Elders in Pohang

transition

2011-02-13T16:00:00.001+09:00

my life in Korea feels as far away as an alternate lifetime.

i left my home exactly 20 days ago. my safe, secure, established and accustomed life- to venture, explore and jump into the unknown. scary place.

i realized tonight that nothing in my life right now is mine, with the exception of my netbook, my clothes, all that's crammed into my purse and scattered relationships. it's captivating. it's ever-changing.

it's risky. and exhausting.

there's at least one awkward moment for me in each day whether it's reminding myself not to bow to the grocery store check out lady or pausing to accept that, in time, i won't feel so disoriented.

2 days ago i felt strong, had clarity and truly and confidently believed that everything that comes my way is significant in purpose. 7 days ago, one conversation made me feel more in touch with my heart than i think i've been since 2004.

today, i woke up with dread; it was grey outside and in my mind. i wanted to cry, eat ice cream and shut out America, everything Americana. With the exception of the fresh air. surprisingly, the clean, crisp air filtrating my lungs, breathing life into my spirit every time i step outside, has probably been the one constant. strange. and right now, i'm conflicted. how much do my feeling really matter? am i me? or am i an us?

i can already tell that this new journey is going to bring new questions that challenge the stability i had come to know in my previous life.

i don't know why, but this ice cream cone that's been dipped in chocolate is what this feels like.

every home, every restaurant, every store, every person engaging with me, every handshake, every conversation, every job applications feels like an attack of chocolate sauce, covering me completely, drenching me in it's opinions, values and beliefs.

my wishes:

~become a student
~become a parent
~stay at home
~practice my skills
~develop my growth areas
~listen within
~avoid the mainstream
~shut out the pressures
~be unified with my husband
~embrace the journey
~just find the destination already
~honor my values
~embrace my whole self
~paint my home
~discern my influences
~get a kitten
~cure my husband's allergies to cats
~figure out how to be free
~feel safe
~be open and flexible with everything, with each moment

obviously.....my feelings are changing as often as the Seattle rain.

i don't know if i like this place. it's uncomfortable not feeling grounded. and i'm sitting here pondering and processing and being present, in this discomfort and awkwardness.

help me Lord to know that this place will bear fruit.
help me Lord to use the abilities that you're developing in me.
help me Lord to know that i am capable.
help me Lord to remember that you love me so dearly.
help me Lord to have fun.
help me Lord to laugh.
help me Lord to know that you are ever-present and this. is necessary.

oh. and i have decided that this will be the last post for this blog, as we are no longer in pohang :)

dong seng

2011-01-22T23:34:00.002+09:00

the emotions are coming on thick now. tomorrow is our last night in pohang.

we've been experiencing so much excitement and build up for 5 months. and the last few days the heat has seriously intensified. the sadness has come. goodbye dinners, laughing and reminiscing. hugs, tears and lots of pictures.

sleeping has sort of become impossible as i can't stop the constant thought flow. i can't stop replaying the image of each closure- with each student, parent, coworker and friend. again, i want to bottle up that feeling and keep it forever. with the sadness, comes this indescribable sweetness of sharing a special bond and knowing it can't ever be the same once i leave. i don't like leaving them; i want to grip the love forever and never let go. i don't know if i've ever experienced such generosity and loyalty in this way. it feels so undeserved. and what i am i giving in return? a goodbye! all i can conclude is that i am loved. i am liked and it is real and genuine. i think the shock in that is also what's keeping me from sleeping.

at this place in my journey, these last 5 months of bliss, i can say with sure confidence that everything Korea has brought me before August was worth it- to get here. absolutely. undoubtedly.

tonight, adam said farewell to his baseball team. wow- they looooooooooooooove him. seriously. Adam is known in the entire baseball city leagues in this area. He's known for his talent and skill. With his team, he's also known for his character and consistency both on and off the field. Even through all that broken communication, it was clear tonight that he changed that team forever.

we're both really exhausted. this emotional rollercoaster isn't slowing down any time soon, so we must relish in the moment and know that things are as they should be. we are right, exactly where we are supposed to be.

A's goodbye speech

they brought in fresh crab to go with our BBQ meat

to celebrate A's inspiration and gift to the team

they call us Adam and wife- my name is too hard to pronounce :)

Woonji bought and signed a bat as a going-away gift

Woonji gave A the title of dong seng tonight.

the incredibly high honor of little brother.

they told him that he is family, and family lasts forever.

Woonji baseball team 2010-2011

2011-01-21T01:58:00.004+09:00

Tropical Dramaturgy

This picture is a forecast of this spring's fashion colors and trends. I'm still not quite sure what dramaturgy is, but I like what it sounds like. Expression. Life. Drama and Presentation.
All things entertaining.

These colors feel mysterious and captivating. I imagine a rich purple gown adorned with lemon-colored dangling earrings and makeup of golds and chocolate brown. That would be bold. And, luring, I think.

A casual day at the beach:

brown and teal layers with a delicate aqua scarf.

Rolled up faded jeans and

turquoise flats.

Too much color? Not possible.

This girl belongs in Seattle!

2011-01-19T22:26:00.003+09:00

do you ever just want to freeze how you feel? just for a moment when it seems like you've somehow connected with sheer satisfaction and are whole with the world around you? and photograph that space so that whenever you want, you can look at what was around you and feel forever, like you did just then? tonight, the moon was in all it's fullness and i wanted so badly to have a snapshot of all my senses.
i wish i could save that feeling and know that i could revisit it whenever i want or need to be reminded of just how complete God is- and that He died for me, broke Himself and ripped away from warmth, for me, so that i could have that perfect intimacy and satisfaction with Him, one day. and then many, many more days and moments and sunsets and full moons after that.

one of the beautiful things about knowing God is building a trust, because building that trust weaves my being into an intimacy with God that He created me to crave.

the more i ask for help and direction and vulnerable wants- that seem like they have no possible way of ever being met- the more i tie myself to a God who wants me. a God who show ups. Always. Every time. Saving the day. Delivering a crisp moon on a cold winter night's drive home.

my heart is probably more open that it's ever been. and that is a comfortable place for me. that is a place of peace and rest and self-control. even more trustworthy, is knowing that my open heart is not struggling or scouting to find someone who will tell me who i am or where i should go or what the right thing to do is. this open heart is protected and strong in the Spirit, knows wisdom to be honest and make discerning choices and lastly, an ability, from the work of His hands, to thrive. thank you Jesus for believing in me.

2011-01-18T03:52:00.005+09:00

to join.

to link.

to unite.

i'm going to take my time joining. i'm not diving in. i'm not over-committing, opening myself up to just anything. oh yes, i'm excited. jumping up and down excited. can't sleep excited. and i am full of vibrance. energized and ready, waiting for that shot gun to go off so i can take off. however. i am finally starting to understand. i am valuable, and worth valuing. i am a gift and i will nurture it, responsibly. i'm too valuable to succumb to pressures that are far from- me. i am to valuable to waste time doing a job that little by little robs my soul. i am too valuable to choose what he, or she, or it or they are choosing, telling me, guilting me into believing is the only, one right choice. i am too valuable not to say how i feel or separate myself from ANYTHING that threatens my heart.

i am too valuable.

it feels as though my life. my life here. the life we've built. the life surrounding me, is tied down by all these cables. big and small. i can feel every one. i can sense each of them. every one significant. in a few days, i am leaving. in every sense of the word. i am going to board an airplane, will take off from the runway and travel on that long flight over the ocean, watching every. single. cable snap out of place. one by one. and fly loose and undirected into mid-air. can't you just see it?

and so i'm giving myself time. i'm going to need time. time will help me know where i want to plug my cables in. time will help me think before i speak. time will help know how to link myself to that in which bears fruit in my life. i know i'm going to feel lost at times. confused. out of place. and sad. am i going to feel like the same person in American that i do here? am i going to feel behind? am i going to know how to be strong in a new, unfamiliar, but...natural environment? is it going to feel like i've had Alzheimer's for the past 4 years and then i wake up one morning lucid to find that everything is different, but i should know how to navigate? maybe. perhaps. yes. yes. yes. and, it's going to be good. because.......for me, there is not one right answer or right way. not anymore. not after years of believing that lie. there is an entire city and coastline full of hundreds and thousands of good, great, choices awaiting me. how flipping freeing. can i just say that again. HOW freeing.

it's my life. my time. my journey. my heart.

if you know anything about me, it's not new news that i loooooooove people. i love a party! i love conversation, texting, photos and dancing, memories and laughter. this is by far my favorite way of connecting with this life; alongside people.

this is something i have sacrificed living in asia. not because it's asia! but.....just because. because it was the way it was supposed to be. i know, without a doubt, i will look back on this chapter of my life as being incredible transforming and beautiful in my life because i wasn't united with people- in the same way as i'd known before. in the same capacity. in the same social nature. it was one of the best things for me- to be distanced. this is a big one. how much sweeter and much more united have i felt these last 5 months having gone without? how much i've learned about truly uniting, honestly and genuinely within myself? how hopeful i am to unite with ANYTHING of my choosing. my choosing.

snow day

2011-01-03T10:27:00.000+09:00

flu be gone- with crafts!

2010-12-30T21:31:00.003+09:00

rosette wreaths made from book pages

my button and pennant Christmas cards

birth of our Savior

2010-12-28T22:03:00.002+09:00

Christmas morning cinnamon rolls

downtown Pohang Christmas Day

glitter galore

2010-12-14T14:27:00.039+09:00

Last Sunday night I needed some inspiration, a little nurturing.

My delightful and charming husband took my downtown to my favorite coffee spot for the holidays.

We talked and laughed and planned. Absolutely lovely quality time.

We came home to our cozy Christmas nest, mugs of eggnog and a new craft project to lift my spirits and help me feel like myself again: a holiday pennant banner!

I completely fell in love with this:

So, after completely covering my hands, table and floor in silver glitter, I ended up with my own banner!

advent

2010-12-11T15:15:00.003+09:00

Our Christmas season opened with the annual HIS variety show

Something new we're LOVING this year is opening an advent calendar....with a festive mission for each day to draw us closer this holiday season. Some of our favorites so far:

Day 2: Make Mama Dean's eggnog and decorate.

Day 5: Research holiday traditions of our nationalities, and choose any we want to add to our family.

Day 7: Pick out an ornament collection.

goodbyes

2010-12-06T10:46:00.003+09:00

We're down to 49 days until we leave this country on a jet plane with nothing but our maxed out baggage, memories, a little more life experience and each other.

Naturally, it will be really hard to say goodbye. This has been our home for almost 4 years; the first 4 years of our marriage and adulthood. First jobs, first close friends as a couple. A foundational time.

There's a lot to think about. There are a lot of things I'm really going to miss. And, many....not so much.

I WILL miss: loosely enforced speed limits

NOT so much: countless speed bumps and massive pot holes

I WILL miss: a gorgeously long autumn with endless sunny days and vibrant colors

NOT so much: wind storms that rattle our 15th floor veranda windows day and night during monsoon season

I WILL miss: dirt cheap apartment bills

NOT so much: dryer-less laundry and 5-minute spirts of hot water doing dishes or showering

I WILL miss: our first home

NOT so much: foam flooring, chipped paint, no bathroom outlet

I WILL miss: our peaceful, slow-paced life

NOT so much: living an introverted lifestyle.....as an extrovert

I WILL miss: the price of organic veggies

NOT so much: the price for good coffee

I WILL miss: the familiar

NOT so much: being an outsider

I WILL miss: dirt cheap medical bills

NOT so much: often leaving the doctor more confused and unsure

I WILL miss: being salaried
NOT so much: exchange rates

I WILL miss: ultimate Frisbee

NOT so much: trying to do aerobics videos in my living room without knocking anything over or injuring myself

I WILL miss: underground subway shopping where $50 gets me a bag of the cutest and trendiest outfits

NOT so much: one-(mini/petite) size fits all

More than anything, I WILL miss: the special connections I've had with some very special people. My life is better because of you.

Saturday Thanksgiving

2010-11-28T11:02:00.004+09:00

This year, I spent Thanksgiving talking about American culture and the American perspective with college students at Pohang College. What a sweet and special experience.

One of my favorite days in Pohang....ever.

Adam was in Suwan for a teaching conference over the 4-day holiday.
My darling Korean friend JHee brought me a cake. We ate pizza and laughed all evening.
I'm learning that God ordains everything as an opportunity.
I chose to really embrace this week, and it turned out sooo delightful.

On Saturday, my baking club came over for our Thanksgiving meal celebration.
I think we went through 4 lbs. of butter :)

Our menu:
fried chicken
mashed potatoes and mushroom gravy
stuffing
sweet potato casserole
green bean casserole
orange cream fruit salad
cranberry pumpkin cookies
sparkling apple cider
pumpkin pie and whipped cream

It was a total team effort, and we had a blast. Baking and eating!
I'm so thankful for these kids and how much they make me smile.
Happy Thanksgiving!

how would you define your great life

2010-11-22T16:36:00.005+09:00

Asks Joyce Meyer on pg. 55, Chapter 4, of her book Power Thoughts that I have just begun to work through. I've attempted to make myself fully available to her questions. And, I've come to some powerful conclusions about how to change my thinking and bear more fruit in my life.

I have learned that if I want to be like Christ, I must enter into the process of renewing my mind. That's right, the process of disciplining myself to identify a lie and seek God for the truth, in that place.

I've learned that a man's behavior follows his thoughts.

I've learned that you can train your mind to work for you and trust that God's truth is more powerful than any fear.

But as I have come to pg. 55, I'm quite stumped.
I keep asking myself over and over what a great life is for me. I....just....don't know.

I know I love Adam and he loves me.
I know I belong to God and He has a plan for every moment of my life.
I have dreams and goals.
We are approaching a vision for our future.
But, I just keep coming back to....a great life.
What does that mean for me?

What does that mean for you?

If I had to guess how my best friend would answer this question, perhaps she would say that your life is in the journey. I think she would tell me that enjoying each moment and viewing each hurdle as beneficial is what makes life great. I think she would tell me that what's great, is choosing to open your mind to greatness.

2010-11-17T10:35:00.000+09:00

Adam's baseball team tied for first heading into the semi-finals. Woonji Hwighting!!

Adam warming up to pitch

He got hit 3 times on Sunday! Once in the hip while batting, the bicep and in the ankle while pitching!

Needed and New

2010-11-13T13:18:00.004+09:00

In need I was and He knew it first.
I thought I saw it. I thought I knew.
A distant glimmer, I reached out too soon.
Please support me, please like me; too expectant.
We wouldn't bloom.

There was a purpose and He knew it first.
I failed to see. I failed to know.
Burned, hot, tears, nerves and fears.
Rejection, isolation, removed, banned and forbidden.

In need I was. Something new must come.
He was there. Right there. He knew I would want to run.
Overwhelming heaviness. I couldn't bear.
I couldn't find my way. I couldn't see a way out anywhere.

Blinded, I searched. To my ingrained habits I clung,
Waiting for change, upon realizing, me, it need be.
In need I was and He loved me enough to prune.
Crutches removed, make way for healing soon.

Filling the holes left empty from long ago,
The guidance, the wisdom, the ways I did not, before, know how to go.

He saw it first. He knew it best.
To be made new, it required confusion, battling and mess.

Please, no more.
Those feelings; there's nothing worse.

But, right there He was waiting.
Full of sadness; my disappointment so loud.
He knew it first. His arms embracing.

So, here I am now.
Still needing and unsure.
But He knows I'm stronger. He knows I'm taller.
My eye sight a little wider.
I return to the scene.
And, to the right things, I now cling.

As I embark today, Let my "yes" be yes and my "no" be no,
And, for everything in between, remind me to look up and discern where to sow.

Christmas is coming....

2010-11-10T13:18:00.002+09:00

to the Elders!

The last few weeks I've been planning, cutting, folding and gluing in order to make this hanging take-out box advent calendar for Christmas!

Inside each box, is a surprise Christmas-ey date night for us to relish in the season!

2010-11-06T14:34:00.001+09:00

I desperately needed my hair cut, so I opted for something completely new: shorter and straighter!
After 3 1/2 hours in the salon chair, this is my chic straight perm :)

my quilted netbook bag

2010-11-03T11:38:00.000+09:00

rosettes

2010-10-31T21:01:00.006+09:00

i'm a pretty feminine girl.
i don't like having icky things on my hands.
i have calla lilies in my apartment.

i could probably wear a dress and heels everyday.
i really want to paint my bathroom fuchsia.

and, i like frilly lace, especially when making rosettes!
this weekend, i tore off the jewels my black headband and added my own touch: two white rosettes.

and finally, i finished my fall rosette wreath!

2010-10-30T12:04:00.001+09:00

Jukdo market is smelly. And, often cram-packed busy, at least when I'm there. However, there is one reason well worth the trip: this tiny sewing shop. Actually...it's really more of a closet. Very helpful and friendly service. And, ribbons, fabric, thread, buttons and lace galore! I'm not sure how the prices compare. I might be getting ripped. $5 for a yard of fabric? It beats having a box sent over every time I see another project on the horizon!

Speaking of prices...I've been paying $6.50 for 500 grams of butter, about 2 cups. Isn't that craziness?!!

SOO looking forward to being able to make a trip to the grocery store that doesn't take 2 hours to get everything I need and costs less than $50.

2010-10-25T23:35:00.002+09:00

pumpkin pom poms- so fun to make!

Glitter Owl Boxes

2010-10-25T00:43:00.005+09:00

Harvest

2010-10-21T15:09:00.004+09:00

It's rainy and gray in Pohang today.

However, I'm staying cheerful....because of the upcoming holidays this time of year!

I'm feeling cozy ...thinking about the lavender eye pillow I made last night!

I'm feeling festive...because of the slow cooked cinnamony-baked apples we had with dinner on Monday.

1/2 C. brown sugar and craisins stuffed in 4 cored apples

1/4 C. melted better and 1/2 C. apple juice poured over the top

sprinkled with 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon and 3/4 tsp. nutmeg

placed in crock pot for 2.5 hours.

I'm nostalgic....because October reminds me of so many fond Halloween memories.

4th grade, hand-made by my mother, pink and white kitten costume.

The hours, days and weeks of fun I had organizing my candy according to color, size and type.

Yes, I know. Type A from a young age.

costume dance parties

I'm feeling nurtured...by spending my days crafting glitter owls and pumpkin pom-poms and baking pumpkin chocolate chip bread and plum applesauce

I'm craving...another pumpkin pie milkshake like the one I blended for dessert this week.

1/2 C. canned pumpkin pie mix

2 large scoops vanilla ice cream

1/2 C. soy milk

I'm feeling loved...because of the way my husband is devoted to caring for me, listening to me, making me laugh, being available, guiding me down a righteous path and being a place of safety.

cloth napkins for 6

2010-10-17T20:21:00.003+09:00

recycled flowers

2010-10-15T10:31:00.001+09:00

This week I've been staying up late to

make these flowers out of magazines and

watch Project Runway season 8.

my musts this fall

2010-10-09T22:59:00.002+09:00

1. CROCK POT ENCHILADAS
Sauce: 3 Tb. oil. 1 Tb. four. 1/4 C. chili powder. 10 ounces spaghetti sauce. 2 C. chicken stock. 1 tsp. oregano. 1 tsp. cumin. 1/2 tsp. salt.

2 flour tortillas in bottom of crock pot. Browned beef sauted with onions, garlic, salt and pepper. Layer corn, sauce, shredded cheddar cheese and olives. Cook for 6 hours on low. Serve with sour cream.

2. HOLDING BABY MIMI

3. WEARING FLOWERS

Guest Birthday Blog

2010-10-05T22:11:00.014+09:00

     Guest blogging is no easy task. I would liken it to guest speaking at a church or perhaps substitute teaching. I realize we are all creatures of habit, comfort, and familiarity which create an initial sense of uneasiness. A person in such a situation needs to broker some sort of trust between themselves and their (typically) skeptical audience. There are a number of ways to achieve such trust, some more complex than others. A self-proclaimed “simple man” requiring only three squares in my frying pan (look it up non-RVS fans), I prefer the simplest path: humor. However, as a grossly out of shape blogger, even the simplest path is troublesome. Unable to muster a humorous anecdote of my own, the quirky Korean experience unearthed a gem…
     Starbucks is a little crowded tonight, so I’m forced to sit at the bar facing the window. Not three minutes after I sit down, I look up to see two brothers near the bike rack lining the main sidewalk next to a busy interaction – the older (7ish yrs. old) pushing the younger (4ish yrs. old) and the younger grabbing himself awkwardly. Taking this interaction for your run-of-the-mill sibling harassment, I almost missed what was to follow. The mother of the boys rushes over to, in my mind, break up the argument. Instead, she points to the ground in front of the bike rack, imploring the younger boy to pull his pants down. He obliges - just in time to let fly all over the bike rack. With his mother pointing in different places (perhaps to avoid puddling), and his older brother explaining/demonstrating the finer points of bike rack usage, I was feeling relaxed, ready to press on toward my goal of blogging about my birthday on someone else’s blog.
    My wife loves celebrations, and I feel quite awkward about them – especially if they’re for me. Typically a calm, even-tempered person, I become jittery, socially awkward, uncomfortable, anxious, confused, indecisive, and flustered - just to name a few - when the spotlight draws near me in these situations. Fortunately, my wife understands these paralyzing emotions I experience, and plans accordingly. Her plans, coupled with my experiences with my students at school, were altogether wonderful and quite humbling.
     In the morning, I woke to a beautiful display on the kitchen table created by my wife, which included a plate of homemade maple donuts and a loving card instructing me to wake her up so we could have breakfast together for my birthday. For me, this was more than enough, but my day was only beginning…
     When I arrived at school at about 8:00, I observed that the Student Council-led morning prayer group was just inside the door. Trying my best not to disrupt the group, I started to squeeze my way around the circle so that I could head up to my classroom. Before I could get even five steps in the door, I was stopped by the Student Council president and sent to the middle of the circle. Standing awkwardly in the middle, the prayer group sang happy birthday for me and presented me with a cake. Realizing this birthday circle was the plan from the beginning, I was humbled by their efforts and demonstrated care for me as their teacher – yet not just their teacher; something more.
     As I made my way up to my classroom, I was greeted by a few “HAPPEE BAHSuhDAYEEE MEESTAH ELDAH”s. Nothing like Konglish to get a person in the ESL mood. At 8:30, I made my way to our staff’s Friday prayer meeting, where the staff struggled through a chorus of “Happy Birthday to You.” Though it was not the Vienna Boys Choir, I was grateful for the birthday wishes from the staff. After leaving the meeting at 8:45, I returned to my room and found it locked… Since it was my birthday, I gave my students the benefit of the doubt, and assumed that they were trying to surprise me with something. Brian, a student from my homeroom, poked is little head out the door and said, “You have to stay outside, Mr. Elder.” “Okay,” I said, “Just let me know when it’s okay to go in.” I stood in the hall like a troublemaker kicked out of class for a couple of minutes before Brian invited me into the classroom. Happy Birthday cheers, shouting, popping noise makers, and balloons welcomed me as I entered the classroom. My students had planned a miniature celebration, for which even Shamra was able to come! They sang the birthday song for me, and then commenced with our homeroom birthday tradition which requires that the birthday person stand in the middle of all the homeroom members. Then, someone prays for the birthday person and immediately after, the homeroom members give them what is called “birthday bread” (sang il bbang). Contrary to what you may be thinking, “birthday bread” is no delicious treat. In fact, it is not edible in any way. You see, sang il bbang can be most accurately described as a birthday beating. The word “sang il” means birthday and “bbang” indicates some sort of punching, but also means “bread” in Korean. I gladly took my birthday bread, and felt that in some way, them hitting me brought me closer to them than before. After my birthday bread, we cut the cake, and enjoyed each other for three minutes before the students had to head off to their first period class. After three minutes, the bell rang, and everyone rushed off to class, leaving me to clean up the shrapnel of a birthday explosion which included pieces of cake on the floor, chocolate flakes on the desks and chairs, napkins tossed hither and thither, exploded balloon pieces everywhere, and a garbage can filled to the brim and covered with frosting.

The rest of my day carried on as a normal day would, with a few birthday wishes mixed in, and all my classes trying to convince me that I shouldn’t give them a test because it’s my birthday. The logic of that argument still surpasses my understanding, but they fought valiantly…and lost. Fortunately, they were still kind to me, and some even wrote birthday messages on their test papers, though not as answers, thankfully. At around 3:00, I was surprised to see one of my students come through the door because we were not having class that period. However, she had in hand a little red notebook that she had prepared. The cover of the notebook said “Happy Birthday” and the pages were filled with birthday messages from about 1/3 of the student body! I felt so humbled that they took the time to think of me, and not only that, but also took the time to communicate their appreciation and their birthday wishes. This was by far the most I’d received from my students for my birthday. Now, you’re probably wondering what Korean students say to their American teacher for their birthday, so without delay, I’ve picked out some that were meaningful, and some that were, well…head scratchers.

I open the book and the first thing I see is… “CONGRATURATION”

Middle School Comments

“I want to give you present, but I don’t have money. I’m sorry.”

“Do you know that I get second highest score in Social Studies?”

“I think you are so handsome even to men.”

“You are so kind and cool.

“I hope you never go out of HIS.”

“Sorry about homework that I didn’t give you."

“Well…you should buy a dog for Mrs. Elder.”

“I think you look so cute like teddy bear."

“Let’s be close together from now on. You’re my role model Mr. Elder"

High School Comments

“You are the hero of the day!”

“I’m the prettiest girl. Happy Birthday Mr. Elder.”

“Bling Bling…..And…I want to see Jr. Elder too…before I graduate”

"I really want to say that you are a great teacher who is very fair to students"

“I have so many good memories with you.”

“Base, Basket, mr. Elder Ball."

“Whity Mr. Elder – Hey baller, pop your collar it is your birthday…!"

“Let the God be with you!”

“You & Mrs. Elder – prettiest couple ever (heart shape)”

“It’s Junoh. I hope I can get back my postcard. I didn’t mean to lose it.”

“(nice birthday wishes)…However, I want to see Mr. Elder jr. soon.”

“Handsome x 10000 Mr. Elder.”

“Whas up!!! I will say that you are a good teacher and a man. I noticed that you are a good and better person than I thought. I knew you would be. God bless this day and I really thanks for you being in the world.”

No matter the message, I felt blessed that they took the time to reflect on what I mean to them.

After receiving the book, my lovely wife picked me up, and we went home, where even more surprises were waiting! As I walked in our place, I noticed that the table was moved, and was filled with birthday goodies! First, were three of my favorite “Ghana” candy bars. These were especially delicious because we had just gone a month without eating sweets. Additionally, there was a box on the table that said “MLB” on it. I opened the box and discovered that my amazing wife had remembered some odd comment I made a long time ago about wanting a “Cooperstown Collection” baseball hat. Inside the box was a vintage Atlanta Braves baseball hat with a dark blue bill, gray netting, and a red lowercase “a”. It was perfect! Wonderful as these things were, my gifts were not over yet! Shamra had gone to the tremendous effort of running down all of the ingredients for one of my favorite meals…Eggs Benedict. To those living in America, this may sound simple enough, but for those of us in Korea, this would not fall under the category of “easy”. Shamra and I made Eggs Benedict together, and it was incredibly delicious! Once we finished, I ate the remaining bacon, which was, for me, an amazing dessert. But wait! There’s more! Shamra made these sugar-coma inducing chocolate chip cookie dough balls drizzled with melted chocolate that just about sent my taste buds into orbit.

On an overstuffed belly, with joy in my heart, and my beautiful wife in my arms, we spent the rest of the evening talking and watching our favorite TV show, The West Wing. What an amazing birthday it was!

seasons of change

2010-10-02T16:29:00.042+09:00

It's that time of year again where summer is fading and winter is just around the corner. In Korea, I'm still wearing short-sleeves and there are no signs of changing colors yet. Only long sunny afternoons, and chai tea lattes are any signs of fall.

My table is decorated with quilted place mats of pumpkin fabric; a treasured gift from my mom! My day to day has been a transition of change as well as I'm no longer working 9-5 and we are highly anticipating the upcoming changes of our move home early next year!!

Something I've become accustomed to while living as a foreigner is change. Abrupt and sudden change. Upcoming and highly-anticipated change. And, adaptations of change throughout chapters of time. We've faced circumstantial change like working under new administration or doing Bible studies with 4 different groups of people in 4 years. People come and go, come and go and yes, more people coming and going. This time it's us! And, the change is exciting.

We've changed. We've grown up, entered adulthood, learned to budget.
I have learned to cook, how not to burn milk for my spinach white chicken lasagna and how to prepare chicken breast about 50 different ways. Limited options.

We've learned how to work with kids, gained some skills in problem solving and how to be a professional.

I've come to appreciate and embrace more of my surroundings. Koreans really know how to rock fashion trends and get their norebang on! They are also incredibly loyal, making some of the best friends.

I've learned to find things to love about the moment, enjoy what I have before it's gone and understand that I am becoming whatever I allow and choose to influence my life.

I've learned that my husband is my best friend, my rock and truly my other half.

I've learned that planning is natural, but waiting patiently upon the Lord and waiting for the right timing is better.

Being open and available is friendly, but speaking less and guarding your heart is wise.

Being organized and prepared is responsible, but being flexible and understanding is loving.

Taking advice and aiming for perfection is noble, but listening to your gut and going to God is true guidance.

Appearances matter, but being true to yourself matters more.

Having fun, chasing adventures and being passionate is thrilling, but making your own choices and choosing what preserves your soul and honors God is better.

Social etiquette, cultural norms and personality preferences are significant, but God and His Word always point straight.

September

2010-09-21T01:19:00.006+09:00

Bag #2 has been keeping me up until 2 AM for 3 nights now.
Love this new hobby.

Still have the AC running all night.
Seriously, it's almost October.
Wow. Asia brings a whole new extreme.

I've been busy cutting fabric, learning to decipher pattern "keys", ironing interfacing and...re-reading directions 2, 3, 7 times.

Alas! I am allllllmost done except for glueing the dowel handles.

Thanks Mom for the inspiration!

blue tote

2010-09-17T13:21:00.004+09:00

One of my endeavors for the this fall: sewing!

My first project of hopefully many more to come: blue tote bag.

It's sort of cute. Kind of beach-bag like.

I picked out way cuter floral canvas, but was short on fabric.

LEARNED: a slip stitch, how to insert lining.

Discovering my decorative style.

2010-09-11T13:26:00.010+09:00

What I Know:

Vibrant color makes me happy.
White accents add a sophisticated cleanliness.
I'm attracted to the soft aesthetic of espresso brown.
I want one lavender wall.
I require inspiration. And time.

What I'm Asking:

What are the essential pieces of furniture?
Is a fuchsia guest bath with white trim too Disney-teenager?
Can elegant be done on a budget?
Can I have a Greek-Mediterranean style kitchen living in the Pacific Northwest?
Where can I find fake flowers that don't look so fake?

What I'm Starting With:

Real Simple's decorating style quiz
my tangerine and white fiesta ware dishes
black and white photos
non-negotiable wood flooring, to go along with my non-negotiable future kitten!
a conscience: eliminating as much plastic in exchange for wood, glass, ceramic and bamboo

left-overs

2010-09-02T08:14:00.004+09:00

Mornings aren't a friend of mine.
But, coffee is a bestie.

Any good day starts with my French press, rich, organic Doma beans and a splash of soy milk. The only part of this process I don't enjoy: left-over java.

I may have found the most fabulous, cappuccino-lovers solution ever: coffee ice cubes!!

And in this heat, anything iced, cold or chilled is a must!

Iced Mochas
Blend 3-5 coffee cubes with:
1 1/2-2 cups soy milk
3 Tb. chocolate syrup
1 Tb. sugar or 1 tsp. stevia

Yums.

pollution resolve

2010-08-30T09:56:00.004+09:00

It's no secret that Asia has a pollution problem. Living 5 hours from Seoul and in a smaller area (population: 500,000), has some advantages when it comes to fairly smog-free air.

Of course....right across the bay, is the largest steel company in the world. Lots of smokestacks. So. Basically, I'm exposing myself to toxic chemicals on a regular basis.

I think I'm a little more sensitive to this environment for a few reasons.
1) I'm just sensitive.
2) I'm from a small town (pop: 7,000), in a state with more wide open space and clean air than anywhere in the US. Nature really is our friend.

The solution. I suppose there are many. I'm thrilled at recently finding bottled alkaline water! And. I'm using a very natural product by Aveda, once a week, that basically strips chemicals and build up. Sun Care Hair and Body Cleanser. I think it's doing wonders. My hair feels soft, clean (not oily!) and more....my hair.

2010-08-27T11:13:00.004+09:00

My prayer this semester:
Jesus, who and how can I love around me?

ways to love someone

today

1. Spend time with someone.

2. Be a good listener.

3. Give a hug!

4. Pray for someone on a daily basis for a week.

5. Write a card.

6. Share an encouragement.

7. Give a $5 Starbucks card.

8. Bake their favorite dessert.

9. Offer to babysit.

10. For a small price, support a child through World Vision or Gospel for Asia.

11. Buy a $5 surprise gift and drop it by someone's work.

12. Pick up a few groceries for someone.

13.Give someone a ride.

14. Invite someone with no family for dinner.

15. Secretly pay for someone's dinner at a restaurant.

16. Say thank you.

17. Provide a peaceful atmosphere.

18. Ask someone you love what would make them feel loved.

19. Run an errand for someone.

20. Lend a book you think they might enjoy.

21. Invite someone to a funny movie.

22. Get to know someone new.

23. Have a conversation about your and their spiritual lives.

24. Make a homemade gift.

25. Ask God how you can love those around you.

Inspired by The Love Revolution- Joyce Meyer

Love can change a life.

Teacher Training

2010-08-25T08:29:00.002+09:00

This week I've spent some time working with Filipino women who are teaching English in Korea.
What a delight they are!
I couldn't ask for more lively, engaging and motivated students!

sweating it out

2010-08-24T11:34:00.006+09:00

You see the condensation building up around the outside of these coffee glass mugs? It's crazy hot. It's intensely hot! I can't even describe how hot Korea is right now!!
It wouldn't be so bad. But our AC was out for our first 6 days back in the country. And, then for another 2 days. Now, it's just sort of shotty and will probably require that we purchase a new fan box.

Last night we slept in our living room, in front of our air conditioner. That felt good. It was so nice to get a full night's rest. Before falling asleep, we took some time to really thank God for just how fortunate we are. We really are....so blessed.

I am grateful to have a home that I like to be in, have a husband I love to hold, have jobs to get up and go to, have the means to live such a high quality of life and to know Jesus Christ as my Savior and life-giver.

On that same positive note, I am absolutely loving my semester off. Best part of my day: kissing my husband off to work and spending the morning praying for his day. Well, welcoming him home and spending the evenings together will probably be even sweeter!

As for my day-to-day schedule, it's going to be filled with diversity!
Today, I'm working on sweet potato breakfast muffins, preparing a lesson for an upcoming lecture and hoping to make some progress through The Chronicles of Narnia.

Looking for some inspiration in the kitchen......check out 15 healthiest muffin recipes. Make it gluten-free by substituting with brown rice flour and "healthinize" sweetening with stevia instead of refined sugar!

what am i most thankful for from the summer?

2010-08-16T20:04:00.001+09:00

5. Fun
Our trip was seriously...full...of endless fun!! I laughed so hard and so often. We bounced from baseball game to baseball game and entered the lives of so many, sitting at so many different dinner tables. I camped along lakes near Kenai hoping not to get eaten by bears while it poured allll night. I took a sauna and stayed up talking until 5 AM. I stayed in a king size bed with perfectly set AC :) I got burgers for $1.50 and ate them in the park with 2 of my favorite people ever. I cooked meals with my mother-in-law. I got eaten alive by mosquitoes, yet was entirely distracted by the incredible sunset. I slept in the back of an Envoy in Adam's grandparents driveway. I watched a 7 year old build our campfire all by himself and before enjoying turkey hot dogs wrapped in Romaine lettuce for a bun. I took hundreds of pictures with our new camera and deleted many, many photos that my husband took of the "landscapes" while driving through eastern MT and N. Dakota. I ordered my absolute favorite ice cream dessert...probably 5 times.
I had too much fun.

4. Love
There's nothing like vacation to nurture my marriage. I have my hub ALL to myself and I just can't get enough! God really spoils us. Long conversations. Down time. Adventures. It's a fabulous time of reconnecting and coming together as one!

3. Travel
Boy, did we cover some serious ground. 11 states in 15 days. Made my first trip to Yellowstone. Enjoyed rest and peacefulness in cornfields and farmland of southern Michigan. Can't wait to return to the Black Hills for camping! And, just felt so so so at home in the northwest. Travelling widens my scope on life. It makes me appreciate more. It makes me love coming home.

2. Food
I just couldn't help myself at Trader Joe's and the Whole Foods market in Ann Arbor! Ezekiel bread, Alaskan Amber, maple leaf cookies, wild rice salad, halibut tacos and freshly picked blueberries. To top off my food extravaganza, I made it home up north for some tasty baked halibut and jalapeño cheese dip made by my mother. She. is. the. best.

1. People
I'm pretty sure I have the most interested, thoughtful and giving in-laws on the planet, and I cherish each new memory that I make with my own parents. The friends that God has placed in our lives couldn't be better influences in our life. We are to blessed to have such caring and considerate, godly and FUN friends!

engagement memories

2010-08-16T10:19:00.001+09:00

Adam's proposal spot!

Alaskan Summer

2010-08-16T09:35:00.004+09:00

Portage Glacier

wildflowers

gondola ride to the top of Ayeska Ski Resort

Kenai River how I've missed you!!

camping

my mom's beautiful front yard

sauna for those chilly nights

Elder BBQ

2010-08-16T09:21:00.003+09:00

Aaron and Joanna

brotherly love

Midwest Road Trip Summer 2010

2010-08-15T15:09:00.011+09:00

Day One: Colfax-Livingston, MT

Day Two: Big Sky country

Adam's Gramps and Grams

Day 3-5: Field of Dreams and Target Field

capital building in Bismarck, ND

scoping out the filming location of Field of Dreams

father-son bonding

Twins game

crossing the Mississippi River

Day 6-8: The Windy City

navy pier

Wrigley Field

Day 8-12: Sand Creek, MI

Tigers game with my dad and family

friend from WSU!

blueberry picking

crazy mid-west storm

SD Corn Palace

Black Hills

Crazy Horse

entering Yellowstone!

geyser

elk so close to the road!!

Leaf and Bean in Bozeman

the long goodbye

2010-07-11T21:30:00.003+09:00

i really don't know if i can bear saying goodbye to anyone or anything else this week.
haven't really cried yet...at some point, the flood gates will open!!

my beloved 10th grade boys from 2 homerooms ago

a few baking club members

goodbye gifts

sweet 7th grade smiles

last World Cup game with everyone

2010 Gar-Pal Vikings

2010-07-11T09:48:00.002+09:00

Going back to high school.

Not really; just in Gar-Pal colors for Adam's baseball team's new uniforms.
He loves his team. But, I think they love him even more.
Recently, they gavee him a new-used, much nicer glove. I think Adam has become part of their inner-family. Which means, they will care for him and look out for him for life. That's Korea!

lasts

2010-07-07T00:18:00.004+09:00

final 7A homeroom activity; sang our hearts out till 10:30!!

this week marks the end of a hugely significant chapter in my life. i will be leaving Handong International School after this semester, where i have labored, learned and loved in my job as a middle school English Grammar teacher.
it's a week of lasts....
giving my last final exams.
grading my last final exams.
last time walking up those 3 flights of stairs to my orange room at the end of the hall.

last days of being known only as Mrs. Elder.
last Korean meat and rice lunches.
last walks with Mrs. Pae.

last homeroom activity.
last baking club.
last coffee runs to hisbeans.

last meetings given in translation.
last time using the shared bar of green soap.
last days of sleeves-required dress code.

tomorrow is our last wednesday night dinner in Korea with Zack and Kristine.
this hurts.
this change is necessary. this change brings newness and leaves behind only blissful memories.
i'm embracing this change.
i'm overwhelmed with gratitude for what i've known and experienced, how i've matured and grown and how faithful God has been to provide. in His time.
this change has come and i feel raw.
it's right.
and i will walk through it, moving into new beginnings, a new phase of life and a new adventure alongside my God!!

a lot of cinnamon, several students, some lemons, a little grammar

2010-06-24T23:01:00.002+09:00

i took some time to educate my young-ins on the basics of baking as a "hands-on" fun activity after learning about uncountable nouns and measuring them with quantifiers. i split the class into 2 groups: one group made lemonade and the other, no-bake cinnamon roll snacks. for most, if not all of them, this was a first experience using measuring cups, reading a recipe and preparing their own food! classic memories. we had fun. i will miss days like these.

Hot Dang!

2010-06-24T22:48:00.002+09:00

I like starting my day this way.
With a muffin.
A gluten-free, yummy muffin.
Using a gluten-free muffin recipe I very much plan on baking again!
Best part...the recipe is all mine.
A few substitutions and it's: Shamra's Banana Gluten-Free Muffins

My doc recommends brown rice flour as the healthiest of all wheat substitutes.
Please try!
Shamra's Banana Gluten-Free Muffins
3-4 soft, very ripe bananas
1/4 C. plus a little olive oil
2/3 C. sugar in the raw (going to try maple syrup next time)
1 egg
2 Tb. soy milk
1/2 overflowing tsp. vanilla extract
1 C. brown rice flour
1/4 C. chopped walnuts
1 1/2 tsp. white rice flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt

Preheat oven to 150 C.
Line muffin tin with paper cups.
Beat the bananas, oil, sugar, egg and vanilla. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, stir together all dry ingredients.
Add the banana mixture and stir gently until "just mixed."
Set in fridge for 20 minutes (best for using brown rice flour)
Fill each cup 1/2 full and bake for 25 minutes.

Some tips when baking with brown rice flour:
-refrigerate dough before baking
-bake at lower temperature b/c dough rises quicker
-add extra liquid and sweetener as flour soaks up moisture quicker
-store flour in air-tight container in fridge

the real deal

2010-06-22T23:42:00.003+09:00

one of the real natural and non-toxic nail polishes we're looking for.....

WATER BASED

Acquarella

Looking for big-three and petrochemical-solvent free—including acetates? Look no further than water-based polishes, which use the aforementioned H20 as a solvent, won’t yellow the nails and aren’t considered hazardous materials. Acquarella polish needs no base or top coat and stays on for weeks—make sure to buff away surface oils before applying.

to become more eco-friendly: EcoStiletto

2010-06-20T12:55:00.005+09:00

Sand in my cell phone
Up till 2 AM
Many many Koreans cheering on the beach
Mariners tickets purchased
Excited for vacation
Relaxed and refreshed from afternoon at jimjilbang!!

Chillin' at Okge

2010-06-13T22:53:00.005+09:00

SUMMER PICNIC CHICKEN SALAD

2 C. chopped red grapes

1 1/2 C. chopped celery

2 C. chopped, boiled chicken

1 C. chopped walnuts

1/2 C. mayonnaise

Chill overnight, and serve with bran muffins.

2010-06-13T10:35:00.008+09:00

Yesterday, I ate ¼ of a watermelon!

This morning, fabulously rich flourless chocolate cake for breakfast. It was pretty amazing.

FLOURLESS CHOCOLATE CAKE

1/2 C. water
1/4 tsp. salt
3/4 C. white sugar
18 ounces dark chocolate chips
1/2 C. butter
1/2 C. oil
6 eggs

Preheat oven and grease 10" cake pan.
In small saucepan, heat water, salt and sugar, stirring until dissolved.
Microwave chocolate chips and beat with electric mixer, cutting in pieces of butter- one at a time. Mix in oil, sugar mixture, and slowly beat in one egg at a time.
Pour batter into cake pan and set into larger cake pan that is half full of boiling water. Bake for 35-45 minutes. Chill cake in pan over night. To unmold, dip the bottom of the pan into hot water for 10 seconds and then set onto serving plate. Enjoy eating gluten-free!!

2010-06-12T14:32:00.001+09:00

Wow. I really thought I'd seen it all in 7th ESL.
However, Spanish definitions for a vocabulary assignment never crossed my mind.

Poor dear. She filled out her entire homework assignment using a Spanish dictionary...all the while not realizing it wasn't English. Perhaps I'm failing her as a teacher :)

joys in my life

2010-06-12T14:14:00.001+09:00

Adam's weekend tennis matches

waffles with our little baker

making memories with students

organic gelato in the cutest shop ever

The new bun

2010-06-07T19:02:00.005+09:00

A few night's back we decided to try our hamburgers wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun, and now we can't get enough.

I thought it was a healthy alternative.

Adam thought it tasted delicious.

Tonight, I ate my bean burrito "mash" with chopped up lettuce instead of inside a tortilla. Very satisfying. Good way to cut back on a few empty calories and preservatives.
Tomorrow, for lunch, I think I'll try tuna spread on a slice of green!

inspire

2010-06-01T22:55:00.006+09:00

my theory

2010-05-24T23:22:00.001+09:00

Today was a big day.

It was the kickoff of our spiritual week/busiest week of the school year.

My day was full of discussion on spiritual "blindness", teaching nouns in their various forms, matching hesitant, cootie-feared preteens with one another for waltz practice and...

the best part of my day...

the Lost finale over BBQ pork sandwiches and cake with ZaK!!

Silence. We watched the 90-min. finale....listening, waiting, watching. And, then...silence.

We looked around, not really sure what to make of the vague, mysterious and possible answers to questions that had been brewing for 6 seasons now.

Eventually, I'll read blogs and dissect was the writers intended for the show.

But for now, my prayers tonight brought me to my own conclusive and pleasing theory.

Perhaps the reason all those specific people had the visit the island was to experience life. They had come from such hardships and hopeless situations of burned bridges with no where to go and unsure of up and down. In the midst of asking God for strength and purposefulness in my week and the role I've been handed to play, I remembered and thanked God that the joy of life is in the journey. I so often have to be reminded of this truth. And, that got me thinking about the show.

Perhaps for those few "survivors" on Ocean flight 815, the island provided them the tools to know love, adventure, challenge, purpose, risk, meaning, beauty, peace and healing that their former lives couldn't have made possible. And, in experiencing or "remembering" those attachments and triumphs, they would be able to exit their lives with complete closure and satisfaction.

What is life anyways.....

I have to believe that it is hidden in the fabric of relationships, choices, time spent and faith.

glad it's almost over

2010-05-20T23:44:00.004+09:00

It's been "not my best week" as my dear friends put it, yet I can't stop thinking of how grateful I am for my life- exactly as is. I love my life and sometimes I need to remember just how fortunate I am. I love my husband..infinitely more with each day that passes. I love my friends and how God puts just the right people in my life at just the right time. I love the security I have in God and the hope of His love for me. I love that I can walk in the evenings just as the sun is sinking beneath the hills. I love that I have an oven and live in a country where I can creatively attempt to make so much from scratch. I love that I can laugh and laugh often.

Got a cold over the weekend, which definitely makes me grumpy! I HATE being sick and I fight and fight it until I cry and then I finally just succumb to its discomfort and accept the reality of...getting a cold. It's really no big deal, but for me...it ALWAYS comes in the following 5 stages, ALWAYS in the same order:
1. sore throat; irritating itchy throat!
2. congestion and lots of Kleenex
3. sneezing and TIRED
4. feel a little better...but...just kidding....
5. deep, scratchy, manly voice..for a while, until I have no voice left

right now, I'm entering stage 5. Yay- final stage.

and then I can return to normalcy...the haziness lifts and I recover with the help of a lot of sleep, down time and tons of vitamins.

On a more creative...venturing-into-new-territory note, I made yogurt in my crock pot this week! It's slightly bitter, so I added a few squeezes of honey and mixed it with blueberries for breakfast this morning. Delight!
Check it out: simple crock pot yogurt

oh. and 36 days and counting.

"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Proverbs 17:22

2010-05-11T21:15:00.012+09:00

My new favorite health book:
The 7 Pillars of Health by Don Colbert

From a Christian perspective, Colbert shares knowledge and wisdom about how to thrive in this broken world by simply drinking more of the right water, how to get the right kind of sleep, which foods are the best to avoid and to consume and how to take care of our bodies in a way that yields them to the way God created them to be.

Colbert suggests 10 belly laughs a day to keep the heart and spirit alive and well.

What's bringing me laughter and cheer these days:

-Glee

-impersonations

-Aara's adorableness

-norebang
-my ridiculous, irrational non-logic

-my husband's funny/not-so-funny jokes

-Z and K's teasing

-ESL grammar

-preteen students
-joythebaker's writing
-powerwalk races

-a little black beer...
-the direct and unashamed tongues of this country's citizens

-Konglish signs

2010-05-03T01:49:00.007+09:00

I've recently started embracing chocolate.

It's yummy. And healthy.

Especially dark.

Would like to try:

1. Belgium's Organic Chocolove

2. Dark Cranberry Almond by Endangered Species Chocolate

3. Eclipse bar, in honor of Edward and Bella by Dagoba Organic Chocolate

5. Semi-Sweet baking chocolate

up and coming summer 2010 trends

2010-05-02T22:44:00.002+09:00

a few of my favorites....

military-style dresses

floral prints

knee highs

boyfriend blazers

this creative picture is supposed to express fashionable colors for the summer season!

http://www.fashionnewspaper.com/articles/3111/1/Key-Colors-Spring-Summer-2010/Page1.html

2010-05-02T11:15:00.003+09:00

Ally and Aara

I laughed really hard today when......

2010-04-30T20:57:00.007+09:00

DAD OF STUDENT: "Mrs. Elder, when I think of you, I just can't stop imagining your parachute outfit."

STUDENT: "I have a younger sister. Honestly, she's a little fat."

TRANSLATOR TO ADAM: "Your wife has a nickname at the translation department.
ADAM: "Oh, really. What is it?"
TRANSLATOR: "Goddess."

conversation at lunch with 3 girls
ME: "I love tetherball..I was the tetherball queen on my playground."
STUDENT: "Me to! I beat everyone!"
ADAM: "I never really liked tetherball. I always found it a bit violent. Students would pound me with the ball."
pause
STUDENT: "Uh...isn't that the point?!"

conversation continues....
STUDENT A: "Awe!! Our midterm project wasn't good!! It's her fault because she wanted to use "magic tricks" for our topic!!"
STUDENT B: "I like Harry Potter OK!!"

Played volleyball with my "group" at lunch. Had to play in my skirt and heels..it was just so gorgeous out, I couldn't resist. The boys felt sorry for me trying to run despite my "restriction".... so that all put their knees together to play! They didn't want me to be at a disadvantage. Wow, that looked REALLY funny....6 boys trying to look like me in a skirt and me...playing in my heels.

Today was our 12-hr parent day. What an awesome day for some laughter and fun. Thank you God!!

pre-teens and ESL

2010-04-25T22:58:00.005+09:00

Homeroom student commenting while I drive through the tiny roads in Heunghae,
"Mrs. Elder, you just have to imagine that everyone else (other drivers) has mental problems."

Defending her essay on how people can't live without electronics,
"Cell phones have skills."

In response to being questioned about why he shouted out something inappropriate in class,
"I thought it would be fun, but it was yucks."

Conversation during his detention about why he has so much missing work, with an innocent smile,
"Honestly,....I just like playing!"

2010-04-25T00:42:00.002+09:00

Rocked it at norebang tonight...we just couldn't help ourselves:
the human league, classic pop from high school, good friends, 2 locations, 3 hrs of non-stop singing.

2010-04-24T11:49:00.001+09:00

Laughs, dark brew and Pappa Rotti!

Just some of the fun that occurs when we get together with our buds!

We usually find ourselves playing cards or whatever else we're all in the mood for as we live another day in Pohang!

Today..we're trying tennis!

homigot beach

2010-04-18T21:17:00.004+09:00

Adam took me to the beach for our Saturday post-birthday date together. We took a picnic and sat in the sun. Quality time is my favorite. Give me a little connecting conversation and I'm one happy Shamra :)

turning 26

2010-04-18T21:12:00.000+09:00

turning 26....was one of the best birthdays ever. seriously. i'm pretty sure it was the perfect day. perfect weekend.
i felt so loved. so loved by God. so loved by the friends, close friends, thoughtful and amazingly special people that God has put in my life.
i was showered with gifts, affirmation and surprises!

8th grade ice cream cake party!

Jack (in the red) and I share April 16 as our birthday

my wonderful and thoughtful friend Kristine!

wheat, wheat go away

2010-04-17T10:58:00.005+09:00

wheat makes me fat,
wheat makes me feel groggy.
i feel like crap,
now I'm gonna go jogging.

Thanks to my moms (mine and my mother in law) who have sent me gluten-free flour and brown rice pasta, I'm attempting to at last minimize wheat from my diet. My substitute of choice: filling myself with foods from my "beneficial list" according to the blood type diet, as well as using using brown rice flour, milled flax and anything else I can get my hands on that will still allow me to bake sweets!

My favorite non-gluten meals:
10. anything beef
9. lemon pepper salmon
8. baked halibut and sweet potato fries
7. red bell peppers, onions, mushrooms and chicken in sizzling fajitas
6. spinach in a tuna wrap or used for feta Craisin salad
5. broccoli with onions, mozzarella and black bean nachos
4. parsley on top white chicken, garlic, spinach, mushroom and feta (brown-rice) lasagna
3. mangoes, blueberries and milled flax seed smoothies
2. dried plums, figs, walnuts and almonds for afternoon snack
1. olive oil, feta, balsamic dressing- for dipping in a gluten-free baguette alongside chicken ,rice-noodle soup

2010-04-09T21:04:00.001+09:00

Just got home from a loooooong day with the entire school on our field trip to Ulsan.
Saw a whale museum, the SK oil company and Hyundai car factory.
Best part of the day....7th graders.

"Mr. Elder!!! Jacob just kicked me in the "A" place!!" (while holding his "a place")

"I can't sing to this song. They are just the lapping" (rapping)

"Ooh, I know another "sh" word. It's bad though. It's s-h-e-t!"

Easter Baking

2010-04-09T20:55:00.005+09:00

Recently, a former student and I put together a one-day bake sale at the school.
We raised 132,000W to send with the high school musical team who performed their Easter program in front of some of the most dangerous criminals in Korea.

2 portable ovens
2 bakers
an entire tabletop of ingredients
8 hrs. non-stop
3 containers of peanut butter, 4 bags chocolate chips, 5 cups of butter

all in effort to support our students' ministry experience. Very fun day!!

baking list

2010-04-07T21:02:00.008+09:00

to help me unwind tonight:
chocolate chip banana muffins

to expand my baking horizons:
lemon bread

to share:
maple nut goodie bars

to use what I already have:
something chocolate to go with my khalua frosting

to make it through those afternoons at my desk:
chocolate chip and flax seed cookies with almond flour

to lure my love:
sit and stay awhile apple crisp

2010-04-07T20:56:00.002+09:00

had to say goodbye to someone i dearly love tonight.
this experience wouldn't have been the same without you.
mcdonald's, norebang (the early years!), "life in korea!!"
i am so thankful that God brought our lives together.
earrings, rambo, warm cookies in the morning
i love you, dear friend.
see you soon.

2010-04-03T17:31:00.001+09:00

haircut, stay at The Palace, men's volleyball game, pub in Itaewon and On the Border Mexican

all with the company of our fabulous friends

maybe next time :)

dark brew

watched the last game of the season using my free tickets :)

The Palace

lots of love

Firsts in Pohang and Start of 2010

2010-03-22T16:03:00.000+09:00

-Attended a Pohang Steelers soccer match.It was a little chilly and I was a little preoccupied with my cold, but am looking forward to going again! Huge stadium, great view of the game.

-Won tickets to professional volleyball games in Seoul for the month of March. I didn't receive them until halfway through the month, but am very exciting about catching a game this coming weekend!

-Surprise snow falls and cancellation of school two weeks ago; our weather has been a constant shift between sun, wind, hail, sleet, snow, rain, dark cloud coverings and Seattle-like overcast...maybe 2012 is coming true!

-Discovering dairy-free, soy Jamocha Almond Fudge ice cream at a FamilyMart in Idong.....what are the odds!

-Taking dance classes that put a spring back into my step!

-Planning a summer vacation that includes a road trip across the mid-west, through Yellowstone, a stop at the filming location of the classic baseball movie, Field of Dreams, checking out Minneapolis, Wrigley field and The Chicago Water Tower, just to name a few new places on our list

Sony 7"- LCD Digital Photo Frame

2010-02-10T15:13:00.002+09:00

So, I think this would look really nice on my desk.....my birthday is only 64 days away :)

"Brick walls are there to see how badly you really want something." R. Pausch

2010-02-07T19:54:00.003+09:00

I finished reading, "The Last Lecture" by late Randy Pausch about 3 AM this morning. Yes, I'm staying up too late these days, but not sure what to do about it. I'm awake. I can't turn my brain off, and it just happens to be dark outside while the rest of the world is sleeping...except probably our friend Bryce :)

I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a Christmas gift from my very thoughtful mother and father-in-law.

It was a glimpse into Randy's life as he shared about how he really did achieve all his childhood dreams in one way or another during his last lecture as a professor at Carnegie Mellon. Randy was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was only given months to live. His last lecture mostly honed in on experience life had taught him along the way, that he wanted to pass onto his children to have after he was gone. I enjoyed learning about a life, his story and thoughts from a man who very clearly loved his family and seemed to make the most of everyday, even before his terminal diagnosis.

2 things that stuck with me:
a.the strong emphasis he put on hard work and perseverance.
b. going after his dreams by creatively and enthusiastically blasting through any brick walls in his way

Some of my childhood dreams:

1. Be a dancer and perform

2. Make connections, know people, be in relationships and support people who desperately need it

3. Live in China and be a part of their culture

So far, I think I'm working this out.....

2010-02-05T21:53:00.001+09:00

My mom is an incredible and talented quilter. During my two weeks in Alaska, she suggested that we make one together; I picked out the style, size and fabric while she assisted me in learning the tricks of the trade.

We decided on a crib-size quilt for our future child (not pregnant :), and I fell in love with a delicate flower and butterfly print in lime green, soft pinks and swirls of white. Perfect for a daughter. I matched the rest of the fabrics to that, and the process began! It was not only a blast, but a wonderful time bonding.

2010-02-01T02:44:00.010+09:00

My abundant and fortunate life motivates me to give.
As vessels for God's love, we have a responsibility to share what is not ours, but belongs to our God. Below are two simple ways to make a significant contribution in someone's life suffering in Haiti or any impoverished country around the globe.

http://donate.worldvision.org/OA_HTML/xxwv2ibeCCtpSctDspRte.jsp?funnel=dn&section=10820&go=section&

http://www.heifer.org/site/c.edJRKQNiFiG/b.195980/?msource=mp_flash

worth checking out

2010-01-24T21:11:00.004+09:00

fantabulous

2010-01-24T13:12:00.001+09:00

I just got home from 3 fantabulous weeks in America!! The only sad part was leaving my sweet husband behind to work while I played. It's a good thing he enjoys his work so much :)
America was bliss for me. I have to say I really enjoyed and received every minute of the experience. I got amazing, quality time with people from every corner of my life as well as just getting to be in the familiarity of Alaska's majestic beauty.

Theme of my trip, "The joy is in the journey."

Dan Allender's book, To Be Told, explains the Christian life as being one of journey and that our responsibility as a follower and lover of God is to take what He brings and respond to it as being part of the overall plan for our life. I think there is so much truth and wisdom in this thinking. Every part of life has good and bad, sadness and excitement, disappointment and hope, boredom and satisfaction- but it is all necessary in shaping the person that God has created us to be. I chose to receive EVERY aspect of my trip as something purposeful and a blessing.

Thank you Lord for the snow, my snow boots, trying Alaskan Amber, texting, endless conversation, the view in Seward, making a crib-sized quilt, lunch at Cactus, Hooked on the Bean, Homer's beach, dinner with Laura and Krista, Owl City in Kendra's car, Skully the fuzzy cat, Target's Valentine's merch, SLS-free products in the all-natural section of Fred Meyer's, Austin and Mawger, nut goodies and late night hot tubbing in the snow, coming home to Adam and that Your love was interwoven into it all.

our december 25th

2009-12-26T18:43:00.004+09:00

My happy Christmas was complete with my very at-home pumpkin spice latte!

1. Heat in a saucepan until warm, but not boiling:
-1 large tablespoon pumpkin puree
-2 Tb. pumpkin spice flavoring
-1 C. of milk or half and half

2. Pour liquid into blender and whip on high setting for 20-30 seconds until foamy.

3. Pour into cup 1/2 full of coffee and dust with pumpkin pie spice. Yuuuuuum!! (adapted from http://www.coffeesage.com/:)

peppermint mochas to come!!

wisdom

2009-12-25T15:17:00.004+09:00

in my short 25 years of life, and even fewer knowing God, there are tidbits of wisdom that i feel He has allowed me to come across and receive to apply to my life. i am constantly reminded of how little i know about things, and also how imperfect i am even when i would love so much to have things completely solved and "figured out." i love perfection! whatever that is. i have these expectations that seem to pop up often, pushing on me to base my overall experience of something on if i feel i have attained and created or responded in the right and perfect way. i am so pleased with myself when i think i have done something perfectly, or pleased someone perfectly or said the exact correct thing at the right moment. unfortunately, this is no way to live. it's deadening, restricting and pressurizing to my soul to feel that i must achieve something specific and perfect all the time. i mean, what is perfection? who sets the standards? me and everyone else who has expectations? cultural and societal norms?
i would like to make it a goal for myself to be outside of the perfection box. yuck, i hate even the idea of being trapped and bound by boundaries and limits. i am crying out to feel released from the cages of perfection. God, show me the way out; to release myself from the clutches of perfectionism that i put myself in. i want my world to revolve around You and Your opportunities to Love; not to be bound by me.

from people (and some books) God has put in my life this year:
-enjoy what you have while you have it, for soon it will be gone

-never forget that you are beautiful, just like everyone else. And never forget that you are fool, just like everyone else

-bobblehead method: agree, smile, keep peace

-so much of life is outside of your control; your response is your responsibility

-bloom where you are planted; you never know where God will pop up

-when something causes sadness, anger, frustration, defeat or hopelessness, in that moment, plug your heart into God and allow Him to make something good

-nothing is as perfect as it appears or as unfortunate as it seems

Nutcracker Surprise

2009-12-21T16:44:00.001+09:00

I woke up to a bright-eyed, cheery-faced smile about two weeks ago. Adam had a surprise. It's not too typical for surprises to work in our house as Adam and I have the same schedule, work at the same job, drive the same car, etc. Occasionally, he'll jump at the opportunity to buy me flowers at the plant shop down the street if he happens to be without me...
On that morning, he informed me that we would not be taking a week-long vacation in Japan, but that he wanted to take me somewhere Jan. 19-20 instead and send me home to Alaska for 2-3 weeks over the vacation. I had been praying about our vacation, but asked God to just lead Adam in our planning..1) I'm not very good at planning online for places we've never been to before 2) I didn't know what to do, where to go or how much to spend. God provides, even the little things.
This Saturday morning, we got up at 6, drove to shiwe bus station and hopped on a 7 AM bus to Seoul. Once we got there, he insisted on keeping our hotel location a secret and lead me blindly on the subway. I guessed that we'd be staying near the giant COEX underground mall. Once we got out of the subway and into the FRIGID winter air, I cringed at the thought of having to walk all the way down to the Ramada, where we've stayed before. Adam veered to the left and pulled me into the Intercontinental COEX Hotel, a gorgeous and fabulously swanky hotel attached to the mall. And that's not the best part.....
he had reserved us tickets to the Nutcracker Ballet as part of a package special with the hotel.
As a young girl, I grew up watching The Nutcracker in Anchorage with my dad over Thanksgiving weekend. It was something I looked forward to every year in November. Gazing at the dancers and the beautiful display of the magical world of a young girl's dreams is one of my top favorite Christmas season traditions.
The two-day getaway was blissful.

We found a delicious Mexican restaurant for lunch, sipped coffees, took a nap and watched the performance. I had been longing to just be with Adam, talk with him and enjoy him more as a husband than a coworker....it was superb. I love Adam. I love my God, who is a giver.

crinkles and doodles

2009-12-17T07:35:00.003+09:00

Last night, I started a project at about 9:40 PM putting together Christmas gifts bags of snickerdoodles and chocolate crinkles (http://joyofbaking.com/ChocolateCrinkles.html) for friends and coworkers. After heading to bed about 1, I woke up at 6 to finish.....hope it all gets done in time!
Thankfully, God has just given me all the energy for what I need to do at work and what I want to do at home :)

with the boys

2009-12-14T07:02:00.009+09:00

Our Sunday included:
-an MVP award
-3 tosses in the air
-mekju
-dipping into puppy chow

Adam's city league championship game was last night! It was a gorgeous and sunny day, and Adam played fabulously! Unfortunately, his team couldn't keep up and they lost the game, getting second place for Pohang. His team is sooo proud to have him though. They threw him up in the air and cheered him on all evening at the dinner gathering afterwards. According to Adam's friend, Goo, The Woonji team had been in a 5/6-year slump until Adam came along last season. Adam's just excited to get to play and explore something new in the culture, especially something he's love as much as baseball. The Korean pork BBQ celebration lasted for a few hours after the game, which included lots of drinks, our broken Korean and MANY cheers! Then Jeremy came over to make puppy chow and catch up before leaving for Christmas break. Great weekend! We are really blessed,

all i want for christmas

2009-12-11T22:01:00.005+09:00

-alaska, here i come!!!
-sleep
-Christmas with my love
-a yummy pumpkin coffee frappucino recipe
-to watch It's a Wonderful Life, Elf, Mannequin, Star Wars and Scrooged
-drink a few pumpkin spice latte, eggnog lattes
-get my Christmas cards made and sent!
-talk and laugh and talk with Kendra
-sleep
-red Christmas dishes
-rest with God reading, praying and journaling
-warm black boots
-snow!!
-home sweet home
-sleep
-bake!! (nut goody bars, rum balls, peanut butter kisses, candy cane brownies, khalua frosting and whatever else I can find :)
-download Glee music...what an awesome and heart-warming show!!
-play!!

Christmas everywhere

2009-12-06T22:38:00.001+09:00

Friday marked the 9th annual Variety Show for HIS- what a fun night! I am always so impressed with how Korean kids just embrace the stage. Our kids are talented; they sing, dance, act, speak Chinese and really know how to entertain! Adam was part of the show this year- he and 3 other male teachers wrote and performed a rap/hip hop song about their jobs at school. Adam was soooooo great on stage- thugged out in baggy sweats, wearing a baseball cap with a hoodie and hitting every beat!
I was a proud wife in that moment :)
One of my 7th graders and I emceed the opening and closing of the show; a fun opportunity to try something new and wear and dress up for the stage :)
Twinkle lights are starting line the streets downtown and it even SNOWED on my way to Seoul on Saturday- it's been 2 years since I've seen snow!
Saturday, some girls and I, headed to Seoul for Mexican food, Coffee Bean and shopping. Seoul is seriously one of the COOLEST places I have ever been shopping. Myeongdong is lined with leggings, hats and jewelry, back to back people and Dongdaemun's mega stores with 7-10 levels of fashion is open until 5 AM. What a rush!

Happy Christmas season everyone!!
Embrace the moment, wherever you are.

variety show

snow!!!

Gingersofties and Momma's Eggnog

2009-11-28T12:42:00.004+09:00

We decided, last minute, to host a small gathering for Thanksgiving with our small group and close friends. We couldn't pass up amazing Thanksgiving food :)

Jeremy making a gingersoftie (his coined phrase) and pumpkin dip sandwich

Favorite of the night:

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/mamas-eggnog-recipe/index.html

This guy ROCKS!!

2009-11-25T23:06:00.004+09:00

apples, oranges and cinnamon

2009-11-22T23:38:00.002+09:00

It's a great time of year for baking..and eating..and gatherings with friends. A few weeks back, we invited our small group over for drinks and dessert and I tried a new apple cider recipe in my crock pot (which I have found to be my current FAVORITE way to cook!!). I was quite pleased with how it turned out!

8 C. apple juice
1/4 C. sugar- or less if you don't like it very sweet
1 orange quartered- I kept the peel on hoping for richer flavor
1/2 lemon- with peel
2 cinnamon sticks- or 2 tsp. of ground cinnamon since I haven't found the "stick" in Pohang
15 whole cloves
1 inch of fresh ginger cut in slices- or ground, since again, we do what we can in Korea :)

Place everything in the crock pot for 2 hours and it's ready!!
(http://www.recipezaar.com/Crock-Pot-Spiced-Apple-Cider-273091)

the gospel reminds us that we are beautiful and wretched (The Irresistible Revolution)

2009-11-14T10:17:00.002+09:00

As a perfectionist, I'm always striving for everything to be just right! I want to have a clean house, have the healthiest dinners at home and yummiest desserts at social gatherings. I want to wear comfortable and matching outfits, stay in constant contacts with close friends, get enough sleep, be the best teacher I can be, spend quality time with each individual student that needs me, have a serving heart, a listening ear, get along easily with all kinds of people, appropriately control my emotions, always contribute the right comments and never be tired! I want to be liked. I want to be a significant piece of the plan. I want to take advantage of every opportunity for getting to know people and having fun.Weariness is my biggest enemy!!
However, these piles of expectations not only bind me but make me feel defeated when I can't "accomplish" all that life and God bring my way.
Last night I laid in bed with a mind bursting of thoughts and worries about my work today. It's Saturday and I have to work, but not until 2 PM. For some reason, maybe because it's the first time I've done this particular job, I am just so stressed about it because I want it to go perfectly smoothly. Finally, at about 12:30 AM, I realized the reality of myself in living out this life....I can do nothing..of any value....unless it's coming from God.
So, I surrendered my fears and surrendered the work and asked that it would be exactly as God wanted it to be. I prayed that He would use me in His plan and give me everything it takes to accomplish what outcome He wants.
Recently, a friend shared with me that one of the ways she feels most encouraged by God when reading her Bible is the journal all of the affirmations that He gives her through the Scripture. I would never think of that. I would only think to make a list of all the things I should be doing....and yet I never seem to remember those things. How much more actively loved would we feel if we knew daily how God feels about us!

Thank you God for the freedom that I have to lean and rely on You and not myself. Thank you that you've called me to love You, desire You and to make myself available to You, knowing that only You can make me good; only You can make my life significant.

"So I'm thankful that I'm in capable
Of doing any good on my own....
'Cause by grace I have been saved
Through faith that's not my own
It is a gift of God and not by works
Lest anyone should boast..."
-Thankful, Caedmon's Call

11/11

2009-11-12T18:10:00.002+09:00

Pepero Day: Students buy each other boxes of pepero chocolate sticks and give them to their friends and teachers. This was my pile before 10 AM!! I'm pretty sure I ate about 3 boxes yesterday...

So Bek San

2009-11-08T20:08:00.013+09:00

This week, we took our entire school of 170+ students, plus teachers, on a 3-day camping excursion to So Bek San, a mountain north of Pohang. It was a great getaway from teaching, studying, preparing, planning, meetings, grading and classroom managing!! Anytime we do any kind of extracurricular activity with our school, it seems to do wonders for our community, building memories and renewing everyone's spirit! We were definitely tired after long bus rides, sleeping on hard floors and being in constant "teacher mode", but it's such a valuable part of working at our school.
The first day, we took a short ferry ride, explored caves, visited the set of a Korean drama and performed hilarious skits/music video impressions in front of each other. Day 2 was the long hike; lots of complaining, motivational pushing and tired legs before topping off the day with a fabulously fun and energetic bonfire dance party. The kids had a blast! Day 3, students chose to learn about a traditional Korean tea ceremony or lift their sore calf muscles for Taekwondo fighting positions. We also visited 2 temples, which Buddhists build at the very top of steep hills, in order to separate the week-faithed followers from the true, devout believers. By the time we got home, it was so nice to shower and sleep!!
used to make spicy, red sauce they put in EVERYTHING
Adam's team got him to dance to KPop songs; he was sooo funny and GREAT on stage

7th Pumpkin Party

2009-11-01T23:16:00.009+09:00

soft and fluffy

2009-10-29T21:15:00.015+09:00

I needed a sugar cookies recipe and this one was a hit!!

INGREDIENTS:
3 cups sifted all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup butter
3/4 cup white sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS:
1.Sift flour, baking powder, and salt. Cream butter with sugar, beat in egg, then stir in sour cream and vanilla. Stir in flour mixture 1/3 at a time.
2.Wrap dough in wax paper and chill.
3.Roll out 1/4 inch thick. Cut out cookies with your favorite cookie cutters. Put on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10 minutes.

I recently finished teaching a lesson to my 8th graders on the value of eternal rewards. I introduced the unit by discussing some of the tokens of wisdom from the book of Proverbs; so much insight to take from there about the "wise man."
I put them into groups and taught them about scavenger hunts. We discussed the meaning of rewards and how to write clues in a creative and imaginative way.
Within their groups, they were responsible for coming up with their own scavenger hunt with rhyming clues and correct subject-verb agreement (that was the grammar concept I was tying into the fun:).
Then, they had to come up with prizes for the hunt incorporating tangible rewards as well as character or spiritual qualities such as knowledge, wisdom, appreciation, love, joy, patience, etc. They wrestled with this a lot since it is hard to actually "give" a spiritual reward..but, they got creative!!
Finally, I gathered their clues, arranged them into one scavenger hunt and let them loose into the school to solve the mystery and claim their prize!
For each clue, their group had two rewards to choose from. They were asked to discuss the options, as a team, and then circle which one they wanted. At the end of the hunt, I collected their choices.
The next day, I brought in plates full of frosted sugar cookies with the words: joy, kindness, peace, love, patience, etc. Each team was given as many cookies as they had chosen "spiritual/eternal" prizes. We talked about how the tangible reward options such as a K-pop CD, candy or 500Won would fade away as soon as they used it up, but that choosing to think of someone else, save their prize money or obtaining to the ability to control their tongue would have eternal significance when they get to heaven. The cookies represented the crowns that they will get in heaven if they choose to honor God in this life with each of their daily choices.
They appreciated the sweets :)
I hope they learned even more.

Jason Mraz Serenade

2009-10-29T21:06:00.004+09:00

I came in from lunch to find two of my old students welcoming me with a serenade! For my birthday last spring, a group of 9th grade boys from my homeroom last night sang Mariah Carey's "Hero", knowing that what I wanted most for my birthday was a ticket to her concert....of course, that wasn't going to happen in South Korea so they SOO THOUGHTFULLY sang to me instead! There were hand motions and everything! Yesterday, these two sang J. Mraz to show off their talent. SO many of our kids play guitar and are really good! I love how musically-inclined they are! And- I really love my students!

saturday night jazz

2009-10-29T21:04:00.003+09:00

We hit up a wine bar last Saturday for live jazz, fun with new friends Zack and Kristine and some great, red wine! The atmosphere was lovely!!

great movie

2009-10-25T11:05:00.003+09:00

Freedom Within- Chuseok Break

2009-10-05T23:59:00.010+09:00

The last 4 1/2 days have been a short fall break for us as it's the annual Chuseok holiday in South Korea. Chuseok is similar to an American Thanksgiving; centered around food and family. Traditionally, Koreans go home to their parents and/or grandparents for the weekend, eat apples or pears, fried food and honor their ancestors. Our students look forward to the long hours of computer games and being away from school. We look forward to sleeping in, spending time together and finding ways to enrich ourselves with more of the culture. This break, Adam found himself heavily involved in several Settlers of Catan games (not so Korean, I know) while I visited a jim-jil-bang- literally meaning "steam room" I believe. We also got our small group off the ground, went for an afternoon hike to view waterfalls and checked out the new Kraze Burger place. We also made orange crepes and sweet potato fries- both turned out awesome! The next month is pretty insane for us, so it was really nice to have some down time before heading into the whirlwind that is the life of a teacher.

Thinking about how full the calendar is and knowing that our schedule doesn't allow for us to get home until at least 6:30 every night this semester, has forced me to recognize and appreciate that I have a relationship with God and not a religion to abide by. It's been a good reminder that I'm not bound by the stipulations of rules or laws or really anything that I can do, but that God eternally loves me and is working in me- period. Regardless of my surroundings, my schedule or what unexpected events may pop into the day, I have freedom in knowing that I can turn to God and plug into His power source at any moment. When I don't have the energy to engage, the patience to listen, the ability to remain calm, the drive to do my best- I am able (and commanded, actually) to plug into Jesus and let Him be my everything. That is real freedom. There's not judgement or condemnation, there's open arms, a loving embrace and a God big enough for all of me, waiting for me just to humbly receive.

I don't care eh- eh- eh- eh- eh

2009-09-21T16:00:00.007+09:00

My first concert in South Korea was to see K-Pop idols: G-Dragon and 2NE1 Saturday night near the Han River in Seoul.

We were about 10 feet from the stage, dancing and holding up our camera phones, just like Korean teenagers :) I made all my 7th and 8th grade girls very jealous :)

hunters and gatherers of life

2009-09-11T16:29:00.013+09:00

For the last few months, we've been observers in the lives of the survivors from Oceanic Flight 815 on the TV show Lost. I love it. Well, I really do love TV. I know I'm not supposed to like TV, being an educator, investor in things above, etc....but I just love watching people, lives, scenarios, the music, the scenes..the drama! I learn so much, in a way.

I was sharing with a friend today, my thoughts on the show, and I thought I would document my experiences as an observer.

Interestingly enough, I often find myself wishing to be lost on the island with these "survivors." I am envious of their searching, pursuing, adapting- living! I can't help but think that's what God intended our lives to look like. They are fighters, livers, doers!

Despite their constant fear of death, pain, abandonment and loss- they are forced to use their resources: their bodies, minds, intellect, environment and souls to invest themselves fully- just to have one succesful day (on the island.)

And, their definition of "success" is just so simple, so direct- to eat, have a place to lay their heads, to cooperate and have support with one another; to laugh, to protect and defend one another.

they are strong, not lazy.

they are real, not in hiding.

they are needed, not insignificant.

they are living, not numb.

they are equal, not ranked.

they are aware, not dissolutioned.

they are useful, not distracted.

"The truly righteous man attains life..." Prvbs. 11:19