Beautiful Birthday Batik (three B's)

A few weeks ago, we were introduced to Batik. Batik is a Malaysian art form where different shapes of wax are painted onto fabric. Then the fabric is painted- the wax acts as the border to separate colors and keeps a white border. Then the fabric is washed in hot water. The wax melts in the washing and you are left with a beautiful, unique design. Today, for Rachael and Jamie's birthday, our friend set up a Batik Party. We arrived with a design already penciled on the fabric. Using a wax dispensing tool (Pic here), we painted the shapes and colored in the shapes. They will wash the fabric this weekend, then we will pick up the masterpieces....It was fun! All the girls helped each other and we met some other visitors that were at the craft place. (Pic is Rach and Jamie)

Our friend had done a project on the process of Batik for her language studies. She had all kinds of insight and showed us around. This is a very important part of the culture here. Women wear Batik dresses, sorrongs, and hang the art in their homes. (very cool and very beautiful!!!) We pray that the people here will know the glory of the Lord. That the handiwork that He skilled them with would bring honor to their Maker!

"Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to Your Name be the glory, because of Your love and faithfulness." ~Psalms 115:1

Little Women

We are at home base for the next few days, before we take off again. God has done some amazing things- we couldn't have even imagined!! Thank You for your faithfulness to pray and encourage!
We went to the local university last night and talked with a few students. Our friends have been so gracious, welcoming us into their home...We have had the pleasure to get to know the three little women of the house. These ladies are energetic, fun to be with, and are teaching us all kinds of great things...
Meet Jesse (15 yrs) : Jesse is the oldest of the bunch. She sets an example to her younger sisters by diligently studying and is involved with the worship leading team at her school. We had the opportunity to come to a worship event she was helping to lead (pic here). Jesse loves to read, practice Mandarin (Chinese dialect), and has an eye for fashion. She loves the Lord Jesus and loves singing songs about Him!
Meet Andi (13 yrs): Andi is in the middle of the T-sandwich. She is great at sports and can whip Thomas at 4 square...heehee. She loves playing with children and is very good at making people around her feel comfortable and at home. Andi was recently in a drama production, which we had the opportunity to attend (pic here). Andi and her sisters have taught us how to play "golf", a great little card game. Andi loves Jesus and has a heart for others to know Him!
Meet Jamie (11 yrs): Jamie is the youngest of the bunch. She is witty- always makes us laugh with her clever outlook on life! She is a very creative artist, who loves to paint and draw. She also has a green thumb- several of her cucumber plants are growing in the back yard! Here she is cuddling with the "Baby". Jamie loves the Lord and shares about the beauty of God's creation with her friends.

So, we have had the blessing of knowing these hilarious, beautiful, warm friends. They have taught us about the latest movies, sports, and games here. Not to mention, helped us learn what is "culturally appropriate." These ladies and their parents love God, strangers, neighbors, friends, and each other in the way they live their lives. Please pray for them, that God would continue to protect them and grow them in the knowledge of Him!! Pray that God would continue to provide opportunities for them to share His love and grace with others!


"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God." 1 John 4:7