Cord of Three Strands

(Ridiculous) Courage

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 03:21:00 +0000

I decided to let Greg write about his experience of when his heart turned towards this adoption.
It is his story- so it is best told by him.
So hopefully soon you will be hearing directly from him on here,
Hopefully soon.
Isn't that what blog life often is?

So tonight I give you a little peek into what today holds.
Today I took down the rest of our Christmas decorations- but I left the tree up.
We have had 6 wonderful weeks of hosting wonderful people.
So we left decorations up, well, because we were busy with great people, and also just because we genuinely love Christmas decorations.

But today I wanted to change something- to mark the shift of a season.
So I turned our "Christmas Tree" into our "Winter Tree" by taking off all the red ornaments &
Christmas-y ornaments and just leaving the white, gold, and more neutral ones on.
The simplicity is quite beautiful.

So what does this shift in seasons mean for me?
It means that though it is still winter (though the weather doesn't seem to think so,)
there is a new season.
It maybe what the new year brought for others, so I guess I am a little late on that.
But it is something a little different for us. The two of us in this little home, with our "Winter Tree" and cozy lights.

The best way that I can describe it is by sharing with you a text message I sent my sister today.
I shared with her about this change in decor-

"I am taking off all the Christmas ornaments and leaving up the neutral & gold ones...
Calling it a "winter tree" so we can still enjoy it and yet it is changed a little bit to show a shift in season, though I still want to celebrate winter....We will see what Greg thinks.
Still an element of celebration.
But also a change.
We will see.
It is also a procrastination move when it comes to figuring out where we are going to store it (ha!)
Thank you for blessing my weird idea.
It also marks a time of re-engaging the dream &calling of adoption.
Both not stopping pregnancy & restarting paperwork for this adoption.
IT TAKES SUCH RIDICULOUS COURAGE IN THE FACE OF THE IMPOSSIBLE."

That, my friends, is where my heart is today.

Still the same but also a change.
Just like our tree.

A New Story

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 01:04:00 +0000

It is a strange task to restart a blog after over 3 years of it being inactivate.
To awaken something after a long hibernation. But we want to invite you into another story. Communicating our hearts along this journey, that is what this space is for, so that is what I will attempt.
I hope to write once a week. But then I hear from many that this adventure we have said "yes" to includes a lot of WAITING.
So even in those times of waiting I will continue to write even if it is hard.

As some of you may know, we have said "yes" to adopting.
Already this journey looks so different than we thought it would.
And that often has to do with timing-doesn't it?

So stay tuned to later on this week where I will share the story of when Greg led the way in this adventure.

Celebrating a brother-freestyle

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Wed, 21 Aug 2013 15:15:00 +0000

Freestyle is included in the title for good reason- this is a rather unedited, straight from the head & the heart kind of post. Longer yes- so I don't even really expect a lot of people to read it . It is mostly for myself. But if it could invite you to rejoice over the life of my little brother, and more so bring honor to our Creator & how He uniquely uses people in our lives, then please read on....

Today is my brother's birthday. And even though there is ache, my heart keeps returning to celebration. That was not something I could automatically do when he died, so I am grateful that it is more true for me today- the celebration part, the grateful for the 22 years together part. This is his 6th birthday in heaven- and I cannot even imagine all the beauty of what that means. I have tried a little bit today to imagine it & I realize that my mind just does have the capacity for it (in a good way.)

In all the ways that Jon influenced the lives of many on this earth while he was here, I can testify that, in my own life, he has influenced me in so many ways still. God still uses my little brother to change my life.
For example, when it comes to loving cultures & people, I still find inspiration from him. I find myself having a lot of "what would Jon do?" moments when it comes to enjoying Indonesia & loving all the cultures I am surrounded by- esp. when I come to the end of myself & irritation arises & man, yah, I need a brother in that situation.

I used to worry so much about my little brother. Silly things, not so silly things. His class schedules, did he know the right teachers to take, the mold on his dorm wall, would he keep getting sick because of it, even down to the glasses he never wore but needed in class- all these things don't matter now. There is a relief honestly, I don't worry about him now.
That influences the way I live now- with other people.
A few months before Jon died we had this great conversation. We were driving back from celebrating our momma's birthday all together (rare.) It was a drive back from Etown to Cville. Another rare thing for us-just the two of us in a car. I told him that I was sorry for being so over protective, so controlling, maybe trying to help him too much with class stuff, and other life stuff. I confessed that I was probably working my whole life to make up for a time in our past that I thought I didn't protect him.
His response brought me so much...life.
He said something like this: "Oh no way. I don't think that I could not have made it through school without you, being you, helping me out. So no need to apologize. "
I really wish it was recorded. I wish so much of our life together was recorded. At the end of our time together here, I stopped wanting to take pictures, because I felt insecure because of all the weight I have gained. I totally regret that. I let my insecurity steal some of those precious pictures from me.

Jon & I were opposites. Most of the times that happens with 1st & 2nd born kids. This of course meant conflict a lot of the time. I wish I lived differently in so many moments with Jon- wish I just responded differently. Not with irritation, trying to control or be bossy, or teach him something, but just enjoy him. Learn from him like I am now. Man, what I would give to have one more fight with that guy, just to be with him.

I have had so many dreams of Jon, especially since he died. Some are precious, some are difficult.
There was one that is treasure to me. He was dancing, not unusual. It was the kind of dancing he used to do in high school (and get in trouble for) called skanking that went with the Ska music he used to love. And in the dream, as I got closer , he started pointing to his left, and I turned to look at what he was pointing at. I saw Jesus there, seated at the right hand of God.
I walked away from that dream, like I now come away from many of my thoughts of Jon- thinking more of heaven, of eternity, of what I could focus on (and it would bring me life.) Thoughts of Jon often lead me to thoughts of Jesus. And truly- isn't that what we as Christians want to do. Jon is still living his life, doing just that. Leading people to Jesus. So subtle, but for me, really powerfully.

On the night Jon died- I was reeling with so many emotions, to say the least. I remember continually speaking out to the LORD that night this objection "Jesus, its my brother!!!"
With those words I meant "What were you thinking? How could you let this happen? Where are you? Do you know who he is? What this is for us & so many..."
And soon after that, after repeating it over & over...my words suddenly turned to "It's my brother-JESUS."
I shared this at Jon's funeral, I don't know if it made sense then or if it does now. But Jesus, as my brother, has met me in this loss, in this grief. He is that kind of brother. He met Mary & Martha when they lost their brother. He walked into that grief. He knew the end result of that situation, He was the end result. But he still wept with those sisters.
Once in one of the lowest parts of my life, back in 2005, when I was wrestling with deep depression- I was laying in bed just crying. My family was there, Greg was there as my boyfriend, but really no one knew what to do with me. But Jon came in the room, and he practically laid on top of me & starting praying in my ear. A kind of fierce prayer, the kind I needed. He was not afraid of me in that moment- he knew what to do. No one taught him that.
Today I ache for a Jon Bruckert hug. If anyone of you has had one you know what I mean. He would squeeze you tight & scrunch up his eyes, & link his arms to squeeze you in closer...just one of those irreplaceable things, those things that I ache for as I am on this side.
But today I have been led to my big brother Jesus by my little brother Jon- and I will take that. It is treasure. IT IS TREASURE.Happy birthday little brother.

Behind the Lucky Charms

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Tue, 16 Jul 2013 00:49:00 +0000

Why is it so easy to neglect the small things?

Take this blog for example. It really isn't much and doesn't take a long time to sit down and write a post, but it is so easy to neglect. Even though it really is so important to us to stay connected to you through this blog of ours, it is often that thing that gets put on the shelf behind the Lucky Charms, forgotten about- and often for extended periods of time. Shout out to Curt Vernon for that imagery by the way! (from his song "Mason Jar Jesus")

SO... what has happened since we put this blog behind the Lucky Charms and forgot about it for a few weeks?

We have moved into the dorm, and when I say "we" moved into the dorm I mean I hobbled in on crutches and Jennifer arranged and moved everything we have from our house in the kampung to the dorm here on campus (with help from several friends.) She has been really amazing in all of this, which makes sense because those of you who know Jennifer, know how much she loves moving! Oh.... and those of you who know me know how sarcastic I can be sometimes ;-)

Jennifer has also completed an entire conference done entirely in Indonesian. She really is quite awesome at the language and communicating with people here in a way they helps them feel comfortable and cared for. I am so proud of her because that was not an easy conference to participate in, especially in a second language.

We have also helped host three summer English camps here on campus.

When Jennifer wasn't doing all of the things I just mentioned and even when she was, she still took care of her lame husband. She has been so wonderful since my surgery, don't know what I would have done without her.

So as I pull this blog out from behind the Lucky Charms where we have neglected it, I just want to let you all know that I am so grateful for and so in love with my Bride, Jennifer Evans.

Out of the Cave and into the Dorm

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Sun, 23 Jun 2013 09:35:00 +0000

Since our return to Indonesia from Singapore...(ahhh Singapore how I miss you already, specifically the food)... we have been rather busy. I was surprised at how much Indonesia has come to feel like home, it was good to get back.

Jennifer's parents picked us up in Semarang and we headed to their house. Once there we headed straight into the sick cave. Jennifer came down with a nasty flu that lasted for almost a week and all I could do was sit (or lay) with my foot propped up to keep the swelling down. We watched A LOT of Matlock those few days. It was such a blessing being at Jennifer's parents because they could care for us when neither of us were really in a place to care for each other very well.

Eventually we headed back home to Salatiga where Jennifer fully emerged from the sick cave and I began my physical therapy for my ankle. Jennifer finished packing things up around the house and made arrangements with drivers and friends to help move everything to the dorm. Those of you who have ever packed up one house just to move down the street might have some idea of how Jennifer was feeling during these few days.

I feel the need to mention that during this time we didn't have internet so if we seemed cut off from the rest of the world.... its because we were.

So just a few days ago we actually made the move! We stuffed everything we have into the car and moved down the street and into the school dorm.

Next week we wont have internet access because we are going away for a conference. once we return we will bring back the blogging!

Pic in Tune June #12 & #13- Travel back tomorrow & the promised sharing of food

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:12:00 +0000

I am going to make this a blog to cover both today & tomorrow since we will be traveling back to Indonesia tomorrow. That is hard to believe after being here for nearly 2 weeks. The plan is for us to move right into the dorm, so Greg can prop that foot up, and I (with a lot of friends helping) with move our stuff into the dorm over the next week. Prayers appreciated for sure. It is challenging to travel on crutches, especially for a guy who is 6ft7in (200 cm) tall. So we are praying for an aisle to himself & quick, smooth travels. As we move into the dorm we plan to begin settling in & making it into our home, so that from that place we can parent the girls well. First & foremost we desire to make it a house of prayer & praise, & we know that there will be some challenges that come with that. Please pray with us about this- we need you.
This is a song that we hope to play & sing as we begin moving in. Wanted to share it with you:

Some treats we enjoyed this week:

Greg enjoying a Tandoori chicken wrap- we love the Indian influence here

Salad was first on the list for me- I miss clean lettuce! It takes so much effort in Indo to get raw veggies clean, so this is such a treat.


So you can see why these were some of the things I included in our grocery bag


I sure do love seeing all that green! Wish kale was in this mix.


A fun shop you see in food courts- again fun to see fresh stuff

Now don't get me wrong, we didn't just eat fresh,healthy stuff all this time. We aren't that good. We splurged also on fun cereals we cannot get in Indo- having this many choices is so overwhelming! Here is what we chose: Oatmeal Squares , Honey Smacks , and one of Greg's favorite Quaker Oh's
His all time favorite is: Cracklin' Oat Bran

And we have definitely caught up on potato chips eating for the year- Whew! Greg's favorite: Chedder Sour Cream Ruffles and though my favorite depends on the day, I usually really enjoy
Barbeque Lays potato chips

Here is a perfect plate for me during these days in Singapore:

Salad,snap peas, great cheese, rice crackers, a Pluot & some blueberries since this are fruits hard to get in Indo & something pork (this is some stuff we enjoy- a cross between jerky & bacon, but sweeter.)

So there you have it. Soon I will share some our suggested places to eat while here in Singapore. Today I wanted to share with you some of the treats we will surely miss, but are grateful to get while here.

Pic in Tune June #11- a quiz included

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 14:31:00 +0000

This picture is another example connected to yesterday's post about how multicultural Singapore is. It is pretty impressive. Not often do you see 4 languages represented on a regular caution sign. This is from the park near where we are staying.

Quiz: Can anyone tell me which 4 languages are represented on the sign?

Tomorrow I will share with you some of the food/treats we are enjoying while here in Singapore (you may be surprised what we now describe as "treats" after time away from the States.) Knowing that food is generally a fun topic, I have been snapping pics to share with you all. (Confession: even if I don't know the author personally, I can still find myself immersed in reading a food blog.) To kick that off I wanted to share another "King of Queens" clip that we stumbled across last night- too funny not to share, enjoy!

Pic n Tune June #10- tonight we ordered from a little neighborhood joint called "Do-min-nos"

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 13:49:00 +0000

Greg at Dr. Raj's office- he really enjoys the main magazine option in the waiting room being National Geographic. That's my husband.

Today we are going to switch things up a bit...

We just had quite a long day of doctor's appointments which resulted in a 4 hour nap that followed. Greg passed with flying colors-doing very well for this point in recovery. I have a few adjustments to make, for my thyroid especially, but the doctor is hopeful.

Tonight we are treating ourselves to Domino's pizza- this is not part of regular life for us. I will have a piece or two (along with a couple digestive enzymes since this is a "gluten bomb") & Greg will enjoy the rest.

But in all of this came some culture shock- I realized that, in ordering, and throughout this whole week, Greg and I have been experiencing some accents we are not used to- Chinese, Indian, & Malay to be exact.We are all speaking English, since that is the island-wide language spoken in Singapore (though for most it is their 2nd language. Pretty impressive huh? Bilingual is the norm here.) And yet the English is spoken with such different accents, so there is a lot of struggle in understanding & communication. We are used to Kentucky accents, Indonesian accents, and with many Korean students at our school, that accent is also becoming more a part of our daily lives. There is also quite a lot of "Singlish" we are hearing- so this is all a whirlwind of cultural experience as we are visitors here this week. Realizing that there is no "right" way to speak English, just different. I know I have quite an American accent when I speak Indonesian as well.

So tonight after I ordered our pizza, & had to repeat our number several times. I looked at Greg and said, "Man, I try so hard to communicate well & clearly, but I guess my "phone number rhythm" is not as international as I thought it was."

And that reminded me of this video clip, and since it is so fitting, that is what we share with you tonight- enjoy.

Pic in Tune June #9- Spa retreat in a taxi cab? what!?

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Sun, 09 Jun 2013 13:28:00 +0000

What I was trying to do in this picture was show you the open truck in front of me with workmen riding in the back & the BMW to the left- such a contrast. And I just read this week that "Singapore is a study of contrasts." So true.

You usually find out little bits about your taxi driver as soon as you step into the cab- either by what is hanging from the rear-view mirror or what music is coming from his radio.

These two pictures for today are not super captivating. Though this is much of our life right now- transportation. Taxis. Buses. The subway (MRT)system. Going to & from the hospital. Grabbing groceries. Getting ice.
But this is actually not very "normal" for us. We don't use these kind of transportation options on a regular basis since we live in such a small town in Indonesia. So this is a contrast with our normal life. It is such a treat to be able to get places on our own. But it is also tiring & wears on you in ways you don't really notice.
There is a story that goes with these pictures, that shows the Father's heart, and I want to share it with you.
Friday was my day for the doctor. Some follow up visits to check my thyroid & insulin uptake issues discovered back in December Especially since things seemed to improve & then backslide- which is disappointing & confusing. So Friday was just the blood tests, tomorrow is the consult with the doctor, along with Greg's follow up with his surgeon.
On Friday, after my doctors visit & kind of refacing that discouragement about my health once again... then trying on clothes that didn't fit...then drinking coffee next to two adorable moms with their adorable babies, and all of a sudden that desire to have my own children was tapped into...and there I was looking into my cappuccino in order to fight back what was being stirred up...this is a run on sentence, yes, but that is what it felt like...the "run on sentence of emotions"...the ones that accumulate out of nowhere & you don't know what happened till you look back. I was just worn out, the kind of worn out that leads you to the "tearing up at everything" place that is just not fun. I think many women can probably identify with that.
It was just one of those days- the days where my mind focused on the "hope deferred" not the "longing fulfilled." (Proverbs 13:12)
So I decided to take a taxi home- it was an indulgence since I could have done the MRT/bus route, but just didn't want to. But as soon as I sat down in that cab, I heard the sound. It was so out of context, I was in shock for a moment. It was so sweet to my soul, and I could feel my body release its tension. It was instrumental hymns...what!? Not the usual 90's rock, with witty radio hosts- that I sometimes do enjoy, but doesn't really bring peace & calm to my spirit.
I started reaching back into my history for the lyrics, &they quickly came to mind...
" Oh what peace we often forfeit; Oh what needless pain we bear- all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer..."
So that taxi ride, with the precious brother as the taxi driver, became a sanctuary for me. A Spa retreat of sorts- as I listened to these songs familiar & soothing...And there the Lord met me in my weariness. He knows me- he knows my longings for health & family- but He is always my "Longing Fulfilled". What a friend we have in Jesus.

Green

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Sat, 08 Jun 2013 14:20:00 +0000

A few years ago I spent some time in New York City. I loved so much about life there, but being a country boy from the hills of Kentucky... I need some green open space. This meant that I would try my best to make at trip at least once or twice a week to Central Park just so I didn't go CRAZY! I found out then that as much as I thought I would enjoy city life... I will probably always need a bit a nature somewhere to retreat to.

Singapore does this well. Although this trip my ankle is preventing me from getting out and enjoying all that Singapore has to offer, I have enjoyed in the past and I sure I will at some point in the future get to enjoy more of Singapore's green space. If you Google images of Singapore a lot of what you get are views of this incredible city. But it also offers some amazing parks and green spaces around the city. Here is a park that is just behind the building we are staying in.

You know its a good park when there is a McDonalds in the middle of it!

Sadly Jennifer took all these pictures as she is the only one of us who has actually gotten to get out and enjoy the park... but... soon!
Oh, so soon!

Pic n Tune June #7- rest & recovery time

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Fri, 07 Jun 2013 14:50:00 +0000

sweet little "extra care" from our hospital staff

Yesterday we checked out of the hospital & moved into our rented apartment for more recovery time. A flight after a surgery is not the best plan, so we are here for another week- for ice therapy, elevating, and rest. I have already gone to fetch two 5kg bags of ice from a few blocks away- this is going to be a good work out.
So since we are here in Singapore another week, I thought we could share with you some of our favorite things about this island that has been our "Second Home" during this 1st 18 months in Southeast Asia. This is my 4th trip here so far...all for medical, but definitely some "treats" along the way.
There are so many things we enjoy. There are so many things that are different than our normal life in Indonesia. So we wanted to share some of that contrast with you.
Tonight, my fatigue has caught up with me (it could be those 5kg bag of ice pick up trips that have become the tipping point- Ha!)
Tonight, I have great comfort as I listen to this song...join me...

"Take a rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop" (Ovid)

Furious Longings

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 13:36:00 +0000

Well today I was discharged from the hospital. We headed back to the guest house with my crutches, cryotherapy machine, and a few mild pain killers just in case. It is good to be back "home", even if "home" in this case is temporary.

I have had a little time to read these past few days as I have been lying in bed... this was something I was actually looking forward to since I hurt my ankle back in February. I read a book during that time that really helped put my injury into perspective and it helped me get through it. That book was, "We All Die Alone". I know you are probably thinking "That's horrible!", but it actually was an incredible read and possibly one of my favorite "true story" books I have ever read.

The book I am currently reading is also helping me with perspective. I started reading it before surgery and I have since then almost finished it. It is:

Click here to see it in Amazon.com.

I was first drawn to this book after hearing Jonathan David Helser's song "Abba". So I invite you to listen to the song, read the book, and allow yourself to be drawn ever deeper into the heart of Abba who is furiously longing for you.

This has been my reality! Especially the past few days!

Pic n Tune June- #5 Singapore hospital life

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 15:05:00 +0000

How can you NOT take care of this sweet man!?

The "awkward" checked item

The menu- which item would you choose?

We extended our stay at the hospital today since Greg had a rough night last night (pain & intense nausea.) We are grateful for more rest.
So we wanted to share with you a couple pictures that capture our "only in Singapore" hospital experience. Things that, if we were in the USA, would not be part of this whole experience. It isn't really an everyday thing to have to "check" your crutches- that is part of the reality of having to travel to another country for certain medical care. We have definitely experienced this reality within our first term in Indonesia.
And today's menu was something I found interesting as well- a good picture of how many cultures are represented in this country of Singapore.
For today's song- this is one that I have loved for a long time, and it too can become a prayer. And truly- you cannot help but move & smile to the music. Check it out:

Pic n Tune June- #3 the long awaited surgery day (Greg's makeover)

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 13:21:00 +0000

Greg before

Greg after- still a bit groggy from his "nap"

The "before" & "after" pictures are not like other makeover pictures we all love to see. Especially since all the work is covered up by bandages- and it is all INSIDE the ankle. But still, there was some pretty great "makeover" work done today in Singapore.
We have been waiting for this day for a long time. 4 months to the day actually. Like I mentioned on Facebook earlier, it is great to move from recovering towards surgery, to recovering towards running/sports again. The doctor said that the surgery went well- no cartilage damage, (that would cause future trouble,) which is great news!
For me this journey has been a bunch of steps in facing my own anxiety, and then choosing (or not choosing) to release it to Jesus. I mentioned this yesterday.Today was another day of that.
And today's song has been an anthem/soundtrack for me this year. I played it in Greg's hospital room back in August when he had that terrible stomach infection, and I played it today right before he went into surgery. Listen to it- you will know why.

WOW! What A Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 14:25:00 +0000

SO...
Events of today!
Wake up.... check!
Rush to the hospital for our MRI appointment because we thought we were late.... check!
Find out we were actually 7 hours early for my MRI appointment.... check!
Reschedule MRI for earlier in the day.... check!
Put on a short flashy dress for my MRI.... check!

Photo taken by my sneaky and laughing hysterically wife.

Fall asleep during MRI.... check!
Go eat lunch at Chilli's with the Thorntons, some good friends from Salatiga.... check!

Run all over Singapore the day before surgery.... check!
Sit down to write the post for today and rethink writing small, "flashy" dress.... check!

All in all it was a good day.
Praying tomorrow is just as good... even with the surgery.

Pic n Tune June #2- Greg's bucket list for the 2 days before surgery

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Sun, 02 Jun 2013 13:00:00 +0000

We have a couple days here before settle into surgery & recovery. Greg made a bucket list a while ago for the 2 days, which was mainly made up of where he wanted to eat. And as always a "Rosti" from Marche is at the top of the list. A Rosti is a hash brown pancake, fried egg, sour cream, with sausage. Marche is a restaurant from Switzerland. This is something special for him- these flavors (especially the sausage) are not at all ordinary for us these days. So it is a true treat for him. Isn't it funny which meals become special when you move to another country?
Wanted to also share a picture with you of the sunset we caught last night. Or more so, the sunset that caught us- it was just that majestic. I found myself spontaneously just speaking out loud to the Lord of what beauty it was. It was His handiwork...wow, just wow.
I started reading through some of the Psalms last month, with one of my mentees. Today I read Psalm 131- and I just had to share this with you.
This surgery, this whole journey of Greg's injury since February, has made me really face myself, & the power that anxiety has in my life. I have to continually return to God with it- and I see Him slowly changing me, as I invite Him to. My Creator, the same Creator that painted that majestic sunset last night, wants to do that kind of beautiful work in my heart- and I need it.
Today, He met me in the words of Psalm 131. Today the words of this psalm have become a prayer & declaration for me.
And guess what- there is a song entitled Ps 131, (that I love,) and that is the tune for today!

"some pics & some tunes for June"- #1

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 14:19:00 +0000

Jenn & the taxi driver


This view was just too beautiful not to share

So today we traveled to Singapore. We have a couple days to rest & enjoy Greg being able to walk before his surgery on Tuesday. It has already been a wonderful time together.
Have to share a funny moment with you. This morning during our taxi ride to the airport in Indonesia, our driver turned on a CD, and to our surprise it was "Leaving on a Jet Plane."
Ha! I wonder if that was the driver's "going to the airport with Westerners" playlist. Either way, it was funny, especially since yesterday's blog was called "Leaving on a Jet Plane."
So how can we resist making that our first "tune for June"- it was like it was set up. right?
This is a song from my past. I sang it many a time with my friends for Karaoke. Most of the lyrics don't apply to us, & yet the leaving on a jet plane part sure does. So listen here if you would like- and enjoy your Monday morning/night!

Pic A Day May #31- Us leavin' on a jet plane...

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Fri, 31 May 2013 15:21:00 +0000

June 1st morning we leave for Singapore (once again.)This is the much anticipated trip for Greg's ankle surgery. We are glad it is finally here. And we are so grateful that we have the medical care available to us in Singapore. Though 2 hours in the car + a 2 hour flight it may seem far, we are glad it is that close. And see God's true provision in even being able to go. This picture is from a little photo session on our first flight to Singapore this term.


Bonus picture: this pic captures "us" well. Greg being goofy, me with crinkled brow, expressing the "seriously?", at his silliness. There are definitely wrinkles starting to form there for me because of how often this happens. But I even think this is a picture of grace in our partnership- we laugh at each other a lot. Greg stays funny, and I think my crinkled brow encourages him even more.

These are the final pictures from our "Pic a Day May" series...it has been so fun to share life with you guys this way, and we actually hope to keep it up!
So for June- how about some "pics & tunes" for June?? We may throw in some songs we are enjoying as of late, since sometimes you discover your favorite songs because it was a friend who first share them with you, right? So let's see what we discover together. What do you think?

Pic a Day May #30- Kelas Kimia & Ruang Guru

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Thu, 30 May 2013 10:55:00 +0000

Back before Christmas break I had the opportunity to visit an couple of Indonesian schools. The purpose of the trip was to play basketball and for them to practice English. We actually spent the night in a classroom of one of the schools so I had plenty of time to wonder around. Below are two rooms that caught my attention.

This is the room I would be in if I taught at this particular Indonesian school, the chemistry classroom.

It seems like this is the room the teachers all use when they are not teaching. Walking down the rows you can see textbooks and student work on each desk. I can see this promoting great collaboration... amongst other things.

Pic a Day May- #29- is it a pest or is it a delicacy?

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Wed, 29 May 2013 12:41:00 +0000

Today is a short post because we have to begin packing for Singapore, and most of our moments this week are spent with people who are leaving- either graduating or moving on to the next adventure in their journeys. This one is an oldie but a goodie (well maybe...) These are "larong" (flying termites.) Especially in rainy season they are EVERYWHERE! Drawn to light ,they fill your house, but then die quickly, leaving your floor full of them. Within our first 10 days in Indonesia, we decided to try a taste of these little guys . Motto here "If you can't beat 'em, eat 'em!" Check out the full story with video here.

Return to Karimunjawa

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Tue, 28 May 2013 17:59:00 +0000

Last year I went on a trip with the Bio II class to Karimunjawa. If you want to look back on that trip, you can do it here. Today though I thought we would briefly return there for a different view.

Most of what we were in Karimun to see was life. The focus was marine biology so we were observing coral, fishes, anemones, urchins, etc. Beautiful!

These two boats however paint a different picture. Paint faded, glass broken, tied up. These boats serve as reminders, memorials. I look at these boats and think, how did they get here? How long have they been like this? What would it be like fixed up and back out on the ocean? I couldn't help but feel that these boats were made for more than this!

Then I realized I was looking at myself. Broken, faded, and tied up. The difference is that when Daddy looked at me He did see more. There was no wondering how long I had been like that or how I could let myself get to that point. He just saw a new creation in progress and said "Come". Beautiful!

Now here I am in an ocean of grace.

So... this new creation gives all glory to his Father.

Pic a Day May- #27 celebrating a sister...

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Mon, 27 May 2013 14:32:00 +0000

Ok- so I really am a bit speechless when it comes to sharing about this person. Jamie, my one & only sister. I think God just gave me one sister because He knew exactly how much goodness He could pack into one person.WOL (Wow Out Loud)
This was my last picture taken with Jamie (& newborn Grace) on March 2nd, 2012. And I am ready to take some more pictures because she is coming this way soon! That is some of the best news of the year- Jamie, Jeremy, & Grace are coming to work in this part of the world, so picture sessions will not be so far apart.
Today is Jamie's birthday, she turned 25 today. Everyone always mentions that she looks young, and thinks of her as "little Jamie" (last born kids often get that, especially when they are beautifully petite.)
But everyone, I cannot even begin to describe to you the true WOMAN she is. Her wisdom astounds me. The glory that she has stepped into when she became a mother- is wonderful really. The grace & beauty she walks in as a wife is inspiring. And the friend is she to so many- we could fill pages worth of praise. I have seen her be a better daughter than I could ever be. But I get to be her sister, I share that with only one other person, and I bet he is dancing over that honor in heaven right now, and joins me in celebrating that privilege- that we get to share this life with Jamie as our sister.

3 on 3 Champs!

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Sun, 26 May 2013 14:18:00 +0000

Sorry this picture is a little blurry but it is the only one we have of our 3 on 3 team.

The 3 on 3 basketball tournament is kinda a big deal here at MICS. Students and faculty alike start picking teams and trash talking weeks before the tournament even starts. In some cases this picking and trash talking starts the day after the tournament is over and teams start thinking about next years tourney.

It's not everyday you get to play on a winning 3 on 3 team comprised of 2 Koreans, 1large Costa Rican, 1 American who grew up in Africa, and myself, a Kentucky boy.

The tournament was a lot of fun. The first night we played a pool play set-up and won all but one game. Then we came back the next day with a game plan and eventually found ourselves in the championship game against the only team that beat us. This time we made sure to stick to the game plan and we came out on top!

I feel the need to mention that this tournament happened awhile ago, so before I hurt my ankle and had to stop playing :( But have hopes for more games to come in the future after this surgery in a week :)

Pic a Day May #25- and some of "our girls" that graduated...

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Sat, 25 May 2013 11:52:00 +0000

My sweet Angela- I have been so honored to share life with her. She is one of the few students I knew before while I was growing up here. I have appreciated so much her delight in this country & in people here in this community, her joy & her honesty about hard things. Angela, you have a permanent tea cup in our home. My life has been changed.

My dear Janice- I have been so blessed by Janice allowing us to be part of her life. She has made me love Korean students even more than I already did. She has challenged me with her questions. She has inspired me with her diligence & desire to always be growing & improving in all areas of her life. My life has been changed.


My precious Alexa- I have been honored to know this lady. To hear her heart. To ask her questions. My one on one moments with her this year have been treasure. Everyone says she is quiet, but the truth is she has a lot to say. Her care for her friends is inspiring. My life has been changed.

My treasured Natasha- we just love this girl! And we have been so grateful for our moments with her. I love hearing her stories & ideas. I love her creativity & her eye for beauty. I love watching her love so many different people- and her heart & understanding for them. I have learned a lot from her. She inspires me. My life has been changed.

Just like in yesterday's post we must clarify that we were not able to get picture with all the graduates, so this is not us "playing favorites", but introducing you to some of these lovely ladies we have grown to care deeply for. I had the chance to be dorm mom to these gals, even Angela for a weekend, so my time with them has been more concentrated. Obviously, from the captions above, I can tell you that it is my life that has been changed. The people we get to encounter are just incredible. What a worthy investment that God has drawn us to. And I want to also mention the other ladies that graduated on Thursday- Sarah, Jenny, Abby, Stefanie- you each are so beautiful in such unique, "khusus" ways, and I celebrate each of you today!

Pic a Day May #24- Some of "our guys" that graduated

noreply@blogger.com (Greg and Jennifer Evans) — Fri, 24 May 2013 15:41:00 +0000

We want to introduce you to a few graduates that we have been impacted by and hopefully impacted in the past year and a half. So today I am writing about a couple of incredible guys that I have been able to teach, coach, juggle, and well... just share life with. More to come in the next few days.

This is Ben. Ben is an incredibly bright student and excels at almost everything he does from chemistry to basketball to juggling to Dominion (a card game) to well you get the picture (no pun intended). His parents are working on another island here in Indonesia, similar to a large portion of the parents of MICS students. Jennifer and I both think very highly of this young man and are excited to see where he ends up!

This is Jose. Jose is the son of Gustavo and Alejandra, some of our teammates from Costa Rica. This young man is one of the most passionate guys I know, everything he does he puts his heart into. I think Our Father used that part of Jose to really grow and influence the spiritual atmosphere of MICS campus this year and bring other students closer to Himself.

These are just two of the boys that graduated from MICS yesterday- the only two that we were privileged to get pictures with before we had to rush off to do a last minute visa run for Singapore. We definitely don't want to "play favorites"- so we want to clarify that. We celebrate each one of the newly graduated guys from yesterday: Paul, Kenny, Khol, Kyu Ho, Kaleb, Sung Hyun, Micah, Michael, and George! We bless you guys as you start this new chapter of life.

Come back here to meet some of the graduated girls tomorrow!

We share this because these students are such a big part of our lives here.