Bound for Adventure

The New Biz

2009-09-22T12:29:00.000-07:00

For countless years now I have loved wood working and for even longer I have loved the outdoors. Because of these two passions of mine, I am pumped to announce my first ever business start-up (except for selling baseball cards and pogs to the neighbor kids). I have decided to call it, Adventure Indoors Log Furniture. Initially this will just be a part time endeavor and my goal is to maintain at least 2 projects a week.

In the shop!

If you are interested in the "rustic and outdoorsy" kind of theme than let me know, I would love to make something for you. Or if you know somebody that does, I would be grateful if you would spread the word!

I specialize in log furniture but also am trying to develop a reclaimed barn wood product line. I have a few pics of what I have made below, if you have any questions than just holler. I make just about any household furniture and can match about any budget you might have. I apologize for some of the pics being a bit cruddy. A website will be out shortly, with better pics!

Hat/coat racks

Fishing pole or gun/bow racks

Desks

End tables/night stands

End table with 'barked' legs

Log Beds

Barn wood headboards

Sofa tables/entry way tables

Glass coffee tables/display cases

Coffee table with glass top

Standard Coffe table

Goat, Guns, Fishing & Friends...

2009-08-05T07:51:00.000-07:00

Does it get any better than that? Here are a few pics of some of my friends and I enjoying a Sunday afternoon in Peabody, Kansas (middle of no where Kansas--sorry Jim!). This has surely been one of the highlights of the summer. The guys pictured below are my buddies from Saudi Arabia... I enjoy taking friends such as these to new places and to try new things. Many of them had never shot guns or been fishing before. One buddy of mine was ecstatic when he caught a 6 pound catfish! My American friends and I also thought it would be cool to give them "a little taste of home". Goat is a staple food in the Middle East, so we decided to find a live goat and cook it up over a camp fire (it wasn't alive when we cooked it)! We had a blast. Check out the pics!

Trip To Seattle!

2009-04-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

Indo Cafe. Can you feel the excitement? Probably not... but that is OK. This was my first Indonesian meal in 3 months. Although it took a while to get used to the massive servings of rice and everything being fried, I did eventually grow fond of fine Indonesian cuisine during my 14 months in Indonesia. Can you see the delight in our faces? If you look close enough into our eyes you can hear Caleb saying, "get this camera out of my face... IT'S GO TIME!" I am saying, ahhhhhhhhh are you kidding me? Can we stay for dinner too? Well, we didn't stay for dinner but it was for sure an unforgettable experience and one of the highlights since I have been home.

This is my favorite Indonesian dish called soto. It is basically the equivalent of Campbell's chicken and rice soup. I ate it at least 4 times a week. Caleb is about to eat some nasi goreng, aka fried rice.

This is a shout out to one of my best friends in Indonesia. We bonded many a times over a nice dish of Soto.

Pak Girindra: Pasti waktu saya makan soto ini saya ingat Bapak dan merinduhkan bapak juga. Terima Kasih banyak sudah menjadi teman akrab saya yang suka soto juga!!! Saya tidak pernah akan melupakan pengalaman kita di Madiun.... khususnya waktu kita makan soto setiap minggu!!!

This is the whole crew. Joe and Kelley actually got to come to Indonesia last summer to visit. So of course they are diggin the food too!!!!!!!!!!

This dish is pretty darn tasty too. It is chicken strips drizzled in a peanut butter sauce!

The first ever Starbucks! Pretty cool. There were actually several in Indonesia!

hmmm.... I wander if he could use a sidekick? I am a pretty mean hoola hooper!

Sweet memories.

2009-03-22T15:19:00.000-07:00

Just a few weeks ago I was out doing some rat hunting at my grandparents farm. There have been many things since being back home these last three months that have caused me to deeply miss Indonesia. Killing these rats, believe it or not, has been one of those things. This may be hard to believe and you may think I am a bit unusual but some of my fondest childhood memories were of killing rats on my grandparents farm. So you can imagine how excited I was when I killed this porker pictured below while in Indonesia. Some people fear and shriek in terror at the sight of these things. Not me. I run with excitement for the nearest weapon. The three I'm holding look like wee little babies compared to the big momma.

Trip to Colorado!

2009-01-19T07:45:00.000-08:00

I just got back from a trip to Colorado with Mike and Caleb (We lived in Indo together)! Whether I'm in Indonesia or the U.S. I love the outdoors! Below are a few shots from our adventures in Colorado. It was a great time of being refreshed and encouraged as we shared many stories and wonderful experiences together from our time in Indonesia. I love these guys and I love the fact that we will always look back on our season of life in Indonesia with great joy!

Not too many of these driving around Indonesia!

We stayed in this cabin for a night.... no running water and we had to use an out house! I love it!

I can see Indonesia from up here!

My boys.... minus Jordan! We miss you man!

This is me pulling myself up to the summit. Man, what a hard climb!

Back home baby!!!!!!!

2009-01-05T16:35:00.000-08:00

Just a few weeks ago I arrived back on American soil after almost 14 months in Indonesia. As I walked off the plane I was welcomed home by my parents and two of my best friends waving me in with American flags. I was exhausted from the travel and though it was hard to leave Indonesia, I couldn't have been more excited to see my family again. The goodbyes in Indonesia were tougher than anticipated but my heart was filled with joy in knowing God had given me some amazing friendships. I experienced so much in the time I had and I believe that my life will never be the same. I have learned that in this life we need to do difficult things, things that cause us to lean on God more than we ever thought possible. It is then, and only then that we will realize our true need for God. I have seen that when we trust in Him and not ourselves, He will never do us wrong and will always make our paths straight.

Mike, Jimmy, Me, Amy, Caleb!

Back with my bros. Man I love these guys! From left to right: Marc, Matt, me!

This is my family on Christmas morning. We are eating my mom's special casserole, bubble bread.... and no rice, ahhhh it is good to be home!

Here is me wearing my favorite Christmas gift! This is the best long underwear money can buy! After a year in the torturous heat of Indonesia, 20 degrees F feels a bit more like Antarctica. This was just before a long winters nap!!!!!!!!!!!

14 months of riding a motorcyle, eating foreign food, hiking mountains and using Indonesian public transportation I have realized that I was safer in Indonesia. Just two weeks after being home I've already had my first Emergency Room visit. A few days ago I decided to get out my snowboard and dust it off for the first time in 2 years. A combination of being a bit rusty and wanting to impress my little brother led to disaster. I nearly cryed after slamming my sholder into the ground from giong off a jump a bit too fast. Fortunately it was just a bad bruise and nothing had to be reset!

My new home!!!

2008-11-20T22:14:00.000-08:00

As you all now, I am living in a new part of Indonesia. I moved from my home town about a month ago in search of new adventure! Though the decision was difficult to make in deciding to leave East Java, I had to follow my heart's desire to get more exposure to business here in Indonesia. So far I have had an incredible time and have learned a lot.

Basically, I have been helping with a business that does multiple things. The part that I am involved with is an Island resort. Guests that come out have to take a traditional Malayu boat called a "pancung" for 1.5 hours to reach the resort which is located on one of thousands of Islands on the western side of Sumatra. Some of the photos below are from one of the "ethno-tours" that I helped with. For an ethno-tour we actually take the guests into the villages located close to the resort. They are then able to be immersed in the local Riau Melayu culture and also help with community development projects. The scenery around the resort is pretty unbelievable!

An evening shot of the resort.

The is a shot of the resort from a boat. The closest village is about a 15 minute boat ride. The resort also includes 14 acres of beach front and jungle.

The following shots are from a local village on an "ethno-tour" that I helped with.

This is us as we are about to leave the village. The village people are usually very welcoming of guests, as many of them have never seen white people before! Several trips to local villages within the last few weeks has allowed for some great opportunities to learn culture, share my life and help with service projects.

Don't mess with me!

2008-10-27T01:35:00.000-07:00

As most of you all know, I have been practicing karate several times a week now for the last 4 months. It has been quite an experience having never done anything like this before... except for dressing up like a ninja for Halloween and once making numb chucks in my basement that I used on my little brother. I hope you enjoy the following pics.

We always open each class with a series of warm up moves and stretches. As you can see the splits always seems to give me some trouble. I am officially the oldest, least flexible student in the class.

This is my good friend Andris that comes to practice sometimes, I made him pay the price for forgetting to wear his uniform.

All ninjas have to start with the basics.

Here is the whole class.

This is me looking on with fear and trembling as two weeks ago my skills were tested at this city wide examination to get a yellow belt. Fortunately, the group I am watching went before me so I could watch and try to memorize what I would have to do.

So far, so good.

This is when I really started to get nervous as I was paired up against this 14 year old girl. I got her with a left hook in this picture... just kidding, we weren't actually fighting.

At one point I was tested on a series of punches and kicks that I had worked on during the previous three months of practice. Midway through this portion of the test I blew it as I went blank and forgot what I was supposed to do. At that point I tried to just make something up and hope that I wouldn't be seen. The next thing I know I hear hystaric laughter coming from these little kids that were really enjoying my failure. (Thanks to Jordan for capturing every detail of my performance!)

Eventhough I choked on part of my exam, I still passed. Though the kids above are really enjoying themsleves, I got the last laugh. I also waited for them in the parking lot before I went home after the exam!

This karate class has been one of the highlights of my time in Indonesia. In addition to developing some sweet fighting skills, I was able to make some great friendships that I'll never forget. I find great joy in knowing that I have been able to give a positive influence in such a context like this!

Flower boys

2008-10-02T02:17:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago Jordan and I had the opportunity to become Indonesian flower boys. We have learned to expect the unexpected here in Indonesia over the months but nothing had us quite prepared for being in our first Indonesian wedding.

Usually, the way we do it in America is to invite members of the wedding party several months in advance. In our case, we found out about 10 minutes before the wedding began, as we were immediately rushed off to a dressing room after we arrived to be greeted by an old Indonesian woman who told us to "lepas pakaian!" (translation: strip down!) At that point we were thoroughly confused and a little scared to be honest. As soon as we were dressed we were handed large flowers made of banana leaves and ordered to walk in front of the bride and groom.

Turns out our roommate wanted to surprise us by not telling us in advance...but it was almost disastrous as the two flower boys showed up 10 minutes after the wedding was scheduled to start! Check out some pics from what we have voted as one of our top five experiences over the last year.

This is the entire wedding party. We were about 15 years older than the flower girls... but they didn't seem to mind!

We actually had two outfit changes, I personally like the green better myself.

Two studly flower boys.

This is a picture of my roommates family. He is the one standing to the left of Jordan. He has been one of my best friends and a great cultural teacher as he has always been so eager to invite us to be apart of his life here in Indonesia. It has been sweet to get to know him over this last year as we have shared many different parts of our lives together. He is currently in the transition between graduating from high school and looking for work.

My Bulai Friends!

2008-09-04T21:36:00.000-07:00

A lot of times us white folks don't exactly blend into the crowds here in Indonesia. "BULAI!!!" (pronounced buu - lay) This was actually one of the first words that I learned when I arrived in Indonesia. It is the word Indonesians use for, "white person". Most of the time, as far as I know, the word is used in a friendly manor. Sometimes it is screamed at us and other times I can just read the lips of Indonesians whispering, "look there is a bulai!"

I decided to post a few photos of my bulai friends that came to Indonesia during the summer months. You might begin to understand why we don't exactly blend into the crowd.

We helped make this monkey statue in Bali just a bit crazier.

An outbound course in Bali

A beach in Lombok.

Perhaps the best one yet... going scuba diving in Lombok. I voted myself as the strongest, most intimidating diver of the group...except for our instructor of course.

The top of Mount Lawu! I proudly represent my "bulai" name were ever I go!

Lombok and Bali

2008-08-14T19:32:00.000-07:00

Located just east of Java are two of Indonesia's most glorious islands, Bali and Lombok. This summer some friends and I were able to spend almost 2 weeks between both of these islands. My friends and I helped with a youth program in Lombok and had the privilege of stopping in Bali on our way home. For several days we spent time with Balinese friends as they took us around the city. For 4 days I was surrounded by the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. Within the last 6 years Bali has been the target for 2 separate terrorist attacks killing over 200 people. As Bali may be seen by the world as "a top vacation spot" or a place of fantasy and idealism, it is apparent even in places like this how far man has actually fallen.

I hope you enjoy the pics from our journeys!!!

Nice shirt, huh? This is in Lombok during low tide.

Our group hanging out in Bali!

Playing with some monkeys! Though these cute, furry little things look friendly... don't be deceived. On another occasion I tapped one with a stick and truly feared for my life as he attacked me. I bet you didn't know that little monkeys like these have fangs.

One of the things that I loved about Lombok and Bali was that our needs were always taken care of. Because of these places being heavily populated tourist areas folks like these walk around and offer to sell just about anything you can imagine, from pineapple to cigarette lighters with a cool built in flashlight (I'll show you when I get home). Maybe it is the "business man" within me, but I love to bargain with the sellers. Here I am in action, trying to get the price that I want. If you are a good bargainer sometimes the process will take up to half an hour.

I don't like to brag, but sometimes I can even get them to throw in an item for free. I'm pretty sure the term, "more than I bargained for" got started in Indonesia.... she gave me her daughter!!!

Most of Indonesia's Hindus live in Bali. This is one of the many holy sites and places of worship.

One of the more popular beaches in Bali.

Another candidate for picture of the year. This is a picture of some Sasak fisherman in Lombok.

This is actually a shot from the hotel we stayed at during the youth conference in Lombok.

"The Beast"

2008-08-05T03:37:00.000-07:00

After a month and a half of traveling to several new places in Indonesia and a short trip to Thailand I am long over due on my blog posting. But no worries I have some great material from my journeys to make up for it. I met many new people and saw some amazing sights along the way. Over the next few weeks I will try to capture as much as possible for you to see!!!

Some of you may know "the beast" as being that huge ugly dog from The Sandlot. For us in Indonesia "the beast" is something much nastier and much more intimidating and has been known to take small children, not just baseballs. Located just about an hour away from my home in Madiun is the infamous "Gunung Lawu". This is a 12,000 foot mammoth of a mountain.... we conquered it twice within a month. Usually the way we do it is to leave from the base around 8 pm and book it to the top in order to make it by sunrise. This leaves little time for breaks and stragglers are usually left behind... (with someone to make sure they are OK, were not that hardcore). Climbing mountains such as this has shown to be great opportunities to grow our friendships with the Indonesians. Pak Jim, the 65 year old pictured below has tackled "the beast" close to 10 times and the Indonesian kids see him as their hero (so do I)!!!

These crazy guys are getting ready to head up and have no idea what is in store for them....

We made it, and the glorious sunrise was worth the effort.

The climbers... next stop Mt. Everest

I'm pretty sure this could classify as "picture of the year." Here we have all K-Staters, including our fearless leader that graduated back in the Mid 60's.

Just some shots of the scenery.

Feeling like an Indonesian...

2008-06-16T04:48:00.000-07:00

Before I came to Indonesia last fall I made it my goal to do whatever I could to become Indonesian! I figured the best way to learn about a culture was to become a part of it in whatever ways possible. Though my white skin and blond hair often makes me stand out in a crowd... I think these pictures below make me look dangerously close to an Indonesian.

Lookin' good... Like an Indonesian

Workin' hard.... like an Indonesian

Going after some coconut... Like an Indonesian

Enjoying my coconut... Like an Indonesian

Playing soccer... Like an Indonesian

OK... Not quite like an Indonesian. I barely made it to halftime because my stomach cramps were so bad. My high school glory days are long gone.

Madiun... You gotta love it!

2008-05-15T22:37:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I took a trip around my hometown and tried to capture some shots that I hope will give you a little taste of my surroundings from the past 6 months. A simple trip with the intent of taking a few photos turned into having tea with a police officer, promising 4 little dudes I would play soccer with them sometime and making a new friend at the local market (me and the lady pictured below). It was that experience that reminded me again of why I love my city.... not because of the surroundings or the things to do, but because of the people. As Jordan and I are the only two white boys in our city we often receive more invitations from folks than we know what to do with. When I hear from Jordan that he is "going somewhere real quick" that usually means he'll be back in several hours.

A shot from the market.

My new Indonesian Grandma.

This is a shot of the biggest Mosque in town. Around 85 - 90% of the people in Madiun are Muslim.

These little carts are a pretty common sight. They are pushed all throughout the city and some like to set up shop here at this park. They usually sell food and drinks and sometimes small toys.

These are the guys waiting to play soccer!!

This is called a "becak". It is a pretty common form of public transportation here in town and actually quite popular throughout Indonesia. With my business education I might start up my own becak company back in the states!

23rd Birthday Bash!!!

2008-04-30T22:06:00.000-07:00

Just yesterday I celebrated my 23rd birthday here in Indonesia! Overall, it was a pretty sweet day of spending time with friends and continuing to experience more of Indonesia's intriguing culture. It was my first b-day celebrated away from home... and though I am 10,000 miles away and sometimes feel like it is more like 20, it is days like yesterday that make me feel right at home. Indonesian people, as I have noticed, are some of the warmest, genuine people I have ever met. Through so many aspects of their culture, it is evident that the value of the individual and importance of the relationship is often held above all else. Through a surprise breakfast in the morning, a cake made by my neighbor, a gift package received in the mail from another part of Indonesia and finally, topping it off with a small party in the evening... it is safe to say I felt a great sense of blessing from new family and friends. Let me walk you through my day.

This is what I woke up to yesterday morning; french toast, hot coffee, a mini cake and a center piece made of bananas (a nice touch by Jordan).

Here is a look at some fine Indonesian cuisine. Can you guess whats what? I probably won't be able to tell you... but is sure tastes good!

This is the group from the party. It is a mix of friends from my high school, soccer team, roommates and some that I met from my trip here two years ago!

This yellow, decorated, mountain-like creation is actually rice. It is usually specially made for birthdays (similar to a b-day cake) in Indonesia. Don't be too jealous, I will make one for your next birthday when I get home.

This is me cutting off the peak of the yellow mountain of rice while everyone else looks on with great anticipation! Within this Indonesian tradition, the next step is to give the peak to a "special" someone at the party. Since my mom wasn't there I opted to gave it to a friend.

Playing some chess and rockin' the guitar! Now that is my idea of a good birthday party!

My beautiful new country!

2008-04-21T03:03:00.000-07:00

Indonesia is known for being one of the most diverse countries in the world! I have learned some pretty interesting things over the months here in Indonesia. The country is made up of roughly 17,000 islands with only 6,000 that are actually inhabited by its 300 distinct ethnic people groups. Of those 300 groups around 740 languages are spoken. I am still working on my first. The islands string across the Pacific and Australian tectonic plates which make it a site for numerous volcanoes and earthquakes. The last I heard, there are currently 150 active volcanoes! In 2004 one of the largest natural disasters ever, took place in northern Sumatra as an earthquake triggered a tsunami killing nearly 170,000 people. It is now known as the "Asian Tsunami" as it affected 11 Asian countries. Though it may not be the safest place in the world....I am happy to call it my new home! I thought I would share just a few of my favorite photos so far of the mountains, hills, skies, forests, farm lands and everything in between.

I'm not going to lie... I posted this picture only because my childhood dream of becoming a motorcycle man has finally come true!!!

Trip to Nepal!

2008-04-01T01:45:00.001-07:00

I just got back a few days ago from a two week trip having spent the majority of my time in the country of Nepal and also a few days in Thailand. My experiences, people met and sights seen were nothing short of amazing. I was confident after living 5 months in Indonesia that nothing could be quite as different as my change from America to Indonesia… but I was wrong. Nepal’s rugged mountainous terrain including the Himalayas and Mount Everest make it one of the most beautiful countries in Asia, while its political and historical aspects make it one of the most corrupt and unstable countries as well. In just a few weeks the country will have its first ever democratic elections which many agree will turn things for the better or make them even worse. The countries instability is apparent in many ways, one of which being the countless policeman marching the streets in anticipation for demonstrations or riots to break out at any minute. Words are hard to explain all that I experienced so I have posted a handful of pictures that I hope you will enjoy.

Here we are trying our best to represent the Nepali people. We are wearing a traditional "topi" worn by many men in the Nepali culture.

Part of our stay we got to visit this hostel for Nepali children located in the mountains outside of Kathmandu. It was a great experience. The organization that runs this hostel helps the neighboring families put their kids through school who otherwise would not be able to afford to do so themselves. We got to spend time with some of the children. The kids loved our magic tricks and Jordan played his guitar and sang a few songs. It was quite a humbling experience for me in realizing my family and educational upbringing in relation to theirs.

Here are some of the kids that live in the hostel.

A few more little ones. Notice the candle in the background, several hours each day there is no electricity in the whole country. That is when they bring out the candles and flashlights!

Here is one of the classrooms. I was told about 28 students are packed in this tiny room for class. (In case you were wandering, my question never got answered.)

These guys are enjoying their afternoon gambling together, a common activity for Nepali people.

This lady is pretty amazing. She is about half my size and probably twice as strong. No tractors in Nepal, they do it the old fashioned way.

These next two shots are after we participated in a nation wide holiday named "holy". Essentially it is probably the worlds biggest water balloon fight with paint filled water balloons. Safe to say, I've never experienced anything like it.

These guys take their holidays seriously.

Just a shot of people...traffic... and buildings.

Most the population of Nepal are either Hindu or Buddhist. These are are just a few of thousands of temples in Nepal that are frequented by believers to offer prayers and sacrifices to the 300 million or more gods and goddesses that are worshiped.

Looking out over Nepal's Capital City, Kathmandu. This is were we spent most of our time.

A few good stories from Indo!

2008-03-13T07:13:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I took my first trip by myself across the island of Java to meet up with my good friend Caleb, who currently lives in Bandung. I thought hopping a few taxis and an 8 hour train ride wouldn't be to difficult, but I was proved wrong. Everything went well until I arrived at the train station in Bandung to catch my train home. I arrived with 10 minutes to spare which according to my calculations left me with plenty of time. As I approached close to the tracks I realized there was only train and it was moving at a pretty descent speed. After clarifying with a man that worked at the station that the train was mine I panicked for a moment, then began to run. When I got close enough to the train I heaved my bags in, grabbed a hold of a rail and hurled myself in. I was pretty releaved, but then realized my cart was at the very back and I had jumped in the first cart... so I began to make the trip to the back to find my seat. After waking up a few passengers from wrestling my way through several carts with my bags I realized that the train was slowing and coming to a stop. That's right, I ran to catch a train that was stopping, not leaving. Needless to say I felt pretty stupid. I then hopped out and walked to the back of the train, found my seat and waited for the rest of the passengers to board (the ones that watched me run and jump in the train that was stopping). 20 minutes later my train left for home. Here in Indonesia I often try to blend in and try to make people think I know what is going on... but it is moments like this that do just the opposite!

A shot from our local train station.

"Mau membuat tenda?"

"Do you want to make a tent?" These are the words from this little dude peaking out under the sheet that have become a bit too familiar for me. This little guy's mom is our house helper. She does most of our cooking and cleaning of our clothes as well. She comes six days a week and each day she leaves to pick up her son from school. So, every day for several hours Jordan and I hang out with Andre. A few weeks back I asked him if he wanted to make a tent in my room. I learned pretty quick that if you ask a kid to do something like this, you need to be ready to be asked just about every day to do the same thing. Sometimes we will hang out inside the tent, I will read or work on language while Andre plays on my laptop. After getting tired of making tents with Andre and telling him, "Ah... maybe tomorrow," I decided to give him five free tent making "no excuse" passes for his birthday last week! A gift I thought he would like, but he actually cried and we haven't made a tent since. I've got a lot to learn I guess.

The rigors from the life of a teachers assistant...

2008-02-18T00:19:00.000-08:00

Here I am decked out in my uniform standing in front of my School!

Three days a week I go to this high school for about five hours each day. Each day I spend part of that time in several classes helping students learn English. The rest of the time I spend with some of the English teachers working on my Indonesian. They have been a huge help to me and the development of my language so far. Me and the Librarian have actually become pretty good friends and I usually try and get to school early so I can meet him for breakfast at the kanteen (mini-cafeteria). As my language has developed it has become easier to teach as many of my students still have a hard time understanding my English! I have begun also, to meet with several of the top English speaking students in a club that meets once a week.

This is me with all the teachers. I look like Shaq next to some of these folks!

My teaching in front of 4o students has provided some great opportunities to learn what not to do in Indonesian culture! A while back my nose was kind of stuffed up so I borrowed a tissue from one of the students and really gave it a good blow. The students screamed, and some I think were even a little scared. I soon realized it is quite frowned upon to blow your nose in front of Indonesians. Ah well...gotta learn some how!

This is a shot taken in between periods. Students will often hang out and shoot hoops in between their classes. It is also a good time for to chat with some of the students!

Recent Floods

2008-01-23T16:53:00.000-08:00

This picture is from a recent flood here in my hometown. It was about 2 miles from my home, and fortunately the flooding didn't affect my house. We heard it was the worst flooding in the town in almost 20 years. I received some special advice from Stesha right before I left to be sure and wear my helmet at all times, and I took her advice! Helmets also work as floating devices.

He probably should have taken the detour.

This, and the next few pictures are from another flood right around the same time in a neighboring city. The guy in the green jacket is pointing the stain that the water left on the walls. He lives here in my town, and this is his parents house.

Here is a shot after gettin' down and dirty. About a half inch of mud was left on all the floors and furniture. The kid in the middle is Dennis, I got to meet him a few years ago on my first trip. He is probably the coolest kid in all of Indonesia.

This last photo is looking out from the front porch. All the furniture and belongings had to taken out and scrubbed down. It was quite a mess, but we actually made a lot of progress in that first day. All in all I have not ceased to be amazed at the lives on Indonesians. My initial reaction to the mess was that they would have to destroy everything and rebuild (my American mentality, I guess). Disasters such as these have become a way of life for Indonesians. They just deal with them and press on. I can't help but be humbled in situations like these.

Camping... Indo Style

2008-01-11T21:49:00.001-08:00

It has been a while since my last post, so I thought I would freshen things up with one of my most intense experiences yet. A few days after Christmas me and about 15 other friends packed up our gear and headed to a mountainous area about a half hour from my home. I've had some good camping trips back home... but none like this. It was a trip that wont ever be forgotten. As rains began early we realized camping in the mountains right in the middle of rainy season might not have been the best idea. On the second night the winds and rains picked up and we all moved into one tent (seen cuddling below). Some of us thought perhaps the winds were reaching speed of up 70 - 80 mph. After we realized the weather conditions weren't going to let up any time soon we decided to leave our gear and head down the mountain in search for some better shelter. As a few of the first ones began to head down, some rather large trees and branches were falling on the path. Fortunately no one was hurt and all in all we had a great experience and a good story to tell.

Wet and tired... but still smilin'!

Rice is even better when your camping!

During the storm some thought it was funny while others cried as they feared for their life. OK... so I was the only one that cried.

The next morning... I'm going to go ahead and say it was a good call to head down early!

The beautiful mountain side. This was taken 20 feet or so from our camping spot.

Christmas In Indonesia

2007-12-23T06:06:00.000-08:00

A while back Jordan and I were doing a little traveling around Eastern Java and found this Christmas tree decked out with ornaments and all. I had to do a double take when I first saw it thinkng my mind might be playing tricks on me. But sure enough there it was in all its glory... a beutifal 7 ft plastic pine tree. Turns out people don't use Christmas trees here so I wanted to capture the image in my mind hoping it would last a while (the picture helps too). My first Christmas away from home has left me a little sad and missing family, but I am learning a great deal. I'm trying to learn what it means to be content in where I am and with what I have. At times it seems like I don't have much but I'm often reminded I still, and always will, possess what is most important to me... my faith. I believe the most important adventure anyone will face is the adventure of ones pursuit of spiritual truth and understanding. For now the path I have taken in my adventure has led me to Indonesia... and when I return I get to marry my best friend! I must say, I owe a great debt to the one who leads me in this adventure and the one who I will never stop following!

I thought I would throw in this picture too from Jordan's birthday party. It was a pretty big bash! I left with Jordan for a bit on the night of his birthday and a handful of our friends were waiting at the house for us to come back. Jordan felt pretty honored as they learned how to sing Happy Birthday in English for him! This pic is taken from our living room.

My New Wheels!

2007-12-15T22:22:00.001-08:00

Not to long ago I bought this sweet ride pictured below. It is a 1991 Honda GL Max. Back in '91 this would have been one hot ride. Almost twenty years later it is not quite so flashy... but I'm having a blast riding it around. It has been so much easier to get around as Jordan and I no longer have to use taxis and various other forms of public transportation. I never rode in America so i'm still trying to get used to the bike, and the traffic here doesn't exactly help the situation. A few close calls but no crashes yet! Only 6 trips to the repair shop in the first week... and I think she is finally running smooth!

For those of you that like action shots...

Thoughts from Life In Indo!

2007-11-27T18:17:00.000-08:00

It's almost been a month now here in Madiun, Indonesia. (Eastern Java, I'm guessing many of you have never heard of the city!) I am feeling more at home every day. Some adjustments have been difficult but for the most part I'm loving my time here and learning so much along the way. Friendships have continued to grow and I feel like I have had enough experiences in just one month to last me a lifetime! I hope the things that I will pull away from this adventure will change my life forever. I have actually made that my goal here in Indonesia, to try to never be the same as I was the day before. I have learned that in life our next day is never a guarantee, therefore I want to live out each day as if it were my last. We are all faced with thousands of decisions each day and it is how we act on those decisions that will shape our life. I hope that when I come to the end of the road I will be able to say with all my heart, "I didn't waste a minute."

So far I have spent much of my time learning language, helping teach English in a local High school, traveling and sightseeing with friends, and trying not to get myself lost. A favorite time for Jordan and I has been our friends coming over just about every evening to hang out on our porch. Jordan and some of our friends play their guitars... while I occasionally sing, and realize I have no musical talent whatsoever.

That past few Saturdays we have been woken up to clanging sounds of this marching band. This was taken from our bedroom window and as you can see the little dude up front seems more interested in Jordan and I then waving his flag!

"Tidur Sebintar Siang!" Also known as our afternoon nap time!

This is us after we slammed a delicious Indonesian dinner! Mmm... I love rice!

I got to do a little fishing with some friends and pulled in a 6 inch 5 ounce whopper on my first cast! This has actually been a highlight so far, as one of my favorite passed times is fishing. I guess I'm not too far from home after all!

I think I may have upset the one on the left.

For Thanksgiving Jordan and I got to meet up with a dear friend of ours living in another city. We enjoyed our time together... catching up, eating some good food and wearing dresses together! Just kidding those are actually called "sarungs". Many of the men here in Indonesia wear these in the evenings before they go to bed. They are actually quite comfortable, and our friends all get a kick out of us wearing them!

My new home!

2007-11-06T17:50:00.000-08:00

Well, I arrived in Indonesia almost one week ago and I'm now settled in to my new home! Adjustments have been difficult and I definitely miss those that are close to me back home. Everything has gone smooth so far, except a minor flood that left an inch of water in about half of our house! I've really enjoyed my time here so far and its been a joy to reconnect with old friends from my time spent here two summers ago. I am amazed at the quality of relationships here in Indonesia, as so many here still remember me and have expressed how much they have missed me! So many treat me like a best friend, a brother, or even a son. Its really quite an honor to be treated in this way and definitely keeps me humble and feeling blessed! Some of the pics below are of my new house. I'm living with my friend Jordan and two Indonesian high school aged guys. We should have some good times together over the next year! I'll keep you posted!

Our sweet crib!

These will get replaced with king size water beds sometime soon!

No, that is not a bath tub! My first experience with one of these I actually got in! (the one on the left to clarify)

This is from the flood. The picture was taken from our front porch!

Goodbyes!

2007-10-22T16:42:00.001-07:00

I leave for Indonesia just one week from tonight. I've said a lot of goodbyes lately, and have a lot more to come. I'm starting to realize how hard it is to leave the ones I love the most behind. I feel like I have realized how blessed I am in the relationships that I have...maybe because the time I have left with them is running out. Goodbyes give the perfect opportunity to share the depths of our affections for one another. There are those here that I will certainly miss, but I hope to make the kind of relationships in Indonesia that I have here... the ones that will make it hard to leave there and return home. In the adventure of life goodbyes are a necessity but with goodbyes come hellos.... and I can't wait to say hello to old friends and new future friends in Indonesia. Sampai Jumpa Nanti Indonesia! See you soon Indonesia!

Friends in Colorado!

Being attacked in the woods!

Plane Tickets

2007-10-04T15:18:00.000-07:00

Its official... there is no turning back now! I just got my plane tickets ordered a few days ago and it's looking like Jordan and I will be flying out the evening of October 29th. Almost 3 weeks! It's been over a year now since I have desired to return to Indonesia... and the day is almost here! I must say I caught myself in a moment of hesitation right before I verified the purchase. Sometimes things don't quite become a reality until steps are actually taken in that direction. It's hard to imagine that in three weeks I'll be leaving American soil... not to return for a year. Im anxiously awaiting the adventure of a lifetime. I hope the cultural experiences the challenges and the trials and i'll encounter will change my life forever!

Motorcycle Exam

2007-09-27T11:16:00.000-07:00

Last Friday I took my motorcycle examination which included a written part and a drivin part. After several hours of practice on a few different bikes I thought I was ready for the big test. And... well, lets just say I passed by the skin of my teeth. In spite failing the written test once, the drivin test once, and crashing the bike, the state seems to believe that I'm "qualified" to ride motorcycles. No injuries on the crash... just a broken windshield and some minor scratches on the bike. I would like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone that reads this that it might be wise stay clear if you ever see me cruisin on a motorcycle. You'll want to give me plenty of space, im still a bit out of control!!

Motorcycle Man!!!

2007-08-16T13:15:00.001-07:00

On my way to sturgis.... Just kidding. Me and Jordan practiced riding some motorcycles a few weeks ago. In Indonesia this will be our main transportation but we need to get our liscense here in the states, so I need to figure out how to use this thing! No major accidents, except Jordan going into a ditch and me killing it like 50 times. Im pretty sure I need some leather plants to complete the biker outfit!

Top speed..... 4 mph. I was a little scared. It looks like im going faster than that though, doesn't it????

Me and Jordan In Colorado

2007-08-16T12:40:00.001-07:00

here are a few pics from my trip to Colorado with Jordan. Jordan and I graduated together this last spring and he is coming with me to Indonesia. We leave in just a few short months. We are both getting pretty anxious and excited to leave... but still have a lot of preperation to do in the mean time. We will be living in the same city and doing most of the same things together. Im definitely pumped to get to know him better and grow our friendship! Lately Ive come to realize that friendships are gifts and can easily be taken for granted. I believe alot of times we don't realize how special someone is to us until our time with them is running out!

Some pics from last summer

2007-07-06T13:27:00.000-07:00

Last summer I spent six weeks in Indonesia. My time spent over there captured my heart for the people and the country. I can't wait to get back and see my friends! This is a picture of my host brother Rosandy! Notice his sweet hat!

This is me in an Indonesian University, I am the one with the white face! I'll be teaching English classes part time in this school when I go back!

Us at the top of 12,000 foot Mt. Lawu

Some neighbor kids!

They loved the magic tricks!

The Journey Begins

2007-07-06T13:02:00.000-07:00

Well, I just recently graduated from Kansas State University and have spent some time looking back on four of the best years of my life. I learned many things while in college but perhaps some of the best advice I received was to always make the most of the time I've been given. I decided to heed that advice and come this fall I'll be packing my bags and heading to the wonderful country of Indonesia to spend a year of my life. I believe this is a unique opportunity that I hope will open my eyes to the world and change my life forever. I invite you to join me in this adventure. Through my postings and pictures along the way you may experience laughter, tears or anything in between. My hope for you is that you would be as much a part of this as I am!