!)Eating breakfast on the first day of preschool

In front of our new house, leaving for our two-minute walk to Hope Preschool

Juliana in front of her bin at preschool

One of the play areas

Our Move and Some Special Guests

2008-08-18T09:58:00.004+07:00

Our season of “house-sitting” in the Hills’ apartment came to an end in the month of July, and we moved into the house we found for our long-term residence on July 31. We were in a hurry to get at least a bit organized that first day, since we were expecting houseguests a mere 36 hours after spending our first night in our new home. Franklin Mennonite Conference, a small group of churches in the Chambersburg, PA area that financially support the EMM dorms, sent a delegation to visit Cambodia. Their purpose for the visit was to report on the dorm ministry and to encourage us and the church. Paul and Tina Holderman (former EMM missionaries here in Phnom Penh) and Katie Lehman (a young woman from Holdermans’ church) were here from August 2 – 13, and though it made life very full, their time with us was indeed a blessing. Paul was very handy in doing odd jobs around the house, Tina baked us some yummy food, and they were able to visit and encourage many of their friends from the 3 years they lived here. It also felt like Christmas, because they came bearing gifts from our family, friends and MST. Thank you so much, everyone! We don’t have very many pictures of the team during their time here – we were too busy to think about it! – but the camera came out while we were seeing them off at the airport. Thanks again, Holdermans and Katie, for your encouragement, help and gift of a night away as a couple! (We were able to play tourists – childless! – and sleep at a local hotel. What a rare treat!!)

Paul Holderman and Mades, a church member and friend of the Holdermans

Katie Lehman and Tina Holderman, visiting after church

Saying goodbye to the team at the airport, with Ming (younger aunt) Nyaw, our househelper (Juliana was in preschool)

2008-08-18T09:56:00.000+07:00

Just in case you were wondering if we fell off the face of the earth, allow me to begin by putting your fears to rest: We are alive and well (mostly)! We’ve been up to our ears in transition and out-of-the-ordinary events, so posting on our blog during the past month fell to the bottom of the to-do list. We will attempt to catch you up in a series of shorter posts, so here goes…

Getting Around...

2008-07-21T19:26:00.005+07:00

This short post is dedicated to Modes of transportation in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Enjoy the snapshots of what we daily see on the city streets...

A Bicycle. Besides walking, this is the most affordable travel option. However, bikes are for more than just transportation. This young man is peddling his kitchen-related wares from the back of his bike.

A Cyclo (see-clo). A cousin to the tricycle, the cyclo is ideal when transporting large market purchases home. Many tourists like them too because of the leisurely view they can take in as they travel along at a slow pace.

A Motorcycle. The motorcycle is by far the most common form of transportation used in Cambodia. It provides a fast way to get where you’re going and is small enough to be able to weave in and out of the hectic traffic that slows cars down.

A Tuk-Tuk. This motorcycle-powered carriage is the form of transportation we use most frequently. It is safer than just riding around on motorcycles and allows our family to all ride together. Because our new house (We’re moving in August!) has a garage to keep the EMM van in, we’ll start using the van more regularly. I have enjoyed the challenge of learning to drive in what seems to Americans as the crazy Cambodian traffic.

And something you'll never see in the United States: an SUV. The sports utility vehicle seems to be quite popular here in Cambodia. We were surprised to see how many SUV’s there were when we got here. Though the country has great financial need, there are some people here with well-padded wallets.

That's all for this post. Thanks again for your interest in our lives and for your prayers!

-Ryan

Kids, Cultures, and a Trip to the Countryside

2008-07-13T21:55:00.006+07:00

When we were preparing to come to Cambodia, we were told several times that having children with us would make for an easier entry into the new culture, as kids open doors for relating with people. I'm guessing this is because of their lack of inhibitions, appeal across cultures (the "cute factor"), and the fact that most everyone loves a baby. We've certainly been given a warm welcome as an expatriate family living here, evidenced by the many smiles, attempts at communication, and attention we get when we are out as a foursome. We often joke about the huge fan clubs that Juliana and Kai have, and how we can identify with the Hollywood set who can't seem to leave their homes without encountering adoring fans and paparazzi. But as parents, the situation is not always so funny. Pale, white skin attracts a lot of attention here (it's considered more beautiful than dark, brown skin - you wouldn't believe the assortment of lotions sold in markets that supposedly whitens brown skin!), and sometimes that attention can become a bit bothersome. People do enjoy children here, but it's not uncommon for them to show that enjoyment by tweaking noses, touching faces and arms, and actually taking Kai out of our arms (often without asking) to hold him and get a picture of/with him. Juliana has had her share of photos taken, too. Bless his heart, Kai seems to mind the least of any of us, but Juliana doesn't always appreciate the stares, extra attention and contact. It's hard to know how to be hospitable and share our children - and to teach them to be respectful and kind - when they and their personal space are not always given the same courtesy. It's going to take us a bit to adjust to the cultural differences involved, ie. it's not considered rude to stare, children are somewhat objectified, and personal space is much, much smaller here. So, if you're ever not quite sure how to pray for us, wisdom, grace and patience are always good bets!

A common scene while traveling: someone pointing and commenting about our family

In other news, we were able to get out of the city for a few days last week, and spent Thursday evening through Sunday morning in Prey Veng, the provincial capital of the province of Prey Veng. Miles and Ruth Wiederkehr, Canadians serving with MCC, invited us out for a visit, and we had a great time. We rested, played games, road bike, watched some Mr. Bean, talked, ate Ruth's good cooking and baking, and got lots of mosquito bites. White skin is even scarcer in the countryside, so after our trip to the local market and nearby rainy-season lake (it completely dries up in the dry season) attracted a lot of attention, we retreated to a restaurant close to the Wiederkehrs for some cold drinks and a spell on the wooden swing (which reminded us of Atglen!). Below are some pictures from our time in Prey Veng...

Hanging out in the hammocks the Wiederkehr men built

On our bike ride

Juliana helped Ruth make Sesame Seed Cookies (Ruth's putting in palm sugar in photo above)

Theo and Andre Wiederkehr (ages 11 and 9) and Slater the cat

Blessed Bruises

2008-07-08T11:01:00.004+07:00

When it comes to the game of "Swat," it most definately is better to give than to receive. This "icebreaker" game was a great way for us to get to know the young ladies in EMM's women's dorm last Sunday. After the morning's church service we took some hearty curry, bread, and fruit with us as we looked forward to sharing a meal and some fun with these university students.

We had a really good time together. The women enjoyed the meal and it was so fun to hear the group erupt in laughter as persons would get swatted with a rolled-up newspaper if they were not quick to say someone else's name.
Juliana quickly warmed up to the ladies and impressed them with the Khmer words she was using. And as always, Kai had his share of doting young ladies.

May God continue to bless these young ladies as they pursue university education in Phnom Penh. May they grow healthy: physically, spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. May they be agents of future positive change their country. May they be builders of Christ's kingdom in Cambodia!

-Ryan

Welcomed Guests

2008-06-23T09:04:00.007+07:00

With squinted eyes, we enjoyed our "to-go" breakfast of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches as we traveled in the bright morning sun to the Vienamese Mennonite Church. Our brother and friend, pastor Luy, had specifically invited us to come to this morning's service because it was a special baptism service. Pastor Luy gave me the opportunity to share some words of encouragement with the new believers and the rest of the congregation. I briefly shared, reminding them that though they sometimes may feel alone in the struggles they experience in their Christian lives, they have great support as they look to the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit, and their brothers and sisters in Christ. I felt very honored to have the opportunity to share in the special morning.
After the service and a brief time of snacks and fellowship we took some group pictures and then Pastor Luy and the elders of the church distributed bags of rice and noodles to the families.
Pator Luy had shared with us that many of the families are facing financial difficulty, in part because they used to depend on funds that they received by selling their daughters into prostitution. As they have learned about God's word and joined the church, they have recognized that prostitution, though financially profitable, does not honor God. Therefore, they need assistence getting food on the table as they get re-established financially. Praise God for the ministry of his Spirit through people like Pastor Luy! We serve a God who cares greatly about all our needs...

A picture of us with Pastor Luy (holding Juliana) and the leadership team of the church

A picture of us with the rest of the church. In front of the group are bags of rice, donated by an Australian couple that Pastor Luy has been in contact with.

The Doctor is In!

2008-06-16T18:55:00.012+07:00

One of the wisest investments we've made as parents has been a Plastic Doctor's Kit via eBay. Juliana has gotten hours of enjoyment from this kit. I often hear her ask, "Daddy, can you check my doctors?" Perhaps we should introduce her to some medical missionaries here in Cambodia to test her potential calling into the medical field...
While Juliana was practicing her doctor skills last week, we were busy helping Darrell and Susan Caldwell pack up and prepare for their transition back to the states. We also had the opportunity to spend a lot of time together with Skip and Carol Tobin (more below).

(Left) Darrell and Susan Caldwell, exhausted after saying four hours-worth of "good-byes"to many friends at their fairwell open-house party. This family will be greatly missed by many here.

(Right) We hosted Skip and Carol Tobin last week. As EMM regional reps to southeast Asia, the Tobins will continue to provide direction and support for us as we are the only EMM long-term missionaries currently in Cambodia.

Skip and Carol quickly re-established themselves as "aunt"and "uncle"to Juliana. Here our daughter is sandwiched inbetween the two on a tuk-tuk ride.

Sunday morning was a special morning of honoring the Caldwells at Phnom Penh Mennonite Church. Here is a group picture after the service and meal together. (Can you find the fair-skinned baby in the group?)

Needless to say, we were pretty exhausted after the week. (Right) Juliana and I resting in a hammock. (Below) Kai, proving that he will not let the rungs of the crib confine his body...

Thanks for your interest in our lives and ministry. If you're reading this blog, you've most likely played a very significant role in helping us be the people we are today, and for that we say a big "Thank You!"

-Ryan