Our Last Day in Tarutung.....

We went out to the farm for the last time :-(  We gathered more soil  and water for testing in Medan. 

'T' will take it back with her tonight.  We checked on the cow - she is doing much better.  Still avoids us, but is not as skinny and eats well.  The fencing looks good and the shed floor, trough and cattle chute look great.  Steve did try to explain to Turbo and Sihite the need for two gates/panels for crowding a cow into the chute.  As before, Turbo seemed to understand exactly what Steve wanted.  Time will tell :-)  Most of the workers are laid off as the fence, shed, and chute are done. 

We were only able to see Turbo and the two boys who cut grass for the cows.  Sihite will drive us to the airport tomorrow morning, so we will say goodbye to him then.

'H' left this morning for Medan after being awakened by the police calling at 6:30 am.  They were just checking to make sure we were leaving today.  'H' told them that was the plan, as that was the original plan (when I had my dates mixed up :-) ) and the one they still have.  No one gave them the corrected dates and 'H' felt it would be better to leave well enough alone.  Sure hope we get out of here tomorrow before they find out differently!!  'H' will meet us and Ron tomorrow around noon and take us to the hotel.  Then it's off to the 'feed store' for farm supplies.   I don't think I can post from there (wasn't able to on the way over, anyway), so will try from KL and/or Taiwan.  I never mentioned that 'H' is a civil engineer.  He designed the water system they use for the farm and has offered his services free to the 'governor' for the community water project.  He spent 5 years in Aceh after the tsunami, designing various building projects.  He worked very closely with Samaritan's Purse.  We have so enjoyed our week with him.  He is a fascinating man.  He speaks at least 6 languages.  Talk about a gift of tongues!!

It sure felt like home today.  SOMEONE was preparing us for our return.  There was a torrential downpour starting about 3 pm and ending about 9 pm.  The power went out about 3:30 and didn't come back on until 7:30.  Because of this, all night classes at the nursing school were cancelled.  So, we were not able to speak to the students.  Interestingly, the young lady we met over a week ago, who was supposed to come over to interview us last Sunday, the 22nd, showed up tonight to interview us.  We ran into her again this morning when we went to the store.  She never came last Sun. because she couldn't find the house.  We told her we were leaving in the morning, so she asked if she could come tonight.  We told her to come after 8 as we were scheduled to speak to the students.  She showed up at 7:10.  Our half an hour interview lasted almost 2 hours.  She is going to college to become an English teacher.  She is paying her tuition by teaching English to elementary and high school students at a private school.  She brought one of her classmates along.  So we were actually interviewed twice.  The classmate she brought along knew very little English. 

The most interesting part was when she asked if we had been to the big cross outside of Tarutung and if America had any big crosses for people to go to.  When we told her 'no' she was amazed as America is a Christian nation.  Steve then explained how being born in America does not make you a Christian and asked her if she was Batak.  She said 'yes'.  Then he asked if that made her a Christian and she said 'yes'.  This gave him the opportunity to explain that being a Christian means believeing in and following Jesus Christ.  She agreed and admitted that there probably were some Batak that were not Christian :-)

When we were done, and while she waited for her ride, I showed the crowd in the living room pictures of my kids and grandkids and pics. I had taken in Indonesia.  They seemed to really enjoy themselves.  We were invited to visit her house and to meet her parents the next time we come to Tarutung.

 I sure hope we sleep tonight - we are not looking forward to the next two days!  Thank you for your continued prayers on our behalf.

Our Sunday Lunch Ritual Continues

'H's wife flew in from Medan this morning so 'H' went to pick her up, then they went to church.  While he was gone, we walked several blocks to the bank so that we had enough money for the flight back on Tues.  Then we went to the store for more water.  While there it began to downpour.  We stood outside for 15 mins. under an awning before it let up enough for us to risk the walk.  They got back about 1 pm and we headed out for lunch.  After that 'T' ('H's wife) wanted to go to Lake Toba.  We didn't have time to do the ferry trip so we went to the top of a mountain where there is a lookout.  It was beautiful!  I took a couple of pics. and hope they turn out.  I will send one to my daughter to have her post here.  ( This is a pic taken of Lake Toba, from the plane, on the flight over...... the one from the Mt. viewpoint didn't turn out )

Next, we headed down the mountain to a fancy resort, in the middle of this poor-looking town, at the end of a winding, hole-filled road.  How anyone could find this place is amazing.  It has to be word of mouth or a previous visit.  We stopped for tea and toast.  Then we headed back up the mountain and home.  We have not seen so many water buffalo at one time as on this winding road. 

I forgot to mention yesterday that the English teacher we talked with works for the government in public works.  (Teaching English is his 'night' job.)  We talked about the water situation in the village and he told us that 55% of the Indonesian people have water.  The government is hoping to increase this to 75% in 10 years.  That seems a long time for people to wait!

Another interesting bit of info. is that 'H' is still getting daily phone calls from the police about us (sometimes several times a day!).  They want to know where we are and what we are doing.  They often ask him why we are there hoping we are being paid so they can collect their share.  They seem disappointed when he tells them we are volunteers.

A Lazy Day

Today was a lazy day.  'H' had some business in town and in the village, so we stayed here.  After he left, we walked several blocks to a store and bought some water and peanut butter :-)  After we came back, Steve took a nap while I went online looking for a company like the Gates Foundation or USAID that would consider providing a large pump for pumping water to the village.  To see the poverty, lethargy, and lack of nutrition is so hard.  To not have clean water is almost unfathomable, considering where we live.  If they were to have an adequate clean water supply, they could grow more food for their families and drink as much as they want without the worry of running out.  We know HE will provide one in HIS time, we just don't know if we are to be allowed to help.  So, we will head in that direction and see what HE does.

After a lunch of leftovers, we headed back to the store for rice.  As we were walking by the nursing school, an older gentleman stopped us.  He spoke fairly understandable English.  Turns out he is the English 'professor'.  As far as we could tell, he comes once every week or two to test the students on what English they learned since he was here last.  The test was to begin in 20 mins.  Steve had quite the chat with him.  I was surrounded by students asking questions.  "What are you doing in Tarutung?"  "How many children do you have?"  "How do you like the weather in Tarutung?"  "When will you come back?"  Sometimes I can understand them and sometimes I can't.  Sometimes they understand my answer and sometimes they don't.  One big plus was that the 'professor' told us the Indonesian term for rice.  'Paddy' means the rice directly from the farm, complete with hulls.  'Nasi' is cooked rice.  The one we needed was 'Beras', uncooked (refined!) rice.  Supposedly, he is going to invite us to speak on Mon. night.  Pray that happens and for the words to say!

'H' came back about 3 this afternoon.  He took us to a couple of shops so that I could get souveniers for the kids and grandkids.  I would think that us alone would be present enough, but as I am not sure, it is best to have a back-up!  After we got back, 'H' and I made dinner. 

We made fried fish, tempeh, greens and buffalo curds. Rice and pineapple were left from lunch.  Pita had to go to another town to report to her boss on her store sales for the week.  She sells sunglasses and reading glasses. 

That's about it!  I must either be boring or very descriptive as I have not had any questions about what I have written :-)

3 days and counting...

We leave Tarutung in 3 days.  We will be glad to get home, but are not looking forward to the 'travel'.  We will fly from Tarutung to Medan on Tues. at 10:30 am Indonesian time.  That should be 7:30 pm Monday night Pacific time. This is the 12 passenger plane I 'love'!  We will be meeting 'R' there (he is flying in just to see us off) and will spend the afternoon scoping out the 'must see' spots (if there are any :-)   ).  One place we will go is like the local feed store.  We need to find some nose snubbers, plastic gloves for checking cows. thermometers, etc....  We will spend the night, then leave around 9:40am Wed. morn (6:40 pm Tue. night Pacific time) on the flight from Medan to KL.  I don't know if I will have the ability or time to update there and/or Taiwan, but I will try. 

One thing I forgot to mention yesterday, was that the 'Turbo & fence' situation was worked out while we were up at Lake Toba.  Turbo informed the men that they could 'donate' the wood or he would not let them use 'his' road.  As this is the only way to their property, and increases it's value tremendously, they agreed.  'H' was not very happy about this way of doing business and will talk with Turbo (explaining the difference between donating and stealing)  and the other men and offer to pay for the wood.  

I will have to take a pic. of the road!  The 'governor' hired someone to come in with a large tractor/backhoe and smooth the road a little.  It is not fixed, by any means, but is sooo much better.  No huge potholes that you could lose a small car in!

This morning while the guys were getting ready to leave, 4 young kids were in the yard playing.  Soon I recognized the tune to ring-around-the-rosy, and sure enough, that's what they were doing!  Usually we do not see the 2 girls since they are in school (probably K & 1st).  There was no school today, as it is a Muslim holiday, so we are seeing a lot more kids than normal.  When Steve & 'H' were headed out of town they passed over the river and could see a fairly large crowd (about 100 people) down on the bank.  Steve could see a water buffalo and a blue tarp.  It turns out that the water buffalo was about to be sacrificed.  It's blood and offal would be sent down the river and the meat cut up for widows, orphans, and the poor among the Muslim people.

Today would have been our last chance to speak to the English class at the nursing school.  Steve is very disappointed that he didn't get a chance to 'teach'.  We trust this has been HIS plan all along and we are trying to remember that - but it is still hard to give up on an 'idea' that has been there for 4 weeks.  As expected, this trip has turned out much different than we had thought it would.  HE works in mysterious ways, and this whole adventure has been a mystery!  It actually has been the first trip we have been on where we have felt needed and used by God for the betterment of others.  Our other trips were more for us than those we thought we were 'serving'.  Just about everything we did on them could have been done by anyone.

One of the things I have been doing in the mornings while the guys are gone, is going through a book 'R' has, called, "Where There is no Doctor".  It is very good for remote areas with limited/no animal health care services.  'R' asked if we could write down things he should know and look for involving the cows.  I earmarked several pages and will now write a quick reference sheet for him.  We need to convince him to have the book with him whenever he goes to the farm.

Our cook, Pita, didn't come tonight so I got to cook dinner.  I warmed up some chicken that 'H's wife sent down, boiled some fresh green beans, fried some tempeh, and we ate the last of the rice.  Not too hard :-)  Washing all the dishes at the end was the hardest part!  I think I will bring Pita back with me - I rather enjoy having someone else make my dinner each night.  And she's a good cook besides!  The only drawback is that she doesn't speak English.  Hand signals might not always work!

I haven't had any chance to go shopping (other than for groceries), so no souveniers or gifts for my kids and grandkids or items to display for our presentation at church :-(  I will have to see if I can find anything at the airport.  

Until tomorrow!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

The best made plans often go awry :-)  We woke up this morning planning on going to Lake Toba.  We would drive 3 hrs. to the resort town (that starts with a P and is really long).  From there, we would catch a ferry to the island in the middle of the lake and have lunch at the hotel there.  Then we would take the ferry back and shop a little at the souvenier shops, then 3 hrs. back home.

Well, this is what we actually did :-)  First, we had to stop at the bus station to pick up some fertilizer for 'H's citrus trees.  He has 700 trees on 3 hectors a short distance from the farm.  While trying to cut down some brush to drive to his property, he lost his glasses.  We found them after he had driven over them :-(  On the way back towards town to head out to Lake Toba, we were stopped by 5 men on 3 motorcycles.  They surrounded the pickup.  It seems that Turbo, the farm foreman, had cut down some of their trees to make the fence at the farm.  They wanted to get the police involved with Turbo and possibly 'H' in big trouble.  'H' figured out that they thought he had ordered the 'stealing', so he explained what he knew of the situation.  He told them he would talk to Turbo and figure out what was going on.  As we headed back to Tarutung, we realized we were hungry (it was noon), so we went to a restaurant for lunch.  At that point we decided that 'H' should get his glasses ordered first and talk to Turbo second.  Lake Toba could wait for another day.  Conveniently, it seems, the best place to get his glasses fixed was in his hometown, an hour away, and close to the southern(?) end of Lake Toba.  So we did get to see it a little and took a couple of pics. but no resort town and no 'fancy' lunch - which was fine. 

Unfortunately, the optician was out for the day, so he couldn't order his glasses after all.  Next up, 'H' and Steve (with me tagging along) decided to head a little further north(?) to find a small farm that raised Bali cows and fed them elephant grass.  'H' was hoping to get some grass starts to plant at the farm.  He stopped to pick up an older gentleman to help us find the way, and boy was that a good idea!  We all agreed we would still be wandering the countryside if he hadn't.  Bali cows look like a gazelle, only bigger.  The most interesting thing on the way were the traditional Batak houses.  I was not able to get a pic. of them, but 'H' has assured me he will find me one closer to Tarutung that I can get a pic. of.  Steve says they remind him of the pics. you see of what Noah's Ark looked like. 

On our way back through 'H's hometown we noticed several very large 'billboards' on the side of the road made out of flowers.  They all said the same thing.  When questioned, 'H' said the were condolences to the family of a deceased member of the community. 

And last, but by no means least, was 'H's driving.  One generally wants to be on good terms with the Creator before leaving the house, but this went beyond that!  We were often scared out of our wits and there were many 'eeks' and 'aw-w-w's' uttered.  But we survived and you get to read all about it!

Also, an update on 'K'.  She should be released soon and allowed to stay a few days at the house 'R' and kids are staying at.  They are all very excited and want to thank everyone for their prayers.

Bits of this and that, from here and there...

I am at the house and have my 'work' done, so thought I would begin this post.  Steve went to check on the progress of the chute and to help them chop the grass left over from yesterday's truckload to mix with the ground corn and sugar.  They usually mix it with rice hulls, but the pig 'farmers' have bought it all.  We will see how good he is with a machete, if they let him try!  (They had it done when he got there so he helped Sihite load rocks into the pickup for the floor of the feed shed.  Now his back hurts :-P)

One thing I forgot to mention when writing about the hospital compound is that the German missionaries who built it gave it to the Batak church, who gave it to the government in the 70's or 80's - we don't know why, but we can guess :-)  That may be when the less-than-desirable housing was built. This is pure speculation on my part - 'H' doesn't know. 

'H' went to the police dept. this morning to register us.  It was done last week by proxy (Sihite), but the paperwork was messed up.  They had us leaving before we arrived.  'H' went to verify he was our sponsor and to correct the dates, just in case an issue arises.  He also has been trying to see the secretary to the 'governor' about the road, but we found out he is in Medan.  Will have to try again tomorrow or Fri.

Another thing of note is that 'H' is quite the evangelist!  He shares everywhere!  His favorite thing to do is to go sit at the bus station and share with people who are waiting for the bus.  He left last night at 8 and didn't get back until midnight.  He stopped there twice during the day, yesterday, and 'questioned' several people both times.  He does it at the store, at the farm, even at the market.  Instead of buying all his meat from one vendor and all his vegetables or fruit from another, he will buy only one thing from several so that he can ask their 'condition' and share the Good News.  Puts us to shame!!  Oh, I forgot to mention - 'H' is 'related' to me too :-)

Last night, we heard the students singing Christmas carols from 8-9:30 pm.  It must have been like a choir practice because they sang parts of a song several times - first boys, then girls, then both.  The two we recognized were 'Drummer Boy' and 'Ode to Joy'.  If they do it again tonight, we are tempted to walk down and sit in.  'H' said it would be okay and we think it would be fun.  (They didn't sing tonight :-(  We found out that the first year students are the ones singing.)

Pita came and made dinner again - fish, tempeh, rice, buffalo milk curds, and a vegetable that looks to us like swiss chard.  She cooks it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes.  The edges are wilted but the stem part is still crunchy.  We had one of Turbo's pineapples for dessert. 

We have been writing down Indonesian terms for various things.  'H' is very patient with us and spells things if I am not sure.  The letter pronunciation is the same as Spanish, which we learned several years ago.  If I can see it, I can usually pronounce it.  I have been too chicken to actually try it - other than thank you.

Until tomorrow!  We are supposed to go to Lake Toba.  We are really looking forward to that!

Tuesday

Steve & 'H' went to the farm about 9 to walk the boundary and make sure it was all marked well, and somewhat permanently.  Then 'H' will contact the local official in charge of that sort of thing to have him come out to 'survey' and give an owner's certificate.  No idea how long that will take.  I stayed 'home' to wash breakfast dishes, sweep, and boil water :-)

I decided to try and describe the road leading to the farm.  It starts out pretty good for Indonesian standards.  Too narrow for my liking, but that's my problem :-)  As we make our way out of town, passing shanties and rice paddies, we begin to wind our way up the mountain.  The road becomes even narrower.  Good thing most 'vehicles' are motorcycles!  There are a couple of literal u-turns where horns are sounded to make sure no one is coming from the other direction.  It would not be a pretty site if they were to meet at the turn.  Once we make it to the village closest to the farm, we begin to pick up passengers - generally the farm workers, but not all. What is interesting, at least to us, is that the road from the village to the farm has 3 high ranking officials living along it.  The 'governor', the secretary to the 'governor', and the police chief.  Once we get past their places, the road, as we know it, ends.  Now it is a mud track.  Twice a day the pickup drives up and down this track going out to find feed for the cows and bringing it back to throw over the fence.  (Hopefully, that will end or slow as the fences get done and the cows can be moved to different fields that have some pasture.)  At least once a day, the pickup drives the track for other purposes.  Combine that with the daily deluge, and you have a VERY muddy track with big holes - that are getting bigger.  Sometimes we slide sideways for several yards before righting and continuing.  Our boys would love it! 

Since the farm has water - and no one else around does - 'R' & 'H' are trying to swing a deal with the 'governor' to rock the road to the farm and bring electricity to it (it stops at his house) in exchange for water.  Currently, he has a water truck that is filled and kept at his house.  The goal is to convince him of the need for a larger pump that would enable water to be pumped to the village for use by those that live there and those that live on the surrounding 'farms', as well as him.  He doesn't have the authority to do much, but can present the need to higher officials under the 'community betterment' theme. Pray that comes to fruition in HIS time.  Currently, everyone catches rain water, and/or walks a steep trail to the river.  Those that use only rainwater start to lose their teeth  by 35-40 because of a lack of minerals in the water. 

Steve & 'H' came back around 1.  After a short, 20 min. siesta, we headed to the hardware store for some chain and locks for the new gates to the new pasture.  We arrived about 2 pm, chained and locked the gates, then let the cows into the new pasture.  Boy, were they happy!  I expect Sihite and the two boys that help him get feed twice each day, are happy too.  They should have a couple of days reprieve before starting that ritual again.  The next pasture should be fenced soon.  Work has begun on the cattle chute.  They didn't set the posts as Steve had instructed, but the cement was set, so we will see how it works. 

The young lady that 'H's wife had help with dinner last night, came back tonight and made us dinner.  It was so much better than a restaurant.  We even get a little vegetables! 

We bought 2 pineapples from Turbo today for our meals for the next 3-4 days.  They are so good!, and only cost us 25 cents each! 

Just got word that 'K' was moved out of ICU and was even allowed to walk to her room.  She is improving remarkably each day.

Not much to report

'K' is doing much better today.  She was sitting up in a chair and not connected to a respirator when 'R' and kids arrived this morning.  She was animated in speaking and was not laboring to breathe.  The drs. are saying she will be out of ICU tomorrow and out of the hospital Thurs. or Fri.  All Glory to the Creator of all things!

Not much happened today.  'H', the Indonesian partner, arrived at 3:30 this morning.  He woke up about 9 am and we visited until almost 11.  He is a very interesting, strong, believer.  We now have a clearer picture of the vision for the farm, the cows, and the house on the hospital compound. 

We had breakfast/lunch then went to the farm arriving a little after noon.  Tiime to check on our cow first :-)  She is doing better every day.  Next we went to the small shed to see how the cattle chute was coming along. They have the dirt prepared for a brick & cement floor.  Then we were off to look at the peanut plants.  They are about 3 in. tall and have 4-6 leaves.  A lot of growth in just a couple of days!  We took a soil sample and are hoping to be able to 'bring' it home for analysis.  After that, we went back down the trail to the river to see the source of the water supply.  We actually went all the way down this time and I took some pics. of the pump houses and the trail. 

We discussed some things with 'H' about mineral for the cows, the need to get them moved to a different pasture ASAP, and general feed issues.

We arrived back 'home' at 6 and 'H's wife was here making dinner.  It was way better than any restaurant!  I don't think I have ever described/explained the house here.  The local hospital was built in the 1920's & 30's by German missionaries.  They also built several houses for the staff that worked in the hospital.  They added the nursing academy and some dorms later (I don't know when)  It is quite a large compound.  'H' has a house here because his wife is an eye dr.  They lived here for 5 years until about 3-5 years ago when they wanted a better education for their son and moved to Medan.  His wife agreed to come down every Mon. to see patients and they were allowed to keep the house. 

Since then it has been used for ministry purposes whenever possible.  We estimate there to be 30-40 houses here.  Most are wood construction and comfortable (except for the bathrooms :-) )  A few, however, are pretty sad.  We wondered if they were added later as a need for maintenance person, school cook, canteen operator, etc... became apparent.  We actually have one in our backyard.  There is a small covered walkway from our back door to the other house.  We did not realize how close they were until 'H' opened the back window this morning.  No wonder it sounded like people camped on our back doorstep all the time - they were! 

The dorm for the nursing students is at the end of our 'road' and the academy is 2 buildings away on the other side.  They pass by several times every day - always singing.  It has been fun to hear.

That's about it.

It's a snake!!

Really it's just me and Steve.  Our 'sunburns' are coming off and boy do we look funny.  I would post a pic. but am not going to take one, ha-ha!

We just heard from 'R' and 'K' is doing much better today.  She has double pneumonia and, because of the surgery, coughing hurts a lot.  Although they want her to move around, they won't let her get out of bed yet, so 'R' and the kids are massaging her legs and back.  He says she is enjoying all the attention.  If she keeps improving, she could be home next weekend.

Being Sunday, we had no ride to the farm until 2.  I stayed 'home' and Steve went to check on the cow.  She is moving a little slower than the rest, but came up to eat and drink with the herd.  We are very relieved.  Our reputation as a 'professional' was on the line! 

Last night we decided to be brave and walk a few blocks to the restaurant that 'R' had taken us to.  They were closed :-(  Tonight, we tried again and they were still closed.  (We thought we would branch out from pb sandwiches.)   On our way back 4 teenage girls stopped us and asked if they could have their pictures taken with us.  We laughingly said we should charge them.  While waiting for our cup-o-soup to cool enough to eat, we heard what we thought was gunfire.  Looking out the window, we noticed fireworks.  I ran to get the camera - and they quit.  So no pic. of that either.

Hiss, hiss :-)

Pictures

I added 4 pictures in various posts. Be sure to look through and find them :o)

Saturday Evening News

First, an update on 'K'.  She is doing a little better.  Drs. in Singapore concluded that she did not need the surgery that had been performed, instead she had an infection in her kidneys, liver and lungs.  They began strong antibiotics and is expected to be in ICU for 3-5 days.  Thank you all for praying!

As of 5pm on Saturday evening, 'R's Indonesian partner, 'H', has not arrived. He was supposed to be here yesterday afternoon, then this morning, then this afternoon....you get the picture:-) We are doing very well without him, so that's good. Sihite, whom I mentioned earlier, has been put in charge of us until 'H' arrives (poor guy!).

Last night, when Steve came back, I asked about the cow. Evidently, she was feeling better as she charged at him when he went into the brush looking for her. Thankfully, she just got his arm before he managed to 'scare' her into heading the other direction. Something about this 2-legged creature that puts a rope around her neck then pokes her with several needles isn't impressive! She thought she would get her licks in first! The water trough was coming along fine and barbed wire for the fences had arrived. For dinner, we ate the rice (cold) that Sihite had brought at 3. Not real exciting, but we didn't want to go out and try finding something else.

Sihite stopped by this morning about 8 and we headed to the farm. First thing we did was check on the sick cow. She jumped right up and walked away from us. She looked like she was straining and that she hadn't been drinking. We were told that they take food to her twice each day, but there was no evidence of water. We hoped she was getting some when no humans were around. Next, we went to the 'back 40' (actually 15), to see if the peanuts planted with the grass was coming up. We were very excited to see some little heads peeking up from the soil. After that, we decided to follow the trail to see where they were getting their water. We knew that they were pumping it from the river, so followed the hose.  I wish I could send you a pic.!!  It was so steep that they cut steps into the dirt to keep from sliding down.  They would not have been able to stop once they got started!  We walked at least 400 ft. down this trail before giving up (we could see the river another 200 ft. down and decided that was good enough!).   What amazed us the most was seeing where they had been cutting trees down to make boards and posts for the corral and chute.  It was down this trail!  We just can't fathom the strength in those men.  About this time, as we are huffing and puffing, it dawns on us as to why we are so tired (all the time, not just at that moment :-)  ).  Tarutung is at about 4500 ft. above sea level and the farm is over 5000.  That's almost a mile!  I know, I know, we are slow.  We are blaming it on the altitude!

Next, came lunch.  Turbo invited us to eat with him and the other workers.  We were leery because of sanitation, but felt we couldn't refuse again (we already had twice).  We had rice and spicy pork.  Jordan would have loved it!  They cube the entire pig; innards, skin and all.  Trying to politely pick through the dish to only get 'meat' was interesting. 

After lunch, we checked on our cow again. She wasn't looking very good, but still wanted nothing to do with us.  After speaking with the vet, who doesn't work weekends, it was decided to give her some homemade electrolytes.  He wanted us to 'drench' her, but we didn't think we could get that close.  Two young men carried the 5 gal. bucket of water mixed with salt and sugar.  We set it down to see if she would drink and PTL she did!  We honestly didn't think we would have been able to get close enought to put a rope around her neck and stick a bottle of the electrolytes down her throat - several times!  It should make her feel better and thirsty for more water.  We are curious to see her tomorrow.

Well, it is almost time to figure out what to do about dinner.  We still have some rice left and, of course, bread with peanut butter.  Just a little short on protein, forget the veggies - they don't eat many as far as we can tell :-)

Alone

'R' left early this morning after getting word that his wife was being medivaced to Singapore.  We have been praying that she gets the help she needs and that he can get the needed flights to be with her soon.  It doesn't sound good.  With the loss of Nathan just a little over a year ago, this seems to have hit us pretty hard.  We only met 'K' once, last year.  All other contact has been with 'R', but it has affected us deeply, just the same.   He left us his internet card for which I am very grateful!

Steve didn't sleep well last night as he was extremely nauseous, so we decided to stay 'home' this morning.  We walked to the store a block away and bought some bread and water.  We had peanut butter sandwiches, tea and water for breakfast and lunch.  He took a nap at ten and another at one.  He was much better after that.  Sihite, the head of the workers, and 'R's driver, stopped by at three to check on us and take us to the farm.  He also brought us some rice and soup. (When he had stopped by earlier to take 'R' to the closest airport, Steve mentioned that he wasn't feeling well.)  Since it was raining (the usual afternoon condition), Steve wanted me to stay 'home' so that neither of us had to ride in the rain.  I am writing this while waiting for him to return.  So you may get two posts in one day!!  I don't remember if there was something I was supposed to elaborate on from earlier posts, so if you want information on something I have posted or just have a question, feel free to leave it in the comment section and I will read and answer from there.  I have tried several times to post a pic. here or send one to our daughter, but have had no luck the last two days : ( 

We have not had much opportunity to interact with the nursing students, but 'R' had arranged a chance for us to speak to the 'English language' class.  We just don't know when it is!  So Steve has also not been able to teach, but there is still time. 

Please continue to pray for 'K', 'R', their kids, and us.  This is a very unsure time for us all.

Another Day

After breakfast,

we headed to the farm.  Steve and I ride in the back of a small 2 seater pickup for half an hour up a winding mountain road.  As we are usually facing backwards, we get to see the peoples reactions as they see these 'white' people.  We often hear "Hello, Mister" as several try out their limited English.  This is usually all they know.   Once at the farm, we found the sick cow and determined she needed more antibiotics.

 'R' called the vet, who came out and administered more.  The cow seems to be doing a little better, although we feel she has pneumonia.  We spent the next several hours under cover as it was raining torrentially, so didn't accomplish much today.

Tonight we went to a restaurant and ordered food to go as none of us felt like eating in and being stared at :)  As we headed out the door, a group of young people stopped us to ask questions, aka - trying out their English.  We were bombarded with questions!  The student's teacher (actually just a college age young person) asked if they could all come over on Sun. to 'interview' us.  'R' won't be here so it should be interesting.

'K', 'R's wife, had surgery today, but is not doing well.  'R' will be leaving us early tomorrow to go to Java to be with her.  He is hoping to be able to have her flown to KL as the drs. here have made several mistakes.  This will leave us the only white people, that we know of, in Tarutung. 

As 'R' will be leaving, he will be taking the internet connection with him.  I may not be able to email or post for several days unless I can get to an internet cafe AND we can communicate!  Thanks for praying!

Things of Interest...

'R's wife, 'K', will be having surgery tomorrow for kidney stone obstruction.  It couldn't wait for a trip to KL.  'R' will not be able to make it in time so they both agreed he would just stay here.  'R' will be leaving on Fri. to meet his son in Medan, but they both will be here on Sat.  We may be on our own all of Fri. and Sat. morning.

This has been another interesting day.  After breakfast, we went to the local market.  It was huge.  There were several booths of dried fish.  There would be several bowls heaped with various sizes of dried fish, from 2 in. to 6 in.  There were booths of live fish, where you pick your dinner.  Even the local slaughterhouse was there!  Many, many booths of fruit and/or veggies - lots and lots of people - smells both good and bad - and people wanting money to have their pics. taken.  I let 'R' take most of them.  I even met a 'cousin'!

Next up was a trip to the farm.  We were asked to design a catch chute for work on the animals.  We drew a plan, then showed the foreman, Turbo, what we had in mind.  He understood exactly what and why.  We also noticed, when looking at the animals, that one was by herself and not looking good.  She wouldn't let us get very close, unfortunately.  The foreman went into Tarutung to look for a vet.  Three hours later he came back with a vet and some rope.  Steve put some rope around her neck in the hopes of making a halter, but she decided she wasn't that sick after all.  After quite a bit of 'give and take' on her part and Steve's, the vet was able to get close to her.  He has not worked on large animals before and seemed a little nervous around this rather large cow.  He wanted to give her two shots in her neck, but Steve felt in the hip would be better.  He asked about doing it there but the vet said 'no, she would kick'.  Steve took over (and the vet seemed happy to let him) and gave her the two shots without her moving a muscle.  He has had enough experience to know that it isn't as safe when given in the neck.  We will see how she is tomorrow. 

By this time it was pretty hot.  Steve and I both have sunburns.  We spent the next hour or two in the shade eating fresh pineapple - yum! yum!  Turbo, who lives next to the farm, grows pineapple. We also walked through the new seeding - hand planted tufts of baracharia grass.  It will take 6-9 months to fill in enough for the cows to be on it.

I sure wish I could post more pics.  I may have to go through when I get back and edit the posts by adding pics.

Prayers and Praises

Today provided anxiety and entertainment, worry and satisfaction.

WORRY - It started with a call from ‘R’s wife, ‘K’. She was having abdominal pain, bleeding, and blood in her urine. She was on her way to the drs., 2 hrs. away. When describing her symptoms to her dr., she was told possible uterine cancer. Later, a call came that cancer was ruled out, as well as a urinary tract infection. They were sending her somewhere else to have an ultrasound for kidney stones. It came back negative. Tonight, the call came that she has been admitted to the hospital for further testing. If surgery is indicated, ‘R’ will be leaving us Fri. to meet ‘K’ in Kuala Lumpur for the procedure.

ANXIETY- After a late breakfast, we headed to the police station to register our visit. It has been so long since they have had a visitor, that they didn’t know what to do or what form to use. They questioned ‘R’ a lot about why he was here (he hadn’t done it yet either) and why we were here. After almost 2 hrs. it was determined we needed to have our Indonesian ‘sponsor’ be present and to sign the forms. He is in Medan and can not be here until Thurs. Meanwhile, a fine is mounting because he didn’t pre-register us.

ENTERTAINMENT – Just for fun (?) ‘R’ wanted us to experience a ride in a motorcycle/covered sidecar. Steve actually had to ride on the back of the motorcycle because he was too tall to fit in the sidecar. Considering how they drive here – typical third world crazy and on the wrong side! – it wasn’t too bad. We, Steve especially, evoked much laughter. Hopefully they were laughing with us and not at us

SATISFACTION – Steve installed the instant water heater and pump for the shower after the police station adventure. We will try it out tomorrow! Steve is shocked and amazed at the quality (or lack thereof) of the electrical wiring here. You definitely wouldn’t get by with it in the states.

Dinner tonight was spicy water buffalo, fish, rice and a vegetable similar to spinach but that doesn’t get limp. It is hard to drink enough water each day (and you know how valuable I think water consumption is!) since we have to buy it and don’t have much access to a store. We bought extra yesterday but it got left at the farm. There are no bathroom facilities at the farm, so not drinking any water may be a necessity if we are going to spend much time there.

Brief Update

      We have arrived in Tarutung.  We didn't have internet in Medan, and may only be able to use this connection a couple of times a week (I have to share: )! )  The flights were interesting.  We were 'debugged' on the flight from Taiwan to KL.  The stewardesses came through the cabin spraying for bugs per Malaysian law.  Then from KL to Medan, a white mist that looked like smoke poured from around the overhead bins for the first 10 mins. of the flight.  The 12 passenger from Medan to Silangit was half full and was only bumpy for a few minutes over the mountain range. 
 
     We rode out to the farm today after arriving at 11.  I took a couple of pics of the cows - they look really good.  We walked around the property and discussed some ideas.  I will write more about that next time.

    One thing I did find out was the 'primitive' bathroom facilities.  It is slightly better than a bucket and curtain.  The room consists of a cement box that is slowly filled with water as the day progresses.  The toilet is only the bottom part, no seat or lid, no tank to hold water, no way to flush.  You use a scoop to get water out of the cement box to wash down the waste.  We did purchase a seat and Steve installed it first thing.  We also purchased a 'hot water on demand' style water heater and pump and will install it tomorrow so that there is hot water for a shower.  Shower logistics are still in question so I will have to explain that after we figure out what we are going to do.

    I am sorry if this sounds disjointed, but I am so tired I can't think very well.  We didn't sleep much on the plane and only got about 6 hrs. last night.  Thank you all for continueing to uphold us in prayer.

Arrival

(B here, posting for my Mom)

  I just received word that my parents have safely arrived at their destination!  They do not, however, have internet service so Mom will be unable to post updates.  I am still holding out hope that they will be able to e-mail updates through "R"......... He had been able to keep in e-mail contact with them when they were stateside. I will post updates as I get them. Thank you so much for your prayers!!!

 

From Taiwan

Thought you would be excited to hear we made it through the first long leg of the journey.  We have a 3+ hr. wait in Taipei and I found a wi-fi spot, so thought I would update briefly.  We got to the Dallas airport early to check in and the American Airlines personnel that helped us felt we would not have enough time in San Francisco to catch our flight overseas, so she rushed us through and put us on an earlier flight, leaving in less than 30 mins.  We had planned on having dinner at the Dallas airport, but that went by the wayside : )  We made it to our terminal fine - just didn't sit together on the plane.  Normally, this would have stressed me out ALOT and I was starting to feel 'anxious'.  I only had time to text my daughter asking her to pray with me, which she did, and I calmed down immediately.  Actually had an enjoyable flight!  We arrived in San Francisco with over 3 hrs. to wait.  The odd thing that happened was that the American Airlines personnel didn't book us or our luggage through to KL, only to Taipei.  We were going to have to pick up our baggage, re-check-in for the flight to KL, and go through security again.  As soon as possible, in San Francisco, we found the EVA airline counter and booked our luggage and us to KL.  That helped the 'anxiety' level immensely.  Upon arrival in Taipei, we did have to go through 'transfer' security, but that was basically a formality.  So here we are waiting for our next flight.  It is 7 am here and 3 pm Pacific time.  Our flight was long, and we didn't get much sleep, but the airline company was great.  They have to be the best we have ever been on (in all our many travels : )!)   Extremely friendly and helpful (and they fed us twice for free!).  We even got paper slippers to keep for our very own : )  Steve is currently walking around the airport looking for a coffee or soda.  I should probably go find him!   Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. 

Last post this side of the big pond!

We leave today for Indonesia.  We know we are doing what He wants of us, but there is still some anxiety.  Thoughts of  kids, farm, health, etc... all try to undermine our purpose and vision for the next 3 weeks.  We are not sure how much time will actually be spent at the farm.  We have learned that we fly into a town called Silangit, which is about an hour drive from Tarutung (where the farm is).  That is where the nursing school is and where we will be staying each night (there are no buildings, as yet, at the farm).  I am praying that the road to Tarutung isn't the uphill, winding one I found on the internet last week.  I had better take a lot of dramamine for Steve just in case! 
We have been told that the bathroom facilities at the house we will be staying in are 'interesting'.  'R' didn't want to spoil the surprise(!), but reminded us it is 'very 3rd world'.  I just hope it isn't a bucket behind a curtain!  Two people I recently told thought it might be a hole in the ground : (  A bucket and curtain sounds primitive enough, thank you!  He said the 'shower' is someone pouring a bucket of cold water over you as you scrub.  Hmmm...not my idea of a good time.  I am extremely modest and will have to 'shower' in my clothes.  Oh well, I can wash my clothes and take a shower at the same time :-)  The man who owns the house is not charging us rent after all, so 'R' is hoping we can improve the water/bathroom situation while there, as a 'thank you' for letting us stay.  We were given some money as a donation for our trip and are planning on using that to help with the update.  We will be purchasing the needed items in Medan before heading to Tarutung, so that may be the first thing we do when we get there!!

This is a picture of a Texas Longhorn taken at the convention we were at this week.  His name was Hank.  I am pretty sure his kind won't be where we are going : )  Just wanted to leave you with one more picture in case I can't post any while I am gone.

Once again, thank you so much for your interest in our trip.  I am hoping I can update every day or two.  As I mentioned before, if I can't myself, I will email my daughter who will post to here.  I am going to try a pic. or two, but no promises as to if or quality.  To all our kids and grandkids and various extended family - we love you all and will miss you greatly. 

Return flights

 I don't have a flight time for our flights from Tarutung to Medan and Medan to Kuala Lumpur, but expect they will be the afternoon of Dec. 1st, Pacific Time.  The following times are in Pacific Time.
Dec. 1st  leave   Kuala Lumpur  11:25 pm
Dec. 2nd arrive  Taipei                4:00 am
               leave   Taipei                7:00 am
               arrive  Seattle               5:25 pm
               leave   Seattle               8:00 pm
               arrive  Portland             8:50 pm

Thank you all for upholding us in prayer.  We appreciate it more than you will ever know! 

Dallas

The first leg of our journey is underway. We arrived safely in Dallas after an 'exciting' Saturday. Jordan, our 12 year old, fell off our straw pile and landed on his head. Thankfully, Josh was with him. He called an ambulance, then kept Jordan stable until help arrived. Interestingly, he also called Steve to tell him to wait for the ambulance and to show them where to find him - but he didn't call me. I found out because I called Steve just to chat and he told me he was waiting for the ambulance. I haven't figured out if I should be hurt or mad :( so I decided to be neither :) I rode in the ambulance with Jordan, and after a ct scan and some poking and prodding, they let him go home. He has a pretty good sized goose egg on his forehead and some scrapes on his face, but that's all. God is Amazingly Gracious!!

We received all the 'material' that 'R' wanted us to bring, so have some very full suitcases. This prevents me from buying trinkets for the kids and grandkids while in TX! We are awaiting word as to how to go through customs with all our 'extras'. Our son and daughter-in-law are in Texas at the same conference and have agreed to take back with them the clothes we won't be needing overseas. This should free up some much-needed room. Maybe I will find some good stuff in Indonesia to bring back!

I still am not sure if I will be taking my laptop overseas, so don't know if I will be updating this or if my daughter will. 'R' says I can email easily using his computer, so that may be best option. I can't post here using his for security reasons. We will know next week!

Thanks for praying!!

Flights

I am pleased to announce that 'R' has said he will still allow me to come as I assured him I don't care for meat all that much. He said he would even introduce me to some 'family' in the next village. Could be interesting!

I wanted to put our flight schedule out there for anyone who would like to hold us up in prayer. All times are PST (Pacific Standard Time)

We leave Portland, Sun. the 8th, at 5:30 am
" arrive Phoenix at 7:57 am
" leave Phoenix at 8:55 am
" arrive Dallas at 11:19 am

We are attending the National Milk Marketing Federation Annual meeting before heading to Indonesia.

We leave Dallas, Fri., the 13th, at 7:20 pm
" arrive San Francisco, " " " " 11:00 pm
" leave " " Sat., " 14th " 12:25 am
" arrive Taipei " " " " 2:40 pm
" leave " " " " " 5:40 "
" arrive Kuala Lumpur, " " " " 10:25 "
" leave " " Sun., " 15th at 1:35 am
" arrive Medan, " " " " 2:25 am


The time there will be 5:25 pm. 'R' is supposed to meet us in Medan. We will stay overnight in a hotel, then fly to Tarutung in the morning. He is making the arrangements for this so I don 't have any details. He thought we would leave about 9 am for the 55 min. flight. That would put it at about 6 pm on the 15th PST. This is the 12 passenger puddle-jumper that I am not impressed with taking so prayer then would be GREATLY appreciated!

The time difference is 15 hrs ahead of PST. As you can see, we will undoubtedly arrive sleep deprived if we can't get some sleep on the plane. This makes me cranky!! : ) I will post our return flight info. before leaving Dallas in case I can't get online while overseas.

We thank everyone for their encouragement and prayers and hope that you feel as blessed as we do by your involvement in our 'adventure'.

Distrubing News

Well, 'R' wrote back with some interesting and some disturbing facts about Tarutung. About 120 years ago some German missionaries successfully reached the Batak people (the people group around Tarutung). Not that long ago it was considered 100% reached. It is now 70-80% reached because of the building up of Islamic influences.


Tarutung is 4-5000 feet above sea level (not the 3300 I mentioned in the last post). It has less than 50,000 people (49,999?) : ) It is about 1 1/2 hours from the ocean.


The main landmark is Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake on earth. As I mentioned in an earlier post, Tarutung is southwest of Lake Toba. The area is extremely poor, hence the need for new business and industry to provide jobs. Most locals that get an education, go to the big city to get a job or start a business, and don't come back - unless it is for a visit to show family how 'successful' they are. 'R' and his helpers want to show that it doesn't have to be this way.



Indonesia comprises over 17,500 islands. It is the 4th most populous country with over 230 million! It contains the largest population of Muslims.


Now, the disturbing news. 20 years before the German missionaries had success, another German missionary arrived in Tarutung. The area is made up of mainly 3 family groups - Tobin, Hutabarat and one other that he couldn't remember. The Tobin family were head hunters and ate the German missionary. Yep, you read right! A family of meat-eaters! (A side note for those who don't know - my maiden name was Tobin). I have asked if I am still welcome and am awaiting a reply. Will let you know the outcome : )

Tarutung

I have been scouring the internet for info. on Tarutung, but to no avail. I did find someones blog entry of a trip to Sumatra and his day around Tarutung. It even had a couple of pics.! I don't know the proper etiquette for this, but this is a pic. Chris took on his way into Tarutung.


The road up the mountain to Tarutung. Good thing Steve has something for motion sickness - I think he may need it!
This looks like it will be a very interesting place to visit! All roads lead out? :-)

As far as I can tell, Tarutung apppears to be about 3300 feet above sea level and is less than 3 miles from a volcano (that, thankfully, hasn't erupted in a while!). I will keep looking for info. and have asked 'R' if he knows anything of interest to add. I will pass along anything he mentions.

Beginnings...slightly edited

Remembering where we are headed, we decided I should begin being careful with what I write, just in case. Therefore, I have changed a few words :-)

2-3 years ago a friend of our sons, who is a missionary in Nepal, gave our email address to a friend of hers in Indonesia. He was wanting to begin some agricultural outreach work on the island of Sumatra, but wanted some 'professional' guidance. He contacted us and we have been exchanging emails and following his 'adventures' ever since. We met him in 2008 when he was home on a short furlough. In the course of the last few months, he was able to purchase some land and buy some cows. Then the call for help came. He asked us if we would consider coming down to help him with pasture layout,fencing, water, building site, etc.... Unexpectedly, Steve felt we should go. We reminded Him of a few obstacles (kids, lack of money, Steve's mother's health), but He reminded us that He takes care of His own. We have had a peace about going, in spite of the uncertainties.
One thing we are excited about is where we will be staying. 'R' has rented a house on the campus of a nursing school. Some students come over each evening to 'practice' English. We can talk about anything. Last month, a visiting German held a meeting with over 100 nursing students attending. 20 lives were changed! 'R' has asked us to bring over some study material for them. Steve is hoping for an opportunity to teach. Please pray with us that He would find us usable in whatever way possible. 12 days and counting!!!