"Take me to Jesus's House"


By Ashley



Have you ever heard a story that you just could not keep to yourself?  Not one of those ”feel good” stories or those “winning a state championship on the buzzer” stories.  But one of those pinch yourself and wonder, “Did that really happen?” stories.  Well, I heard one of those stories recently, and my heart is about to explode because I just have to share.  Now I am warning you now, this is a long post. But I promise if you hang with me, you will not be disappointed. 

Saturday afternoon my parents were hosting some out of town Awana International guests at the house for a low country boil.  They invited some of our close friends over to meet everyone.  They also invited Santosh Ramdam.  If you have been around me enough, or have even read my blog the slightest bit, you have heard about the Bhutanese refugees and my heart for these people.  Santosh, along with his wonderful wife and five beautiful daughters, are Bhutanese refugees that were resettled to Atlanta, Georgia.  After living in the refugee camps of East Nepal for over 15 years in bamboo huts with no running water, electricity, or stove, Santosh arrived to a modest apartment in Doraville, Georgia.  Upon entering the room, that we would turn our noses up at if a realtor suggested we live in, he kissed the ground and said, “I cannot believe I’m here.” 

To explain a little bit of the historical background, the Bhutanese government viewed people of Nepali origin as a threat to the political order, and began to pass laws discriminating against this group.  Santosh and his family were a part of this ethnic group.   When Santosh was a young boy, he was threatened with his life until he joined an anti-nationalist rebel group.  Santosh was able to escape this group, and went on to enjoy school with his classmates.  As a grade leader in his school, the police showed up and asked him if he was a part of the anti-nationalist movement.   Santosh denied his involvement, but was still arrested and imprisoned.  As a young boy of only seventeen, Santosh found himself in prison, brutally beaten for his past involvement with the rebel group, and for being of Nepali origin.  Santosh was surrounded with Hindu prisoners, and began to join them in their prayers and worship just trying to seek refuge and a way out.  One day, Santosh found a book hidden underneath someone’s pillow.  The man had stolen this book just so he could use the pages to roll his cigarettes.  Santosh, missing his studies, grabbed the book.   Reading the book, which was missing a few chapters at the beginning and the end, became a part of Santosh’s daily routine.   He started to soak in talk of this man named Jesus.  He read that he was the true Savior, and that he could work miracles.  Santosh began to treat his worship time with the Hindu prisoners differently from that point on, and he began to replace all the gods' names with “Jesus.”  Santosh then cried out to God, “If you are God, like it says in this book, then take me from this prison in seven days.”  Seven days passed, and the prisoners could see through a hole in the top of the prison, a police car coming down the mountain.  The prisoners knew the officers were coming to beat them, leaving lashes up and down their backs from a whip and often beating the first one or two of them to death.  Whoever was called first, was sure to get the worst of it.  Santosh heard his name called first, and told his friends goodbye for the last time thinking he had reached the end of his life.  Much to his surprise, on this seventh day, the officer said he was being set free.  

It doesn’t end there.  The police dropped Santosh off in the middle of the square with the same clothes he received eleven months earlier when he first arrived at the prison.  Santosh, afraid and nearly naked, found a relative and said, “Take me to Jesus’s house.”  Santosh arrived at a church where the pastor greeted him saying, “For six months your family has attended this church, and we have prayed for your return.”   Santosh then surrendered his life to Christ, and over the next several months led the rest of his family to know this same Jesus as well. 

Oh, and it’s not over yet.  Santosh’s family relocated to the refugee camps of East Nepal.  Here, Santosh and his family began a church, which turned into 55 churches, and over 18,000 salvations.   Now that Santosh is living in Atlanta, he is having an even greater impact on the Bhutanese and Nepali people.  He has given his life to serving others, and making His name known.  Just this past Sunday, Santosh texted my Dad, whom he also calls Dad, saying, “Dad, we had eight salvation decisions at church today.” 

All because some man stole a Bible in order to use the pages to roll his cigarettes.  Or, was it because of the prayers of the church on the Indian border for his safe return that led to this Bible appearing underneath a pillow?  All I know is that I am thankful for my adopted brother, Santosh Ramdam, and his family.  Every time I am around him I leave encouraged.  I am amazed at how much of an impact they have with so little, and I am completely overwhelmed with the passion and grace evident in Santosh’s life: the same passion and grace that God demonstrates to us.   

Now, if you are still hanging with me, here’s where I need your help. When the refugees arrive, they arrive with nothing.  The government gives them a small allowance to furnish their apartment with necessities, but also calls for them to pay back their plane tickets over several years time.  On October 21st, Santosh’s brother-in-law and current Awana missionary in the refugee camps, Samuel Sinchuari, will be arriving with the rest of their family from Nepal.   Wouldn’t it be nice if they came to apartments furnished and ready to live in?  They don’t expect this, but what could it hurt?  Can we shower them with the same love they have showered their fellow refugees with their entire lives?  In fact, Santosh’s family is without a couch because he gave his up for a fellow church member in need.

Let me know if you want to be a part of this incredible ministry and opportunity.  You will NOT regret it.  I love these people, my new family, with all my heart, and I am asking you to help.  I mean, isn’t that what family is for? 
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Atlanta Ain't Got Nothing on This Heat


By Ashley

So today we finished up our final day of VBS camps.  It was by far the hottest day yet.  The church is located on the third floor of a building and it has air conditioning, but that doesn’t really do us any good when the power is out for most of the day.  It was like packing kids in a sauna singing action songs, making crafts, and playing games.  Yvette claims it was at least 120 degrees in the room, and I am fairly certain she is right.  When  we walked out the door it was a good 15 degrees cooler.  I had sweat pouring down my face and dripping underneath my chin.  I have no other way to describe it, but it was literally like holding VBS in a sauna or on the shores of Miami in July.  It was hot.  
Even with the high heat, the kids were in it for the long run.  They didn’t have to be there, but they stayed.  And not only did they stay, but they were determined to complete their crafts, learn their action songs, and participate in rec time.  These kids amaze me.  Not one of them ever complained.  In fact, one little kid got so hot he threw up on himself and a little boy beside him.  The kids politely got up, walked to the back of the room, pointed to a leader, got cleaned up, and came back in to join the fun.  Nobody made a big deal about it.  They never made a big deal about the power going in and out either.  It was amazing to see the kids, including the 6,7, and 8 year olds, jump up and frantically open the curtains and doors each time the power went out.  Then, each time it came back on, they jumped up and closed the curtains, windows, and doors and sat back down.  This is a part of their every day life for them.  
Yvette has tried to take on the role as “interpreter” for us.  Not only has she interpreted the Indian soap operas, she has also attempted to interpret the Indian children.  One teenage boy excitedly came up to her this afternoon asking her if she had ever heard of something.  After having the poor child repeat himself 18 times she said, “American Express?!”  The rest of the kids cracked up laughing mocking her saying “American Express” over and over again.  So I called the kid over and interpreted for the interpreter.  He was actually trying to say, “Samaritan’s Purse.”  Yvette tried to play it cool, and they fell for it, or at least made her feel better about it.  Speaking of Samaritan’s Purse, we began to wonder if they have received some of the shoeboxes during Christmas.  It is so eye opening to think that these are the kids we see on tv, and these are the kids that we adopt through organizations such as “Compassion International.”  
We also discovered, that Dad is not the only magician on this trip.  Yesterday we took a taxi cab around to a few different shops.  He was a very nice young man, and agreed to take us around for just 50 rupees.  Then we kept adding stores and he said, “Whatever you want sir.”  So, when we got out to go our last store the meter read about 47 rupees.  When we called our driver and got back in the taxi we noticed the meter was covered.  So we arrived at the hotel and Dad paid the driver, as he said, whatever he wanted to.  Then the driver yanked the cover off the meter and magically 215 rupees appeared on the meter.  Dad got tricked.  Taxi driver got jokes.  
The “gout” decided to pay Mom a visit in New Delhi.  Mom felt it coming on, but did not heed Dad’s advice on taking her gout medicine then.  So, by Thursday am Mom was dragging her foot around the streets of New Delhi.  Bobby, our resident handsome helper, is a certified paramedic.  He ran to the store and got Mom some medicine, some Indian icy hot (yuck), and an ace bandage.  He came back, massaged Mom’s foot, and wrapped it tight.  Then, at the end of the day, he took her by the hand and walked her out to the van.  We picked on Bobby for babying Mom and he said, “She is like my mother.”  We think Mom played it up a little Friday in order to get an extra foot massage from Bobby.  She still did a fantastic job leading our craft time.  
We just got word that our train tickets back from the Taj Mahal were not confirmed.  Therefore, we will not be visiting tomorrow.  When I think about it, it’s really not a big deal after all.  I mean, yes, the Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and I was looking forward to going.  But, I can’t imagine it being the “highlight” of my trip.  Really, we could spend an entire day in the heat to look at a bunch of fancy tombs, palaces, and marble shops, or we could spend our last day experiencing a genuine Indian church service soaking up one last opportunity to love and serve the wonderful people of India.  I can’t imagine a better way to spend my last 24 hours of this life changing trip.  
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A few pics from Friday


By Ashley
Here are a few pics for your enjoyment.  All were taken on Friday.  The best pics are taken from the window of the taxi.  One is of a huge monkey god by the side of the road.  We also have our buddy David in the middle of his group getting ready for snack time.  The random horse and carriage was nice. The guys LOVED us taking pics of them.  It was so funny!  They had a dog in the back.  Then we have a VERRRRRY adorable little boy from our VBS camp, and lastly we have a little girl watching us as we were walking from the church to our taxi.  She loved the Dum Dum Yvette gave her.






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Crafts, Magic, and Action Songs


By Ashley

So today was our second day of our second VBS camp.  The kids at this camp are incredible.  They are very well-behaved, and seem to enjoy whatever we do with them.  We began to wonder if the kids had to pay to attend camp because as each kid came in to register they dropped rupees in a jug.  So we asked the pastor, and he said that he encouraged the kids to bring 30 rupees (about 70 cents) to use for special programs for the church.  He is trying to teach the kids that not all things in life are free, and about helping the church.  He also invited many of the slum children to attend, as they sent someone to pick them up everyday and walk them to the church.  
I was amazed today after craft time when the leader brought a bucket up to put trash in. for the 6, 7, and 8 year-olds.  They immediately jumped up and ran in circles around their area frantically picking up trash.  Before I had time to grab the camera they had already cleaned everything up and were scrambling back to their seats in the circle.  I am amazed at how the church teaches these children manners and discipline.    
Today, Tracy shared the parable of the lost sheep for the second time.  She has done an excellent job with her storytelling.  Both times I have been the shepherd and both times Yvette has been the lost sheep....and both times I have not been able to find her.  Kinda ruins the story huh?  The first time she went up the stairs and claims she told me to go up the stairs to find her.  The poor kids looked just as confused as I did when I stood at the bottom of the stairs staring up waiting on her to come down.  Today, I went outside the door where she told me to find her and she was not there.  Finally she came around the corner with her camera.  She said she was “sightseeing.”  Hmm...the kids got a kick out of me dragging her in celebrating the lost sheep that was now found.
Not only do we have a Dancing Queen, but we also have a magician.  Dad has been doing little “illusions” for the kids.  This second group of kids absolutely love them!  They were cheering so loudly for Dad today, but much to their dismay he did not have any for them.  It was as if Amos was announcing the starting lineup.  Often we have no idea what they are saying up there, but we catch little bits and pieces that let us know what is going on.  I heard Amos say “Magic Tricks” in the middle of his Hindi introduction and the kids went nuts.  Of course Dad loved it.  I cannot wait to see their faces tomorrow when he brings his “magic tricks.”  
It is so amazing to me the things that excite these kids.  They love many of the things we take for granted, and think are outdated.  They love action songs, magic tricks, crafts, and Dum Dums.  I love watching the kids as they completely eat up the crafts!  They sit and stare at the crafts as if they are video games.  They pay such careful attention to their projects, and have to yell “Didi” and hold up their craft for you to see when they are finished.  It was also neat today to see Bobby, David, and other Pastor’s jump in and do a craft themselves.  We could tell they wanted one, and they were ecstatic when we offered! 
Come to find out, most of the children at our first camp had never completed a craft before.  One of the crafts for the littlest kids included coloring a decorated cross.  I loved watching the Pastor’s jump in and help the groups, especially the little kids.  Many of these kids are from the slums, some even from the villages, and they do not even know how to hold a crayon.  It was incredible watching these grown men down on the ground in 115 degree heat holding a child’s hand helping them to color a silly piece of paper.  I can’t imagine a more humbling image.  
I am in awe of the Pastor’s here.  They are more than just Pastor’s, they are servants.  Their love for children and youth is incredible.  I love seeing David and Bobby lead worship and other aspects of the day.  Both of these guys are Pastor’s for their church, and are incredible with children.  They are spending their week helping us minister to kids through VBS for no pay rather than carrying on with their daily lives.  I love watching the Pastor’s stand in the back during song time and participate in the action songs.  I loved watching them walk around in craft time pumping up the kids, encouraging them, and praising them for their hard work.  I have never met such caring, compassionate, and humble men.  We keep trying to talk them into coming home with us.  I can’t even describe how much I have learned just by watching the Indian people serve and love.  
Well, there is a lot to write about and I am afraid I have to cut this one short before you all fall asleep.  Looking forward to updating you on our shopping excursions and our last day of VBS.  Only two days left!  The last days are the toughest.  Not only are we tired and, as Yvette says,  “going postal” at times, but we are also getting closer to saying our goodbyes.  To quote the classic “Dumb and Dumber” movie, “I hate goodbyes.”  
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Guest Blog: Steve Cohoon


By Ashley
Today I began to realize all over again how truly blessed I am.  First of all I am saved by the blood of Christ and what greater blessing can there be?  Next, I have the most incredible family ever.  I have a wife that loves me and supports me as God has called me to this ministry in South Asia and the Middle East.  I have two of the most beautiful daughters in the world.  One of which is carrying our very first grandchild.  I am already praying for little Brecken that God will save him at an early age and use him mightily in His kingdom work…whatever He calls him to do.  I even have the best son-in-law ever and if he reads this blog I will never hear the end of it.

Our youngest daughter Ashley is with us on this trip.  Of course you know that if you are reading her blog!  Duh!  But anyway I am always excited to see her participate with the team in the worship and the teaching we are doing this week.  It gives a Dad and Mom a pretty good feeling to see God using their kids in such ways.  Brittany and Byron are also involved with young people at their church.  I am so thankful that the passion God has given Debra and I for ministry to kids and the time we have spent away from them over the years did not discourage them.

Since I have been the Area Director for Awana International in this part of the world, and really even before that, I knew we had a very special breed of individuals God placed in our organization.  Every time I come, without fail, I get to spend time on the field with at least one of our missionaries.  This time it is Amos Paudyal.  I have known a lot of folks in the ministry over my lifetime.  None have impacted me more than Amos.  I just love being around him.  His demeanor and positive outlook on everything is contagious.  That is why God has used him to mentor and disciple two other young men in the ministry.  Both of them, Bobby and David, have told us how much they admire Amos and how much of a mentor leader he is to them.

Watching all three of these men work together this week has only confirmed my suspicions that God has indeed put together the most excellent team in the world to work with Awana Youth Programs in India.  What is the most amazing part?  Two of them are volunteers.  Sweating in 115 degree F weather inside a 400 square foot church room with 170 children; jumping up and down singing praise songs and leading a modified version of recreation time.  Amos is modeling for these men that being an Awana missionary is so much more than training leaders and starting Awana Clubs.  Amos has so many Pastors and friends in the ministry that he counsels and encourages on a daily basis.  He is a busy man.  Always available and never too tasked to try and meet a need that comes before him.  And, on top of that he has a beautiful wife and two beautiful little girls who support him.  Indeed my heart is full this week.  

God has used this to provide ministry to children, many of whom for the first time have a simple VBS craft item put together by Debra and value it as if it were the latest CD or an I-Pod or something.  I have watched the “Dancing Queen” Yvette having so much fun teaching the older children to dance and enjoy life.  She also does a pretty good job of storytelling as well.  I have watched Tracy, the youngest in our group meet the challenge of the heat, humidity, and ever changing circumstances as the word of the day in India is “flexibility”.  Tracy does everything she is asked to do with a smile!  She does our storytime on Day 2 of VBS telling the story of “The Lost Sheep” to the children.

Yes, I am a pretty proud Dad when it comes to just watching my little Bunny, Ashley work with the kids and enjoy providing ministry to them.  What an incredible week!

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Elvis has left the building...


By Ashley





So today was the third and final day of our first VBS.  Which pretty much means everyone wants to get in their last handshake, picture, and “Didi.”  We had another great day!  One of the older girls brought her ink, or whatever it is called, and gave us all henna tattoos.  She did an excellent job!  Yvette, Tracy, Mom, and myself all got one.  When we were finished, we wanted to pay her for the ink and all her work.  David, our incredible helper, suggested just 20 rupees per person.  20 rupees is less than 50 cents.  We obviously gave her more than that.  I practically had to shove it in her hand because she would not take it.  She wanted to give it to us, but we knew that she could not afford to just run out and buy ink whenever she wanted to.  They are such giving people.  It’s unbelievable.  
Yvette was a hit again leading the girls in the Cupid Shuffle.  She had quite a crowd today, and we were actually able to play the music through a portable amp.  Amos joined in on the fun carrying the amp on his head while dancing with us.  
Several times during today’s VBS we were mobbed for pictures, autographs, and handshakes.  At one point I counted about twelve cell phone cameras pointed in our direction.  Everyone wanted a picture with us, and some wanted several.  Every kid wanted to shake your hand and tell you “Praise the Lord.”  Close to the end of the service, Amos told us we had to get out of there or we would be there all day.  So we started making our way out and we just couldn’t help but acknowledge those grabbing our arms as we walked out of the room.  The women in particular wanted to give kisses.  I probably got about twenty Indian kisses in a few minutes as I battled my way to the back door.  The kisses were precious!  I did get nervous, however, when a boy stood tall beside me.  I was relieved when he just whispered in my ear, “Photo.”  I wasn’t sure how I would explain that one.  I felt like we need to announce, "Elvis has left the building."
We were able to come back to the hotel, shower, and rest a while today.  Showers are amazing.  So amazing, that in order to decide who got to go first, Yvette suggested we play “Gorilla, Man, Gun.”  Great idea! But little did we know we would tie three times in a row never deciding on a winner.  We decided to let Yvette go first because she was about to wet the floor she was laughing so hard.  
We just got back from a “Cottage Meeting” at David’s house.  I will tell you a little more about David and our other helpers later, but basically the “Cottage Meeting” was like a small group.  David and his wife live beside the Italian Embassy in the actual housing for the workers.  His wife is one of the cooks for the Embassy and prepared an excellent meal for us.  We had a great time hanging out with about fifteen people from Amos’s church.  We were able to hang out a little with a sixteen year old girl named Aneesha.  Aneesha talked to us about school and her dream of becoming a professional choreographer.  She also told us that the darker your henna appears, the more your husband will love you.  If that’s the case, I better go back for a touch-up.  Mine was definitely the lightest.....hm.....
Today was a great day.  We enjoyed hanging out with the small group and being able to see just how these house meetings work in a country like India.  They held their own worship time each treating it as if they were in a church full of people on a Sunday morning.  Then, everyone is allowed to share what is going on in their lives and what God has revealed to them lately.  We were each able to share a little tonight about our trip, and also to encourage the people there including our incredible leaders Amos, David, and Bobby.
It’s hard to believe we are halfway through.  I am definitely feeling a little tired tonight, so sorry if the blog is not up to par.  I am looking forward to these next three days of VBS and pray that I will make the most out of my last days here in India.  God has already done some incredible things in the lives of many kids.  He has also revealed more to me than I ever imagined.  I can’t wait to see what’s in store as we start winding down our trip.  

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"Didi, Didi"


By Ashley

So let me start with a public service announcement.  I can only post blogs, I cannot preview or open my actual blog site.  So I apologize for any formatting or lack thereof. 

Today was another great day.  We were able to stay up all day without a nap!  We must be getting used to this Delhi heat.  But don’t be fooled, it’s still an inferno and quite possibly the hottest place I have ever been in my life.   
We held our second day of VBS at the same church as yesterday.  We were supposed to have a smaller number of kids, but of course, the number grew as the day went on.  Which isn’t a problem at all, except when it comes to the Craft Queen trying to find enough crafts for each kid.  Speaking of crafts, the Craft Queen didn’t seem to organize the craft as well today.  I had to go a little schoolteacher on a kid today.  He was screaming “Didi, Didi...” and some other stuff in a language I have not quite mastered.  He kept on jumping in my face impatiently screaming “Didi, Didi” and trying to grab string out of my hand.  Of course, I was not going to give him his craft first.  I politely looked at him and said, “Look kid, I have no clue what you are saying.  All I know is you need to sit down.”   Somebody understood English well, because they yelled at him and he sat.  Come to find out “Didi” means “Older Sister.” Hmmm...I have never been referred to as “old” or even “older.”  Can’t be the gray hair because I died that before I left.  Oh well.  I guess “Didi” will have to do.
Yvette was able to use her gifts for the glory of God...that gift being dancing.  She decided to grab the older girls during rec time and teach them the Cupid Shuffle.  Her and Tracy had quite a following as other girls and eventually boys snuck in to give it a try.  The adult ladies were dying to try, but were too shy to jump out there.  Maybe tomorrow we can get them going. 
Dad spent the day at a Youth Conference just a short walk down the road.  Now, youth conference here does not necessarily mean middle and high schoolers.  Some of these “youth” that showed were well over 20 years older than I am.  Needless to say, it was a great day.  Come to find out, some of the attendees got up at 4 am to head to catch a train just so they could make it to the conference.  After our VBS we joined Dad at the other church for lunch, which was excellent.  By far the best meal yet.  After lunch we each got the chance to share in some way or another.  
One of the obvious highlights of my day and perhaps my entire trip was near the end of the Youth Conference.  The group was signing a song in Hindi.  I am not sure if you have ever heard people from India sing in their own language, but it is absolutely some  of the most beautiful music you will ever hear.  This one song in particular had to last at least ten minutes.  To help paint the picture for you, imagine yourself at a Georgia football game anxiously waiting for the kick off throwing your arms up in the air with thousands of other fans screaming “OOooooooooooo.....sic ‘em!”  That’s exactly the way the Indian youth sang this song.  They started out softly and gradually got louder and louder until they were clapping so hard and singing so loudly that I couldn’t help but wonder what they were singing about.  Come to find out, they were singing, “I want to go to Heaven where Jesus is.”  
At the end of the service, Amos, our missionary to New Delhi, led the group in a prayer.  Then about twenty or so men and women walked to the front.  We were not quite sure why they went to the front, then Amos walked over and said, “They want you to pray for them.”  The Indian people love for American Christians to come and pray for them.  When they think America they think wealth, prosperity, and happiness.  Sometimes I feel they want what we have, and by us praying for them they might somehow gain access to that.  However, they have it all wrong.  We don’t have something that they need, but they have something that we need.  They have a yearning desire for God and God alone.  These Indian people will more than likely will never escape the conditions they live in, and never know the “wealth” that many Americans know.  However, many Americans will never experience the wealth that they have.  It’s a shame that our wealth and “joy” is so deep rooted in possessions and status.  If only we knew that the only true joy in life comes from seeking God and God alone.  The Indians went up front wanting for us to place our arms around them and bless them, but really, they blessed us.  

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Our "First" Day


By Ashley

Well today was a day of many “firsts”.  It was our first official full day in India.  Our first day of VBS.  Our first official church-cooked Indian meal.  Our first experience with a “squat-a-potty”.  Concluding with our first time being lost in New Delhi.  Getting lost in India isn’t too bad, you can always wave over a rickshaw, mention your hotel name, and load up.  There are a few ways to describe traffic in India.  First, if you are in a car, it is much like the Volkswagen commercial where the lady yells, “Shoot the gappppp!”  Second, if you are walking own the street, imagine yourself as the frog in “Frogger” trying to get from one side to the other.  Face it, sometimes you are better off just closing your eyes and going for it.  
We have figured out that Yvette may not be the best option for the Bible Story part of our day.  Last night as we were having “Storytime with Yvette,” she decided to tell the story of Joseph.  Now, one of her follow-up questions was, “Boys and girls, do you have dreams?”  She then followed up saying, “Well, there was a man named Martin Luther King Jr., he once had a dream.  But then he got shot.  Joseph also had dreams, and look what happened to him.  Boys and girls, the moral of the story is ‘Don’t have dreams.’”  Hm, don’t think that would go over too well with our Indian friends.
Our first day of VBS consisted of what was supposed to be 100 kids, but ended up with nearly 150.  Our craft queen, aka Big Mama, frantically modified her crafting schedule in order to make sure each kid had something to take home.  What amazes me about these kids is that all 150 of them squeezed into a room with no ac, that we would not even imagine trying to fit 40 kids in.  Pretty much imagine a VBS in the U.S. where you only have one room and somehow have to manage crafts, games, snacks, and more.  By the way, I am pretty sure our kids would never sit still for four hours in a room with no chairs, air, or room to move.  Needless to say, they had a blast.  We had a hard time communicating as not many of the children knew English.  But we had a good time anyway.  Often they can understand what we are saying, they just do not know how to respond.  
Tracy, our resident celebrity, was quite the hit with her blonde hair.  All the boys were staring and trying to scoot closer to her.  Many girls wanted their picture taken and chose Yvette to take it for them.  Wonder why?  She also signed quite a few autographs, as blond hair is NEVER seen in these parts.  I am trying to get her to wear it down a little while tomorrow so all the girls will attack her to play with it.  
Tomorrow will be much like today.  We will get up early, head out to our morning of VBS, then head over to a youth rally to hang out with the youth for a while.  We are still a little jet-lagged, so we are hoping tomorrow will be much better.  The heat is hard to adjust to.  Imagine 105 degree temperatures piled on with humidity that tops that of Atlanta.  There’s no reason to even attempt fixing your hair, because it’s all gonna curl up and do it’s own thang anyway.
Hoping to be able to share a neat testimony from one of the pastor’s with you tomorrow.  Maybe we can get a video blog going, as long as our “internet plan” is still working.  Also pictures are in order!  I cannot get the card reader to work tonight, but hopefully will be able to get that up and running soon.
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Oh India, how I have missed you


By Ashley

It did not take long for me to realize that we had finally arrived in Incredible !india.  Stepping out of the plane there was an immediate change in the aroma.  Not only did the smells assure me that we had arrived, but the failure to maintain lanes, the sight of men “relieving” themselves on the side of the road, and the sound of horns blowing just to say, “Hey, I’m right behind you!” helped to let us know that we truly are here.   
Our flights were great, London airport was great, and our hotel is pretty good too!  Internet is fairly expensive at the hotel, which we are not very excited about, but little did the “very hospitable” night manager know...he saved the password on my laptop when I paid for one hour of internet service.  Hoping he does not find out my “master internet plan.”  Let’s just hope I am beating him at his own game.
Today we got to the hotel, showered, and headed to a church service.  We were feeling pretty good until the preaching started, then the jet lag hit us hard.  In fact, I am pretty sure I heard a little “snort” come from Yvette while her eyes were closed.  It was not the speaker at all, he was actually great!  We were just a little tired.  After church we were able to eat with William Uncle’s family at Pizza Hut and had a good time meeting his kids.  
This is my third trip to India, but only my first to New Delhi.  One thing I noticed is that it is unbelievably hot and humid here.  I will be relying on my water, Gatorade packets, and trail mix to keep me going during our day.   I also couldn’t help but notice the high amount of beggars.  We got out at Pizza Hut, and one immediately grabbed Dad by the arm.  It was a little girl trying to sell pencils for Rupees.  Dad must be a big teddy bear or have “sucker” written on his head because they flock to him.  I looked down the sidewalk a little ways and saw Mom with a girl hanging onto her arm trying to get money as well.  We are told not to give the kids money and if you have seen Slumdog Millionaire you will know why.  Often these kids work for a “master” that uses the kids to get money.  It is so hard because these kids are so pitiful and are the most beautiful kids, but at the same time if we give money we could potentially be stalked and mugged for more. 
After a much needed nap, we ventured out to assess the shopping situation.  Let me tell you, I am stoked.  I forgot just how much I love shopping in India!  Brittany (my ever so fashionable sister) will surely call me a hippie when I get back with the goodies I hope to buy!
Well that’s it for now.  We are getting stuff ready to start our first day of VBS tomorrow.  Looking forward to working with the kids and taking on my role as song leader.  
Hope to keep the updates coming (of course pending our internet plan).
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Guest Blogger: Chris Wheeler


By Ashley
Prelude:
As I am currently entering my final days in the country of Nepal I have been asked, nay, I have been implored by her blogness Ashley Cohoon to reflect upon my time here and share it with her blogging world.  At first I respectfully declined her request, then I remembered that I am in Nepal. The only channels I can understand are CNN and BBC and as much as I enjoy being informed I sort of stopped caring about the proposal of minimum wage in Hong Kong.  Furthermore, I am convinced this is just one step closer reaching my goal as a writer for Reader’s Digest.  I must also note that through this post I am not promoting monastic living or saying we should all stop using toilets.  I’m simply attempting to be honest about some of the things I have seen, felt, and pondered.  
End Prelude
I must admit I this is a very difficult task which I have undertaken.  I find that I could talk about the humorous times like all of my days bartering for women’s clothing in the streets of Kathmandu.  I could be inspired to write about our epic battles with the monsoons; it’s not just a figure of speech it rains a lot during the monsoons.  I could even write a script of all the nights we sat around the dinner table wondering if our food would be edible.  Yet, I feel that in this entry I should not focus on the more trivial matters deal with the weightier, deeper issues I have encountered on this trip. 
 This trip to Nepal is my first venture outside of the United States and while I was never uncomfortable or distressed with my situation it has certainly been an eye opening experience.  As I reflect upon the last few weeks the thoughts and emotions are quite overwhelming.  So overwhelming it is difficult to develop a singular thought upon which to build.  I shall attempt to summarize my experience here with a few snippets that are still at the front of my mind.  I can only hope that this fragmented attempt at harmony will help you understand my time here.
John Piper once called America, “The carnival of the world.”  I have always remembered that quote and I have even used it on occasion during various discussions.  I did not know the gravity of that statement until coming here.  It would be foolish of me to attempt to articulate what I mean.  The money I spend on dinner each week is more than most people make in a month or longer.  It is comical and sickening all at the same time that Americans are such gluttons of want.  During one discussion with a few Nepali men I made the statement that, “The economy in America is bad now.”  I felt silly when later that day I saw that the men lived in bamboo huts and no electricity.  What Americans generally associate with poverty is usually better defined as inconvenience or a lower standard of living.   
I would also like to tell you about a pastor I met in my journeys named Samuel.  Samuel is on staff as an Awana missionary that is a very relational person that has many talents, but he is also a Bhutanese refugee living in exile.  He lives in a U.N. run camp with no running water and little electricity.  He invited us into his home which was a bamboo hut he shared with his wife, young child, and grandmother.  He began talking to us about how excited he was that it appears that he and his family be allowed to immigrate to America sometime in the next year.  When he spoke of America he became excited to finally get a chance to move to the land of prosperity.  He was glad that his young son would get to go to American schools and have opportunities that he did not.  These are things any father would want for his family and he has prayed for them for years.  As he spoke I could not help but think, “I hope America does not let him down.”  I hope that America with all of her wealth and prosperity does not turn her back on this man.  I hope  the opportunity that we were all given and take for granted is provided to this man that deserves it so much.  I hope the body of Christ, that he has served so faithfully, opens its arms and welcomes him to his new home.  I hope the church serves him and helps provide for the things that his new life will demand.
The people of Nepal are striving for greater opportunity and are working to improve the future of their children.  Do not be mislead into believing they are dissatisfied or exist in a constant state of want.  Instead most of the people I met living under these circumstances were thankful and predominantly happy.  They did not grumble or curse the stars at their circumstance but instead they turn to grace and find their joy in the cross.  The cynic would dismiss such observations as ignorance or lack of education but I believe that many of these people had tapped into some deeper well of joy than most Americans have the opportunity to drink.  These people live in a situation where the only spring of joy among these people is Christ and they have dug deeper wells than I ever knew possible.  The people of Nepal have seen hardship that I have never known and all the Christians I met exuded joy I have never observed.  Perhaps it is time for us to examine our definition of prosperity.
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Elephant Riding in the Nepali Hills


By Ashley
So a few updates are in order.  
Number 1:  The ride to Chitwan was beautiful.  We shimmied our way up the mountain and had incredible views of the rivers and many small waterfalls.  According to Gajendra, these are not actually mountains...only hills.  These hills were bigger than any mountain in the U.S.  Absolutely beautiful!  The elephant safari was incredible as well. Hands down one of the coolest things I have EVER done.  We didn’t just ride an elephant around in a circle, we rode an elephant through a jungle.  At times, the path was not so clear so we had to duck and hold limbs out of the way.  We spent over 2 hours on the elephant ride crossing through many puddles and a river (which came up to the elephants ears).  Did I mention it was pouring down rain as we got on the elephants?  How many people can say they rode an elephant through a river in Nepal (with ponchos)?  I could have afforded to leave out the rain part, but it did cool things down a bit even if we were soaking wet and stinky.  That night in Chitwan we also went to watch a cultural show with a group of guys demonstrating tribal dances.  It was actually really neat. I probably could have danced with the best of them no doubt.  We stayed in a “resort” in Chitwan that reminded me a lot of a fish camp (although I have never been to one...I imagine it would be something like that).  But it didn’t bother me once I tucked my net in and hit the pillow. I didn’t move all night long!  Besides, why would we go to on a mission trip and see the conditions people live in and then put ourselves up in a five-star hotel?  Shouldn’t there be some guilt in that?
Number 2: We completed our third Kids Camp at Hetauda on Wednesday.  This church was one of the first churches in Nepal to start Awana, and is one of the biggest.  Gajendra kept pointing out the leaders and saying “They used to be a clubber...” , and some are even on his ministry team.  The Hetauda kids camp was one of the toughest.  We did about 2 hours worth of basketball outside, and it was really hot and humid, and we were already sore from our basketball playing and elephant riding.  At one point we thought we would just have to quit and go inside.  But, we made it!  Chris wants to do Ping Pong Clinics next time...too hot and rainy for basketball in the summer! 
One thing I noticed in Hetauda is how much the Nepali people like to serve (and do crafts).  During the Bible quizzing we decided to put together Wordless Book Bracelets in another room.  As we started pulling the beads out, we had a few girls walk up and watch.  Then they jumped right in to help!  Next thing we knew, me and Mom were just sitting back watching about ten girls and boys put together the bracelets for us!  Easy way to get the job done.  After the Bible Quiz we held a short service for the kids.  Gajendra has done an excellent job leading the invitation for us.  It is a bit different in countries like Nepal and India because of the millions of gods the people hear of everyday.  It is crucial that they know our God is not just another one of their gods.  When Gajendra was finished, I counted15 hands that were raised.  We were talking later on about the Kids Camps and what had been accomplished through them.  Gajendra said it best when he said, “If just one child gets saved, we have done our job.”  Indeed we have.  
Number 3: On Thursday we held our last kids camp.  This camp was in one of the most beautiful places I have seen.  We were surrounded by mountains (or “Nepali hills”), and fields of crops.  Mom, Dad, Chris, and myself were alone for this last camp.  It was a small camp, but many of the kids who showed up had walked for two hours to get there.  It was a fun day with a wonderful climate.  We had a great time putting together crafts and handing out ornaments and suckers.  We also got to have one more church cooked Nepali meal.  I think we have had our fair share of rice!  The food is great, but sometimes it can be tough when you are not used to it.  Those countryside people sure can cook though!  I hope when I get home I can get my Nepali tea to taste as good as theirs.  
Well, it’s hard to believe we have finished up all our camps.  There is still so much to talk about.  One thing I have noticed about going to both India and Nepal is how much of an impact Awana truly has.  I feel like often times we take it for granted in the U.S., or give credit to other things.  We talked with one church leader in the Bhutanese Refugee camps and he went on and on about the impact Awana has had on the number of church members in the camps.  Awana helped one church in Hetauda to grow into one of the biggest churches in Nepal.  What I think is incredible is that in countries like Nepal and India you find children from Hindu families reciting Bible verses.  In fact, one very young girl recited 26 verses in 3 minutes.  How many of us can recite 26 verses, period?
Well, that’s enough for now.  The rest of our team headed back Thursday morning, but Chris and myself stuck around for some sightseeing while Mom and Dad meet with the National Directors.  I look forward to letting you know more about our trip over the next few days.  I will keep you posted on our final days!
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The world does not stop when there is no internet...


By Ashley
Well, we have not been able to get internet access, so I will update you on the past few days.  This was actually what I had ready to post last night...but here goes.  
On Sunday we woke up to rain.  We planned on heading out early to do some sightseeing, but instead we did some monsoon shopping.  We walked down the road and bargained for some ponchos and headed out on our way!  After shopping we headed up to the Monkey Temple to experience the culture and see incredible views of the mountains and city.  We were able to look at the different buildings and forms of worship.  We were also able to laugh at the monkeys for a while.  
After the monkey temple, we headed to Durbar Square.  Here you are able to experience the city at its finest.  You can sit at the top of a temple (that resembles steps) and watch the city life.  There are also many people walking around trying to sell you traditional flutes, violins, and other memorabilia.  We walked around and looked at some of the temples and old palaces.  The most interesting part of the day was going to see the Kumari.  Long story short, the Kumari is considered a living goddess.  She stays in a her home all day long, and supposedly walks out and looks over the courtyard for about 15 seconds and goes back in.  So we walked in and looked around a bit.  The guy told us she had already come out; however, we could pay him and see her come out again.  We didn’t agree to, but he sent her out anyway.  No pictures are allowed, but a young girl stepped to the window and just stood there.  I have to say when she went back in, it was the strangest feeling I have ever had.  I can’t believe that people actually worship a little girl.  I couldn’t help but think about how lost some of these people are, and how confused they must be with all these “gods” they have lying around their city.  Then again, it’s incredible to think that God brought us here to show these people that there’s only One.
It is hard to pick a “favorite day”, but I would have to say that Monday ranks pretty high up there.  Monday morning we headed out to Hebron Public School where Gajendra’s kids attend.   This was the first of our three two-hour basketball clinics for the day.  Our first one was interrupted a lot with rain, but we managed to entertain the kids anyway.  We formatted our camps with stations, and one station included handing out and teaching the wordless book bracelet.  While students were hiding from the rain, Ryan was sharing with one group about the bracelets.  In the end, a student asked us if someone would pray for her.  Gajendra’s daughter Rachel helped translate and eventually lead the girl to Christ.  After she was finished praying, another girl also asked for someone to pray with her.  So Hannah, Christina, Mandie, and Rachel were able to lead two girls to Christ.  The most exciting part is, these girls along with Rachel, will now be able to share with their classmates what Jesus has done in their lives.  After finishing up with our camp, we had a devotion with the students and were able to hand out snacks, candy, small Bibles, and comic books that are the Nepali version of “Transport” that Awana uses in American clubs.  We were not allowed to just hand them out to the kids being a public school, but every kid chose to pick one up.
Our second camp was at Elim School, and they actually had a Senior and Junior boys team and also a girls basketball team.  These kids for the most part knew how to play basketball, but still learned a lot from our station work.  At the end, we played for about 40 minutes against their teams and their staff.  They were actually pretty good.  In fact, they had about three boys who were at least 6 and a half feet tall!  They were definitely not Nepali size.  We later learned that they were refugees from Somalia.  We had a good time playing, and the kids really enjoyed our company.  The principal, although Christian, asked us to be careful while sharing the Gospel because many of the students are Hindu and their parents have been complaining.  So I just shared a story about growing up playing basketball, how my faith strengthened, and how it made me a better person.  We also handed out snacks, BIbles, candy, and comic books.
Our last camp was rather interesting.  It was by far the poorest of the schools.  The school was actually a Hindu boarding school that housed many orphans.  We had to be very careful there with presenting the Gospel, and chose to teach them the wordless book bracelet.  Afterwards we handed out our snacks, etc.  They don’t say candy in Nepal, everything is “chocolate”.  So for the “chocolates” we passed out Fun Dip and realized that they may not know how to eat Fun Dip.  Being the character he is, Gajendra opened it up and explained to the kids in Nepali how to eat it.  The kids had a good laugh when Gajendra said “lick” in Nepali.  The boys at this school could really play basketball and were physical.  We really enjoyed playing against them while all their workers and friends watched from around the court and on the balconies of the orphanage.  Maybe Ryan’s “shiner” will still be there when he gets home.  He was quite the equipment manager....just kidding Ryan.  We had a great time talking to the kids.  The kids were very well behaved, and even helped us to pass out the snacks and Bibles.  


Being so long, I think I am going to cut this one short and continue it later.  I can say that   Monday I was completely overwhelmed with the love that the Nepali people show.  It’s unbelievable.  I loved seeing the kids in their schools, and seeing how well behaved they are and how they view education as a privilege and not necessarily a job.  I loved talking with the kids, workers, and principals.  They are all so grateful and only want us to just come and play.  That’s all they want.  All they need is for someone to come and show them God’s love.   
We are now in Chitwan about to head out on an elephant safari. We are sleeping like princesses tonight under our Mosquito “canopies”.  
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Baptism at the Refugee Camp


By Ashley

As you may have noticed, our mornings have turned out to be quite interesting.  This morning after breakfast, we went down stairs with all our luggage and got ready to load the vans.  It was raining pretty hard (we have experienced the monsoon season), and our drivers could not get all the luggage in.  In the process, one of the drivers broke his trunk and spent 20 minutes trying to fix it.  Much to our dismay, he did not and we had to tie a tarp to the top with our luggage.  
But it gets better. The rain began to pick up more, and by the time we reached the refugee camp the ground was full of little streams and deep puddles.  We all stepped out of the vans and made our way to the church.  It was quite a complicated walk, which resorted in us taking off our sandals and shoes and just walking barefoot.  As we walked (and slipped), the kids started to follow us.  You could hear them giggle because we obviously looked like we had no idea what we were doing.  Well, we almost reached the camp soaking wet and unharmed, until the baptism occurred.  Andy was almost at the church and about to cross a little creek when he began to slip and could not stop.  He plunged into the creek about waist deep.  We were all extremely worried, but then turned it into a joke as the day went on.  Although it may sound cruel, Mom swears it would have been a funny video to capture the look on his face.  Some have called him “Ditch Man” and others have called him “Andy the Baptist”.   
We finally reached the camp, and participated in another kids camp day.  The rain got worse, and when we looked out the window we noticed groups of kids running around in the rain playing soccer, sliding through the puddles head first, and floating through the creeks.  Many of these kids decided it was just easier to ditch the clothes and run.  Because of the weather, we decided to leave early in order to make sure we would reach the airport in time.  The people really took care of us.  They grabbed umbrellas for us, and walked us back out to the vans.  I don’t mean to exaggerate, but the walk was probably almost half a mile.  The puddles were even deeper at this point, some of which came up to my knees.  One young girl about my age noticed Mom was a little nervous and she grabbed her arm and held onto her and helped her through the mud.  Kids followed us staring at our legs, and one kid yelled at Dad to stop and ran over and pulled a leach off his leg.  These Nepali people are incredible.  They would do anything for you.  
I can honestly say I am pretty sure I have never been that dirty before in my life, yet I didn’t complain.  It’s unbelievable how all the sudden some things just don’t matter as much anymore.  I didn’t worry about what I was stepping through, or how much mud had slung all over my back.  I didn’t get upset when my books in my bag got wet, or when I noticed mud all up my pants (and somehow up my shirt on my shoulder...go figure).  The workers told me not to walk in the church yet, and a few seconds later someone turned the corner with a huge bucket of water and a bowl.  As I reached for the bowl to help clean my feet, they said no, and  they immediately grabbed the bowl and started cleaning my feet, legs, and clothes.  Humbling is the only way to describe it. 
My favorite part of the day was watching the kids during song time.  I have never seen kids worship the way these kids do.  They genuinely raised their hands and closed their eyes.  During prayers, they even mumbled their own.  Even the smallest kids there.  On the car ride back we mentioned this to Gajendra, and his response was, “There is no Junior God and there is no Junior Holy spirit, so we teach our kids to worship just as we do.”  Genuine worship is what it is, through song, dance, and service.  
I know this is long, so I will wrap it up with this, I can’t even imagine what our churches would be like if we served each other like the Nepali people do, and if we taught children to worship the way we wish our adults would.  


Sorry no pictures still, the internet connection is not very good.  I will work on that!  But I am not making any promises.
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