3 years ago today I was holding my 1st published book in my hands!!! It was exciting, unreal and blissful! I remember it well. My mom and I had gone away for the Labor Day weekend to do some outlet shopping and the boxes were delivered a few days earlier than I expected. Luckily my dad was home to receive the shipment and was directly instructed NOT to open any of the boxes or take a peek!
So, when I arrived home and opened that first box and pulled out a copy of Corn-fed with Rice on the Side, I was proud and extremely happy! Who knew this would be part of my life's journey...to write a book?! It was never part of my "to-do" list or bucket list. It was just an idea turned opportunity that opened up in front of me. I'm truly grateful to God for giving me the time, talent and opportunity to write the book and find a way to get it published. It was an unexpected surprise in my life's journey that has taught me to always be open to any and all opportunities that come my way.
I had no idea how to get a book published, but researched a lot, reached out to a lot of people for advice and then kept "knocking" on doors (actually e-mailing hundreds of literary agents) until I got that ONE response. If you strongly believe in your purpose or intent for something than you'll do the work until you make it happen. If you don't believe in it or only halfheartedly do then it probably won't happen or it won't be the best version of you or whatever you are producing. So, stay open to unforeseen opportunities and don't be afraid to take that first step...to learn more, learn something new...and experience the unexpected surprises that God has in store for you!
Looking back over the past 3 years, I'm truly thankful for ALL the support but even more grateful for all the wonderful adoption stories I've heard along the way! Hearing all the different adoption stories of wonderful people (children and adults), listening to SO many adoptive parents and their concerns/joys, and getting feedback from non-adoptees in how much they enjoyed the book, as well. It's been a special added blessing to my life. I'm glad my story has resonated with so many and hope to reach out to even more people over time. The more we can see the similarities in each other the more love, understanding and respect we can all share with one another. I think our country needs that now (more than ever after this crazy political season) and so we can all continue to grow and learn from one another with mutual respect. It's how we all grow, evolve and better ourselves and our communities....one step at a time.
So, thank YOU for being part of my journey and thank YOU for all your support over these past 3 years!! I hope I've brought you some inspiration, comfort, solace, laughter and hope along the way. Blessings to YOU today and every day!!
Wednesday, August 31, 2016
Sunday, August 28, 2016
Real Meaning...
Today at church I got an answer to one of my most curious questions...what does my Korean name mean? My mom attended church with me today and we sat in my normal spot...yes, we're creatures of habit especially when it comes to what pew we sit in at church. As I've mentioned in previous posts, there is an older Korean couple that also sits in the same pew as I and we've become acquainted over the past few years. The husband is still very much rooted in Korean culture and I don't think has openly ever said anything to me except to nod and occasionally wave a "hello" to me. However, the woman is very friendly and we've spoken many times. She is very quiet when she speaks so I don't quite catch everything she says, but she's been very receptive to any questions about the Korean culture I might ask. So today I asked her about her Korean name and what it meant and then asked her about my Korean name and if she knew what it meant. She explained her name to me and even wrote it out on paper in Korean, in Japanese characters and in Chinese characters. Then, I wrote down my Korean name and showed her and asked her what it meant. She said my name out loud and pronounced it correctly right away, which is something my family had not been doing until I finally learned the correct way to pronounce it when I went to Seoul, South Korea for the first time several years ago. But, I still didn't know what it meant.
She told me my name means "precious gem"! And my mom chimed in saying "yes you are!" I finally got the answer to one of my burning questions. It was quite satisfying.
I continued to have a delightful conversation with her until the church service started. And, was thankful for her knowledge, humor and growing friendship. Sometimes you never know how, when or where you'll get answers to some of your deepest questions. So, just be ready and open for the opportunity to present itself!
May the coming week answer one of your most burning questions in life! Blessings to you as we move into September in the week ahead!
She told me my name means "precious gem"! And my mom chimed in saying "yes you are!" I finally got the answer to one of my burning questions. It was quite satisfying.
I continued to have a delightful conversation with her until the church service started. And, was thankful for her knowledge, humor and growing friendship. Sometimes you never know how, when or where you'll get answers to some of your deepest questions. So, just be ready and open for the opportunity to present itself!
May the coming week answer one of your most burning questions in life! Blessings to you as we move into September in the week ahead!
Wednesday, August 24, 2016
Summer Relief
Last week we had some wonderful weather relief from the 100 degree days to low to mid-80 degree days...ALL week!! It was much needed relief especially for those that work outdoors, but the cooler temperatures and the rain provided an end in sight for the summer heat. It really hasn't been a terribly bad summer as far as the heat is concerned compared to previous years, but it's always nice when the summer heat breaks and fall temperatures roll in. That's what I'm waiting for and hopefully it's only a few more weeks away...of course, down south it's probably another month or so before that happens regularly.
Until then, you can feel the turn of the tide...the changing of the season ramping up with school starting, football season about to start, fall fashions in stores, and fewer and fewer extremely hot days. I'm ready for it! What's your favorite thing about this time of year? Give me a couple more months when the temperatures are in the high 70's, leaves start to change, pumpkin everything takes hold and I stop hearing lawn mowers on my street every day!
Last week's weather was a pleasant surprise, but it's back to heat and humidity this week. Just a few more weeks and then wonderful fall weather will be here...hurry up! In the meantime, I hope it has or will be a successful week back to school for all the kiddos out there and that you enjoy the last few weeks of summer heat (especially if you're a summer weather lover)! Blessings to you this last full week of August!!
Until then, you can feel the turn of the tide...the changing of the season ramping up with school starting, football season about to start, fall fashions in stores, and fewer and fewer extremely hot days. I'm ready for it! What's your favorite thing about this time of year? Give me a couple more months when the temperatures are in the high 70's, leaves start to change, pumpkin everything takes hold and I stop hearing lawn mowers on my street every day!
Last week's weather was a pleasant surprise, but it's back to heat and humidity this week. Just a few more weeks and then wonderful fall weather will be here...hurry up! In the meantime, I hope it has or will be a successful week back to school for all the kiddos out there and that you enjoy the last few weeks of summer heat (especially if you're a summer weather lover)! Blessings to you this last full week of August!!
Sunday, August 21, 2016
Back to School
It's that time of year again...back to school! Not for me, of course, but for all the kiddos out there tonight there will be butterflies in their stomachs thinking about their first day of school tomorrow. At least in schools around here, although I know some kids have already started school and some kids still have a few more days of freedom before hitting the books again.
It's always a fun and hectic time of year...a new school year, new school clothes, new school supplies, new friends and new worries or anxieties. I think we can all remember it at some point in time in our lives. The nervousness that first day of school, but then as the days go by it's back into a normal school year schedule with homework, school activities and sports. Oh, if we only knew back then how good we had it and how little responsibilities we truly had. I definitely would have enjoyed it more if I had known how lucky I was to grow up where I did and in the time that I did....meaning, we didn't grow up in the social media age....thank goodness!
Now, it just means to slow down at school crossings and seeing all the Friday night lights (for football around here). Next week I will have been in my house for 12 years. It doesn't seem that long, but since I've lived in my house there have been 6 new schools built in my immediate neighborhood. So you can guess how many more school zones there are now for me just to get to the main artery of my city.
So, to all the kids starting a new school year...be studious and learn and much as you can, listen, work hard, play hard and have fun! And to all the parents out there...good luck! Blessings to all the students and their parents this new school year!!
It's always a fun and hectic time of year...a new school year, new school clothes, new school supplies, new friends and new worries or anxieties. I think we can all remember it at some point in time in our lives. The nervousness that first day of school, but then as the days go by it's back into a normal school year schedule with homework, school activities and sports. Oh, if we only knew back then how good we had it and how little responsibilities we truly had. I definitely would have enjoyed it more if I had known how lucky I was to grow up where I did and in the time that I did....meaning, we didn't grow up in the social media age....thank goodness!
Now, it just means to slow down at school crossings and seeing all the Friday night lights (for football around here). Next week I will have been in my house for 12 years. It doesn't seem that long, but since I've lived in my house there have been 6 new schools built in my immediate neighborhood. So you can guess how many more school zones there are now for me just to get to the main artery of my city.
So, to all the kids starting a new school year...be studious and learn and much as you can, listen, work hard, play hard and have fun! And to all the parents out there...good luck! Blessings to all the students and their parents this new school year!!
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
Positive Reminder...
Four years ago today I posted on Facebook, "Remembering God's grace for me today and everyday...that I HAVE everything I need and HE will ALWAYS provide." I needed that positive reminder today!
It's been a rough summer for me, but God has provided along the way and I'm grateful for his mercy and his grace every day! It seems like it's been one thing after another, but I've tried to remain calm and give all my worries to God. It's not easy and some days it just eats you up, but all I can do is pray, try, get up every day and try again. That's all any of us can do! Some days it's easier than others.
Last May I had to replace my air conditioning unit...ouch, that put a dent in the pocketbook! I really need to replace my roof, but have been putting it off...for 2 years now. But, today I had to replace my water heater. Sigh. It's one of those necessities that you just have to do and can't really put off. I'm very grateful it got done today and I didn't have to wait and I'm thankful for the kind plumber who installed it. But, I really just wanted to cry all day. Just one more thing. And per my last post, I've had a lingering lump in my throat all day because I've wanted to cry but won't let myself because I have to remind myself (as the Facebook "see your memories" from years past popped up from 2012) that God is good and he will always provide. He always has in the past and I know he will now. So, although I feel beat down a bit I know God is working in my favor and all will be well. I just need to hold onto that to push me forward.
So, whatever sadness, frustration or brokenness, you may be feeling...TRUST in the LORD and all will be well! Moments like these truly put your faith to the test, but that's the point! So, stay true to your goodness and the grace of God that fills your life with light! May your soul and mine be at peace in God's glory!
May blessings of restoration fill you up to carry on and be a light to someone else!!
It's been a rough summer for me, but God has provided along the way and I'm grateful for his mercy and his grace every day! It seems like it's been one thing after another, but I've tried to remain calm and give all my worries to God. It's not easy and some days it just eats you up, but all I can do is pray, try, get up every day and try again. That's all any of us can do! Some days it's easier than others.
Last May I had to replace my air conditioning unit...ouch, that put a dent in the pocketbook! I really need to replace my roof, but have been putting it off...for 2 years now. But, today I had to replace my water heater. Sigh. It's one of those necessities that you just have to do and can't really put off. I'm very grateful it got done today and I didn't have to wait and I'm thankful for the kind plumber who installed it. But, I really just wanted to cry all day. Just one more thing. And per my last post, I've had a lingering lump in my throat all day because I've wanted to cry but won't let myself because I have to remind myself (as the Facebook "see your memories" from years past popped up from 2012) that God is good and he will always provide. He always has in the past and I know he will now. So, although I feel beat down a bit I know God is working in my favor and all will be well. I just need to hold onto that to push me forward.
So, whatever sadness, frustration or brokenness, you may be feeling...TRUST in the LORD and all will be well! Moments like these truly put your faith to the test, but that's the point! So, stay true to your goodness and the grace of God that fills your life with light! May your soul and mine be at peace in God's glory!
May blessings of restoration fill you up to carry on and be a light to someone else!!
Sunday, August 14, 2016
Lump in Throat....
Per my last post, the Olympics have given us a lot of amazing and great moments over the past week. This past week has also given me a few "lump in the throat" moments that I wasn't expecting. I'm not a huge crier in general and no tears were shed this week, but I came close.
The first came when I heard the news that John Saunders from ESPN had died. Yes, I first learned the news from Facebook, but then quickly switched the TV channel to ESPN. It was definitely a shock and you could see that on the faces and hear that in the voices of those remembering him on ESPN. And yes, I regularly watched The Sports Reporters on ESPN and found his calm, reassuring and profound last takes enjoyable to watch each Sunday. I actually just finished watching this week's tribute to him on that show. And for some reason as I was listening to the sadness and shock of his colleagues on Wednesday I found myself sad and with a lump in my throat at his sudden passing. Peace be with you John Saunders and your family.
The second time came while watching the all-around gymnastic finals with Simone Biles and Aly Raisman. Everyone knew Simone would win because she's just that amazing, but of course you still hold your breath a little in each performance. But, it was Aly Raisman that got to me. After watching her in London get denied of the bronze in the all-around and then making her comeback in Rio, redemption had to be hers at that moment...and it was! It was exciting and incredible to watch! And, when she finished her floor exercise and broke down in tears it truly choked me up. I almost started crying...almost. The sheer joy, relief and accomplishment was SO raw and real at that moment that it was inspiring to watch. The happiness and pride I felt for her jumped up into my throat. And it was heartwarming to watch her parents pride and relief, as well. Such a joyful moment overall for both girls that made a whole country proud!
You never know what will tug at your heart, what unexpected things will come your way day by day or week by week, but whatever the new week holds I hope it's all light and joy! Wishing you blessings of joy and hope this coming week and maybe a moment or two of unexpected emotion that tugs at your heart!!
The first came when I heard the news that John Saunders from ESPN had died. Yes, I first learned the news from Facebook, but then quickly switched the TV channel to ESPN. It was definitely a shock and you could see that on the faces and hear that in the voices of those remembering him on ESPN. And yes, I regularly watched The Sports Reporters on ESPN and found his calm, reassuring and profound last takes enjoyable to watch each Sunday. I actually just finished watching this week's tribute to him on that show. And for some reason as I was listening to the sadness and shock of his colleagues on Wednesday I found myself sad and with a lump in my throat at his sudden passing. Peace be with you John Saunders and your family.
The second time came while watching the all-around gymnastic finals with Simone Biles and Aly Raisman. Everyone knew Simone would win because she's just that amazing, but of course you still hold your breath a little in each performance. But, it was Aly Raisman that got to me. After watching her in London get denied of the bronze in the all-around and then making her comeback in Rio, redemption had to be hers at that moment...and it was! It was exciting and incredible to watch! And, when she finished her floor exercise and broke down in tears it truly choked me up. I almost started crying...almost. The sheer joy, relief and accomplishment was SO raw and real at that moment that it was inspiring to watch. The happiness and pride I felt for her jumped up into my throat. And it was heartwarming to watch her parents pride and relief, as well. Such a joyful moment overall for both girls that made a whole country proud!
You never know what will tug at your heart, what unexpected things will come your way day by day or week by week, but whatever the new week holds I hope it's all light and joy! Wishing you blessings of joy and hope this coming week and maybe a moment or two of unexpected emotion that tugs at your heart!!
Friday, August 12, 2016
Olympic Fever!
Have you been watching the Olympics this past week? From the opening ceremonies to all the wonderful winning moments, touching stories, rivalries, and country pride is always so fun to watch every 4 years! Especially after all turmoil and craziness of this year's presidential campaign (in the States), it's nice to get a break from that and come together to root on our fellow man/women. It's fun, motivating and inspiring to watch these athletes achieve their dreams and their goals in their one shining moment!
It motivates me to continue to heal my body so that I can get stronger and also motivates me to set (or re-set) goals and push hard to achieve them. If you can't be inspired by watching the Olympics then you shouldn't be watching! I forgot how exciting indoor volleyball can be and even though I don't know anything about handball or rugby I can still appreciate those athletes and what they are trying to accomplish. Of course women's gymnastics is the sweetheart of events for most women in America, but I've heard on-going amazement and admiration of Simone Biles' skills by so many men over the past week, as well. And another of course, Michael Phelps has dominated his mark in history with even more amazing wins and great moments in this year's games.
One more week to go...what other amazing stories, victories, defeats and moments will we witness? Who knows, but it's going to be exciting to find out! Enjoy watching the games and go USA!!!
Blessings for a winning week ahead!!
It motivates me to continue to heal my body so that I can get stronger and also motivates me to set (or re-set) goals and push hard to achieve them. If you can't be inspired by watching the Olympics then you shouldn't be watching! I forgot how exciting indoor volleyball can be and even though I don't know anything about handball or rugby I can still appreciate those athletes and what they are trying to accomplish. Of course women's gymnastics is the sweetheart of events for most women in America, but I've heard on-going amazement and admiration of Simone Biles' skills by so many men over the past week, as well. And another of course, Michael Phelps has dominated his mark in history with even more amazing wins and great moments in this year's games.
One more week to go...what other amazing stories, victories, defeats and moments will we witness? Who knows, but it's going to be exciting to find out! Enjoy watching the games and go USA!!!
Blessings for a winning week ahead!!
Monday, August 8, 2016
Coming Back Stronger....
If you read my last post you know I've had a few physical hurdles to overcome in the last 2+ months. Well, let me just add one more to the list (yes, unbelievably) on Friday I re-pulled my stomach muscle that was getting pretty close to healing after over 2 months of injury. I couldn't believe it! I had re-pulled it and I had been SO careful not to re-injure it. AND, I did it on the most minute things ever...just going down to sit on the ground. Ugh. I was completely disgusted and frustrated by the whole thing. Another injury?!?!
But, after two days of not caring anymore and just letting the disgust roll off my back I'm back to seeing things more positively. And, working towards being a better person, physically, spiritually and in my relationships. Yes, I know my stomach muscle will take MORE time to heal and yes, I need to continue to be careful with it, but I can still move forward with being a better person every day. Sometimes set-backs make you stronger if you let them and have the right attitude to move forward with clearer perspective and stronger intent. Sometimes set-backs are setting you up to succeed even further than you ever expected. So, I'm taking these set-backs to come back stronger physically as I work on my strength, flexibility and endurance moving forward. One step at a time....just keep going and never quit...and if you keep trying you'll never quit!
So, it may be slow going right now, but I still have hope and trust in God's glory for my future...whatever it may hold! I'll be more prepared for it from all the struggles I've endured. That I know for sure!
So, whatever is ahead of you this week just take it one step at a time and you'll eventually reach your end goal. Stick with it and enjoy the journey!! Motivating blessings to you to reach your daily, weekly and monthly goals!!
But, after two days of not caring anymore and just letting the disgust roll off my back I'm back to seeing things more positively. And, working towards being a better person, physically, spiritually and in my relationships. Yes, I know my stomach muscle will take MORE time to heal and yes, I need to continue to be careful with it, but I can still move forward with being a better person every day. Sometimes set-backs make you stronger if you let them and have the right attitude to move forward with clearer perspective and stronger intent. Sometimes set-backs are setting you up to succeed even further than you ever expected. So, I'm taking these set-backs to come back stronger physically as I work on my strength, flexibility and endurance moving forward. One step at a time....just keep going and never quit...and if you keep trying you'll never quit!
So, it may be slow going right now, but I still have hope and trust in God's glory for my future...whatever it may hold! I'll be more prepared for it from all the struggles I've endured. That I know for sure!
So, whatever is ahead of you this week just take it one step at a time and you'll eventually reach your end goal. Stick with it and enjoy the journey!! Motivating blessings to you to reach your daily, weekly and monthly goals!!
Wednesday, August 3, 2016
Aches and Pains
When we were younger, we heard our aunts and uncles, grandparents, etc. tell us that our bodies fall apart as we get older. There are more aches and pains, more creaky joints and more recovery time needed for working out, laborious chores or a late night out! Well yes, I will finally attest to all of it! Dangit!!
Since mid-May I've strained my knee, pulled my pectoral muscles (yes, lovely), suffered my worst stomach muscle tear (that's taken a good 2.5 months to heal) and in the last few days have been dealing with a severe pinched nerve in my neck that pretty much froze up my entire left side down to the bottom of my shoulder blade. Fun times! The first three things I did while working out, but the last ailment hit me while I was sleeping. Really?! Come on!
So, am I feeling old yet?! Ha! You definitely take it all for granted when you're younger and you do crazy things to your body that don't have such dire consequences the next morning. But, slowly into your late 30's and 40's it all becomes a harsh reality that your body can no longer handle things you've done in the past...it's wearing down, slowly but surely. Even if you work-out regularly and eat well, as I do. It's just a reality of life and time beating down on you. I think that's why so many people in their 40's start running marathons or triathlons. They're trying to prove to themselves their body can still "work" and do athletic things like they did when they were younger, and/or they're wanting to accomplish new physical goals that they've never achieved before...all commendable (and sometimes crazy depending on the activity).
So whatever aches and pains you're dealing with, I hope you have plenty of ice bags, a durable heating pad, and lots of patience to make sure you heal properly! Believe me, it's ALL needed!
Healing blessings to you this week!!!
Since mid-May I've strained my knee, pulled my pectoral muscles (yes, lovely), suffered my worst stomach muscle tear (that's taken a good 2.5 months to heal) and in the last few days have been dealing with a severe pinched nerve in my neck that pretty much froze up my entire left side down to the bottom of my shoulder blade. Fun times! The first three things I did while working out, but the last ailment hit me while I was sleeping. Really?! Come on!
So, am I feeling old yet?! Ha! You definitely take it all for granted when you're younger and you do crazy things to your body that don't have such dire consequences the next morning. But, slowly into your late 30's and 40's it all becomes a harsh reality that your body can no longer handle things you've done in the past...it's wearing down, slowly but surely. Even if you work-out regularly and eat well, as I do. It's just a reality of life and time beating down on you. I think that's why so many people in their 40's start running marathons or triathlons. They're trying to prove to themselves their body can still "work" and do athletic things like they did when they were younger, and/or they're wanting to accomplish new physical goals that they've never achieved before...all commendable (and sometimes crazy depending on the activity).
So whatever aches and pains you're dealing with, I hope you have plenty of ice bags, a durable heating pad, and lots of patience to make sure you heal properly! Believe me, it's ALL needed!
Healing blessings to you this week!!!
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