Borbas Abroad

Valentine's Day

2012-02-13T22:56:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day, or Baruntine Day バレンタインデイーas it's called here in Japan, has always been a favorite of mine. From childhood, it has been a source of a much needed post-Christmas refill of my chocolate stash. Giving and receiving chocolate, sweets, cards, and gifts is what Valentine's Day is about, at least in the US.

Here in Japan, things are a little different. For one, the givers are limited to women, and the recipients are limited to men. (It's good to be a man in Japan on February 14th!)

Don't worry ladies, you have your own special holiday on March 14th called White Day (ホーアイトデイー ) to receive "obligation chocolate" ( giri-choco,ぎりチョコ) from all the boys you gave sweets to the months before.

Another difference is what is being given. I haven't seen too much in the way of flowers or cards, and Valentine's day dates don't seem to be too popular from what I've been hearing around the English class. In Japan it's all about the chocolate.

One very popular thing to do is to make "deco-choco" (デコチョコ) or decoration chocolate for male friends.

Here's a close up of some deco-choco I found through google.

（Photo source: Ameblo.jp）

Another popular thing to do it to make cookies.

Here are some chocolate-raspberry heart cookies I made for Stephen and my English students.

Stephen had a doubly good Valentine's Day this year since there are two girls in his family now (me and the baby) to give him chocolates.

When I was at the mall recently I saw these chocolates and knew it had to be Stephen's gift from the baby-to-be.

Here's the display case...

Can you tell what it is?

How about now...

It's a line of chocolate called Unchi-kun うんちくん (little poop).

I have never seen something like this before coming to Japan. But what a fitting gift from a baby.

Happy Valentine's Day!

What I learned in a Japanese parenting class

2012-02-04T04:18:00.018-08:00

So today Kathryn and I went to the Birth Clinic for a Parenting Class. We weren't quite sure what to expect and were a little nervous since the whole class was going to be all in Japanese. We wanted to go to so that we could learn more and so that we could meet some new friends around our community.

We gradually learned that most of the material was meant for the Fathers, which was interesting since the class was labeled as a parents class

It began with the head doctor giving a speech about what to expect, what the first stages of labor feel like, and when to go to the hospital. We then watched a video produced by the National Japanese Broadcasting company about the importance of Fathers speaking to the baby while it is still inside the womb. It was then scientifically demonstrated how much the baby can hear whats being said outside the womb by making a test subject swallow a small microphone. The Japanese are very thorough! They also showed how even at a very young age, a baby will respond in a special way to his or her dad.

After the video, us men all got to take turns wearing the "empathy belly'. Many laughs were had when grown men were putting on the suit. It didn't matter what language you spoke, it is universally funny to see a man wearing one of these things.

Then it was my turn.

They first wrapped a Velcro band around my chest, simulating the tightness of a woman's chest during pregnancy.

Then came the suit! I couldn't believe how heavy it was, my hat is off to you ladies.

After they put the maternity shirt on me, they made me take REQUESTS from Kathryn. So Kathryn being the loving wife she is made sure to let me get the full "experience".

I had to reach for things on the floor, lay down on my back, march up and down the stairs, get up and down from chairs. If I didn't know better I would have thought Kathryn's old job was a drill sergeant.

I think Kathryn was going to have me start doing some push-ups, thank goodness the time was up and I got to take the suit off.

What was great about this class is that it was all geared towards Fathers and the important role a father has in the life of his soon to be child. Many Fathers are closed off and distant from their children in Japan, and it was great to see how this Christian Clinic engaged the hearts of these men.

Japanniversary week: pictures from day 1 & contest winners!

2012-01-29T21:56:00.000-08:00

What a year it has been! We have been blessed beyond measure, and are anxiously anticipating all that is in store for us in the future. Thank you for sharing in our lives and ministry!

Through reflecting this week, I realized I've never posted any of the pictures we took from our trip and first few days last year. (that can easily happen with no internet and lots of jet lag)

What better time than now. Better late than never, right? Here are a few pictures from traveling, arriving, and our first full day in Japan.

Enjoying a meal on a VERY long flight.

First shot of Hokkaido, our new home.

since we arrived late on the 30th,we crashed at the airport hotel before our first full day of paperwork and getting the lay of the land.

Taking a break from paperwork at the ward office to get some coffee. Our first Japanese vending machine.

Our first in-person-glimpse of our church.

Now on to the contest winners.

Congratulations to Dan and Denise!

Dan correctly answered the 3 questions in record time.

Q #1: What is the name of the traditional, yet disgusting, Japanese food Stephen had the misfortune of trying his first day in Japan?
A #1: Natto

Q #2: Learning Japanese is hard. Learning English words in Japanese is even harder. Kathryn spent a week or two guessing at the meaning of an English word pronounced in Japanese. What was the word in English, and how was it pronounced in Japanese?
A #2: Volunteer & Borantia

Q #3: After making Mexican Rice-Bowls for church, what did the church members do with the extra black beans?

A #3: They used them as an ice cream topping.

Denise's comment was chosen at random. Both can be expecting a surprise in the mail in the next week or two.

We look forward to sharing more with you in the coming year!

Japanniversary week: Words I never thought I'd know (and use)

2012-01-28T21:08:00.000-08:00

We're a day away from our 1st Japanniversay. If you haven't submitted your guesses for the contest, it's not too late. Click here for details. Also, you can still possibly win a prize if your comment on any post in the past 6 days is chosen at random, so get to commenting!

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Learning language has been one of the biggest challenges about living in Japan. This is a challenge we anticipated of course. And over the past year, I can confidently say we've made great progress in our abilities to listen, speak, read and write.

Through out the year, we've learned many words through daily conversation, eaves-dropping, tv and fliers. Sometimes I learn a word that I think is soooo random, yet I find my self using it frequently.

I've made a list of some of our favorite random words in Japanese. I hope you get a kick out of them, like we have. If you're feeling adventurous, try them out for yourself.

かんそう　kanso:

Dry air, as in "every problem you are experiencing from your runny nose to you dry skin is caused by kanso."

ふうふ　fu-fu:

married couple. When we arrived I was curious about this word since people referred to us as Borba-fufu.

あみもの　amimono:

knitting/crocheting. Not to be confused with aMAImono (あまいもの) which means sweets.

Sample sentence-

私は編み物をしながら、甘いものをたべます。

"Watashi wa amimono o shinagara, amaimono o tabemasu."

While I knit, I eat sweets."

にんしん　ninshin:

Pregnancy. I actually had to search this one out, but since learning it I've used it on a daily basis!

Sample sentence-

妊娠しています。

"Ninshin shite imasu."

I'm pregnant (I am doing pregnancy).

Be careful not to say,

妊娠です。(ninshin desu) which means "I am pregnancy", or you'll get a lot of confused faces when you announce your big news. (Yes, I know this first hand.)

あぶない　abunai:

Dangerous. I'm not sure why we love this word. probably because it can be used on it's own as a warning. It has become a daily expression in our home. We enjoy pointing our the dangerous things all around us like snow, ice, scissors on the couch, blowdryer near the sink.... you get the idea. :)

Sample sentences-

危ない！

"Abunai!"

Danger!

危ないですようね！

"Abunai desu yo ne!"

It's dangerous, huh?!

ストーブ　sto-bu:

heater. I was surprised to learn sto-bu didn't mean stove, it means heater. I thought for sure ヒータ(hee-ta) would mean heater, but no. So don't tell people you cooked your dinner on the sto-bu. Okay?

ベイービベド　beibee-bedo:

crib. While teaching an English lesson, I learned this word. my students we're confused about the meaning of "crib" so I drew a picture.

"Oh.... "bei-bee bedo"!"

::facepalm::

I figured it would be a katakana English word (an english word pronounced like Japanese) but I assumed it would be　クリブ (ku-ri-bu). But, I guess beibee-bedo works too, right?

Do you have a favorite word or phrase in Japanese?

Japanniversary week: Reflections on the March 11th Disasters

2012-01-27T16:17:00.000-08:00

In honor of nearly 1 year in Japan, we are blogging all week, and hosting a contest for prizes. Click here to enter the contest, or leave a comment below to be entered for a prize.

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When we arrived in Japan last January, we had no idea what would be in store for the country 5 weeks later.

The triple disasters of March 11th were shocking to say the least. The country was thrown for a loop, with people scrambling to make sense of what had happened, and eventually to put the pieces back together.

Here in Hokkaido, we have been relatively unaffected. Other than the initial earthquake (and a few days worth of aftershocks) we haven't personally experienced what many have lived with as a reality since March 11th. Those living in the main island dealt with MONTHS of aftershocks; those living in Tohoku have been slowly rebuilding.

Although we haven't personally been able to go to Tohoku to help the rebuilding process, we are connected with many who are. Last spring, I provided you with links to many who are in the trenches in Tohoku, sharing God's love in tangible ways.

Today, I'd like to leave you with a link to the Asian Access Blog Center. There you can find articles written by leaders, missionaries, and pastors about what is currently going on in Tohoku.

Japanniversary week: Biggest small differences

2012-01-26T16:00:00.000-08:00

With our 1st Japanniversary on the horizon, we're spending this week thinking back and reflecting about the past year. We're also hosting a contest, If you'd like to try for 1 of 2 special prizes click here for details.

When we arrived last year, there were so many things we wanted to share. There were so many things that were so different than we were used to in the States. Our initial lack of internet put our blog on hold for a bit, and by the time we had it up and running, the triple disasters of March 11th were upon us and the silly little things we wanted to share became much less more important.

Since then, we've had a year to laugh and wonder and the "crazy" little things we notice all around us. Some of them have become so second nature, we forget it's not "normal" until a friend from America points them out to us.

What better time than Japanniversary week to share the top 3 biggest small differences about living in Japan!

#3 Sliced bread:

I spent a good portion of my life working my way from eating only white bread to loving whole wheat, only to move to Japan and be thrown back into my white bread only childhood. It's not that I wouldn't love a slice of wheat bread, it's just not an option in Japan.

For sliced bread, there is one option and it's thick, white, and only has 6 slices.

Yes, only 6 slices.

I guess it makes sense for a country that is known for it's rice obsession. But, for this sandwich loving girl, Japanese bread just doesn't cut it. On the other hand, it makes the best french toast I've ever eaten :)

#2 Heated toilet seats:

I had heard about this before coming to Japan, I just didn't know how awesome they are. I also didn't know they'd become my expectation in toilet seats.

These seats rock! They plug in and get nice an toasty. For a place where winters are stupidly cold, and central heating is not a thing, it is a welcome treat in a very cold toilet room.

After living here a year, these have become so second nature, that visiting a subway restroom, or the bathroom at Costco, I alway get quite a shock!

#1 Stop signs:

I know I should have realized the Japanese stop signs wouldn't have the word "STOP" written on them in English. I guess I just never thought that they'd also not be the red octagons I've grown up with.

Japanese stop signs are triangles! I know, an octagon isn't more intrinsically stoppy than any other shape, but it's a strange mental adjustment I didn't realize we were in store for.

If you've been to Japan (or have just been reading this blog) what are some of the differences that have stood out to you?

Japanniversary week: Fellowship ministries

2012-01-25T17:00:00.000-08:00

Don't forget about our on going contest in celebration of Japanniversary week! Click here for details.

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Saturdays around our apartment are a break from English classes, but not a break from ministry. We set this day aside for various fellowship and hospitality ministries. We've posted about different Second Saturday Friends parties here, and here, & about Let's make something parties here. Saturdays are one of our favorite times to hang out with Christians and non-Christians, share some food, and build relationships.

Last Saturday was especially fun because we had TWO events in one day.

In the morning 3 college aged students came over to make cinnamon rolls. We had a great time making the dough from scratch, filling it with cinnamon goodness, and of course eating our treats at the end.

It was lots of fun teaching the girls how to knead bread. While we were kneading, they asked if women in America make bread every day.

Ummm.... no, I think I maybe made bread once a year, if that. I think many people have never made a loaf in their lives.

Then one girl corrected the other, "no, they make pie."

Ummm, yes, we do, but.... still only once or twice a year.

I love getting windows into how my culture is seen through another culture's eyes.

In the evening, Stephen hosted the first meeting of the ramen club he has been organizing for the past month or two. Anyone who meets Stephen in Japan soon learns he loves miso ramen. It's been the joke around church since I've been showing, that Stephen is going to have a baby too: a ramen baby named Misoko. So, for Stephen to start a monthly ramen club was the most natural thing for him to do.

We went to a new ramen shop that opened up about 50 ft from the church. The shop was new, the service was great, but the ramen was just so-so. Luckily, the fun thing about ramen club is really the time spent with friends, good ramen is just a bonus.

Japanniversary week: Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-24T16:19:00.000-08:00

In celebration of making it a year in Japan without getting too lost, or going too crazy, we're blogging all week, and hosting a contest for prizes! Check out yesterday's post for more details.

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Japanniversary week: Contest!

2012-01-23T17:56:00.000-08:00

We are quickly aproching our first Japanniversary. 1 year ago, January 30th, we arrived in Sapporo. Time has sure flown by. It seems there are so many things that have happened in the last year that we wanted to take the time to do some looking back this week.

Each day this week, we will be blogging about our past year in Japan; wrapping up the year so we can dive full force into the next one!

To make things extra festive, we're also holding a contest!

Be the first to correctly answer the three questions as a comment below to receive a special prize from Japan. All the questions come from past blogs, so get searching!

Another special prize will be given to a random commenter between now and the 30th. So, be sure to comment on the posts through out the week to up your chances of winning the door prize.

We'll announce the winners on the 30th of January. Thanks for sharing in our life and ministry this year!

Now, on to the questions!

#1 What is the name of the traditional, yet disgusting, Japanese food Stephen had the misfortune of trying his first day in Japan?

#2 Learning Japanese is hard. Learning English words in Japanese is even harder. Kathryn spent a week or two guessing at the meaning of an English word pronounced in Japanese. What was the word in English, and how was it pronounced in Japanese?

#3 After making Mexican Rice-Bowls for church, what did the church members do with the extra black beans?

Only in Japan: Pregnancy mark

2012-01-13T21:17:00.000-08:00

An important part of being pregnant in Japan is registering with your local city/district office. When you do that, they give you a pile of paperwork, a mother-child handbook, and this wonderful little tag to place on your purse.

The Japanese says: Onaka ni akachan ga imasu

(In my stomach is a baby)

The paperwork and mother's notebook were the official reason I registered at the district office. This mark was my "real" reason.

Pregnant women display this mark on their purses to let others know their pregnant. In theory, other people are supposed to be extra helpful and considerate of them.

there are signs all around town giving special perks to women who bear the "ninshin ma-ku" (Pregnancy mark)

This is the most ubiquitous sign. It's found on all public transportation over the preferencial seating area. On subways, trains, and busses special seats must be left open for "the elderly, those with disabilities, those with infants, pregnant women, and those with health problems."

Since getting my pregnancy mark, I've been relieved to always have a seat on the subway or bus. Although, I always make sure to display my mark while I'm seated, so no one thinks I'm just a dumb foreigner who can't read the sign. (I have my suspicions some people think this anyways.)

The next sign is in front of the mall near our home. It reserves the handicapped parking spot for pregnant women as well as people with disabilities. Or maybe they consider pregnant women disabled, hard to say.

I've been told that the mark also allows you to cut in the line at the bathroom. I haven't had the nerve to try this out yet. But I'll let you know how it goes if I ever do.

The Art of Embarrassment

2011-12-27T23:04:00.000-08:00

We were asked to be actors in the church play this Christmas. We weren't quite tricked, like last time, but we definitely didn't know exactly what we were agreeing to either.

Our church performed a shortened version of "The Pilgrim's Progress" by John Bunyan. We didn't know this until half-way though the first read-through. I naturally thought the Christmas play would be more nativity related. I was quite confused when there was no pregnant lady traveling with her fiance, & when the main character battled a monster named Apolyon. Stephen, who's read the book, on the other hand, guessed right away what the play was.

I was asked to be the wife/mother. I assume because ever expanding belly makes me look matronly. Stephen was my son.

The feat of learning lines in Japanese and knowing when to say them gave me a bit of a panic attack. Thankfully, our parts were small. And we didn't have to memorize our lines.

When my English students found out I was going to be in a play in Japanese, they asked about coming to church to watch. So, Christmas morning, two of my English students came to our church Christmas party to watch Stephen and I looking foolish reading lines in Japanese with bad American accents.

Everyone in the play was very gracious about our performance. Which was good, because when ever I said a line, the whole audience laughed. ( I don't think that is how the author intended it)

It was a light hearted production, and no-one took themselves too seriously. Well other than this guy...

It was a great experience. It forced us to learn some sentences we otherwise wouldn't know, and the promise of seeing their English teacher be embarrassed got two of my students to come to church.

Gift time

2011-12-27T21:18:00.000-08:00

Christmas time is the time for giving and today I was able to give some gifts to a friend and a brand new friend today.

The first friend is a Ramen chef who I've known since the beginning of my time in Japan. My first bowl of Japanese ramen was from his store, and after tasting ramen from other places his ramen is still my favorite. I eventually became a regular at his store :). I get to practice my Japanese with him and He also advertises for my Church's English Class.

We took a picture together when my mom came to visit

The new friend I made this week is the owner of the barber shop right next to my apartment. We became friends when he helped me dig my car out when it was stuck in the snow. I thank the Lord that he provided me with that help (being a California kid I don't know anything about snow). When I went to give him a gift to show my appreciation for his help today, in the conversation he asked if "the the phone made it to me safely". So ... it turns out that his family has helped us twice.

Two weeks ago, Kathryn dropped her phone and lost it somewhere near the apartment, when I was home a Japanese woman came to my door and gave me Kathryn's phone. I was very thankful but I didn't know who it was at the time.

Like most Japanese, since I gave him a gift he immediately returned the favor and gave me something. I have no idea of what it is. I didn't understand when he told me what it was. I think he said that it was for my ear.

If any one know what it is, please tell me. :)

...If Only In My Dreams

2011-12-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

The other day I was out running errands: gifts to buy, gifts to mail, grocery lists to fill. Even though the busyness is the same no matter where you spend you Christmas, the differentness of Japan at the holidays was taking it's toll. Little things like not hearing Christmas music everywhere you go, or not seeing kids sitting on Santa's lap at the mall. Just little things, really.

So, when my errands took me into Starbucks, I had to take a short break from Christmas in Japan. The music on the speakers was the same as I always remember, the toffee-nut late tasted just like always, and the cranberry bliss-bar reminded me of good times with friends. I closed my eyes and let Japan slip away. If only for a moment, I was sitting at Riverpark, taking a break between stores. When I opened my eyes, it was Japan again, just like I'd left it, but now somehow a little more like home.

An Early Christmas Lunch

2011-12-22T00:29:00.000-08:00

Today, we had a Christmas lunch with our students in Chitose.

I racked my brain for some Christmassy thing to make. Thanksgiving is easy. The menu is pretty standard, with a few variations depending on your family. Christmas dinner, though, is different for most every American I ask.

I ended up making beef stew with biscuits. I don't think I've every personally eaten beef stew for Christmas dinner, but it felt American and homey, (and it was super easy because of my crockpot) so it fit the bill.

After class, we brought in the food.

It was a meal of firsts: first time eating biscuits, first time seeing a crockpot, first time having American beef stew.

It's been so nice getting to know "our Chitose ladies" over the past few months. Sharing this meal together was a nice way to grow in relationship and spend time together before the new year.

If you're interested in making the stew or biscuits, here are the recipes I used along with a note or two.

Apple-cider Beef Stew

(Credit: Taste of Home)

*When I make this next time, I'll decrease the apple juice and increase the beef broth by equal parts

Ingredients

4 cups frozen vegetables for stew (about 24 ounces), thawed
1 can (8 ounces) sliced water chestnuts, drained
1 jar (4-1/2 ounces) sliced mushrooms, drained
1 tablespoon dried minced onion
2 envelopes brown gravy mix
2 tablespoons onion soup mix
2 teaspoons steak seasoning
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) beef broth
1-1/4 cups apple cider or unsweetened apple juice
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 bay leaf
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/3 cup cold water

Directions

Place the vegetables, water chestnuts, mushrooms and onion in a 5-qt. slow cooker. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the gravy mix, soup mix, steak seasoning and cinnamon; add beef, a few pieces at a time, and shake to coat. Add to slow cooker.
Combine the broth, cider and tomato sauce; pour over beef. Add bay leaf. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until meat is tender.
Combine cornstarch and water until smooth; stir into stew. Cover and cook on high for 15 minutes or until thickened. Discard bay leaf. Yield: 12 servings.

Drop Biscuits

(Credit: All Recipes)

*These were a hit! I'm looking forward to making them for Christmas Eve dinner for Stephen and me.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup shortening
2/3 cup milk
1 egg

Directions

In a bowl, combine the first five ingredients. Cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a bowl, whisk milk and egg. Stir into crumb mixture just until moistened. Drop by heaping spoonfuls 2 in. apart onto an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 450 degrees F for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

'Tis the season...

2011-12-18T02:27:00.000-08:00

...to be really busy!

after hearing about all that is planned for Christmas a friend from America commented, "well I guess being in a different country doesn't make you any less hectic at the holidays." No, it really doesn't. :)

But, you know what? I wouldn't have it any other way.

I hope to be back to the blog to share snippets and updates from Christmas time in Japan. There is, and has been, a lot going on this month that I'd love to share. But as is usually the case, when we have to most to write about, I have the least amount of time to sit and write. :P

So for today, I'll leave you with some pictures and commentary from last weekend's Friends Christmas party.

A simple dinner of soup, salad, and make-you-own-sandwich was a hit.

Some American soda was an extra treat!

And of course, no Christmas party would be complete with out way too many sweats!

We played "Pin the nose on the snowman"

I think we underestimated how hard it would be!

Luckily, there was plenty of participation from the peanut-gallery.

We're so happy to have been able to invite our friends over for Christmas fun!

5 words/phrases for winter

2011-12-09T20:38:00.000-08:00

It's cold!

It feels like this phrase has been on repeat around our house for the past few week. (I have a feeling, it's not going to stop anytime soon. )

We've officially arrived in winter. The snow is sticking, the nights are below freezing (as are most of the days), and I've been wearing more layers than an onion!

I asked a few of my English classes to share 5 common Japanese words & phrases for winter in Hokkaido. Even if you don't live in the tundra, I hope you try them out!

1) 　しばれる　(Shi-ba-re-ru) : "colder than cold!"

If your freezing your behind off, try saying this phrase.

2)　つらら　 (tsu-ra-ra) : "Icicle."

(I've been pointing out all the tsurara I see on houses and dripping from the hoods of cars since learning this word)

3)　さむいいですね！　(sA-mu-i dess neh!) : "It's cold, Isn't it!" (or, "It sure is cold!")

This is equally as popular in the winter as "Atsui dess neh!" is in the summer ("it's hot, isn't it!")

4) 　そうですようね！(so dess yo neh!) : "Yeah it is!"

This is used to agree with the previous sentence.

5)　ゆきがふりましたね！　(yu-ki ga fu-ri-ma-shta- neh!) : Literally "Snow fell, right!?" My student told me it's like pointing out the obvious. If a lot of snow fell, you would say this. (like the English equivalent of "It's really coming down out there")

Third Time's the Charm

2011-11-21T23:09:00.001-08:00

The process of getting our Japanese drivers licenses has been putting us through the ringer. After much time and paperwork, we've only just hit the halfway point in the process. Just getting here has been an exercise in patience and perseverance.

In order for a license-holding American to get a Japanese drivers license it involves providing a pile of paperwork, taking a written test, taking a practical test, and retaking the practical test a few more times until you pass. (Foreigners do not have a very high first time pass rate on the practical exam). Only after you've jumped through these hoops, can you get your real Japanese drivers license.

We started the process back in September, to give ourselves enough time to do everything before our current international licenses expire. Little did we know, just to take the written test would take 3 tries.

1st attempt:

The license center is an hour from us, but only 5 minutes from our supervisor's home. So, after a Bible study/staff meeting we went to the driving center with a pile of paperwork.

When we arrived, and found the right window, we were told that we need to make an appointment to take the written test. This didn't surprise us too much. We went in knowing this might be the case, but it's much easier to use our lame Japanese in person than over the phone.

What surprised us was when the lady told us we needed proof that Stephen had lived in the US at least 3 months after receiving his license. Apparently, she would accept my passport (issued after my license) as my proof, but Stephen needed something more.

Away we went, with an appointment, and a few more papers to find for the growing pile.

2nd attempt:

The day of our appointment, October 26, we got in the car early and drove the hour across town to the driving center. It wasn't until we were 5 minutes away that I realized ALL the papers I had gathered to qualify us for the test were sitting at home on the floor, organized in a nice little folder.

We went to the window, and explained to the woman that we forgot EVERYTHING at home, 1 hour away. Based on the look of terror and surprise, I don't think anyone has ever done that before.

We made another appointment for the next available time slots: November 21.

I should take a moment to mention that in addition to trying to beat the clock on our international licenses, we were also in a hurry to take the practical exam before it started snowing. Pushing the written test back to late November was not helping our cause.

3rd attempt:

November 21st, we awoke to find that it was snowing and had snowed the whole night before. That meant, the hour trip across town would now be an hour and a half. We got in the car and both made sure we had every single piece of paper needed. Yup, all there, and we were off like a herd of turtles.

At the driving center, we provided our paperwork, including 3 forms proving Stephen lived in the US, and were told to wait 2 hours while the processed everything. Rather than venture out into the snowy tundra, we opted to hang out at the driving center's coffee shop. (I suspect the /real/ reason they made us wait 2 hours was to get some more business for the coffee shop.)

The test itself was nothing too bad. 10 true/false questions, mostly common sense.

We passed and were able to make an appointment for next Wednesday to take the practical exam. We're praying there's no snow.

Oh, and of course, before we left the lady at the counter informed me that I too must find paperwork to prove that I've lived in the US since getting my most recent passport. Apparently she changed her mind and I'm being docked for not bringing my expired passport with me to Japan. Oh, well, such is life (in Japan)

Snow driving adventure

2011-11-17T00:29:00.000-08:00

After close to 4 weeks since the snowbugs were spotted, the snow is finally upon us. We awoke this morning to a winter wonderland.

Fortunately for us, Stephen spent yesterday with the pastor changing our summer tires for the winter ones.

Unfortunately for us, the first heavy snowfall happened the night before we have to drive 1 hour away to teach an early morning class.

Since we didn't get our car until last spring, we have not had to drive in the snow yet in Japan. And really, since were California kids, driving in the snow has never been part of our day to day lives. Today was a trial by fire.. er.. uh, snow.

First thing about driving in Sapporo in the winter is that you must clear off the car.

We were in a hurry, so we left a nice pile of "lazy cake" on top.

Stephen did a great job. since it was the first real snow, it melted in the sun as we drove.

By halfway there, the road was mostly slush and water.

The most harrowing part of the trip was when a HUGE truck passed us and covered our tiny car in a tidal wave of dirty snow-water. I had a minor panic attack for the 1.5 seconds we couldn't see out of the windows. Stephen kept his cool and remembered the wipers. (That's why he was driving.)

We arrived safely in Chitose, with some lazy cake still on the roof.

Only in Japan: 10 Months Pregnant

2011-11-13T21:13:00.000-08:00

Did you know Japanese women are pregnant for 10 months?

But, it's probably not how your thinking. Every woman is the world, Japan included, is pregnant for about 40 weeks. The difference is how the western world and Japan count those months.

In the States, pregnancy is counted by calendar months. Every month, is between 4 and 5 weeks long (with the exception of February, which just likes to be different).

In Japan, pregnancy is broken up into 10 4-week "months."

It took me some time to wrap my head around it, so I made this handy chart.

Both systems have their up-sides: counting with calendar months makes estimating a due date much easier. Also, trimesters are broken up more easily into 3 3-month periods.

With the Japanese way, I always know what months I'm in with out having to consult "What to Expect When You're Expecting."

I am 4 months pregnant in the US and 5 months pregnant in Japan.

Luckily for us, both countries also count pregnancies by weeks. To make things easier, I tend to default to weeks when ever someone asks how far along I am.

Adventures in Cooking: Squid

2011-11-04T23:40:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy cravings and aversions are a funny thing. They're never what you think they'll be. For example, though I've never been much of an OJ drinker, for 6 weeks straight I craved and drank multiple glasses each day. As for aversions: I never thought, being a missionary in Japan, that Japanese food would wind up on the "get that away from me, now!" list, yet somehow it has.

This little quirk of pregnancy has made life a bit difficult for me, as you can imagine. But, I think my greatest challenge was today's Japanese cooking class.

Today's menu: rice stuffed squid-head, & sauteed squid-tentacles.

I'm sure it has a pretty sounding name, but I didn't catch it while I was staring and the whole, raw squid I was about to dismember.

The last time I was that up-close and personal with a squid was 8th grade biology.

I'll spare you the gooey details. but,

with much prayer, I was able to disassemble, clean, chop, cook, AND eat the squid.

Pictured center: squid-head stuffed with rice

Pictured left: sauteed squid tentacles

the Japanese expression "Ganbatte" (try hard/persevere) has never meant so much to me.

I think today's class may have been the end of my Japanese food aversion. Just to be safe though, I'll still be staying clear of the fish section and the grocery store for now.

Snow?

2011-10-21T17:43:00.000-07:00

This past week or so, we've been enjoying a sunny 60 degree Autumn, so I was quite surprised to hear that according to Hokkaido tradition, and my English students, Snow is on its way.

Yesterday morning, as I was getting ready for class, I glanced out the window and saw snow. At least, it looked just like snow. Even Stephen was fooled. But considering it was 60 degrees, and sunny with out a cloud in the sky, we decided it must be something else.

(The picture I took was not nearly as clear as this one I found online)

When my students arrived to class, they were all abuzz. "Did you see the Yuki mushi (Snow bugs)?"

So, that's what they were!

My students explained to me that these bugs, only found in Hokkaido, always appear right before it snows.

(Again, not my picture. But, don't they totally look like snow!?)

No one could say how long between Yuki mushi sightings and first snowfall. All they could say was, "mosugu" (soon).

UPDATE:

November 15th, we got our first snowfall. It melted quickly when the sun came up, it it fell non the less. That's 3.5 weeks from seeing the snowbugs. 3.5 weeks does not seem like mosugu (soon) to me.

10 days with "Living Hope"

2011-10-14T20:43:00.000-07:00

Short term teams are a breath of fresh air: they give everyone new life, energy, and motivation.

Our short term team from Living Hope Community Church was no exception.

Before they said their good-byes today, I was able to interview a few team members to get their perspective on the 10 days they spent serving in Japan.

It was great for me to hear what things impacted them as they ministered this week. I was surprised to hear that many of their answers were the same. I guess it just goes to show their unity and how God was working in their team this week.

Q: What was a highlight in ministry this week?

-"Seeing the example set by Akita Sensei, the associate pastor ofthe Chitose Church. Even though, he is gentle and reserved, he never missed an opportunity to share the Gospel."

-"Watching the interactions of this very international church in Sapporo. It reminded me that God's grace is not limited to one people group. We are all one in Christ. Language doesn't separate us from God's grace."

-"Seeing God's plans overtake our own. For example, when we went to Hokkaido university's campus, I was hoping to meet non-christians. Instead, we met a young Christian man who came to our evening event and was the life of the party. Him being there was important for developing relationships that night. "

Q: What surprised you the most?

-"Separating the trash was a big surprise."

-"I didn't expect to give my testimony, until an hour before church on Sunday. I was glad I did though, because after, many people came up and told me that my story is similar to theirs."

-"Before I came here I was only superficially interested in Japan. I liked how cute and effiecient everything was. I was surprised that God has opened up my heart to love Japan spiritually."

-"I was talking to a girl on campus about if she knew God, and she said, 'What's a god?" That surprised me: that here, so many people have never even heard about God."

Q: What was the best food you tried this week?

-"Ramen!"

-"Tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet). It melted in my mouth!"

-"Soft creme (soft serve ice cream) from a dairy in Chitose. I can never go back to eating McDonald's soft serve again."

-"The sukiyaki that Akita sensei made for us our last night in Chitose. You could tell he put a lot of work into it."

Q: What was your biggest cultural misstep or most embarrassing moment?

-"Speaking in limited Japanese. I kept messing up my vowels can calling Sapporo, 'Sopparo'."

-"Putting trash in the wrong bin"

-"Jet lag induced delirium while playing Taboo one evening. I had a really hard time paying attention and everyone had a good chance to poke fun at me."

-"I told two people "Hajimemashite" (a greeting which means 'nice to meet you') when we were saying good bye."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

If you are interested in serving for a week or two as a short termer in Japan, send me an email (kborba@asianaccess.org), can I can put you in touch with the right people to talk to.

We would love to have you come and share in ministry here in Japan!

Welcome to Sapporo!

2011-10-10T18:50:00.000-07:00

Our church has the pleasure of hosting a J-Team from Living Hope Community Church.

(Below: the team posing with the kids who attended an event Monday)

From Oct 7-Oct 15, this 8 member team will be hosting kids' events, meeting students on campus, hanging out with students at church, helping with English classes, and engaging in existing church ministry.

Pray with us for this short time of ministry would yield lasting fruit for God's kingdom.

Practical language

2011-10-01T00:13:00.000-07:00

Language is awesome. The more I learn the more amazed I am at its beauty. Like euphemisms and expressions. I love how there are so many ways to convey the same thing.

Here's a list of my most recent, favorite expressions is English and Japanese:

I'm Eating for two.

I have a bun in the oven.

I'm in the family way.

I'm with child.

I'm craving pickles and ice cream.

We're expecting.

I'm preggers.

I'm knocked up.

My eggo is preggo.

I'm on stork watch.

I'm gestating.

I'm preggtastic.

妊娠しています(Ninshin shite imasu)

おおめでた(Omedeta)

できちゃった(Dekichatta)

Yep, it's true. There's a baby on the way!

Friends all over

2011-09-27T03:05:00.000-07:00

This last week we received training through Asian Access, during the fall conference at a seminar house in Kobe. Great training but also it was great to see more of the Asian Access family again who live in different parts of Japan. Not only that but I also got to reunite with some other friends and make some new ones.

Nakano-san

Everyone says its a small world and it is. One of my supporters, Harry, had a close business partner from Japan 20 or 30 years ago. They remain friends till this day but Harry lives in California and Nakano-san lives in Osaka. I had the chance to meet Nakano-san and have lunch with him. He told me he was so indebted to Harry that he wanted to honor him by treating us to lunch. He also took me and Kathryn around to some famous sites in Osaka. Something that I will remember is that he mentioned that after all these years, he still remembers that on business trips with Harry that he would see him pray before going to bed. Nakano-san is 87 or so and still remembers that. Our prayers can touch people in ways we don't always know :) .

Keisuke

If you remember from a couple months ago, Keisuke was the Japanese highschool student who stayed with us for 4 days as a part of his summer vacation. I was able to give him a tour of Sapporo and invite him to our church's prayer time. It was a a very good time. Well, when his family heard we were coming to a part of Japan near them they invited us over to lunch at their house. The lunch was delicious and for desert they took us up to the hill country to a 400 year old house for tea.

Eri

"What kind of picture is that?" you might ask. Its "puri kura" the Japanese photo booths that make you look like a 13 year old girl even if you are a 26 year old man. When we were near Osaka we were also able to meet up with our friend Eri who we hadn't seen since she came to California. . When she came to California one year she did a home-stay with me and Kathryn for a week. Eri was my first Japanese friend and I feel that God used that friendship as a way to confirm Japan in my heart.

It is good for me to recount what God has done and where he has brought me. How he has brought people into my life. It brings me a lot of encouragement.

Thanks y'all.

Language Tests and Pretests

2011-09-12T00:36:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, Stephen and I decided to challenge our language learning by taking the Basic level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) this coming December. Shortly after that, I jumped into the tangled maze that is the JLPT application process. Little did I know when I began that this particular test has several hurdles to jump, I can only assume, to weed out non-proficient people.

Let me fill you in on the madness.

Pretest 1: purchase the applications.

In the States when I applied for the many tests I had to take to get through college and credentialling (CBEST, 3 CSETs, & 2 CLEPs) it was always as easy as going online clicking a few buttons and voila! you are ready to test. For this test, I had to purchase the applications from "a book store in (my) area." That's really all the official website said.

I failed my first attempt at finding the test and ended up walking out of the store in shame.

After talking with a friend who took the test last year, I found the right bookstore, the right floor, and the right counter to find the application.

Pretest 1: PASS

Pretest 2: fill out the applications.

"No big deal," you are most likely thinking right now. NO! it WAS a big deal. Each application came with (I kid you not) a 53 page(!) instruction booklet. After my initial shock, I learned to love the instruction booklet, and I am sure it is the only reason I knew to do the next 3 steps.

Pretest 2: PASS

Pretest 3: take a passport style photo to include with your application.

WHAT?! Never in the history of education or test taking have I needed to included a photo in with my application. And of course it had to be a certain size and dimension. fortunately for us, our supervisor, Tim, pointed out the passport photo booth at the mall near our house, when we had just arrived in Japan.

Pretest 3: PASS (even if they weren't the prettiest pictures)

Pretest 4: Pay for application at the post office.

I mentioned in my last post about how Japan deals with the lack of checks. so, rather than including a check with my application we had to head to the post office and pay for each application, then include the receipt(with the id number that corresponded to the id number on the application) in the envelope.

Pretest 4: PASS (thanks to the very kind clerk)

Pretest 5: Mail the application via special certified mail.

I only knew how to ask for this because my now beloved instruction manual told me. And really, after all the other tests, this one was not only easy-breezy, it was my favorite one because it was the LAST!

Pretest 5: PASS

We are now just waiting for our test voucher to come in the mail, when I am sure we will have a whole new set of hurdles to jump. Oh, and studying Japanese, because after all this work, I'd kind of like to pass the REAL test in December.

Only in Japan: convenience stores

2011-08-26T22:26:00.000-07:00

In the States I think I can count on one hand the number of times I visited a convenience store each year. Since coming to Japan, convenience stores (Conbini) have become as much a part of our lives as rice. I think we visit a combini 3-4 times a week.

"Why?" you ask. Here are the 5 amazing things you can do at a convenience store in Japan.

5-Buy dinner

Yes, even in the states you can purchase food at a convenience store. Hot dogs and mystery meat floating in funky water, sandwiches from before the turn of the millenium. That's what I used to picture when I thought about convenience store meals. In Japan, many people use convenience stores like 7-11, Lawson, and Seico mart to grab a quick lunch. We do too. When we only have a little bit of time between classes around dinnertime, a conbini onigiri (rice ball) or 2 hits the spot.

4-Pay bills

In the states when we needed to pay a bill, we would write a check and mail it in with the invoice portion of the bill. But, Japan doesn't do checks, like ever!

Instead they take their bills to the local convenience store to be paid. Once a month, Stephen takes our phone bill down to Seico Mart near our home. It nice not having to worry about having stamps. And while he's there he can pick up dinner :)

3-Send luggage on ahead

Why go through the trouble to lugging your luggage to your destination when it could meet you there when you arrive? I had never even thought about this as an option before coming to Japan, but Takkubin services are commonly used here and for not to much Yen. to make it even more convenient, conbinis like Seico Mart serve as drop off locations for luggage delivery services. Although we have yet to take advantage of this yet, it's good to know it's literally right around the corner.

2-Buy discount movie tickets

Family Mart has a kiosk to purchase "dokodemo, itsudemo" (any where, any time) tickets for 300 Yen off the standard ticket price. Yes, Please!

1-Pay for online transactions

How do you reconcile a society that is largely cashed based with on that is all about technology? You want to make a purchase online, but many people (these gaigin included) don't have credit cards. Convenience stores to the rescue!

Many things from Plane tickets to Amazon orders can be paid for at the conbini. Recently we have had first hand experience with both of these services. Having done it both ways, I think I like the convenience store payment method the best.

Adventures in cooking: My first REAL lesson

2011-08-21T01:18:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, I wrote about a sample cooking class I took with S-Sensei to stretch my language and my Japanese cooking ability. I had such a great time I decided to sign up for 6 real lessons.

My first class was yesterday. And rather than ease myself into Japanese cooking gradually like a sane person would do, I learned to make udon noodles and various side dishes from scratch! Turns out everything we made was actually pretty easy to do. The most complicated part of the class was receiving instructions in Japanese. I did manage to pick up some new language concepts and words.

for example,

when your cooking instructor wants you to cut the dough in half, she says "han-bun".

when she wants it cut in quarters she says "yon-bun".

one spoon full is "ippai,"

two spoons full in "nihai".

I was very glad I retained my new words from the last class. "Mazete" is the command to stir, "guru-guru" means to turn around and around.

The other girls in the class were fun to chat with too. One of the girls kept asking me what various phrases meant in English. It was fun to share what little I could with them, since I was usually on the other end of the "how do you say this?" table.

The meal? It turned out beautifully! After we finished cooking, the other girls in the class and I sat down to enjoy the works of our hands.

How did it taste?

Can you guess?

A Slice of Life in Pictures: Evening Service

2011-08-08T20:12:00.000-07:00

Every Sunday night, between 7 and 9, our church meets downtown, near Hokkaido University, for evening service.

We hang out

We make dinner

We share a fantastic meal

and we study God's word is small groups.

If you're in the area, come on by and join us.

If you're not, please join us in spirit. :)

Only in Japan: Trash Day(s)

2011-08-01T18:21:00.000-07:00

Friday was trash day. Thursday night, we'd come home late from something or other, and if we were lucky, we'd remember to drag the can out to the curb. Most of the time I would wake to the tell-tale sounds of the garbage truck crashing and beeping down the street and roll over grumbling that we missed trash day this week. Oh well, there's still room in the can outside, we'll get it next week.

That was then, Before Japan. Now, our lives revolve around THE SCHEDULE and THE RULES. Trash day is no l day a week, it is everyday. And trash no longer is just casually tossed in the main garbage can, it must first be separated into categories and each type of trash thrown away on its specific day.

Before moving, I was made aware of The Schedule and The Rules, but I didn't know the full extent of the madness until we arrived.

The Schedule:

This is a picture of the garbage schedule for the year: color coded, and labeled. Why do we need this much detail in a garbage schedule? Just wait and see...

Trash must be separated into Burnable, non-burnable, plastic, recycling, cardboard, mixed paper and garden waste.

Plastics go out Mondays.

Burnables go out tuesdays and Fridays.

Recycling goes out Wednesdays.

Thursdays alternate between Mixed paper, garden waste, and non-burnables.

Cardboard gets taken to a collection site about a 2 minute walk away.

The Rules:

*Garbage collection is scheduled to occur each morning at 8:30, but will only every happen at 8:30 once in a blue moon, and only after you've gotten used to taking the trash down at 9. Usually on a burnable (smelly) trash day.

*You can not take trash out the night before. If you do, the crows will get to it and spread your garbage everywhere.

*You may not take your trash out the night before, even if your apartment building and a crow proof garbage cage. Why? Because it's the rule.

*If you forget to take down your garbage on the correct day you get to store it in your apartment until the next opportunity. Even if it's the 2nd week in a row you missed plastics-Monday. That's why you have a balcony, and a storage closet outside.

*If you neglect to separate your trash (and someone finds out) your bag will be left in the garbage cage with a red tag. You must then carry your trash back up to your apartment to resort and store it until the next opportunity. (Luckily, we've been spared the garbage walk of shame for the past 7 months.)

Adventures in cooking

2011-07-21T20:58:00.000-07:00

I love to cook. so much so that when asked by a colleague what I wanted to do to get into the community more I said join a cooking class, with out even a thought.

Of course, I had no idea how to go about FINDING a cooking class, much less signing up for one.

To my great joy and surprise, while wandering aimlessly through the underground shopping center at the train station, we walked straight into a cooking school, which just happened to be offering sample lessons!

In my best Japanese, I awkwardly asked for information about the class. S-Sensei ran back to the desk and brought me a floor guide to the shopping area.

"Yes, I know I'm in Passeo."

Let's try this again...

"I like to cook. I learn to cook?" (Yes, this is direct translation of my awkwardness, S-sensei deserves a raise for dealing with me!)

I was able to sign up for a class a few weeks later.

The class itself was really fun. After I got over my initial terror of having to learn something new in Japanese, I had a blast. S-Sensei was eager to practice her English with me, so between the two of us trying, we understood each other pretty well.

Here's the cake we made in the sample class.

Hands down, the funniest part of the class was making the whipped cream. As I learned from my mom, when whipped heavy cream first turns into whipped cream, and then into butter/buttermilk. So, when I was using the hand mixer on the whipped cream and saw it reach the proper consistency I asked S-Sensei, if it was okay. She said, "A little more." and walked away.

I watched the whipped cream start to develop chunks and gradually separate into butter and butter milk. But I kept the mixer going, because the teacher said, "a little more." Maybe she wanted me to make butter for the cake filling.

When she came back and saw the butter, she was quite surprised. Apparently she had never seen that happen before! (If you haven't seen it either, I recommend trying it out. Quite a fun cooking science experiment!)

Me, S-Sensei, and my beautiful cake (with second-try whipped cream filling)

I had a great time, and am excited to go again to another sample class that S-Sensei invited me to.

Sandi's Visit (With Pictures)

2011-07-11T19:30:00.000-07:00

We were honored to have Stephen's mom, Sandi, come visit us for 9 days at the end of June/beginning of July. We decided not to take vacation time, but rather to bring Sandi with us to teach English and use our time between classes and meetings to show her a bit of our new home in Hokkaido.

After traveling for 2 days( darn that international date line), She arrived in Hokkaido, Japan!

We had been talking about her visit in our English classes for a few weeks now. I think our students were as excited to have her here as we were! 2 women from our Thursday class in Chitose even dressed up in kimono for her to see!

Stephen was very excited to take his mom to his favorite ramen shop, Kiwami.

On Saturday, we took Sandi down town to see the big city! It's not Tokyo, but Sapporo still has lots to do and see.

Here's one view from the top of the famous TV Tower. If you could zoom in enough, you could see our house towards the hills in the back.

No trip to Sapporo would be complete without a picture in front of the Clock Tower.

Sunday, we brought her to our church to meet our friends.

then, Monday, we trecked out to Otaru to see the ocean.

little did we know, the ocean is not as accessable as we thought. After wandering for a few hours we found it!

We came home that evening to find that an English student left a gift for Sandi on our front door.

Before she left, the associate pastor, Akita Sensei, gave her a cake to thank her for visiting and taking part in English classes with us.

We are so glad we were able to share what we do with Stephen's mom in person!

A Year Without Slurpees

2011-07-11T04:15:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've posted, but it hasn't been from lack of blog fodder, that's for sure! I have a few post waiting in the wings, but before I get to them I wanted to remind all of you to celebrate free Slurpee day (if you are State-side). As always 7-11 celebrates our Anniversary by giving out free Slurpees to customers everywhere.

Wait, that's not right.

Oh, I mean we celebrate our anniversary by taking advantage of 7-11's name being the same as our anniversary date and their marketing campaign. Only, even though 7-11 is big here in Japan, there are no Sluprees to be found.

This year, after a wonderful anniversary lunch downtown, we treated ourselves to 7-11 brand...

iced teas.

When in Japan...

Here's to 3 wonderful years with married to my best friend!

Nato is a Four Letter Word.

2011-06-28T06:04:00.000-07:00

Want to know what the worst food in the world is? I introduce you to nato.

Nato is a fermented soybean dish usually served for breakfast in Japan. I had the misfortune to try it my first day here. I was still at the airport hotel, so I picked it up from the buffet line. It was in a cup with a sheet of plastic covering the top. Hmmmm that’s strange I said…. But then I soon figured why it was sealed. It smells like a combination of stinky feet, rotten cheese, and curdled milk. And who’d want that smell filling up the breakfast buffet line?

I tried to be a man about it. I ate about half before I could stand no more. It doesn’t look so bad at first, but when you scoop it to your mouth it starts to become stringy! I then made a vow that I would never eat Nato again.

That same day we met our host family and had a sushi dinner with them. I tried to sample each type. I remember one sushi roll looking a little different then the others. When I ate it I began to feel that sinking feeling, “what did I just put in my mouth”? The familiar taste started to wreak havoc in my mouth. It was a nato sneak attack! It was horrible.

Later that night, and this is absolutely true, I had nightmares about nato. I had dreams were I was being forced to eat it, and I was throwing it back up. I woke up from my dream feeling nauseous. And I have never recovered.

Every time I express my distaste for nato with Japanese people, they always respond with the rote phrase “ Oh, but its really healthy for you”! SO what! I’d rather live a short happy life, then a long life doomed by having to eat nato. Thank you.

Point cards: lessons in Japanese culture

2011-06-18T00:35:00.000-07:00

Japan loves point cards. Every store, most products, and even some vending machines have a point system of some sort. Apparently they are really helpful, and useful and what not. But this gaijin has NO IDEA how they work!

The bulk of my wallet is filled with point cards. Since I've been told they are really great, I signed up for the free point cards where I shop most often, where they give you the card with stamps every time you make a purchase so you might as well try to keep all the stamps on one card, and where getting point can get you cool stuff.

But, like I said before, I have no idea how they work.

I have the basics for getting points.

When you make a purchase the clerk asks, "do you have a point card." You respond, "Hai, motte imasu." and plop down your card.

Then you get your card back with your change. for my supermarket, book store, and Mister Donut cards the new point total is printed right on the card so I can know that I am 27 points away from my Mister Donut coffee mug (eep!).

(only 27 points away from ceramic awesomeness? must. eat. more. donuts.)

Other places, like our convenience store card, don't print our points on the card. In this case, I haven't the slightest idea how many points we have.

Which, I guess is really fine since my real problem is knowing how to redeem my points.

There is some kind of handy phrase you use you points like money (I think). Something like, "I want to use my points." Only, it's in Japanese.

Some places though, I think it involves going to a counter, using the secret phrase, and perhaps filling out a form of some sort.

(And possibly using these coupons the cashier at the supermarket keeps giving me.)

Then there is another beast.

Sticker points.

(I am not even going to bother figuring out this system.)

Yesterday, a student asked if we had point cards in the US like in Japan

Ummm, no. Well at least not like here.

What can go wrong will, and it will be hilarious!

2011-06-12T06:21:00.000-07:00

A lot can go wrong when you invite people over for dinner. Even with the planning things to the last detail, you can always expect SOMETHING to go wrong. When it does, you can choose to let it get you down, or laugh it off. We have chosen to laugh it off.

Last Saturday, we hosted our 3rd ever, 2nd-Saturday Friends dinner party in our small Japanese apartment. As always, it was an open invitation, no RSVP required. So, as always, we had no idea how many people would show up. Somewhere between 2 and 2 hundred. Because of this, we have decided more food is better than not enough, so I made hamburgers and potato salad to feed a small army.

Earlier in the day, I posted on FB that I bought every hamburger bun package at the supermarket near my home (6 4-packs). I didn't realize that the person I had asked to pick up buns from Costco would come through. I thought they had forgotten. When they arrived carrying 3 12 packs of buns I almost fell down laughing. We may not have enough patties or sides to feed that many, but by golly there will be buns!

13 people came, and there was enough food for second (which is the BEST compliment a cook can get!) and enough buns left over to keep our church freezer stocked for the next year.

Since, I'm in charge of the food, Stephen is in charge of the entertainment. This month he planned a multilingual game of pictionary. You may remember that our church represents 4 languages: Japanese, Chinese, Korean, English. Stephen wanted to make sure everyone felt included so he spent the day before using Google Translate to make pictionary cards with 4 languages on each.

Everyone got a kick out of the game and the cards. But when one girl started to draw the picture for the card that read "Tissue," I got really confused. Why is she drawing the world? Who are those people standing on it? Where is the box of tissues?

Turns out Google Translate is not the reliable. When Stephen entered the word tissue, it gave him the word for The World Health Organization in Japanese, Chinese, and Korean.

the more we played, the more reasons to double check the internet showed themselves.

Here's a short clip of the fun.

The final score!

In spite of, and because of the craziness we had a great evening. 13 guest (7 non-church members, 6 church-members) came, and everyone had fun. Many people were talking about coming next time, also. And I'm sure we'll have lots to laugh about then, too.

A little slice of Heaven

2011-06-01T05:51:00.000-07:00

Working in a Japanese church which is half-filled with international college students has it's own unique set of challenges and rewards.

Once we think we have some aspect of the Japanese culture down, we discover that it does not translate for Korean or Chinese students. Or, that what we thought was Japanese culture isn't really, but rather Chinese culture in a Japanese church.

We eat very well each Sunday. There is no chance of getting bored with the same thing every week. Whether it's snacks, dessert, or the meal itself, we are privileged to get to try a wide variety of Asian taste treat sensations. On the flip side: we have also been exposed to some rather strange foods and food combinations.

We often aren't quite sure what language someone is speaking. Now, we usually have a pretty good guess when it's English (although you'd be surprised how many times we weren't sure), but many times I think, is that Korean, or a new word I haven't heard yet?

I often reflect on these thing, but the internationalness of our church struck me again tonight. My group this evening at mid-week prayer consisted of me and two other girls. Not one of us was from the same country. And each of us prayed for the others in our own language. Listening to their prayers, I thought, this will be just like Heaven!

I'm glad that in addition to serving the Japanese in Sapporo, we have also been blessed with many international students. Even if it means Stephen has to eat silk worm pupa.

Japan Goes South of the Border

2011-05-22T17:37:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, a friend at church asked me if I could make lunch for the congregation on May 22nd. I think she was really telling me, more than asking me, but no worries cuz it sounded like fun.

I decided to make burrito bowls (Mexican rice bowls), since it was something no one had ever tasted. And I find that is a good thing when making food for so many. It really cuts down on the criticism and ups the compliments when they have no idea what it's supposed to taste like.

Burrito bowls are easy enough. Mexican rice in a rice cooker (and we have those a plenty here in Japan), Black beans, and shredded chicken in the crockpot.

I started the meal the night before. 3 bags of black beans soaking: Check. 6 chicken breasts, 2 packs of taco seasoning in the crockpot on low: check.

all night a slept fitfully, having nightmares the crockpot turned itself off, or the beans soaked up all the water and were now dry. thankfully, all was well in the morning . Chicken cooked, and beans ready to be boiled.

Making the rice at church was another adventure in itself. Making Mexican rice in a rice cooker was a new idea for all the ladies helping me in the church kitchen. It was an experience translating the directions in to broken Japanese and checking for accuracy in broken English. We must have understood more than we think, because the rice turned out beautifully.

With the beans on the stove and the rice in the cooker, I sat down to hear the message and wait til 12 when I would see if my hard work paid off.

"Interesting." was the statement I heard most. Typically not the thing a chef wants to hear about their food. To my great pleasure, the "interesting"s quickly turned to "delicious"s. The greatest compliment was the fact that there were barely 2 servings of beans left over, and no servings of anything else.

What did they do with the left over beans? They were brought to evening service for our meal there. but, not for the dinner portion. They were for dessert. They were an ice cream topping.

Let's let that sink in.

Black. Beans. On. Ice. Cream!

Have you ever had Mexican black beans over ice cream?

No?

Nor had I. Something about the garlic, chili powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder and beans doesn't exactly scream dessert topping to me.

Our pastor getting a big helping of beans for his ice cream

Our pastor got Stephen to try it by saying, "challenge." That's also how he ended up eating the silk worm pupa.

I tried and spoonful, and although they are not a vile as I would have thought, it was not my cup of tea.

Over all, it was a successful meal. And I learned some really important things about cooking for a large group. Namely always make something they've never seen before to guarantee good reviews, and never underestimate what Japanese think would be good for dessert.

So, next time you have black beans, don't forget the ice cream.

Challenge!

The Trials and Tribulations of Learning Japanese.

2011-05-16T23:29:00.000-07:00

Japanese is filled with English words said with a Japanese accent.

teburu (table)

ko-hi (coffee)

bah nah nah (banana)

takushi (taxi)

hanbah-gah- (hamburger)

Oren jee juu suu (orange juice)

And there are so many more. More times than I care to count, I have asked what to call something in Japanese and was told an English word. I've come to the conclusion, that if I can't think of the word in Japanese, I should just say it in English with an accent.

This love of English words does have it's downside though. When I try to order a caramel macchiato at Starbucks, I get blank stares unless I say "kya me ru ma ki ah to. " Even though the menu is written in English over the barista's head.

Or if when talking about our English class, I mention the text book and no one can seem to figure out what I am talking about. But then some light bulb goes off and some one says, "Ohh, the tekisuto." and now, miraculously everyone knows EXACTLY what I'm talking about.

This past week, Japanese English kicked my butt again.

At church last week, Sunday, the pastor was saying something about Tohoku, and our church going to "BorAntia."

Hmm, Borantia must be the city in Tohoku where they are serving.

But 3 days later, a non-church member was talking to me about BorAntia Japanese classes. And how I should take one. And how a mutual friend went to BorAntia in Tohoku.

Huh, is BorAntia a university, or an organization that does both Japanese classes and tsunami relief? Just nod and smile.

The next day, I was asked by a church member if Stephen and I were going to BorAntia in Tohoku.

It wasn't until Friday that I figured out that people were not saying the name of some city of organization. They were saying "BorAntia" the Japanese way to pronounce "Volunteer".

Our church went to volunteer in Tohoku, and my friend was suggesting volunteer Japanese classes that were held at a community center.

So, this week I have learned that in order to learn Japanese, I must relearn English.

2 months since the 'quake

2011-05-11T01:28:00.000-07:00

Today marks 2 months since the great Tohoku quake.

March 11th will live forever in the minds of Japanese, especially those who have been directly affected by the tsunami that followed.

Last week, 8 people from our church went to Tohoku to take food and serve in any way they could. Together with 12 other people from the Hokkaido Christian Ministry Network (Hokkumin), they prepared meals, cleaned out peoples mud filled homes, and listened to people's stories.

When the students shared their experiences last Sunday, one theme kept emerging.

"There is still so much to be done!"

Progress has been made. The roads are reopening for non-emergency vehicles. Debris has been removed from some areas. Gasoline is no longer being rationed and hoarded. Yet, as one student commented, "it looks like the Tsunami just happened."

It will take time for Tohoku residents to go back to life as usual. One of the concerns, as reported by a church member, is that people will forget about what is still a reality for those living in the tsuamni affected area.

I am glad that our church as plans to return to the same area. I hope those they are serving will see Christ in them.

New Traditions

2011-04-26T23:18:00.000-07:00

Everyone has their Easter traditions. Church, brunch, egg hunt, family time, everyone has their own special way to celebrate the rising of the Savior. We were eager and excited to see what Sapporo EV Free had planned.

Usually after church we eat a meal together, often prepared by one or two women from the church. This weekend we would have a potluck. After a wonderful Easter message (and I know it was wonderful, because our friend K translated for us!), everyone got to work to get the potluck ready.

I have never seen so many people in our church's kitchen. Everyone was busy putting the finishing touches on their dishes, and bringing trays, bowls, and plates into the sanctuary.

Would you believe that THIS was not all of the food!?

In the forefront you can see the cookies my friends helped me make. (Side note: have you ever seen someone eat a sugar cookie with chopsticks? I have, and it is hilarious!)

After singing our food prayer song, everyone filled up a plate and found a seat and a few friends to chat with.

In our church, the sanctuary serves as a multipurpose room. To make it extra festive for our Easter potluck, the pastor's wife asked Stephen to draw Rabbits, Eggs, and Basket for the walls.

Here's a pic of Stephen posing with one of his rabbits. (He was making bunny ears. )

The room was lively with conversations. And Everyone was snapping pictures with their friends.

Here I am with 3 awesome ladies from Ch!n@ who are a part of our church family.

I was surprised to find out that our pastor's wife had organized games for the whole group to play after lunch was cleaned up.

Our first game involved trying to get a group of 3 people to fit on a piece of newspaper that got folded in half for each new round. I fell down early, so I was able to snap some action shots of the other groups.

Here's Stephen and his group. They lasted much longer than me and my group did.

Here is a shot of the winning group implementing some serious strategy!

The next game was like the old American game, whose got the button. We passed, or pretended to pass a game chip down a line of people, and the other teams had to guess who really had it.

I probably should have been paying more attention, like everyone else in the room.

The final game was really fun, but totally unfair for the group that had the two Americans. (Our apologies to team "Rice".) It was a version of "Telephone" that involved writing the word on your neighbor's back. But the word was Japanese, and written in Hiragana.

Here's Stephen trying to write うさぎ (Usagi- Rabbit) on his neighbor's back. If you couldn't guess, our team lost.

We had a great time with our church family this Easter. Can't wait 'til next year!

Happy Easter, From the Borbas!

Easter Cookies

2011-04-23T04:02:00.000-07:00

Today, I had the most fun since coming to Japan. 4 women from church and/or English class came over to make cookies for the Easter Potluck. I thought making cookies would be the perfect excuse to have these ladies (not all of whom knew each other) over to hang out grow in friendship. So, I broke out all of my cookie cutters (minus the snowflakes and candy-cane shapes) & 9 bottles of sprinkles, threw a plastic sheet on top of my table, kicked Stephen out for a few hours, and let the ladies have at it.

While we backed and decorated we chatted about anything and everything. In English, Japanese, and even a little Korean too.

We were even able to tell my new friend and Japanese teacher, M, a little about Easter.

Did the ladies have fun?

I'll let you be the judge.

Here're the finished products.

The sprinkles from America were definitely a big hit. Can you tell?

While we waited for the icing to dry, we drank coffee, looked at albums, and played Mario Kart on the Wii.

I can't wait to find another reason to have these ladies over again!

Our new Friend, Sophia Toyota

2011-04-20T05:58:00.000-07:00

Stephen and I made a new friend. Her name in Sophia Toyota. And we love her!

Ok, You've got me, Sophia Toyota is our new (to us) car. But we really do love her.

After some practice driving with the pastor's daughter, pastor's wife, and the pastor himself, the key's to their family's extra car were handed over to us to drive while we're working for their church.

Because Stephen's not covered under their auto insurance until his birthday (in two weeks), I am the only Borba allowed to drive her for the time being.

Let me tell you, driving in Japan is terrifying! In theory, it's the exact same thing as driving in the States, only on the other side of the car, and the other side of the road, and with Japanese street signs, and Japanese traffic rules. So really, it's a whole new ball game.

To date, I've driven 6 times, with no talking or radio allowed. And the whole time I am chanting reminders to myself. "Driver in the middle." " tightleft, tightleft, tightleft." " wiiiiide right, wiiiide right."

Look Ma, no hands!

Just kidding. I think there may be finger shaped indentations at 10 and 2 on the steering wheel.

But really, I was mentally prepared for all of that. So here are the top three things that have surprised be about driving in Japan.

3-The blinker and windshield wiper controls switched sides as well. It is quite funny when I try to turn on my left blinker and the wipers turn on full force in stead.

2-Everyone backs into their parking spots. EVERYONE! So far I have been blessed with the kind of spots that have two open spots facing each other. I've been pulling forward, yet there is no evidence of my lameness.

1-The center dividing line, you know the yellow line that tells you which side of the road to be on. Well here, that yellow line is WHITE. And not always solid white either! sometimes it is a white dashed line, like the kind that means both lanes of traffic go the same way, and feel free to cross over this lane into another, or possibly One-Way Road: feel free to drive on either side.

White-dashed line! Japan, why must you confuse me so?

lessons and pictures from Second Saturday Friends

2011-04-09T23:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked the first open house event in our home. Each month, we will make dinner and dessert and open our home to our students and friends. We had a blast last night playing and eating with our new friends.

Here are 5 things I learned last night, and some pictures as well.

1-Go fish is hilarious to play with adults who have never heard of it before.

2-We can fit more people into our apartment than I thought.

3-Card tricks and weird human tricks are universally cool.

4-Never underestimate the power of Betty Crocker Brownies and vanilla ice cream.

5-We are surrounded by awesome people!

Looking forward to next month!

Yet another reason we need to learn more Japanese

2011-04-02T23:32:00.000-07:00

A lot of things can happen when you don't know a language. You might be asked up in front of the church to be introduced as the new missionaries, with no foreknowledge (so that's why our name was in the bulletin every week with today's date next to it!). You may spend all afternoon preparing for the Jr high boy who is coming to your English class, and be quite surprised when a 31 year-old woman walks through the doors instead. You might even find your self a member of the Easter Choir, even though you have no prior singing experience.

A few weeks ago, we were hanging out after church, just like every week. When a church member starts rearranging chairs and and states ".....masho," which means let's.... (I didn't catch the rest of the verb, so I had no idea when I was agreeing to.) Just nod and smile and follow their lead.

The church member, M, hands out a song sheet, "Lord I lift your name on High," and has me read the English portion for the group.

I'm more than happy to help out. I figure they are just practicing a song for next week, and want to make sure they are singing the English portion correct. So, I model the words and sing along after we've read through it a couple of times.

Then the weird part came. M started assigning parts. Wow, this seems like a lot of work for an English song in a Japanese church, but whatever. I keep singing and figure that since M is in a choir, he is just having some fun with us. cool.

It wasn't until the next week, when we not only didn't sing the song during service, but then after service, prepared the chairs and handed out the papers, did I realize this wasn't just some song for fun.

We got tricked into singing in the Easter Choir!

Check out Stephen struggling though. He didn't know when we were getting into either.

I must say, after the initial shock, It has been kind of fun. I am still not sure what the Japanese part is saying, or what note I am supposed to be singing. You mean I can't just sing it how I want? I am thankful that Japanese is phonetic. And that there are much better singers on either side of me, who sing much louder that I do.

The "Number 2"

2011-03-24T00:37:00.000-07:00

There are basically 3 hair cuts in Japan.

(1)Long, (2) short and (3)REALLY short

After my first trip to the hair salon, I am now the "proud" owner of cut number 2.

Now, I didn't walk into the hair salon with the intention of having 1/2 of my hair chopped off. Nor did I expect to have bangs when I walked out, but here I am.

After been in Japan for about 7 weeks, I decided I needed a hair cut. Nothing fancy, just chopped at my collar bone, with a few layers. I asked my English-speaking neighbor where I could get a cut. She pointed to a sign down the street that read "Ka-to" (cut).

The shop was very close. Less than a 2 minutes walk. Inside, the hair dresser was working on two ladies at once: one getting a perm, and the other just finishing up a hair cut. I was able to have a seat quickly and explain in my broken Japanese, and her Broken English, along with a lot of hand motions, that I wanted my hair cut to here (points to collar bone). "Layers?" She asks me. Horray, I was worried how I would explain that. "yes," I say emphatically, "a few."

As she is piling the hair on my head to begin, the lady who just stood up makes a comment about gaijin (foreigner) hair and comes over to feel mine.

Once she goes, the hair dresser and I start up a long converstation filled with short sentences like "I come from California. Where do you come from?" "I like to cook." "I teach English." Only in Japanese. Mixed with random English from her.

A bit later, she shows me myself in the mirror. My hair had been cut to the right length, but no layers. If she hadn't have suggested it, I would not have asked. "Layers?" I ask.

"Ok" comes the reply. And she proceed to lift up random pieces of hair and start chopping. My hair is getting shorter by the second. I work hard to mask the panic from showing on my face. When she is finished, she hands me the mirror again, and I notice I now have bangs (something I haven't had since I was 9!).

Thanking her, I paid and rushed home.

I am starting to appreciate my new hair cut, but am continuing in my montra of "hair grows."

I think I'll go back to her again, at least once more. But next time with a picture of what I want.

Enjoy the "after" photos.

Doctor and Dinner with "S"

2011-03-21T23:33:00.000-07:00

For those who know, I have a very temperamental nose. With my sinus problems and allergies I have been sneezing up to 15 times in a row. I decided to go to the doctor to see if I could find some remedy, but alas so much paperwork and my Japanese is not as good as I want it to be. Luckily my friend who I had made on the bus last month was available. This kind old gentlemen "S" picked me up in front of my apartment complex and drove me to the Nishioka Hospital. He translated for me, while I filled out paperwork. Then my name was submitted and we waited.

The Japanese hospital visit was quite the experience. While we were waiting, a nurse stopped by my chair and handed me a thermometer. While "S" was conversing with the nurse. I almost put it in my mouth, how embarrassing would that have been... it turns out I needed to put it in my arm pit. I am hard of hearing anyway, so when "S" was trying to explain this to me, the nurse just started unbuttoning my shirt and stuck the thermometer in my armpit. The nurses were all business here.

The Hospital layout was very strange to me. Connected to the waiting room were the patient rooms that were numbered in Huge Print "1, 2, 3, and 4" on the Doors. It was like a game show, what was behind door number 3? Apparently my doctor was, in a tiny little room. I just had to hope and pray that "S" was accurately translating what I was describing. When the doctor asked me to lift up my shirt to take my pulse, my half second hesitation was obviously too long, and him and the nurse started pulling up my shirt for me. Now that's service!

I was prescribed some medicine for I hope the symptoms I told the doctor and I was out the door. On the way back, I invited "S" to join me and my wife for dinner at my apartment. He gladly accepted. At 6 o'clock we served chicken soup and garlic bread, which "S" was a big fan of. We talked about our experiences in Japan, and "S" shared with us about the Chinese writing system and how Japan adopted it. We were able to teach him the card game "Go Fish" which went over very well. He had some surprising moments when he was asked for the card he had been asking for, and was at first reluctant to give over his card. Lots of laughs.

He stayed over until about 11:00pm. The night had gone very well, with lots of laughter and sharing. Usually Japanese people are very time conscious, I think he did not want the night to end. "S" is a very kind man, and he was very helpful to me, I hope as I get to know him better that we can speak of spiritual things over the dinner table. Pray that God would open that door.

3rd Person P.O.V.

2011-03-21T17:40:00.000-07:00

I haven't been posting nearly as much as I would like. ( I know, that is always my lament)

With the Earthquke & Tsunami, and now the relief efforts, I feel that I have no new information to give to the conversation. When I get a free minute, I am reading blogs of other missionaries, on the island of Honshu (where the "action" is happening), as well as news articles and I feel that all I can do is repost what they have already so eloquently said.

Here on Hokkaido (The Northern most island), life for the most part is as normal as it has been. There are people here who are trying to find family members, and there are small teams from various churches heading into the disaster zones to give relief, but for the most part life is normal. We are not suffering from lack of food or heat; we are not homeless; we are not fearing radiation; we are not having rolling blackouts to conserve energy.

That being said, there is A LOT going on in Japan right now.

A team from our mission is currently in Sendai, setting up base camps for relief work to be done, and distributing (90 tons of) supplies donated from Samaritan's Purse.

Our Tokyo missionaries are partnering with CRASH Japan, to help register volunteers. Once the main flood of relief from abroad is out of the spot light, organizations like CRASH will keep working in the shadows, making sure the devastated are being cared for with Christ's love.

Next week, our pastor and 3-4 college guys, are heading into Sendai to work with food for the hungry. Pastor Kaji has connections in Sendai through his denomination, and has been talking about going down to help them as soon as the tsunami hit.

Because, the best I can give you is a 3rd person point of view, here are some links to people far more informed than I.

The Asian Access Blog. This is updated frequently with articles from all of our missionaries and leadership. It's a great place to find out what is happening in Japan.

The Blog of one missionary family near Osaka. The Husband is on the team of our missionaries delivering aid to Sendai and preparing base camps.

The Blog of another missionary family near Tokyo. The Wife is volunteering with CRASH, and the family has connections to the Tsunami affected area.

CRASH Japan is the relief organization Asian Access is partnering with to distribute aid.

Food For the Hungry is the organization our Church in Sapporo is working with when they head to Sendai on Monday.

reflections on the Tsunami

2011-03-14T21:15:00.001-07:00

Since the first earthquake on Friday, and the follow tsunami, I have been struggling to process the events. We've been getting many e-mails and facebook messages from concerned friends and family. I am so grateful to have so many people praying and checking in with us. My first job was to make sure everyone knew we were alive. Since that has been established, and we are finally back home, I feel I can finally process "out loud" as it were.

At first, when the earth quake struck, I thought it was a joke. I knew it was a real earthquake of course, but I thought it was fun and novel. Even though I am from California, I have never really felt an earthquake.

Then, it just kept going.

Then, it got stronger.

Yet, there was no damage done to our group, or the buildings.

It wasn't until we gathered around the news channel that the realness hit me. Reports of Tsunami, images of people gathered on roof-tops waving towels, cars floating down the road followed by fishing boats. This was major. Something had begun in Japan.

Our mission family, was glued to the news, watching the footage and praying for physical & spiritual rescue.

That next morning, at 4:02AM, we experienced another quake, this time from Nagano, the very same prefecture we were in.

I am not sure hoe many aftershocks there were that morning. I am sure my mind invented a few of them. Between the aftershocks and anxiety, I couldn't fall back asleep. My mind was racing with a thousand senarios all involving fleeing the building.

where were my socks, and shoes; could I get my shoes on fast enough to escape if there was another quake or should I run out into the snow barefoot; where was my jacket; should I get up and pack a bag; where's my waterbottle......

In my anxiety, I heard God say, "Put on your socks."

(Me) "What? Why? How would that even help?"

"If your socks are on, it will be easier to get your shoes on if you need to escape. If your socks are on, you can rest."

It seemed odd, but I grabbed my socks, put them on, and fell asleep within seconds.

God knew I would be safe, that the building would not fall, but that I needed something tangable to set my worries aside.

I've been reflecting on Psalm 46:1-3 these past few days.

God is our refuge and strength

an ever present help in trouble;

therefore, we will not fear,

though the earth give way

and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,

though its waters roar and foam

and the mountains quake with their surging.

Selah (pause and consider)"

Although there is much turmoil here; God is our refuge, strength, and help.

There is much to be done here: much prayer, much labor. Yet, God is our refuge, strength, and help.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If you are interested in giving to the relief work to be done, Asian Access is collecting funds to be used in the relief efforts for Japan, directing them through our local network of churches in the affected area where we have had ongoing relationships.

CRASH is also collecting donations.

We encourage you to give through one of these organizations, because we know the funds will be used to directly impact the lives of the Japanese people, through the local churches in Tohoku.

My new pastime...

2011-03-05T16:23:00.001-08:00

so, because immediately after promising more blog posts, I got sick and had no desire to sit and write the post I indented on, here's another great (but short one).

When I'm out and about around town, there is always one thing that can brighten my day and make me laugh, guaranteed: Japanglish!

If you have spent any time in Japan, watch any Japanese TV shows, or know anyone in Japan, you probably have encountered Japanglish before. If you haven't let me introduce you to my newest form of entertainment.

Here are two children's T-shirts I saw the other day at the store.

sometimes Japanglish is grammatically correct, just something that is so unusual. Like...

I'm not sure about you, but I wouldn't want my kid walking around in a shirt that says "need love"

sometimes it is just a mash of English words that, when put together, mean nothing. Like this one...

one month (and counting) + Our church family

2011-03-01T21:37:00.000-08:00

We've been here in Sapporo for 1 month and 2 days. Since touching down, we have been super busy with all the things that are involved in setting up a life in a different country. (I seriously didn't realize how many things needed to be done, and I am discovering new things everyday.) That coupled with lack of internet in our home has meant that this blog has been sorely laking updates. For that, I apologize.

But now, even though the to-do list is only getting longer, we have internet in our home, which means I can blog! (I also apologize, especially to Tim, for that horrible run-on sentence, and for this one too. :P )

But as is usually the case, since we have been away from the blogging world for so long, there are too many things to share. So, rather than write one loooooooooong post; I'l write a few short ones.

So here is the first of a few installments: Our Church Family

As you know, if you have read this post, we are serving with Sapporo EV Free Church. Before we got here we only knew that they had a vision to reach college students in the area. I didn't realize they already were a congregation of primarily college students. Looking around on a sunday, you would be hard pressed to find a person over 30 (other than the pastors.) Another fun surprise was that a good portion of this church is international students from places like Ch*n*, and Korea.

We are having a great time getting to know these students each Sunday. We have especially liked the meal and hang out time between morning and evening services. I have never been at a church where people hang out for hours after church has gotten out. Those of you in American churches know what I mean right? After grabbing some goodies from the snack table, everyone jets out to do their own thing on Sunday mornings. It was a big surprise to learn that most sundays students hang out in the sanctuary; playing games and chatting.

Stephen asked one of the students why they hang out each Sunday. This student said, "There are not many places we can be ourselves." It's great to hear that we are at a church where people come, not only to worship, but because it is a place where they feel free to be who they really are; without pretense or facade.

it's been too long!

2011-02-15T18:43:00.000-08:00

Sorry I'm so lame about updating you all about the past few weeks in Sapporo. We are still without internet, but I have decided to blog a bit from church before I run some errands.

Our first week, we were staying with the M Family. They have 2 young daughters and Stephen had a lot of fun playing with the youngest girl, F.

As hard as it was for Stephen to leave behind his new friend, we're really glad to still be in the same city, and look forward to hanging out with their family in the future.

We moved into our apartment last week and are still in the process of getting settled in. Everything here is a feet to accomplish. Even buying groceries takes a serious amount of brain power. I am glad to have things more set up than a few days ago, and look forward to making more progress as the weeks go on.

Sunday, we attended our first services at our church in Sapporo. The congregation is very young, mostly college students. We felt very welcomed at all three campuses. I didn't feel right taking pictures our first day. But I will post some as soon as I get them.

Monday, is couples day for Stephen and me. The past few sundays we were able to take the subway or bus to see some of the sights. Last Monday, we saw the Sapporo Snow Festival.

Valentines day, we went to the Maruyama zoo.

(we made it) lessons from traveling

2011-01-30T13:14:00.001-08:00

It's 6 AM here in Sapporo. I've been up for a few hours due to some super fun jet lag. But, what a great chance to let you all know that we've arrived here safely, right?

After 24 hours of being awake, 19 of travel, 3 airports, 3 different security checkpoints, customs, and immigration I have learned somethings.

1-american sizes for carry-ons do not equate to Japanese standard sizes for carry-ons. and if you try to shove your american carry-on into a japanese plane, the stewardess will make you feel very stupid and embarrassed.

2-Traveling in snow-boots and heavy parkas should be avoided. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad I wore them rather than used 1 whole suitcase for them, but it definitely got me some strange looks everywhere I was (until getting here).

3-Choose airports wisely, If you fly through LAX from a domestic to an international flight, they will make you chance terminals and go through security for the second time in 3 hours.

4- don't wear white when traveling if you have trouble eating and drinking while stuck in an airplane seat. (Thank you Sandi for the Tide Pen!)

5-However well intentioned you are to take pictures while traveling, if you are overloaded with a parka and all your carry-ons, you won't. (hence the lack of pictures, sorry)

We had a great night sleep, and are heading out with our supervisor, Tim, to start some necessary paperwork and such.

We will be in and out, but should have internet access from time to time.

If you would like to contact us, our emails, kborba@asianaccess(dot)org sborba@asianaccess(dot)org , would be easiest.

Also, I'll be checking skype. My name is katborba. And our skype phone number is 1.559.477.4433.

Have a great day! God Bless!

The Final Count Down

2011-01-26T09:38:00.000-08:00

3 more days until we head to Japan. We have been running around seeing everyone and doing everything (it seems). Here are our last few days in picture diary form.

Friday 1/21 (T-8 days)

Packing up our Shipment of Boxes to Japan.

I am glad to say all 14 boxes are now on a ship heading for Japan.

Saturday 1/22 (T-7 days)

Moving Sale!

We had a pretty good turn out at our moving sale.

We were able to sell/ give away 90% of the stuff we didn't pack.

When we advertised "everything must go" we meant it. Even the dog got picked up.

Here I am with biscuit's Auntie Beth.

Sunday 1/23 (T- 6 days)

We were prayed for at church, I only have pictures of the HS group version though.

After that, we went to lunch with friends and then over to another friends house to hang out.

Surprise! Our Bible Study friends had been planning a party all along.

Monday 1/24 (T- 5 days)

(paperwork day, I'm sure you don't want to see pictures of that)

Tuesday 1/25 (T-4 days)

Had a BBQ with Stephen's friends from Modesto.

(To be continued)

giving up mascara

2011-01-20T09:59:00.000-08:00

I think I need to give up mascara, at least for this next week. When I cry, I become a mascara panda: big circles of black surrounding my eyes.

This is a week of goodbyes.

Truthfully, they started 2 weeks ago with my cat and my best friend.

Followed by my two good friends from college.

But, this week (and a half) is the big one.

Tonight is my dad, granny and grandpa.

Tomorrow night is Stephen's dad.

Saturday is our dog and our house.

Sunday is two sets of our Bible study friends.

And so it goes, until Saturday morning when we will say good bye to our moms. (Who should probably give up mascara too. At least for that day)

All of this sadness is tempered with joy. Some one asked me the other day how I was feeling about moving to Japan so soon. I said I feel like I am swinging wildly between total excitement and utter depression. I think that sums it up nicely. It is a joy to get to serve the Lord in Japan. I am thrilled to meet our pastor. I light up just thinking about having the college students over to our house and making it a place of rest for them.

On the other hand, I am really going to miss my family and friends and church and house and pets and mexican food and HS Group and... and... and...

But God promises:

everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. (Mt 19:29)

Please pray for us as we are saying our goodbyes here and our hellos in Japan.

the latest from the whirl-wind

2011-01-15T16:40:00.000-08:00

Our lives these past few weeks have been a blur (which is starting to seem like a trend). For those of you who haven't heard, we got our certificate of eligability last week. Since then, every spare second has been filled. This is the first chance I am having to sit down to blog. After hearing word that the Certificate was coming, we have been hard at work sorting out every little detail.

We drove to Portland to give our cat, Marzipan, and our car, Norman, to my friend Theresa.

It was a loooooooong drive, but it was great to see our Portland friends.

Dropping of Marzipan was really hard, but I am glad that she has a new family who loves her. She also seems to really love Theresa's bed, which should help the transition.

While we were in Portland, I booked a moving company AND purchased our plane tickets to Japan. We are leaving Saturday 1/29/10 at 8:14 AM. We arrive in Sapporo Sunday 1/30/10 at 8:40 PM. That gave us three weeks (now only two) to get everything sorted out.

When we got home from Portland, we took all our paper work to San Francisco to apply for our Visa. We took at least 10 wrong turns, passed up 5 parking garages, and arrived just in time to hear, "I'm sorry, the office is closing for lunch in 2 minutes. Please come back in 1 hour."

URG!

Luckily we found a place to hang out, eat lunch and finish our paperwork.

After finally getting to the window, the man helping us whited-out 1/2 of the information we wrote down. He was also very concerned that one of the addresses we included was a residence and not a business. We assured him that our supervisor works out of his home, so it was both.

He gave us a receipt to pick up our Visas on Tuesday (1/18) if there were no problems or questions. They have since called to tell us it will be ready Wednesday (1/19). Please pray they don't call tomorrow or Tuesday to extend the date.

Now, we are working on packing up our house. The goal is to be out of this place by Saturday, then go stay with our friends from church.

Looking back (and forward)

2010-12-31T16:27:00.000-08:00

What a gift it is to be able to look back on a year with thanksgiving. We truly had a wonderful year in 2010, and are anticipating another one in 2011.

Here's a look back at some of the reasons 2010 was a fantastic year, as well as some prayers for 2011.

We were able to be a the weddings of 4 of our friends/family, and meet 3 of our friends' new babies!

We were surprised with a puppy, Biscuit, who adopted us this past March.

We were able to spend our last Christmas in the states (for a while) with our families.

The decision was made to place us in Sapporo, Japan with Sapporo Evangelical Free Church with Pastor Kaji and his family (who we are very excited to meet!)

This coming year, we are looking forward to meeting our new church family in Sapporo, learning more and more and more Japanese, and ministering to our neighborhood in Japan.

Please pray with us that

-Our paperwork would be okayed and come through the proper channels quickly.

-That we would transition to life in Japan well.

-That God would prepare a special place for us with in our church and neighborhood.

Blessings to you and your family on this Eve of the New Year!

Packing break

2010-12-15T12:58:00.000-08:00

Packing is hard.

My brain is about to explode.

I am currently sitting with all of our stuff trying to decide what the bare minimum of stuff we should bring from America for 3 years in Japan.

It is even harder than it sounds.

And the poor cat thinks she is coming too.

On the plus side, we were able to sell our couches and are putting the money towards the "warm clothes fund." The down side of that is we now have nowhere to sit.

Ok. Back to work.

Church Profile

2010-12-11T09:26:00.000-08:00

Sapporo Evangelical Free Church

and

Adonai International Church

Hokkaido, Japan

Partnering with Asian Access through the Church Planting Associate Ministry

Pastor

Rev. Tsutomu Kaji, pictured above with his wife, Yoshiko, at a recent pastors' marriage conference. The Kajis have two daughters and two sons, all in their twenties. The Kaji family lives in the Sapporo church building with three of their children.

History

When the Evangelical Free Church of Japan celebrated its fiftieth anniversary 11 years ago, denominational leaders sounded the call for someone to move to the northern island of Hokkaido to pioneer new work. The Kajis responded to that call and moved. Since then Pastor Kaji has planted two churches. The two congregations’ membership now totals 43; weekly worship attendance averages 55. They have started outreach in a third location, near Sapporo station, where they want to plant their next church.

Vision

Years ago when they prayed for property in Sapporo, the Lord surprised the Kajis with a building right next to a university. In prayer they discerned God leading them to reach out to university students. Many students have come to Christ through the church members and short-term teams from Korea and the US. Pastor Kaji wants to expand this work through Asian Access missionaries, and is thankful the missionaries coming are much closer to the students in age than the Kajis are!

Before retiring in about ten years the Kajis want to complete their third and fourth Hokkaido church plants, reach many more for Christ and raise up the next pastor. As a step toward these goals, an assistant pastor will begin working with them in 2011, and will live in the Adonai Church building (about 45 minutes from the Sapporo location).

Denomination

Evangelical Free

Location

Sapporo, Japan’s 5^th largest city with 1.9 million people

Chitose, a city near Sapporo

Ministry Plans

The Kajis have used English classes to reach people throughout their decades of ministry. Mrs. Kaji teaches children’s classes. The Kajis have not been able to have regular adult classes in recent years because there’s been no one to teach. They look forward to restarting this ministry and reaching, through the Borbas’ English classes, many university students and others in the neighborhood. They look forward to having the Borbas involved in their church plant with students and young adults near Sapporo Station, and to seeing how God will use the Borbas’ artistic abilities to enrich the church and create new relationship opportunities with non-Christians.

Partnership with Asian Access

Hokkaido Church Multiplication Network, 2008-2011

Summer ministry with short-term teams, 2009-2010

Area Coordinator's Comments

When Asian Access first began discussing new missionaries arriving in 2011, I thought, “We definitely need to place someone at Sapporo Evangelical Free.” I’m thrilled God has clearly confirmed His leading that Stephen and Kathryn Borba serve there.

The Kajis are harvest-focused and have a uniquely strong commitment to church planting. I’ve been impressed that they never get hung up on problems or challenges but keep their focus on what God is doing and what they pray He will do.

Once I commented to Pastor Kaji, “It’s too bad so many of the university students you lead to Christ move away after graduation.” His reply reflected his kingdom focus: “It’s O.K. We make sure they get well-grounded in the Word before they go, and then we find each a good church in the new location.” In that conversation and others, I’ve seen Pastor Kaji’s clear commitment to God’s kingdom work, not solely to building up his own church.

I once heard Pastor Kaji share with other pastors, “We want our weekly prayer meetings not to simply take members through the scheduled things: worshiping, reading the Bible, praying. We want our members to truly experience God’s presence.”

I look forward to seeing the Lord allows Stephen and Kathryn to experience His presence in new ways through ministry in Sapporo, and how He uses them to help many more people become followers of Christ in this country where more than 99% of the people remain unreached.

Tim Clark

Tim and Wakako Clark,

Asian Access Area Coordinators, Hokkaido

Pastor and Mrs. Kaji at the Sapporo Church with friends from the US.

Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow...

2010-12-03T08:46:00.000-08:00

Last night, after many prayers, many months, and some more prayers, a decission was made about our placement in Japan.

Stephen and I will be serving with the Evangelical Free Church of Sapporo in Hokkaido, JP. We've been told the pastor, Kaji Sensei, is a visionary leader. His first church in Sapporo has already multiplied into two, and soon they will be working on their third.

One of the things we are most excited about is that the main church is located across the street from a university, and one of our ministries will be to college students. I'm already planning game nights for students I haven't even met yet!

As far as timing goes, it is looking like mid-January, although exact dates have not been set yet. At that point we will go into a 2 month language study period, and will begin officially working with the EV Free of Sapporo in March (after the A2 Staff retreat).

I'll keep you all updated about timelines. And I will let you know more about the church soon.

Thanks for your continued prayers. Our Lord has been and will continue to be faithful.

Blessings,

Kathryn

On your mark...

2010-11-15T20:13:00.000-08:00

For those of you following the support raising saga.

-We are at 90% of our monthly pledges as of my writing this. Only 10% away from full support!

AND...

-A few weeks ago we received word that the Japan office had sent in our paperwork for our certificate of eligibility. This was of course followed quickly by our introduction to Japanese bureaucracy.

Turns out by include a standard passport photo (2x2 in), The Japanese government actually meant include a weirdly sized passport style photo (30 x 40 mm). After finding this out we searched Fresno for the only photo lab that would custom print passport photos. Thank you Fotech labs! We love you. Before the end of the week, we had the new photos in, and the C.O.E. process officially began.

Please keep this process in your prayers. Getting our C.O.E could take anywhere from 1 to 2 months, depending on how fast the Japanese government processes the paperwork. Once it is issued, we will have 90 days to be in Japan before it expires.

If, Then

2010-10-06T09:57:00.000-07:00

If you cross your eyes, Then they will stick that way.

If it is raining, Then you will need an umbrella.

If you give a mouse a cookie, Then he'll want a drink of water...

If, then statements have been ruling our lives and our schedules. It is quite hard to make plans when you don't know what the next months hold. Likewise, it is hard to get people excited about the future when the details are uncertain.

In the realm of future ministry in Japan, future moving plans, future plans with family; If-Then's have been the only thing we can plan on. I would like to share, in general, where we are and what our time line looks like at this time through the lens of our if's and then's.

For those of you (like me) who like to deal in certainties, actualities, and dates; I am sorry, welcome to our world.

As of writing this we are at 76% in monthly support commitments.

If we reach 85% in monthly support commitments, Then we can leave, at most, 3 months after that point.

SO, If that happens in Late October, then we will leave in Late January.

If that happens in Mid-November, then we will leave in Mid-February.

If that happens in Late November, Then we will leave in Late February.

The amount of time it takes between getting to 85% and getting on a plane for Japan depends on how long it takes to get a certificate of eligibility to work in Japan, and how quickly the rest of our support comes in.

So, If it takes 1 month to get the Certificate of eligibility, and our remaining support comes in quickly, Then we can leave earlier.

If it takes 2 months to get the certificate of eligibility, and our remaining support comes in slowly, Then we will leave later.

the Japanese Yen is at an all time high against the Dollar, which mean that the Dollar has less purchasing power in Japan. This has effected our support ( we were at 80% before the Yen jumped).

So, If the Yen lowers back to normal, Then we will be closer to reaching our goals, and leaving for Japan.

If the Yen stays where it is, Then we will continue to raise support to make up for the decreased purchase power of the Yen.

Please pray with us that God would continue to orchestrate our plans and that we would be content to trust Him for each new day.

Surprise Fruit

2010-09-15T10:36:00.000-07:00

There is one very important thing you should know about me: I have the blackest thumb on this planet. I have succeeded in killing any plant I set out to grow. My roommate from college can attest to the rosemary bush that went bald on one side and then turned brown and died. My husband can give you the list of potted plants I thought would be fun to grow, then only to end up with a pot of dirt with a stick poking out.

So, it was my utter and complete surprise when I discovered that in my own yard there was a harvest of grapes on the back fence. A high schooler pointed them out to us when he was over. I honestly don't think I would have even found them; they were so hidden by the branches and leaves.

As a non-aggie type, there are somethings in the bible that always left me scratching my head. But now, after being up close and personal with a grape vine at harvest time, I have a new appreciation for John 15. This morning I set out with my scissors and a basket, and as I was collecting the harvest I enjoyed learning a bit more about a metaphore Christ uses for our relationship with Himself.

Jesus says "Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing (John 15:5)." Jesus is not saying, "if you want to remain in me, you better pull your weight and produce fruit." Or, "Show me your commitment, and make some fruit!"

I did NOTHING to help these grapes grow, besides set the sprinklers. Producing fruit was natural. As long as the branches were connected to the vine, they made grapes.

"He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more (John 15:2)."

It turns out prunning is an essential part of the proccess that I missed. Not only did my lack of prunning cause me to almost miss the fruit on the branches, but If I had, more of the grapes would have been of a higher quality.

Have you ever produced any "surprise fruit" in your walk with God?

Not of our Hands

2010-09-09T09:58:00.000-07:00

There is a lesson I am forever learning. If you look back through this blog, through my journals, my prayers, it seems God is always at work in me regarding patience.

So, as always, that is what God is stirring in my life in this season.

A song has been in my head recently. It is by a band that lead worship at Hume Lake Winter Camp, 2 years ago: 1000 Generation. The first time I heard this song, I felt the singer talking to me. At that season in my life, we were still in the application phase; waiting to hear if we would be accepted as missionaries with Asian Access. And as always, my heart wanted to press the fast forward button to live in the next stage of life (which are currently in). Well, now that we are here, does it surprise you that I am ready to press the fast forward button again to be in the next phase, the being-missionaries-in-Japan phase? So, once again, the Lord has brought this song to my heart.

"Let this be not of our hands, but by your Spirit... We don't want to move with out you."

The chorus of this song reminds me that it is God who is at work. It is not us at work asking God to join us, but the other way around. And that is the way it should be. He has perfect timing, and I do not.

I want to share this song with you. (Please forgive the odd video, it's the only non-live one I could find on youtube.) If you were at winter camp this year, I hope you enjoy the memories; if you weren't, I hope this new song touches your life in a special way.

the window, and the world

2010-08-19T10:19:00.000-07:00

The window:

I woke up Wednesday morning raring to go to the post office and the grocery store. We'll maybe not raring, but I was finally motivated. When I got to my car, I was greeted with mounds of glitter and confetti, or rather broken glass from my driver side window. Looking where my cd player sat only hours before was now a hole.

My immediate reaction was to bawl, which turned out well because my neighbors from down the street (who I hadn't yet met officially) stopped and offered to help me vacuum up my window.

Once I was able to gain some perspective I started laughing to myself: the cd player didn't even work! The same CD had been stuck in it for 2.5 years. Luckily I liked that CD, and luckily I burned it to my itunes so it is not lost forever. I know people always say this, but I REALLY would have given it to them if they would had asked for it. a 5 year old broken cd player is MAYBE worth 20 bucks, A car window is worth a lot more.

When I went to file the police report, I found the box the player came in to check the serial number. When I opened the box, I was pleased to find the tape deck that came with the car. stephen assures me this is even better because, you can't listen to an ipod through a cd player, but you can through a tape deck.

So thanks hooligans for helping me out. Hope you enjoy my CD.

The World...

is much smaller that I think.

On Monday I trekked to the Apple Store to make them fix my computer. Turns out when I ask people if I should by shoes or software, and they say shoes, I should listen. :P

I didn't mind though, because I brought my Japanese Language practice book and made up my mind not to leave until all was right with my lappy.

The girl next to me was in a similar predicament: stuck at the counter, waiting for things to upload and praying for a good outcome. I was really glad when she asked if I wanted to grab a pretzel with her.

FREEDOM! Good bye counter, I am taking a walk.

I'm so glad she asked, and that I went. Turns out she used to go to the same High School youth group as me, just a few years after. We even had the same youth pastor. You can check out her blog here.

The supper small world moment happened when I was home, though. After talking to Stephen, it turns out that she is friends with Stephen's only co-worker where he tutors. I know it may seem like nothing, but I was blown away. I always love playing the "do you know so and so" game, because of things like this.

Oh, and for those who are concerned, my computer is now fine. phew!

the long and the short of our time at language school

2010-07-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

While we have been stateside, I have often lamented that there is nothing worth blogging about. No big ministry events, no Japanese coming to Christ, no cultural mishaps. while we have been at language school I have had the opposite problem. There have been so many paradigm shifts, interesting people to meet, stories to hear, and events to share about, that I feel I don't know where to begin, nor do I want to over whelm anyone. so for those of you whowould like the "Reader's Digest" version of our 2 weeks at language school, enjoy the headings and pictures below.

But for those of you, like me, who enjoy really long blog posts, as long as there are pictures and short segments, read on!

There are a lot of crazy sounds in the world.

Did youknow that the English language only uses 44 sounds, but there are many, many, many more used in the world. Most of them I would have said were nothing more than air escaping before coming to PILAT. I feel so very blessed to be learning Japanese, which has none of the SUPER crazy ones we learned.

Language is a natural human ability, not an academic subject.

Learning a language is more like learning to walk or run or ride a bike than it is like learning Math, or History. Because of this we should be using different methods. So if you see me watching Anime and writing down all the words I recognize, you'll know why.

We have wonderful friends!

These two weeks, we have been blessed to reside in the guest bedroom of our friends, Josh and Marilyn. We have felt so loved.

Mountains are steep and I am out of shape!

We enjoyed a 5 mile hike up and down a mountain, with our friends. I must say, I enjoyed the down part much more than the up part. Marilyn was kind enough to cite the elevation as the reason for my huffing and puffing. After reaching the top, I was pleased to enjoy the view.

Donuts baked at 14,110 ft just taste better.

On Saturday we drove above the tree line, to the top of Pike's Peak. At the top, we had to coax Stephen to walk within 30 ft of the edge. I was glad he conquered his fears to enjoy a donut and a cup of hot chocolate on a rock, over looking the Eastern Plains.

I am more excited, each day, to get to be a missionary.

What a treat it is to hang out for two weeks with 45 other missionaries in training. There is something to be said for the camaraderie that occurs when you are at the same stage of life as your community. I have so enjoyed sharing stories with missionaries to all over the world.

Thanks for hanging in there for the looooong post. :P

If I only had a camera cord

2010-07-23T15:33:00.000-07:00

Packing for language school I was intentional about bringing my camera, camera charger, and laptop so I could communication with all of you about our experience here at MTI in Colorado. Yet, somehow it slipped my mind to pack the means of getting my photos onto my computer!

Grrrar.

I guess I'll have to post them when I get home.

a great night

2010-07-11T21:50:00.000-07:00

What is the Vending machine to person ratio in Japan?

Which number also sounds too much like the word "death" for Japanese to sell things in this quantity?

What is a standard Japanese pizza topping?

If you were at Japan Night, at Trinity Presbyterian on July 11th, you know the answers to these questions.

We were blessed by our church with an evening to share about the work God is doing in Japan. The dessert and snacks went fast. I was surprised to see the red bean mocchi go as quickly as it did. And it was so much fun watching the group get so into Japan Trivia. I really felt God's presence through out the evening.

Stephen Sharing about Asian Access

Thanks to everyone who made Japan Night so wonderful!

Keep praying, God is on the move.

7-Eleven

2010-07-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

Why are we standing in front of 7-Eleven?

Because it's 7/11, of course!

And that means it's free Slurpee day! oh, and our Anniversary too :P

2 years with the sweetest guy I've had the pleasure of knowing!

Hope you all had a chance to get a free slurpee, and share it with someone special :D

Japan Night at Trinity Pres

2010-07-08T17:53:00.001-07:00

This Sunday night, from 6-8, Trinity Presbyterian Church is hosting Japan Night,

to provide an opportunity to share about Asian Access' ministry in Japan, and how we will be involved.

How blessed we are to be a part of such a supportive congregation!

The night will consist of dessert, Japanese munchies, Japan Trivia, Prizes, and sharing how God is at work in Japan.

We are praying that God will bring a flood of people to share in the fun and get a heart for the nation of Japan.

If you are in Fresno ( or Central California in general), join us at Trinity Presbyterian from 6-8 in the "upper-room." Here is a map if you don't know how to get there. Please bring friends and family; the more the merrier!

If you are nowhere near us, or already have plans, well no excuses!

Just kidding, we would be honored to have you pray for our evening.

Hope to see you there!

Be Strong, Persevere, It's a Battle out there!

2010-07-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Island of Malta. There has been a lot going on these past few days. Last week, after a storm, a man washed up on shore. His name was Paul, and he told us all about his adventures sharing the Gospel.

A week ago, we were given the chance to be storytellers in our church's VBS. The theme of the week was "Soul Surviver." Students learned to put on the full armor of God for their battle against the enemy.

Our story telling room was the "ship wreck" room, where the Apostle Paul washed ashore on his way to Prison.

In this room, the children learned how important it is to have you feet prepared with the Gospel of Peace. did you know that sandals back then had hobnails, which are like cleats, to help soldiers stand firm when there was opposition, and to get a better footing when they were advancing? I didn't until this week.

Paul told the students all of his adventures being a missionary, and stressed the importance of having God's peace prepare you to stand firm through storms, battles, and troubles.

Here he is telling about how his friends lowered him in a basket out of a window to escape his pursuers.

One of these things is not like the other...

Delilah, Samson, Paul, and Malta Girl...

I do wish my character were more recognizable, or Biblical, or had an actual name. I was an islander from Malta. Every day kids asked "who are YOU?"

"I'm Paul's friend from Malta."

One kid introduced me to his mom as "Paul's wife." That drew a puzzled look for sure.

What a great week! Thank you Deanna for asking us to be a part of this great week of ministry.

Hear my Prayer, O Lord

2010-06-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, with prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, present your requests to God, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

Phillipians 4:6

"You do not have because you do not ask God."

James 4:2

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

James 1:17

Daily, we are reminded of our utter and complete dependance on God. It is so tempting to try things in our own strength. We tire ourselves out, spinning our wheels, trying to move forward. God commands us to present our requests to Him, and promises to answer us. We have come to realize that prayer is our only hope of getting to the mission field.

Would you pray with us?

For support...

As of this moment, our support is at 56% of our monthly pledges and 65% of our initial start up. In order to begin the VISA application process, we need to have 85% in monthly pledges accounted for.

Please pray that God would bring generous, kingdom hearted people into our lives who would joyfully give to His work in Japan on a monthly basis.

For our living situation...

Our current landlord as recently sold the house we are living in. At this moment, it is unclear whether we will be able to continue living in this house through the summer, or if we need to move.

Please pray that God would provide a place to live until we move to Japan. Ask that God would make it clear if we should move into temporary housing, and if so where.

For a place to minister...

While we are focusing on support raising here in the States, leaders in Japan are working with congrigations in the planning stages of a church plant.

Please pray that God would direct these leaders with wisdom, that we may be placed where God has called us.

For the hearts of Japanese...

God has already begun a work in the Japanese. He has been tilling soil, and preparing men and women to hear the Gospel.

Please pray that God would continue to work in the hearts of Japanese. Ask that He would unite believers in Godly fellowship, and equip them to share the Gospel.

In Christ, the giver of ever perfect gift!

Lessons from "The Silver Chair"

2010-06-13T12:09:00.000-07:00

"Please, how will I get to Narnia?"

"On my breath," said the Lion. " I will blow you into the west of the world as I blew Eustace."...

It was very alarming walking back towards the edge of the cliff, especially as the Lion did not walk with her but behind her-- making no noise on his soft paws.

But long before she had got anywhere near the edge, the voice behind her said, "Stand still. In a moment I will blow..."

The Chronicles of Narnia:

The Silver Chair

C.S. Lewis

Last Friday I cleaned out my classroom, handed in my keys, and said my goodbyes. After 3 years of teaching 4th grade at Valley Arts and Science Academy, I have resigned in order to embark on the adventure God has called us to. My head and heart have been a flood of emotions: joy, fear, excitement, sadness, but no regret. It is a scary thing, stepping to the edge of the cliff, and allowing God to carry us to a new land. Right now, we are in a period of transition: done with the first Chapter, not quite beginning the next. At times it feels

frightening, like we might fall, but then the realization comes that God has been orchestrating it all. This is the time, as always, to trust that He will carry us to our adventure on his breath.

I'll leave you with a picture of the end of this chapter.

Here is me and my classroom, all packed and set for the next teacher.

Sharing in Sanger

2010-05-30T14:11:00.000-07:00

This Sunday we had the pleasure of being able to share our ministry with the congregation of Sanger Community Church in Sanger, California.

Our Mission committee leader has been asked to preach at Sanger Community Church for a few weeks, while they look for a pastor. He invited us to come share what God is doing in Japan, and how we will be involved in ministry when there.

After service we had a chance to talk with people directly about what we will be doing in Japan.

One lady we met is organizing a huge yard sale, and offered us her Christmas decorations. It should be fun to see if there is anything we could use for ministry, boxed up in her home.

Please pray with us, that the hearts of the congregation of Sanger Community Church would be touched, and those God has called to partner with us in ministry would be obedient to His stirring in their hearts.

Woa-oh, we're half way there...

2010-05-13T17:33:00.000-07:00

It's an exciting time to be in the Lord's hands.

But then again, when is it not? Over the past few weeks there have been several developments that have pushed us towards the goal of being in Japan in the fall.

the first, and more stressful for me, was making the decision to turn in my resignation from my teaching position. The plan was always to let administration know that I would not be returning in the fall, once all our ducks were in a row. It was our fear that I would quit my job, and that God would not get us to Japan in the fall. through much prayer, and council, we came to the realization that we were making decisions based on fear rather than on faith. God has called us to Japan, and He is faithful to see His will be done.

So this week, I drafted my resignation from Valley Arts and Science Academy. What a sense of peace I had printing the letter and slipping it into my boss' mailbox! I feel confident that God will take care of us while we seek His will.

The day I was tendering my resignation, Stephen was meeting with a friend of ours to create a website for us. Our wonderful friend offered to create a website for us, something neither of us are capable of doing ourselves.

If you'd like to check it out, it's www.Borbwire.com . I must admit I didn't get the play on words for a full 5 minutes. ( It was a long and eventful day at work :P)

The most encouraging parts of the week were completely unexpected surprises. We had two separate people seek us out to say the wanted to support our ministry. These were individuals, and couples who were aware of our ministry, but whom we had not asked for support directly. It is amazing how God moves the hearts of men and women, and such a reminder to me that it is He who is putting this all together, not us.

With the understanding that it is God who is at work within us, enabling us to will and to act for His good purposes, would you pray with us that He would provide the rest of our support before the end of June. We are officially half way to our goal! We still need aproximatly $3,000 in monthly pledges before we are cleared to start working on our Visas. From that point, it will be 3 months until we are in Japan, preaching Christ.

Thank you for your continued support and encouragement!