The Recipe That Wow'ed 'Em At Thanksgiving: Crawfish Corn Bisque

1 Cup Chopped Onion
1/4 Cup Olive Oil
2 (16 Ounce) Cans Whole Kernel Corn, gently chopped in food processor
1/2 Cup Diced Green Bell Peppers
1 Quart Heavy Cream
3 Teaspoons Salt
1/2 Teaspoon Ground Red Pepper
1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper
1 Tablespoon Parsley Flakes
2 Pounds Crawfish Meat
2 Tablespoons Cornstarch
1/4 Cup Water

Saute' onion in butter until tender. Add corn and bell pepper, and cook on medium-low heat for 20 minutes. Add heavy cream, salt, and next 3 ingredients; cook for 15 minutes. Stir in crawfish and cook for 5 minutes. Combine cornstarch and water, mixing well. Thicken bisque with cornstarch mixture.

Welcome to the Batiansila Blog! (Who Gets The Bill?)

What kind of ingenious advertising can you buy for 125,000 pounds in England? Let me tell you, those boys over there really have got their wheels turning. I'm dumbfounded by how original this is.

TWO HEARTBEATS!

Tracey - Jen's sister - just returned from an extremely exciting doctor's appointment. He performed an ultrasound and heard...two heartbeats! Two kids! It is looking like some kind of nutty year for this branch of the family.

Happy Birthday, C.S. Lewis (1 Day Late)

"We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased."

C.S. Lewis was a writer and thinker who could drop you to the floor with a thought. To wit, in his remarkable piece "The Weight of Glory" it's hard not to be moved to a higher plane of Christian thought and existence.

Here at BNS we used to hit tennis balls with Bat, who at times was not playing tennis at all. Instead of trying to blast a shot for a winner, he was watching the ball and trying to hit it into a little corner or niche of the court with just the right touch and spin. He wasn't looking for the perfect shot - he was looking for the perfect point. Ergo the BNS affinity to Lewis, who similarly always was looking for the perfect point in what he wrote.

"Welcome, child," he said.
"Aslan," said Lucy, "you're bigger."
"That is because you are older, little one," answered he.
"Not because you are?"
"I am not. But every year you grow, you will find me bigger."

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KEATON! (1 day late)

For some reason, Batiansila News Service ignored its own calendar and thought Keaton's birthday was the 27th. Then, when Keaton's mother emailed BNS on the 29th to speak with wonder of having a 21 year old, BNS digitally nodded in agreement. And subsequently never wrote anything. The BNS regrets its error.

Keaton G Christiansen is Deirdre's oldest. He attends school at that bastion of right-wing conspiracy, Hillsdale, where he is actively pursuing a degree of some sort. Deirdre he is more interested in ordering a drink than really drinking one. Then we all laughed at how Keaton lied to his mother like that. That Keaton.

OOPS! The Taste That Didn't Click

I fixed the bad link on the links to work that Greg does. If you encounter something hinky like that, let the blog know.

Magnifique

Teia and Izzi (Greg's Oldest Two) and Brennick (Deirdre's 3rd oldest) just performed with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra in an elite chorus comprised of a group of choirs from around the state of Wisconsin. Their A Capella choir was chosen through an audition process and performed selections from Handel's "Messiah."

Wow. Really proud of them, and really impressed by the sound. That's the real deal.

I'm enclosing some of the details from the Milwaukee Symphony website...

clipped from www.milwaukeesymphony.org 2007-2008 Teen Series Masterworks Recommended for grades 7 through 12 Programs are approximately 1 hour in length Handel's Messiah November 27 at 10:30 a.m. Featuring guest choruses from Wisconsin high schools Soloists, tbd Lee Erickson, conductor Explore the power of classical music with the most famous oratorio in Western classical music, Handel’s Messiah. Composed in just 24 days, this masterpiece moved its own composer to tears with its beauty and majesty. Rediscover this Baroque showpiece, from its stirring orchestration to the majestic Hallelujah chorus. Handel - Selections from Messiah Connections: Music, Visual Art, Language Arts

Phoenetic Punctuation

This one's for my mom:

Walter Interview Part I: The Kids

My first question for Uncle Walt was not the first one he answered. He answered the last one first:

How are your kids? I've heard questions about your two youngest. (sidebar: I realize through my life how sad it was to not be closer to them. I have basically stomped my foot and told my children there are no 1/2 anything in the bible. They have no 1/2 sisters. They have sisters. And I have no 1/2 cousins, either.) Everyone has heard some about Brandon and heather. Do you have pictures of any of them??

Now, about my kids, I will take them in order
of their appearance from back in 1959 forward. First is Rebecca, who
happens to live in Raleigh and is married to a NC State professor of
Treeology.....I know that is not correct, but it has something to do
with forests. For more, click here

Notice All The Iraq Headlines?

No? Weird. You'd think that if US military deaths were near peacetime levels, there'd be a headline. Must just be an oversight.

Zoe Update

Today we met with a cardiac specialist at Children's Hospital in Milwaukee. The doctor looked at Zoe's heart and confirmed her condition, which is called Tetralogy of Fallot. The doctor says that this is a "very" treatable condition, and indicated that a single surgery performed at some point from age 6 months to 12 months would be needed, with an outside chance of another when Zoe is older.

The visit with the doctor was strengthening, just because we could talk about legitimate problems and solutions. But I still ask for your prayers for Zoe and her health, since the spectre of other chromosomal problems is a real possibility.

Basically, a two vessel umbilical cord in and of itself means little, as does Tetralogy of Fallot. But the two things together are sometimes signs that there are more problems we are unaware of.

I pray for a healthy baby, and even a special healing of anything that is ailing her now. I put this all in God's hands and ask that you pray for Zoe, her health, and that she has a normal and happy and healthy life.

Next up: an appointment with our ultrasound specialist physician on December 13. I pray that we continue to see signs of a healthy kid. (Today she was AGAIN hard to scan because she's so active)

Amen!

DUH. Why am I not showing this on the blog? I think I'll put the link, too. Click it so that it becomes really popular and Dad gets EVEN MORE MONEY for Amen!

Everything's Coming Up Martina

Martina has given me some new pics (that's web lingo for pictures) of her baby and family. Enjoy. Unfortunately, no pictures of the robot are in this album.

Robotic Help for Paul and Martina

The title makes it sound like Paul and Martina live in the future and have a robot maid. But actually, it's an article about how God uses technology to bless people. In this case, someone you're related to.

Sources tell me as the Doc did his Doc magic using the da Vinci robot, Paul approached him and asked him how good he was at video games. I mean, c'mon, he's gotta ROCK at Halo, right?

Apparently, not. Not this da Vinci doc. He mostly does surgery and flies airplanes. How boring is that?

If video game dexterity is a key component to being a surgeon, let me introduce you to my son, Dr. Kellen (MaddenHands) Batiansila.

Watching Video Tip

Heidi told me that some of you all have issues watching video - that it actually stops and starts and is generally irritating. This is because the file is coming into your computer at the same time your computer is playing the file.

See. I said the above without using the word "download" because if I did, then Mom would turn and mutter "Download? I don't know how to download. I barely know how to turn this on! And Greg wants me to download. Meem? Can you download? Did Greg show you how to download? Maybe Martina knows how."

So here's your tip: Press play. then Press pause immediately. The player will continue to downl- I mean the file will continue to come into your computer even though nothing is playing. Wait a few minutes. You'll notice that there's a bar on the slider thingy, and that bar is getting bigger. This is the size of the downl- shoot. The file. It's the size of the movie file.

After you have at least 1/2 a bar full of file, then press play. You should be good by then.

OR, you can actually press play after you've watched it once, herky-jerky style and it SHOULD work better then.

Let me know if that works for you.

Shades of Renee

Renee actually did this, according to legend, while attending high school at Ben Franklin in New Orleans. You see, Renee was quite the foxy lady, capable of ensnaring men with her every - OW!

He Gives Us All His Love

He gives us all his love
He gives us all his love
He’s smiling down on us
From up above

And He’s giving us all His love

He knows how hard we’re trying
He hears the babies crying
He sees the old folks dying
And He gives us all his love

Now if you need someone to talk to
You can always talk to Him
And if you need someone to lean on
You can lean on Him

He give us all His love
He gives us all His love
He’s smiling down on us
From up above
And He’s giving us all his love
He’s smiling down on us
From up above
He gives us all His love

-Randy Newman

Mass In Baghdad

Some really cool pictures of Mass at St. John's Church - Baghdad. This is dedicated to my Mom, who, to my memory, always digs Mass. Why is that?

Heidi? Dancing?

Heidi wrote me an email indicating she is going to be dancing in a Christmas pageant, and that her kids are extras. I called but she didn't answer. All I know is this guy is the choreographer for their church.

Calla Update

Calla was released from the hospital and is being tended to by Omi and Charis. She's still having trouble with some functions (see video below) but she's doing much better.

Payton was actually stricken with some really sick temperatures and was rushed to urgent care. He's doing better, but this kind of competition is going to have to stop.

Bookworm Kirin Is Now Up To Olive In Her SRA!

Kirin called to clarify just what book about Clara Barton she read. It's this one. I'm not making this up.

Good News For Tracey

Many of you know Jen's sister Tracey was facing some hardships and trials as she tried to get pregnant. If you click the Tracey link below you'll see some of those entries. Tracey's most recent test results came back with some really positive results. I am leaving big news to her, but hold her up in prayer, too.

Pray For Zoe

In January, Jen and I were walking around KMart and she mentioned as she passed some baby girl clothes that she wished she could have a baby girl. But then she said she knew that I didn't really want to have any more kids.

I told Jen we're already broke. We already don't fit into a minivan. We're still changing diapers, and we owe everyone. When I wake up in the morning, there's always at least a few kids in there with us. Another baby won't change much. So if she was serious, then we should be serious.

We continued to walk through the aisles of KMart.

Jen countered. She said if God would give me a raise, then, we'd have a baby. We told each other we'd pray about it separately, and a few days later we agreed that was our prayer.

In a matter of a few weeks, I was given a raise. Trouble was, it was nominal, not really a ton, but then again, we hadn't specified how much of a raise. Let that be a lesson to all of you out there.

Jen called me at work and asked me what we should do. I told her I didn't think it was a very big raise. Gideon had put out the fleece twice. We should, too. I wish I could tell you that we put it out and asked for Powerball, but we didn't. We just asked for a substantial increase.

Within weeks, I was offered a position at my current employer, Avicom. The entire organization, from top to bottom, man to woman, is a blessing in my life and I am so blessed to be there.

And it was a substantial increase.

Jen and I vexed because God had pushed the chips into the center of the table and said "Call." What was our hand? A lot of fear. We didn't do anything at first. But then we had a scare with Selah, and Jen and I talked again, and we strongly believe that Selah's health issue was a little reminder to us that God was God, and we, to quote my woefully underquoted ancient sister, are middle management.

Then, I read this devotion. I actually forwarded it to Jen. She read it and agreed...that we should follow God recklessly. Like a scene out of a movie, the phone rang. It was Walgreens, with a friendly reminder that Jen's prescription was ready. Her month's worth of pills. We decided she wouldn't take them. Six weeks later, Jen was pregnant.

This is typically where people pop the jokes about me and my indomitable procreative abilities but the truth is, none of them ring right in light of the story I just told you. God told us to have a baby, and we listened.

So, Jen and I are pregnant and we're due around the end of March.

This week we found out that our baby is a girl - what did you think it would be? - and that she has a heart defect. The doctor seemed quick to indicate that the heart defect is treatable and my read on him is he wasn't worried about the surgery it will take to repair the defect. But his voice was different when he talked about other potential problems. Zoe's heart defect and her two-vessel umbilical cord are sometimes signs of further problems.

Right now, she looks like a little kid. Her kidneys, brain, and spine are fine. She can't keep still. She looks fidgety. Please pray that Zoe Elizabeth continues to grow. It's the best sign that she is ok. Pray that her organs and limbs and her body grow and that this is just one little blip, the first way she'll break her daddy's heart.

Right now, there's nothing Jen and I can do, which is fitting and beautiful. I can't hold Zoe, and even when I try, I find I can't hold her. This isn't for me to hold. It's for you and me to hold up so that God, who called us to follow him recklessly, will hold and in His goodness, will do what He knows is best.

Klahn Update

I had the opportunity to visit with the Klahns just this past Saturday. Their oldest child, Ali, turned 18 and they surprised her with a big ole fashioned party at a barn which featured squaredancing.

I may as well have been an alien. Did you know there are 64 square dancing moves? And these kids, some as little as 8 or 10, were doing them. Incredible. A lot of them. Actually, all of them except mine, who just stared blankly at the group. With their dad.

Ted updated me with little news on their potential call to China. He said no news, but that the "company" he would be working for is focusing now on North Korea. I'll keep you posted and you keep him and his family in your prayers.

A Taste Of What Greg Does

Here's a video that we edited, scripted and had my brother-in-law write music for for banking giant Fiserv. It was exceptionally well received and it seems like our relationship with Fiserv will continue for a long while.

This video we went to Seattle and shot and edited with my great friends and co-workers Arthur and Mandi. I handled the interviews and some scripting, but we really worked together on locations and shot selection. We were given a limited number of days to get these interviews and we wanted to get sunrises and sunsets - which meant we were in bed by 12-1 and up at 3:30 for three days. It was hard, giddy work but I think it worked out great.

It's 9:25....

...and the people have spoken. All seven. Renee, will you hum in alto? Kirin, make up a tenor part to hum. Please, tell Jean that we'll just need our notes.

Heidi, did you make enough copies for everyone?

...Because This Blog, Above All Is About Education

I spoke to Kirin this weekend. She told me she read a book about Clara Barton, who organized and founded the American Red Cross.

What kind of crazy world are we living in? Kirin studies, obtains her educator license - and CONTINUES TO READ BOOKS? My whole world is turned upside down.

But, in the spirit of education, I'd like to introduce you to this gem - facts about our country and the opportunities that abound here.

Calla Update: Everything Comes Down To...

Doctors have said that Calla's improvement is going great! They are waiting for her to...well, to...

That's what it all comes down to. And then she'll be released.

Pray For Calla...UPDATED 4:45 11-11-07

Charis has taken Calla in with fears that she has appendicitis. Please keep Calla and all the Laabs family in your prayers.

***Updated Calla had successful surgery to remove her appendix. She had been suffering a great deal and now is doing well. Doctors said everything went well, and they expect her to be hospitalized for the next 3-5 days.

Christa may be heading south to help out with Payton. We'll keep you posted as we know more.

***Calla is expected to be at Children's Hospital, Milwaukee for 2-3 days. It was Charis who pressed the pediatrician about the possibility of appendicitis. At first, he didn't think it was, but with Charis's continued pressure, they tested Calla and discovered she was right.

Calla is groggy but doing fine and Omi and Grandpa Du even talked to her on the phone. Omi plans on coming down on Tuesday to visit and/or help.

Happy Birthday, Martina!

Martina turns 35 today, which is very old for most people her age. Martina is the classic little sister who got her way, but combined that with some stellar athletic ability to even further get what she wanted.

So, when Martina wanted to play softball in high school, and she had a restrictive knee brace on that kept her from bending her leg, she played anyway. Started pitcher. Batted. Got on base.

So now, she's got the husband she's always wanted and the family she wanted but was told she couldn't have: two precious little girls. Not bad, but not surprising for someone that determined. Happy birthday, little (old) sister.

Happy Birthday, Martin Luther!

It's Martin Luther's birthday! I'm not sure what year Martin was born, but he was Christa's classmate through the first few years she attended Gymnasium. Don't get Christa started, because she's got all kinds of witty anecdotes to share about "Marty Lute," as he was known in their little circle.

One anecdotal Marty Lute story is that he went to a restaurant with Christa and the gang, most of them hangers-on, all of whom were dominated by him, even awed. They arrayed themselves around the table, jockeyed for his attention. A young waiter came and asked if they'd like to hear the specials. Marty said, "I will have beef."

Yes, said the waiter. "And the vegetables?"

"They will have beef too."

"Thank You, Thank You. Thank You For Peace."

...and for the first time in memory, freedom rang over the ravaged land between two rivers.

Happy Birthday, Erin!

Erin's my twin sister. That's what people used to think when they saw us. Mom made us the clothes from the same material, and we both had dark hair and skin and blue eyes. She's the one who would write letters on my back until I would fall asleep. I'd sneak across into her room so she could tell me stories, and she'd spell her name or the alphabet.

Happy Birthday, Erin. I hope your day was great. Love, your twin.

Email Interview With Keaton!

I had a chance to talk to Deirdre's oldest, Keaton, who attends Hillsdale College. Please read this one.

"...I've got to be a man before I would even know where to start with a
woman. I'm not that grown up yet, and I'm not interested in dating
casually "for fun."

Click here for more

Open Call For Uncle Walter Stories

I reached out to Uncle Walter, asking for some time to interview him for the blog. He responded, "Sounds interesting, although I have no remote idea why anyone would want o hear me expound on anything..."

So, I'm asking all three of you readers to toss out an Uncle Walter story, so we can give him a warm welcome here. That would mean you'd either a) email it to me or b) comment -an art mastered so far by only Renee. Then again, maybe she's the only person reading this.

My Uncle Walter story...of many. I was going home with him to Slidell to spend the night or so with Brandon. Everyone was asleep but Uncle Walter and Aunt Pat in the front. We started talking, and he began to ask what I wanted for breakfast, admitting he knew nothing about cooking. He spent the entire trip to Slidell asking me about how to make pancakes - from how to crack eggs to what was to go into it - with Aunt Pat intermittently cautioning him and cackling.

It wasn't until the next day that I realized he actually knew how to cook, and that I wasn't going to have to fish eggshells out of the batter.

Another was when Renee or someone was doing a puzzle and he offered to help. He took pieces that didn't fit, and tried jamming them into the existing puzzle. then he took a glass and used it to shove pieces that didn't belong together. After some minutes of getting everyone riled up, he was done helping....

I'm sure you have more and better....

Time To Sing Into The Filter Queen

I'll sing the echoes on the "Girls in town..." and the "follow you..." "all around..."

Since We're On A New Orleans Kick...

Here's the recipe I always use for Red Beans & Rice. But I modify it a little.

Pray for Pete

Mom mentioned to me that Pete Fountain was hospitalized recently. She had a chance to talk to Bev and there's more story than I think I'm allowed to print here. So, we'll stick with the paper's account.

And I'll throw in the MSNBC article about him from a few years ago. 'Cause we love Pete.

The Speras and the Bats...go way, way back

The Speras have woven their lives into ours in a lot of different ways. Keith had a unrequited crush on Erin in grade school, played on basketball and football teams with me, and his dad coached me. Keith's limp is the result of me running my head into the corner of a huge something or the other that fell on Keith's foot. Keith's brother, Craig, was one of Tari's closest friends in New Orleans and passed away tragically some years ago.

But that's just one generation. Keith's dad and Christa and Bat double dated. If I have the story right...Dad dated my aunt, and Keith's dad dated mom on that date.

So, Keith just had a baby. He wrote about it in his column at the New Orleans Times Picayune.

Maybe It's Not Heavily Covered Because There's No Video?

Or maybe because it doesn't tell the story that we've been fed over the years. But, it's safer today, and we're winning.

N.E.W., Alexis Finish A Spectacular Season With A Loss

Alexis, Erin and Jeff's oldest, helped lead her volleyball team to state tournament competition. Unfortunately, they fell short. But Alexis has a few years of experience left in her tank. It's good to know those Filipino-German genes are still hopping and competing out there.

Alexis, know your family - even Black Sheep Uncle Greg - is proud of you. Never doubt that.

Oops, Adler Did It Again

Word has it, Adler went to the emergency room. Again. Third time for a head wound for the little guy. This time, four stitches. Omi mentioned she's looking into a helmet for him.

Look, we all know that Jill and Andreas are capable and competent parents. But their relationship with Britney has to end.

The Golden Compass

Heidi sent me the enclosed based on a previous post. I've addressed it in this week's sidebar - the "Greg's Thoughts" thing to your right.

>> Alert: Golden Compass "children's" movie Importance: High
>>
>> THE GOLDEN COMPASS, a new movie targeted at children, will be
>> released December 7, 2007. This movie is based on a the first book of
>> a trilogy by atheist Philip Pullman. In the final book a boy and girl
>> kill God so they can do as they please. Pullman left little doubt
>> about his intentions when he said in a 2003 interview that "My books
>> are about killing God."
>>
>> The movie is a watered down version of the first book and is designed
>> to be very attractive in the hope unsuspecting parents will take
>> their children to see the the movie and that the children will want
>> the books for Christmas.
>>
>> The movie has a well known cast, including Nicole Kidman, Kevin
>> Bacon, and Sam Elliott. It will probably be advertised extensively,
>> so it is crucial that we get the word out to warn parents to avoid
>> this movie.

CATCH UP 3: Happy Birthday Abi and Graham!

Abi and Graham turned a year older this week. I'm not sure of their ages, but I'm sure when their respective parents see this entry, and see how old these pictures are, we'll get this all worked out.

Catch Up 2: TRICK OR TREAT!

Here's how it happens at my house. Trick or treating in West Bend is fantastic. They have a street so busy, it's like a several-block-long party! Lines of kids heading up to houses, and the owners really were excited. Two women got out glasses of wine next to a tub of candy. One house really made use of it's gothic-like architecture to have some fun.

Sometimes you forget that there's days and places like this anymore.

Catch Up 1: Greg (I) Turn 39

I turned 39 last week Saturday. My birthday present consisted of two super dee duper events: 1) I had approximately 125 minutes alone with my wife where we did something that did not involve us talking about a) a bill b) someone's grades c) a payment d) chores not done.

On Friday night, Jen and I went to see the movie "Dan in Real Life." It's a fantastic movie, and I highly recommend it to all of you AE Bats. When you'll see it, you'll understand why - there's a family that gets together and plays and sings and is goofy. They play the piano and have talent shows. They catch up. Something tells me if you would have caught them 20 yrs earlier or 5 years later, it would have looked the same. I miss those days for us. I had a whole post arranged in my head, a plea to return to those days, but I didn't write it.

The next day, we spruced up the house and then Izzi's boyfriend, Michael, Josh - Jen's brother whom I will refer to here and in other posts as "Josh" - and his girl friend (I separated the words in case they are just friends who kiss) and his mom came out. We had some food, after which I discovered Josh and Kristin had never heard "Go Dog Go." So we read "Go Dog Go" and then we lit a fire. It was a perfect night - about 60 degrees and a harvest moon so bright that I could see to the lake's bottom off the pier.

Then the kids - the bigger ones - changed clothes and played night time tag games like "Candyman" and "Ghosts in the Graveyard."

So much to say that I think I'm choosing not to say it. I'll just reprint this verse that keeps coursing through my head:

10-12 When God, your God, ushers you into the land he promised through your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to give you, you're going to walk into large, bustling cities you didn't build, well-furnished houses you didn't buy, come upon wells you didn't dig, vineyards and olive orchards you didn't plant. When you take it all in and settle down, pleased and content, make sure you don't forget how you got there—God brought you out of slavery in Egypt.

13-19 Deeply respect God, your God. Serve and worship him exclusively. Back up your promises with his name only. Don't fool around with other gods, the gods of your neighbors, because God, your God, who is alive among you is a jealous God. Don't provoke him, igniting his hot anger that would burn you right off the face of the Earth. Don't push God, your God, to the wall as you did that day at Massah, the Testing-Place. Carefully keep the commands of God, your God, all the requirements and regulations he gave you. Do what is right; do what is good in God's sight so you'll live a good life and be able to march in and take this pleasant land that God so solemnly promised through your ancestors, throwing out your enemies left and right—exactly as God said.

20-24 The next time your child asks you, "What do these requirements and regulations and rules that God, our God, has commanded mean?" tell your child, "We were slaves to Pharaoh in Egypt and God powerfully intervened and got us out of that country. We stood there and watched as God delivered miracle-signs, great wonders, and evil-visitations on Egypt, on Pharaoh and his household. He pulled us out of there so he could bring us here and give us the land he so solemnly promised to our ancestors. That's why God commanded us to follow all these rules, so that we would live reverently before God, our God, as he gives us this good life, keeping us alive for a long time to come.

25 "It will be a set-right and put-together life for us if we make sure that we do this entire commandment in the Presence of God, our God, just as he commanded us to do."

Happy Birthday, Jeff!

Today Jeff, Erin's husband, celebrates his birthday. Erin and Jeff live outside of Green Bay. He's a hard-working, busy guy: raising his three kids and working outdoors, along with extensive coaching duties.

Our thoughts and best birthday wishes go out to Jeff!

Batiansila Blog: A Global Presence

Mom forwarded an email from Steffen, son of Elfi. That kind of makes him sound like a character in The Lord of the Rings.

Anyway, Steffen does not live in the United States, wrote her the following:

Eure Seite mit den blogs haben wir uns schon angeguckt. Sehr interessant. Viele Grüße auch an Du.

>Bis bald Steffen

So, HELLO WORLD! For all of you non-Americans, I'd like to show you something. Here's an interesting truth: we're winning the war. You can thank us later. Here's another: we're losing fewer troops than when Clinton was president.

Also, take a gander at this. Not all Americans have fallen for the hucksters.

And if you know Bat and Christa, then you know they'd be happy with this post.

Deanna Favre

Renee emailed me with this exceedingly interesting and compelling link. In it, you'll find the rock-solid woman behind the greatest quarterback who ever played football. And his mom talked to my mom on the plane. I'll try to get mom to talk about that in our next audio visit.

Happy Birthday, Renee!

Renee turns...are we age phobic? I'm not sure. She's 11 years older than Andreas. How's that? It remains a mystery.

Renee is best remembered for getting written up her FIRST NIGHT at college. For her nutty but always-memorable band of friends in high school (all male). For playing "Scarborough Fair" repeatedly-endlessly- on the piano. For finding love in a Ranger - turned - bouncer and being a mom of four boys. She's the Christian woman and dedicated wife and mother that everyone wishes she would have become.

An Entertainment Moment

You've heard it all before: Hollywood takes a book, waters down its deeper meanings to pander to a wider audience, and upsets the book's true followers. But in this case, the watering down is applied to the anti-church (and as the book series progresses, anti-God) sentiments woven into the story's fabric.

Interesting also to note Nicole Kidman's stand as a professional.

I'll also take this moment to guide you to three shows which feature outspoken Christians: Pushing Daisies (Kristin Chenoweth), Chuck (Zachary Levi), and Back To You (Patricia Heaton). I've seen all 3 and think that Pushing Daisies is incredible, Chuck is having fun - for now, and Back To You is fine. Perhaps if we Christians supported Christians on the air we wouldn't have to whine about a Hollywood devoid of Christians.

Reason 4837 To Thank God For Mom & Dad

I've been a big proponent of liking animals, as long as they stay over there, and don't lick me. People say that makes me an animal hater. No, I respond, I just never grew up with pets. And I thank Mom and Dad for that. Or else this could have happened to me.

Happy Birthday Charis!

Charis turned 29 today. She's the youngest of the Bat clan and lives in the Milwaukee area, in Germantown, with her husband and two children.

Bat and Christa flew back from Brother Dre's house today and will be with Charis for the last few hours of her birthday.

Happy Birthday Andreas!

Andreas turns 32 today. I wish more people read this and could all throw in an Andreas story. I sat for a long while to think of a story and thought of tons, but all of them are about Andreas and me, and it seemed wrong to share that story. But the truth is, that's all I got. For some reason, the 7 years between us has become less and less through time, and his friendship means that most of the stories are about he and I acting stupid. Like trying to get a toy parrot in Walgreens that repeats what you say to say something naughty. Like both of us giving each other "New Kids on the Block" and other boy band paraphernalia. Like the time that he was talking to me while we stood in line in a busy mens room and I told him that first of all, I didn't know who he was and second, could he stop talking to me. Andreas retaliated in kind at a later date, and all I can say is it involved pictures and his own visit to a restroom.

We've been through our share, he and I. So when he turns 32, I guess I do, too, in a way. We've seen each other through times that a lot of people probably never see, never could imagine, and wouldn't wish on anyone. But I think Dre would ask you to see God in all of it - see this hand guiding him. A Love that never left his side. He's a great Christian man. Happy Birthday, brother.

The New Digs: Open Invitation

Teia was out yesterday and snapped some pictures of the new place from the back. Apologies for the boxes. The bench swing is on the boathouse. That's our pier.

Come on out sometime and visit! Just let us shove these boxes somewhere.

Danny Batiansila Sighting (Sort Of)

...Meanwhile, on the other side of the country, cousin Danny Batiansila made the Dean's List at Appalachian State University last year.

We don't know much about Danny, so if anyone has any more recent news, let the blog know.

Ken Batiansila Sighting (Sort Of)

Looks like our cousin, Ken, hit a hole in one on a Washington golf course 6 years ago. (go to the 2001 listings).

These Are My Friends (Text of a card I sent to my friend, Mark Natzke)

***Mipps knew that my car - the silver bullet - a 1994 Prizm with 255,000 miles on it - was dead. He knew that my family couldn't live with one car. He knew that we were in a bind. And he knew what it means to be a friend. He helped me get a car.


These Are My Friends

That's what my Dad said one summer as we pulled away from a house. We drove close to 1500 miles that summer, from New Orleans, up through New Hampshire and back down through Indiana. At each place, the door opened, the table was laid, beds were made, and laughter and true joy abounded.

So Dad pulled away from the Herrs house in Keene, New Hampshire and he stopped the car. Up to this point, this meant 1) He forgot or lost something (a genetic trait he lovingly passed on to me) 2)One of us was going to get the beat down (a genetic trait he lovingly passed on to me or 3) He was going to announce that he and mom were going to have another baby (Another...you get the picture).

But he went off the menu that time. He turned to us and said, "These are my friends. Now, show me yours."

Wow. That's setting the bar high. The Herrs had taken us to their private lake and we had climbed a mountain and picked berries. All 12 of us.

So, I can say with absolute pride that I have another trait my father passed on to me. A friend who loves like Jesus. Who has given beyond any comprehension. Who has been at my side through all of it.

And, so, last week as I explained some stuff to Kellen, you know what I said? I said: Imagine if you and Andrew (classmate) were still friends in 30 years. Could you be? What would it be like? This is my friend. Show me yours.

No word can say what you mean to me. Kids and wives and divorces and implosions aside. Nothing I, a professional writer can say.

But you're a part of the story now, a genetic trait I hope to pass on. Thank you, friend. Thank you.

Target's Fresh Face Is Familiar: Our Model Cuz

Graham is throwing frisbees on Target's website.

Graham is Heidi's second kid. Heidi and Phil live in the Twin Cities area with their two boys. Heidi is Bat and Christa's second kid. Heidi and Phil have two houses.

This is getting weird.

Secret Unfurled

Mom and Dad have now landed and officially surprised Andreas with a visit! This to celebrate Andreas' 29th' birthday, which is this Saturday. To quote "Deep Thoughts", I hope someday people will look back at my life and say, "Man, that guy sure owed me a lot of money." I'm sure Andreas can relate.

I was delighted to hear that the temperature in Sacramento was 70, just 4 degrees above the temp here. TAKE THAT, CALIFORNIA!

Andreas was delighted to see some flesh and blood out on the coast. He has asked that we all call it "the coast" now, and says that the double ear piercing is just so he can fit in with the other teachers.

Move Complete.

Well, that wasn't painful.
Ok, it was.
It was long, arduous, and if you want to see a family really jonesing, watch mine without internet for a few days. Kellen approached me and pushed me against the wall. "You gotta get me online, man. You gotta!"
He then asked me for a quarter. He said it was for a cup of coffee but I think it was to buy a Blackberry. Filthy addicts.

I'll have pictures up of the new digs soon.

The Move

I'll try to keep updating as often as I can. My family and I are moving to the West Bend, Wisconsin area, closer to our church, Ethan's school, and the big kid's high school.

Life - especially as a dad - does this to you. You work so hard towards a future, but attaining it breaks your heart. It's what happens when your little girl goes to homecoming. It's what's happening now. I've had a tumultuous life, but 10 of the almost 40 of my years were spent in this area. That's longer than anywhere I've lived. I leave it with a true sense that God is guiding me, and a true sense of heartbreak.

So, for the 3 of you who read this, pray for all of us. These are the seasons we live through in life.

CUZ CHAT Part II: Drew

Drew and McKenna at Grandpa Du's Birthday Party Photo Booth

Teia had a chance to instant message (that's "msg" in instant chat talk) (by the way, "idk" means "i don't know") with Drew Whithead, Renee's Oldest. Renee is the fourth Batiansila and is married to Jim. They live in Wausau, Wisconsin.

drew: theyre pretty much two of the coolest people in my life

teia: are you being sarcastic?

drew: no im serious

who's Drew talking about? Click here to find out.

Loaves and Fishes

As a dad of many kids, and the chief cook at home, I'm always in amazement at what my mom did with how little she had. I'm not going to lie. Sometimes the mushroom gravy and the egg noodles was a bit much for me. But to think she was making any food at all out of a bunch of cans is an incredible tribute to her ingenuity and God's goodness.

Speaking of canned goods, you know those food pantry events where you bring some canned goods as admission? Please avoid this. I'm not sure it's what the food pantry people had in mind.

Citrus, Anyone? It's For A Good Cause

Izzi and Teia are traveling to Lutheran hotbeds like Seward, Nebraska and maybe even Pike's Peak on their next choir tour. In order to raise money for their trip, they're selling fruit. MMMM, citrus. The kind that sprays you a bit as you peel it. Oh yeah, sweet citrus. (How'm I doing?)

RUBY RED GRAPEFRUIT
Sweet, pink and no sugar needed
HAMLIN ORANGES
Juicy, sweet, thin skinned, good for eating as well as making fresh juice
NAVEL ORANGES
Usually seedless and wonderful for eating

Small Box (2/5 carton)
Approximately 18-20 pounds
----20 dollars----

Large Box (4/5 carton)
Approximately 38-40 pounds
----35 dollars----

Interested? Email Izzi or Teia. Order some citrus. It's not just for breakfast anymore.

You're Special And God Loves You Very Much

Weird coincidences - this weekend, Aidan and I spent many minutes giggling and repeating the above phrase to each other. And then, I just read this moving link in Phil Vischer's - the creator of VeggieTales - blog. Phil was linking to someone else's blog, someone who spoke from his heart about being special. Read it.

It resonated words from a Nichole Nordeman song I heard this morning, from her album, "Brave."

...from "hold on"

to hang between two thieves in the darkness
love must believe you are worth it
you're worth it

TARI SCOOP!

Tari is 7th of the Bat clan. She's married and lives in Mount Prospect with her husband, Aaron, and their 3 kids, Cooper, McKenna, and Brette. I had a chance to talk to her recently via email...

1. How's the baby?

The baby is getting big. She found her feet and likes to stick her toes in her mouth a lot. She is a pretty happy baby...I think it might be that she is sleeping longer at night these days. She is talking a lot too.

2. Did you wrestle with naming her?

We didn't really have a hard time picking her name out. Once we (Aaron and I) both (to read more, click here)

Jen's Sister On Oprah!

From Tracey her ownself....

Some of you may know that Jaime and I were invited to in the audience on the Oprah show. We were seated in the front row and ended up being part of the show. We tapped last Tuesday and the show will be on tomorrow at 4:00 (CST). You can read about our experience on my blog:
http://30plusmarriedwoman.blogspot.com

You can also see the preview on www.oprah.com
The show is:Lisa Ling Investigates: Wombs for Rent.

Not sure if we will on the segment or how they will edit the show but we were interviewed by Oprah and we had the opportunity to meet her (and Lisa Ling) and get some pictures with her. Even if we are not on the actual show, it's a very informative topic.

It was great experience for us.

Hope you can watch!

Tracey

I Actually Edited Out My Laughing

Here's Bat talking about some antics that only a lifelong pastor could tell. I did only minor editing once I realized how horrendously loud I was laughing.

Brush With Oprah!

Jen's sister Tracey was on Oprah! You can read about her experience here. I'll keep you informed as to the date. We ask for your prayers for them as they seek God's will with trying to have a baby!

Long Day here. Pumpkin Farm, Powder Puff Football, and a Birthday Party. No Powder Puff pictures, but some of the others...Elise Turns 6 Sunday! Wow.

They Printed It After All

Looks like they printed my book(let) after all. That's about 7 years after I finished my part of it...

Mom's Birthday Is Coming Up....

And I'll be deeply, deeply saddened if she doesn't get some of these.

By the way, they're back from Marquette, and well. But they did get lost on the way up.

They Will Know We Are Christians By Our Love

I've had the great fortune of talking to Bat and Christa more in the past weeks than really ever in my adult life. What an idiot I am. It takes a blog for me to start talking to them. One thing Mom said to me last week resonates in this article.

We're a proud bunch, the Batiansilas. Proud of our name and heritage, proud of our gifts and our faith. But are we too proud to forgive?

I remember when a newcomer would visit a family event and be struck by the incredible love, faith, and bond shared. What incredible joy and energy resounded from the walls of our home! It was impossible to replicate or forget.

What would a newcomer think today? Would they know we are Christians?

OUR FIRST COMMENT! PROGRESS!

Tari wrote a comment on one of the below entries about Heidi. I'll let you find it and read it. What happened there, folks, is that someone read an entry, then commented on it, and now their comments are available for all to see. That's the cool thing about a BLOG. It's interactive.

How to comment:
1. click "comment."
2. write a comment in the box provided.
3. choose how you want to be identified. you can choose anonymous, or you can write who you are. you can even provide a link back to your site! incredible.

So comment away! let the commenting begin! Ready, GO!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PIERA!

It's Piera Christiansen's (Deirdre's second oldest kid) 19th Birthday! Happy Birthday Piera!

You can read more about Piera in the chat interview conducted with her by Teia (seen at the right in the picture).

Apple Pickin' 2007

In a bold display of parenting, Greg missed Brett Favre's record-setting performance against the Packer's archrivals, the Vikings, so he could pick some apples with his children. I would compare that to something Bat had done, but Bat knows better than to watch a football game when he can get all the highlights on the news.

Cuz Chat: Teia Chats With Piera

Teia took this picture of Piera a while back...

Teia: are you liking school and the area you're in?
Piera: yes! i'm having a great time so far. there's a lot to do and sometimes i think i spread myself a little thin, but overall it's wonderful i'm majoring in secondary education, with a concentration in english, and so far i'm pretty sure that's what i want to do.

...Teia conducted an interview with her cousin, Piera, who just started attending school this fall. Click here to read the whole chat!

Bat & Christa in Marquette

The North Wisconsin District of the LCMS decided that they should meet even further north than Green Bay. Further north than Wisconsin. So Bat and Christa are in Marquette, MI for the next few days. My hope is that they don't fall victims to the rampant criminal element in Marquette. Recently, some young toughs spray painted "I'm rubber/You're glue/ Whatever you say bounces off me and st" on their archrival's school before they ran out of spray paint. Sad to hear things like that happening in towns like Marquette.

JOOOY: Mystery Solved

Heidi just sent in this simple email: "

From: "One Silent Night" - JOY by Cindy Morgan, Published by Word, Copyright 2000

"
If you'd like to listen to it...to see how close Heidi was...I'm enclosing a pirated copy of "JOOOOYY."

I'm also going to include, at no additional cost to you, a link to the CD from Amazon.com.

More Origins

Here's a link to where Christa is from - Hameln, where she attended high school and where her little brother, Uwe, was born. Hameln is famous for the Pied Piper story, which apparently is only partly true. I have it on good authority that the piper was later fined for animal cruelty.

If you had any doubts about where this site was written, note the "Dear Visitor!" A greeting that reminds me of every single card and letter from my Oma. And when I'd walk into a room, for that matter. "Now, Greg!" she'd call.

50 Years Ago Today She Couldn't Say No

In Baton Rouge, Bat got down on his knee and asked Christa to marry him. She said yes. It was raining torrents outside, and Christa's home was nearby, so they walked home in the rain. Christa remembers - but can't explain why - going home, going upstairs and changing into a formal white dress she had worn to a formal at LSU, and danced around for joy with her engagement ring.

JOOYY!

Heidi called me on Saturday. I'm walking through the store and she asked me if I knew a Christmas song...it goes "Jooooyy.....".

Don't ask me to replicate what she sang. It didn't matter. "JOOOOYYY..."

So, if you know the song, let me know. I couldn't get it.

Turns out Heidi is considering trying out for a play, and was trying to locate the song. I'm not sure if it's called "Jooooyy..." or if that's the chorus. Heidi's still on the fence about trying out for the play...I'll keep you posted.

Isabel and Selah tried out and received parts in High School Musical. Izzi is in the Jocks and an extra audition person (where she gets to try out however she wants) (I know that if you don't know anything about High School Musical, that meant nothing) and Selah is a cheerleader!

OOH! And Teia and Isabel's choir was chosen from many entrants to sing with the Milwaukee Symphony in November. They will be performing, among other pieces, "Messiah." And perhaps, "Joooyy."

The Renaissance Man From Wausau

I have a bottle of vanilla on my counter. It is, to carry on the longstanding Du adjective, "special" so I don't use it for the ordinary things. Just special desserts and breakfasts. It was made by my brother-in-law Jim.

Jim's the only guy I know who can play the guitar and sew a quilt, change your brakes or make you vanilla. At the last big family gathering, Jim made seafood poboys for the whole crew. It wasn't just that they tasted great. The smell of that fried seafood filled the room. Made you want to put a little extra shake of Tabasco on them.

Jim and Renee live in Wausau with their boys now, and the last time I spoke to Renee she indicated they were in the midst of football season, and swamped. But I hope all that business up there doesn't keep the guy from creating. Might be the one thing he and his Heavenly Father have most in common.

Batiansila Origins

One thing I was never able to express well at the other site was where things started. And by started, I mean, where did Dad learn his islander lingo? Why the propensity to running around naked (I'll ask mom for those Charis pictures)?

Bat was able to visit with his cousin Vicente before his death. Vicente explained that Batiansila is actually a misspelling of the name Batiancila. The Batiancilas all originated from Bantayan, Cebu, the Philippines.

I think it'd be fun to walk around there, although I'm not sure what I'd be looking for. Maybe someone who could also explain the fertility thing.

Cedarburg Wine and Harvest Festival

I'm going to hate leaving Cedarburg. It's just one of the best places in the world. Here's some pictures from their Wine and Harvest Festival, which includes a grape stomp at the winery and all kinds of booths and music and food. And Hello Kitty.

Three Crazy Kids

Here's some pics of Teia, Izzi and Minte. I'm not sure what to tell you, folks. They're like this.

Late Breaking ...October Anniversaries Added

Martina & Paul will be celebrating their 11th Anniversary in October, and
Tari & Aaron will be celebrating their 8th! Check the calendar for dates.

LATE NEWS: ALL THE BABIES

Gabriella Josephine Weyde was born June 1 to Martina and Paul. That's their second baby. She was baptized June 23rd.

Brette Alina Schauer was born June 12 to Tari and Aaron. That's their third child. She was baptized August 3rd.

Payton Frederick Laabs was born to Charis and Bryan. That's their second child. He was baptized on August 19th.

That makes 31 grandchildren...and counting...

Everyone is happy and healthy and I'll try to get some pictures up for you.

PRAYERS ANSWERED: SELAH'S HEALTH

Thank you all for your prayers for Selah and our family through the past days and weeks. For those of you who missed the craziness, Selah had a seizure on June 4 which resulted in a 911 call and all kinds of tests.

Later in the summer, Selah's doctor indicated that her EEG showed she had a tendency to seizures. This further perplexed and worried her dad and her family.

On Monday, September 17, I met with Selah's doctor. He kind of looked like Ben Stein and Mr. Rogers crossed. The doctor began our session with these words: "I have nothing but good news for you."

He went on to explain that Selah had what he called "Benign Focal Seizures (or Epilepsy) of Childhood". He said it didn't qualify as Epilepsy because it was just one seizure, and that she may never have a seizure again. Selah should grow out of her condition by pre-adolescence.

As I left, he gave me some information referring to this. So I guess it's the same thing? All I know is I'm grateful and thankful that God answered my - our - prayers in this way. He'd still be merciful God with other answers. But He and I saw eye to eye on this one. Imagine that.

The Duck and the Bear

Dad and I spent a little time talking about the Duck and the Bear. I think next, I talk to each kid and have them recall the Duck and the Bear. Will that get boring? You might find out. If you don't know about the Duck and the Bear, you obviously didn't eat breakfast made by Dad.

Remembering Mrs. Hasz

Longtime friend of the Batiansilas Carl Hasz has a deeper link to the Bats and Luxemburg than many realize. Mom and Dad share about Carl's mother, who just passed away and is resting in Jesus' arms.

Addendum...Dad follows up with a great story about tomatoes.

October: Birthday Month

Greg and Jen's third anniversary is in the rearview mirror, and I missed Drew's birthday. Sorry, Drew. But October is the big ole' grandaddy of event months, so I'll work on keeping you updated. First up: Piera, who turns 19 on October 3. Next up...Lisey, who turns 6 on October 7.

A New Beginning

Hey....It got to me. It was hard to balance the html and java and flash and domain and everything at batiansila.us. So, we'll try this. I'll do my level best to keep you up to date with everything that I know of that's going on.

Right now, I know of nothing that's going on. But I'm sure something is going on somewhere. You all can call or email with things that are coming up or going on.

Keaton Sings For His Mama

Click here to listen to Keaton and his friends sing happy birthday to his mom.

Prayers for the Klahns

Hi...Greg here. I'm just now wrapping up my first day of work at the new job, and planning to embark on a little family trip. We're so happy and in awe of how God is working in our lives. One incredible family has lent us their car so we can go on our trip! They're the Klahns, and for those of your Greg historians, you'll remember Ted flying on Greg's wing through much of his high school days. (Or was Greg Ted's wingman? HMM) Ted and Gina have 8 kids, and baby 9 is on the way. Their kindness to my family & their incredible trust in having a tribe of children makes them incredibly special Christian examples. But their love for the Lord is exhibited even more incredibly in the following email I received from Mrs. Klahn.

Hello Friends,

Our family has been presented with an unusual opportunity and we wanted to share with you what is going on, ask for prayer, etc.

We rec'd a visit in the beginning of Feb from a friend who had just been in S Korea and China. While in China she visited a farm (currently housing cashmere sheep) run by a Mennonite family that is looking to expand and buy a dairy herd. They need someone to come in and run the dairy. Our friend thought of us. The farm is backed by a ministry from S Korea (this needs to be kept confidential) - the group is officially called a "Company" for safety's sake. We are being asked to be "employees" of the "Company".

The farm is located very near the N Korean border and in another direction, one can see the Russian mountains in the background. *See Picture - The Building is the future dairy barn.* A future goal is to use this farm as a model to set up dairy farms in N Korea to help feed the starving people there.

Following are the latest plans and information:

Near future plans are that Timothy (the man currently living on the farm) will be visiting us from March 24 - 31. He and Ted will be planning the dairy operation, as well as visiting dairy farms in this area. They may visit a farm show in Osh Kosh as well. During that week, the Company's Supervisor, Eddie, will also visit for a day. Ted and the boys will then go to the farm in China from April 1 - 7 to look around, get to know Timothy and his family, and do further dairy planning. The Company approved paying the costs for not only Ted's ticket, but the boys' tickets as well. We're very thankful! We do ask for prayer for Ted to not experience jet lag, as we've no time built into the schedule for that. LOL

In the meantime, we are getting our documents in order. We have ordered 2nd copies of all birth and marriage certificates, in order to have a copy in the states should a copy get lost in China. We also need to "authenticate" each document at the county and state levels and then bring to the Chinese Consulate for them to be authenticated there. I (Gina) have already been made familiar with the consulate, as Zack and I went there last Friday to apply for the guys' tourist visas.

It appears the Company may be purchasing a container (similar to a semi trailer) instead of renting one, for us to fill with farm and household goods that will then be shipped over. We're making tentative lists of what to bring, what to sell and what to store. Shipping items over involves a lot of work. Here's a excerpt from Timothy: "You need to include itemized lists of all items, and number every box, parcel, package, piece of equipment with a number and description along with a customs value for declaration purposes and an insurance value for replacement. Used items usually have a wide discrepancy between replacement with a new item, vs the sale value of a used item." We would store very little: only those items that we would like to keep, but would not want to leave behind in China "in the event of a rapid departure". This would mostly be sentimental items and the piano. We've already had someone show an interest in purchasing our 15-pass van and the timing would work out well for both parties.

The tentative date for us going over to live would be either Jan or Feb of next year. We could have the baby here, get her/his paperwork in order and be ready to go, Lord willing. This is our thought to the timing - we are flexible to align to His timing, should it be different.

A few weeks ago we were advised to try to meet someone who was from China, but living here, in order to learn more about the country and its people, etc. We initially thought, "How in the world are we going to meet someone??" A couple of days later a friend called and said that he had met a woman who was from China (about 3 hrs from the farm), that she was excited to hear that a farm was going to be started, and that she (and her family) would love to meet us. We did meet them a little over a week ago and had such an enjoyable visit with her and her husband! She gave us her contact information before leaving and said that if we indeed ended up living in China, that she'd give us the names and telephone numbers of her family and friends and that she'd come visit us when she goes back to see her family. What a blessing this was!

We just received our language programs (Chinese and Korean) today, so we're looking forward to begin learning what we have been told is a very difficult language (Chinese). Apparently when you say the word that sounds like "shoe" with 4 different tones, it means 4 different words (food, tree, rat and book). It should be an adventure!

We've enjoyed learning a lot about China in various ways in the past month. We have Chinese Central TV on the dish programming and have seen many cultural, news and other info of interest. We've surfed on the internet and I've "met" an American lady who lives in China (because of her husband's job) and homeschools her daughter there. *If you'd like to visit her blog, the address is: http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/Jimmie/ She has many pages of pictures and other interesting information. We've also enjoyed communications with the Shells, who are patiently answering all the crazy questions that I have. Have you ever heard of spicy, brown sugar? Did you know that you cannot buy prepared mustard in China? A "town" of 180,000 is considered small by Chinese standards (this is the size of the town that is 15 min from the farm).

We've been told to start getting together house plans, as they would build a separate residence for us. We're enjoying thinking about the possibilities. When I asked the question of whether or not they drink their well water, we were told that our home would be downhill from an artesian spring (with pure, perfect water), so we will have this water on tap. They plan to start bottling and selling the spring water this year (as bottled water is more expensive than milk in China).

Someone at our church offered out of the blue to teach Ali and I how to give various haircuts. This was a few days after I had thought that I'd need to learn more and Aliisa had thought that she'd want to take a class to learn hair cutting techniques. We hadn't mentioned this to each other, or anyone else, for that matter. He is truly taking care of each item that we think about, in His time.

The kids are all on board and we all get more excited as the days pass and we consider the possibilities. We do not cherish the thoughts of missing family and friends, but try to not think about that too much right now. We know that there'll be plenty of time for that if/when we're there.

This link should take you to a map of near where the farm is: http://maps.yahoo.com/;_ylc=X3oDMTExNmIycG51BF9TAzI3MTYxNDkEc2VjA2ZwLWJ1dHRvbgRzbGsDbGluaw--#q1=china&mvt=m&trf=0&lon=129.693604&lat=42.722804&mag=12 Near the far eastern North Korean border, you'll notice a town called Yanji. This is where the closest airport is and where Ted and the boys will fly into. You should be able to click on the map near Yanji and then roll your mouse roller forward and the map will close in more. To the east of Yanji there will be a town call Hunchun. This is the town that is 15 min from the farm.

Well, that's all that I can think of for now. If you have any questions, please ask. If you'd like to or would rather not receive updates, please let us know.

We covet your prayers for wisdom and guidance as we pursue this opportunity.

Greg's New Job

Greg just landed a new position at Avicom, an advertising agency outside of Milwaukee. God really guided his path to this job, and his prayer is that he can use his talents and flourish at the new job.

Happy Birthdays

Just past Dad's birthday, and we're already past the birthdays of the two grand old ladies: Heidi and Deirdre. Both women are old enough to be your mother. Happy Birthday to both!

The Daddy Hootenanny

Dad's 75th Birthday party commenced in Grafton, Wisconsin, and fun was had by all. I've updated the "Latest Pictures" page with the pictures from it.

Baby Update

Direct your prayers to Tari and Martina's baby...girls! Both of the sisters, through the wonder of science, were able to confirm that they are having baby girls. This means that "Lil' Greg" will not be used for either child.