Thursday, December 6, 2012
A Different Set of Mind
I can truly say that this experience has put me in a different state of mind. I am around so many different people from so many different cultures. I am blessed to have a wonderful husband and children. I live in a beautiful area.
Here are some of the fall sights we had just down the road from us!
This display was at the Hyundai Department Store...about a km away from our compound.
We are busy now with the Christmas season......school events, church programs, etc.
I had a conference with Micah's teacher yesterday. He is improving, slowly but surely. He will amaze us at times. Then there are times I feel bad for him that he is not advancing with kids his age. But he takes it all in stride. His momma just needs to remember to do that!
Today some wonderful moms from his class came to volunteer with a "cooking" session. They made fruit kabobs. Here is a picture of them.
His favorite was the Christmas tree apple on the left. One of the moms said he was peeling oranges for him. For some parents, this may not be a big deal. However, for this Mississippi Momma, it is BIG! We are so proud of him. And, I am in awe of these moms....they carved that Christmas tree apple by hand! :)
Thank you to all who are patient and supportive with my kids here in Korea. Both of the boys have wonderful teachers and assistants. JC had one assistant who left last week. He was heartbroken that she had to leave. But another great teacher reported for "duty" this week! And JC loves him! :)
Everything is getting hectic. I am reminding myself daily that Christmas is not about chaos! It is about celebrating Christ's birth. Yeah, I'd like to be home with my family...but we have new family here, also. God has made it a "simpler" Christmas this year. He's reminding me a lot that we all have made a "hayday" out of His son's birthday celebration.
So, don't get stressed out. Don't pull your hair out because the cookies didn't come out right. Don't get frustrated when you are shopping. Do praise Him daily for all He has done for you! Be Thankful!!
Here are some of the fall sights we had just down the road from us!
We are busy now with the Christmas season......school events, church programs, etc.
I had a conference with Micah's teacher yesterday. He is improving, slowly but surely. He will amaze us at times. Then there are times I feel bad for him that he is not advancing with kids his age. But he takes it all in stride. His momma just needs to remember to do that!
Today some wonderful moms from his class came to volunteer with a "cooking" session. They made fruit kabobs. Here is a picture of them.
His favorite was the Christmas tree apple on the left. One of the moms said he was peeling oranges for him. For some parents, this may not be a big deal. However, for this Mississippi Momma, it is BIG! We are so proud of him. And, I am in awe of these moms....they carved that Christmas tree apple by hand! :)
Thank you to all who are patient and supportive with my kids here in Korea. Both of the boys have wonderful teachers and assistants. JC had one assistant who left last week. He was heartbroken that she had to leave. But another great teacher reported for "duty" this week! And JC loves him! :)
Everything is getting hectic. I am reminding myself daily that Christmas is not about chaos! It is about celebrating Christ's birth. Yeah, I'd like to be home with my family...but we have new family here, also. God has made it a "simpler" Christmas this year. He's reminding me a lot that we all have made a "hayday" out of His son's birthday celebration.
So, don't get stressed out. Don't pull your hair out because the cookies didn't come out right. Don't get frustrated when you are shopping. Do praise Him daily for all He has done for you! Be Thankful!!
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
My God is in Control!
Today has been a day to remember.
The United States has its presidential election. The social networks, smart phones, emails and blogs have been chirping away. I even downloaded the Fox News app to keep up with the results.
My day was the usual.....take the kids to school, run errands, Korean Class, COOL Club (a christian student club at my son's school)...and I was still checking in every so often.
It was during COOL Club that one of the moms told me the results of the election.
I have not been a big fan of either candidate. I am a Christian, so a lot of my beliefs clash with both of them. One is a liberal and one is a Mormon.
I was, however, a huge fan of the vice presidential candidate, Paul Ryan.
Lots of people are either very happy today, or very upset.
I could choose to be upset and defeated. However, I know God is in control. It is time that we, the American Church realize that we have not spend near enough time on our knees. There has not been a truly godly man who would stand up to run for President in awhile. This is my prayer....that God would raise up godly men (and women) to lead our country.
Right now, I am in South Korea. I can see pros and cons of living in both countries. One thing I have found is that America has become very materialistic and vain. We have fallen asleep while the enemy has been roaming free. We have taken for granted the very freedoms that shaped our nation. We want and want and want.....but we do not thank God, the One who provides, for all we have.
May we make the change first in our hearts and lives....and then pray that our witness can reach others to take a stand.
The United States has its presidential election. The social networks, smart phones, emails and blogs have been chirping away. I even downloaded the Fox News app to keep up with the results.
My day was the usual.....take the kids to school, run errands, Korean Class, COOL Club (a christian student club at my son's school)...and I was still checking in every so often.
It was during COOL Club that one of the moms told me the results of the election.
I have not been a big fan of either candidate. I am a Christian, so a lot of my beliefs clash with both of them. One is a liberal and one is a Mormon.
I was, however, a huge fan of the vice presidential candidate, Paul Ryan.
Lots of people are either very happy today, or very upset.
I could choose to be upset and defeated. However, I know God is in control. It is time that we, the American Church realize that we have not spend near enough time on our knees. There has not been a truly godly man who would stand up to run for President in awhile. This is my prayer....that God would raise up godly men (and women) to lead our country.
Right now, I am in South Korea. I can see pros and cons of living in both countries. One thing I have found is that America has become very materialistic and vain. We have fallen asleep while the enemy has been roaming free. We have taken for granted the very freedoms that shaped our nation. We want and want and want.....but we do not thank God, the One who provides, for all we have.
May we make the change first in our hearts and lives....and then pray that our witness can reach others to take a stand.
Busy Times Ahead...Reminder to Look Up!
The past few weeks have gone by so fast! From volunteering at the schools, taking Korean classes, Bible and study groups, children's church, and school clubs, my days are filled to the max. Stack on top of that JC's Taekwondo classes, homework (both mine and his!), playtime, keeping up the household stuff, etc.
I am reminded that busyness is not at all equal to holiness. I can be as busy as a bee, but that doesn't mean that I am letting God use me to my full potential. I am praying that I have not taken too much on. I am praying that God shows me how to organize my time better.
We will be beginning a Christian student club at JC's school tomorrow. It has already been in place for years, but the leader moved this year. Some moms and I decided to take it on. I pray it will be a great growing experience for both the students and the moms!
I am also anticipating the presidential election back home. I start to worry about the outcome, but I have to remind myself of a saying someone posted on Facebook.....
"No matter who is president, Jesus is still King!"
I am reminded that busyness is not at all equal to holiness. I can be as busy as a bee, but that doesn't mean that I am letting God use me to my full potential. I am praying that I have not taken too much on. I am praying that God shows me how to organize my time better.
We will be beginning a Christian student club at JC's school tomorrow. It has already been in place for years, but the leader moved this year. Some moms and I decided to take it on. I pray it will be a great growing experience for both the students and the moms!
I am also anticipating the presidential election back home. I start to worry about the outcome, but I have to remind myself of a saying someone posted on Facebook.....
"No matter who is president, Jesus is still King!"
Friday, October 26, 2012
Trick or Treat on the Hyundai Foreigner Compound
Seems like the foreigner's compound was invaded by witches, superheroes, fairies, princesses, mummies, vampires, zombies...etc.
Here is some proof! They even had a Trail of Terror and a Disco Dance afterwards.
A great time was had by all. Thanks to the PTA for all your hard work!!
Here is some proof! They even had a Trail of Terror and a Disco Dance afterwards.
Micah's progress!
Micah has been in the Early Years Centre for two months now. At first, he had a hard time with the structured classroom time. He also had difficulty with the routine.
However, about a week and a half ago, he started sitting with the kids during class time (carpet time). He was singing the songs, listening to stories, playing the games....all the things I thought he may not be able to accomplish this year.
We had a time yesterday where the parents could come and visit. Here are some pictures from that time....
Afterwards, I met with his teacher.....she had a surprise for me!
He was so excited! We know that these are baby steps....and most parents would not think it is much. But this is big for us! He has the best teachers at EYC!! We love you, Mrs. McAloon and Miss Elin!
However, about a week and a half ago, he started sitting with the kids during class time (carpet time). He was singing the songs, listening to stories, playing the games....all the things I thought he may not be able to accomplish this year.
We had a time yesterday where the parents could come and visit. Here are some pictures from that time....
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Choosing to Change
I have begun meeting with a group of expat wives for Bible study and prayer each week.
It has truly been a blessing to me.
See, being an expat wife, especially a new one like me, can be very stressing.
I remember the first few months here....
I had never lived any farther that and hour and 45 minutes from my hometown.
I had never flown.
I was homeschooling a very active and strong willed child.
I left a very close-knit extended family.
I was active in the children's and youth ministry of our church and had close friends in this family of faith.
I knew only one language, English. And, I had a bad southern drawl, at that!
As you can imagine, I was not your typical expat wife. My children were to typical either.
I often asked God why in the world He would send me here to this compound, this city, this country.
Many times, through tears and anger, I told God that I just wanted to go home.
During the summer, I did go home. And things were different. We lived out of a suitcase while staying with family in two different states for five weeks. Life went on even though we were gone. And, I felt homesick in my heart for Korea.
God showed me that even though I was not perfect, classy, poised, or what I thought was the perfect expat wife, that He needed me in Korea. I have seen small ways He is using me...but I know there are many other ways He will show me.
Even though my children are not perfect, that He is working in and through them.
I have learned that I have to find ways to control my emotions, my frustrations, loneliness, and anger. He can turn all that into, joy, peace, fullfillment, and purpose.
It has truly been a blessing to me.
See, being an expat wife, especially a new one like me, can be very stressing.
I remember the first few months here....
I had never lived any farther that and hour and 45 minutes from my hometown.
I had never flown.
I was homeschooling a very active and strong willed child.
I left a very close-knit extended family.
I was active in the children's and youth ministry of our church and had close friends in this family of faith.
I knew only one language, English. And, I had a bad southern drawl, at that!
As you can imagine, I was not your typical expat wife. My children were to typical either.
I often asked God why in the world He would send me here to this compound, this city, this country.
Many times, through tears and anger, I told God that I just wanted to go home.
During the summer, I did go home. And things were different. We lived out of a suitcase while staying with family in two different states for five weeks. Life went on even though we were gone. And, I felt homesick in my heart for Korea.
God showed me that even though I was not perfect, classy, poised, or what I thought was the perfect expat wife, that He needed me in Korea. I have seen small ways He is using me...but I know there are many other ways He will show me.
Even though my children are not perfect, that He is working in and through them.
I have learned that I have to find ways to control my emotions, my frustrations, loneliness, and anger. He can turn all that into, joy, peace, fullfillment, and purpose.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Me? A Proverbs 31 woman??
At least, that is what she was from my point of view.
Today, however, we discussed how this is probably a description of a few woman. I never knew it, but a king named King Lemeul's mother wrote this. She was describing what type of woman her son should look for to be his queen.
Isn't it wonderful that God made us all unique? He gives us each special gifts. I have to remind myself not to compare myself with others. God is the only One I need to please. He made me the way I am for a purpose....for HIS PURPOSE!
I sure am thankful He lets me in on His purpose!
I am posting a video of Beth Moore about comparing ourselves with others.....
So let go and let God use you today!!
Busy Fall of 2012
We have been so busy lately. Mike's family came for a few weeks in September. It is so great having them here. Hopefully they enjoyed themselves. They were able to grab a few days in Seoul before heading back home.
Then we had Chuseok, the Korean thanksgiving holiday. Everyone wears these beautiful hanboks. Luckily, I was able to get both boys to wear them to Chuseok Sunday! Here are some pics of the day...
That weekend also included something called "Pirates Day" at the school. This is an annual event to close the pool. The kids dressed up like pirates, went on a treasure hunt, and went on a raft ride with Captain Hook!!!
Now that Micah is in preschool in the mornings, I can do some things during that time. However, I have found that you can get busy quick.
I take Korean lessons on Monday and Wednesday mornings.
I volunteer with the four year old class at Micah's preschool on Tuesday's.
I have my prayer and Bible Study group on Thursday mornings.
And, I volunteer with year 5 students on Friday mornings.
Oh, and along with the help of other moms, we are starting the Christian student club back at school.
Whew! Seems crazy....but I am loving it. I can remember when I first came here. I didn't seem to be able to get to know anyone (because of caring for Micah) and was not able to find my "niche". Guess God just needed me to adjust and then put me into use! :)
Let God use you today. You'll be amazed how energizing it can be!
Then we had Chuseok, the Korean thanksgiving holiday. Everyone wears these beautiful hanboks. Luckily, I was able to get both boys to wear them to Chuseok Sunday! Here are some pics of the day...
Now that Micah is in preschool in the mornings, I can do some things during that time. However, I have found that you can get busy quick.
I take Korean lessons on Monday and Wednesday mornings.
I volunteer with the four year old class at Micah's preschool on Tuesday's.
I have my prayer and Bible Study group on Thursday mornings.
And, I volunteer with year 5 students on Friday mornings.
Oh, and along with the help of other moms, we are starting the Christian student club back at school.
Whew! Seems crazy....but I am loving it. I can remember when I first came here. I didn't seem to be able to get to know anyone (because of caring for Micah) and was not able to find my "niche". Guess God just needed me to adjust and then put me into use! :)
Let God use you today. You'll be amazed how energizing it can be!
Thursday, September 6, 2012
School begins!
School has been back in session for a week and a half. Things are going pretty well for both JC and Micah.
Micah began what we consider preschool this year. It will take a lot of work to get him used to the structured environment, but he seems to be doing ok.
JC loves his new teacher and loves everything except homework.
We went to the beach a few weeks before school started....here are some pictures.
There were also some tent making and pallet parties before school started!
JC has now started Taekwondo. He loves it. We are hoping he keeps up with it. He took the Tiger Cub classes back home. Hope he stays with this. There are two girls out of his class that take it, also, which should be an encouragement.
Until another part of the adventure.......
Micah began what we consider preschool this year. It will take a lot of work to get him used to the structured environment, but he seems to be doing ok.
JC loves his new teacher and loves everything except homework.
We went to the beach a few weeks before school started....here are some pictures.
JC has now started Taekwondo. He loves it. We are hoping he keeps up with it. He took the Tiger Cub classes back home. Hope he stays with this. There are two girls out of his class that take it, also, which should be an encouragement.
Until another part of the adventure.......
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Back in Korea
This is our second week back in Korea. The jet lag has really gotten us this time. Now, I have to get the boys back in a "school time" routine with sleep and such.
They have been non-stop playing with friends and catching up with everyone. Mike had to fly out last Friday to go to Houston for a meeting. He is due back in late tonight.
We cannot wait to get back to church. While we were home we were able to visit with everyone back at Willow Pointe and my home church, FBC Lumberton. JC was able to go to Bible School there and made lots of new friends. Micah also (sort of) participated. :)
We also were able to spend a lot of time with my sister and her kids. We had not met Baby Knox, so it was a very special time for us. We headed over to Texas, too. We spent time with my husband's family. JC also was able to play with his playmates down the street from Grandma's house. We even were able to go to Revolution Church!
Now we are back and sort of settled. I hope as school starts, I can get busy learning Korean, keeping up the blog, losing weight again, etc. (I am down 23 lbs since we came to Korea in February...not much...but I really was not steadily watching what I ate or in my exercise.)
Hope to have more pics and updates soon!
Karen
They have been non-stop playing with friends and catching up with everyone. Mike had to fly out last Friday to go to Houston for a meeting. He is due back in late tonight.
We cannot wait to get back to church. While we were home we were able to visit with everyone back at Willow Pointe and my home church, FBC Lumberton. JC was able to go to Bible School there and made lots of new friends. Micah also (sort of) participated. :)
We also were able to spend a lot of time with my sister and her kids. We had not met Baby Knox, so it was a very special time for us. We headed over to Texas, too. We spent time with my husband's family. JC also was able to play with his playmates down the street from Grandma's house. We even were able to go to Revolution Church!
Now we are back and sort of settled. I hope as school starts, I can get busy learning Korean, keeping up the blog, losing weight again, etc. (I am down 23 lbs since we came to Korea in February...not much...but I really was not steadily watching what I ate or in my exercise.)
Hope to have more pics and updates soon!
Karen
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Seoul Trip, June 16-17,2012
We have a wonderful friend from Mike's work, Mr. Chin. He helped us plan a weekend trip to Seoul. We went on the KTX...the bullet train. Not long after we got our tickets, JC ran into some friends from school!
Then we were off!
We went to the National Korean Museum which had a children's museum.
Here was at the entrance.
There was so much to see and do....lots of puzzles for the guys to get into!
Then we just "hanged out" the rest of the time, walking around shops, and spending time together. Micah got some ice cream, of course!
On Sunday afternoon, it was time to head back....here are some pics from the KTX station.
We had a wonderful weekend. We are looking to forward to take the KTX to Seoul when we fly out of Seoul to visit family back in the states in two weeks!
Here was at the entrance.
Then we just "hanged out" the rest of the time, walking around shops, and spending time together. Micah got some ice cream, of course!
On Sunday afternoon, it was time to head back....here are some pics from the KTX station.
We had a wonderful weekend. We are looking to forward to take the KTX to Seoul when we fly out of Seoul to visit family back in the states in two weeks!
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