Compassion (in a kid's heart)

My children have made me so proud; not in a prideful way, but proud in that they are learning a very important trait: to be compassionate, like Jesus. I'm thankful and in awe of how they are learning and applying what we have taught them. You see, the earthquake in Haiti is the first natural disaster they are old enough to understand, and really, they don't understand it on level that we as adults do. But, here's what they know: they've seen some images on tv, they know people are in pain, and are sad, many have died and others have been left with absolutely nothing. They also know that Daddy has been working long, busy days helping with the disaster in Haiti; which leads to more interest in it. Jannah & Jordan have been moved by this; they're hearts have become involved! Jannah came home last week and told me that her school was collecting money for Haiti, they wanted to raise enough money for a water well. She was very matter of fact, and said "what ever is in my allowance jar, I want to give to Haiti." The very next day, she did just that. Jordan who has had a difficult time sharing what money he has also declared to me, "I would give all my money to Haiti." I love seeing God work in their little hearts and minds. Just this morning Jannah showed me her prayer journal, and she had written a prayer for Haiti. I know it's horrible over there and I know that country has a lot to do to be at a functioning level again; I also know that our military is providing much aid, which makes me proud all over again to be an AF wife; more importantly, I KNOW my J and J are learning something very important: the likeness of Christ.

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." Philippians 2:3,4

"Be kind and compassionate toward one another." Ephesians 4:32

To Be Thankful

I like to think I'm a thankful person, in general. I mean I usually have a spirit of gratitude, I think. Maybe I should ask Greg about that, so that I'm not walking around deceiving myself. I think about praying and how much of my prayer life revolves around thanking God for every day and the gifts that are in that day; even the gifts that are sad, difficult and trying. I think being thankful, like many other feelings/attitudes, are choices. So, what about you, are you thankful? Do you choose to live each day, hour by hour with a spirit of thankfulness? May we each one strive to do just that. We may not have all we want, but if we have Christ, we have all we need; which should make us a thankful, grateful people. The spirit of thankfulness is constant in our home. I pray that G and I are raising grateful, thankful children; Speaking of G and the kiddos, I am SO VERY thankful for them!

This Thanksgiving, my parents joined us. They were here for an entire week!!! They actually surprised the kiddos and me and showed up 4 days sooner that was planned (G was in on the surprise). We had a great time. I always love being with our family. Family is important to us. Daddy and Greg painted until their heart was, I'm sure, very content. They covered about 2500 square feet of the house...whew...that's a lot! Now Greg and I only have 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms left. Mama and I prepared a delicious meal on Thanksgiving. Can I just say that I am still not comfortable preparing a turkey?!? I watched Mama and was ready to sanitize the surfaces once she finished! I think it's just nasty to pull that stuff out of the cavity of the turkey, I think that maybe when I'm 35 I will be able to do it, the verdict will be out until then! Jordan was beyond excited to have the 4-wheeler that Gampa brought to him (that was one of the main reasons for them driving). He's been riding it every day and so have a few of our neighbors.

What I'll Miss...

There are many aspects of life here in Korea that I am going to miss. When we moved here, 2 years ago, I was unsure of what to expect; I was somewhat scared and anxious, very pregnant with Jamison and far, far away from the familiarities of life. Why didn't I rest in God's plans and know that He had worked out the many details that consumed my thoughts and worries? In these difficult moments and times of transitions, God was faithful (as he has promised to never leave us, nor forsake us) to guide us and show us His plan. After arriving, life fell into place; not without some trials and some difficulties and a lot of missing our family, but Korea became our home. God placed some wonderful ladies in my life that became my circle of constant friendship and support. Many of those ladies have since moved, some are still here...they have made this a fun experience. He placed us in a wonderful church, where we grew and our children were taught the truth in love every Sunday. We have made some wonderful memories and have experienced another culture...what an opportunity! Jamsion will always have the fact that he was born in Seoul, Korea...that's a conversation piece! I thought my time to leave would never get here; now that it's two and half days away, it's a bitter sweet time. I feel as though I am leaving family again, my military family. So, to those left here at Osan Air Base: enjoy your time here, embrace every moment, and continue to help each other out! Before you know it, you too will be saying good-bye...which is not as easy as you might think!

What I'll miss:

-my sweet friends...there are too many to name!

-Pizza night at the Officer's Club, where the kids went crazy and bounced in the bouncy castle and the parents just relaxed

-the Flower Market, where flowers are so, so cheap...like 6 dollars for a dozen roses!

-the National Anthem at 5:30, every weekday and Taps every night at 10:00...

-the simplicity of life that I have come to appreciate

-Thai food...this was Jordan's favorite, Pad Thai

-Knowing almost every single lady and not being able to go anywhere here on base without stopping to talk to at least 5 people!

-Happy Quilt-where I have spent much time and money...building my collection of designer fabric, it only cost 2.50-3.00 a yard!

- Hallasan Tower-our apartment; and being able to run upstairs, downstairs or down the hall to play, visit with a friend or borrow an egg!

- Everland (an amusement park) that we have been to a bazillion times

-our church, Mission Baptist and my MOPS group there

-Ms. Lee, my ajima (cleaning lady) who gave me freedom from all household chores...I became a bit spoiled and maybe even lazy!

-afternoons at the park or the indoor pool, along with many other mothers

-walking Jannah to and from school

And, here are a few things we won't miss, not even a little bit:

-After 2 years of being here, my children no longer like being gawked at and having their pictures taken by random people; nor does one of my children (Jordan) care to be touched on his cheeks and head by strangers while we are out. What he doesn't realize is that in the Korean culture, he is put on a pedestal because he is a son (and they love his blue eyes and fair skin). So, I hope when we get back to America, they can cope with loosing their celebrity status!

-The smells of Korean cuisine; somehow, we just never acquired a taste or liking for the food here. The smell of these bugs cooking (for your pleasure of eating) still make me sick.

-I won't miss the Exercises (practice/preparation for war time with North Korea) that the active duty participate in and the ones that we as spouses participate in...although, it's for a very worthy cause (like right now, Kim Jong Il is making it all seem real and worthwhile).

-I won't miss the crazy moped drivers that can do you more harm than the buses!

-I won't miss lugging groceries from the parking garage, up to the 3rd floor and down the long hallway to my apartment!

All in all, there is much more that I will miss than I won't miss!

President Bush WAS here!

Okay, so I read on CNN that Bush was here on Tuesday; well, close to here. He was at Yongsan (the base in Seoul, where I had Jamison, about an hour from here). How did I not get a memo on this, before it happened?! I feel like I missed out. The president of my country, was in this country, so close to me, how could I have missed this?? Actually, people were "selected" to go from this base, but it was all top secret; even my sweet husband didn't tell me this, until after it was over! I wanted to be upset with him, but he was only doing his job by not telling me. Oh well, maybe next time, I can be more on top of things. At any rate, President Bush was here; he was then going to Thailand, and to China. I wonder if he's going to Phuket in Thailand (the beautiful beach...............probably not!) Make sure to watch the Olympics, and remember that we're close.................closer than most of you all are to China! By the way, we are planning a trip to China in October; can't wait to visit another country!

Random Thoughts

It's late, and I should be in bed, but my mind is busy, with a thousand random thoughts. What are they, hmm, where shall I start?

-I "realized" last night that Jannah, my big girl and somehow still my baby, will be going to kindergarten in 33 days. This day, that I have looked forward to, now brings tears to my eyes when I think about it for more than 5 seconds. Clearly, I'm not as ready for her to go as I thought I was.

-We've been here for a year now; I can't even believe this is possible, but I LOVE THIS PLACE! I know, it's a little shocking to make such a declaration, but I really do. I realize that life is good, and God is Awesome, and that He has placed us here. Being on-base has totally changed my outlook, and I've decided that we have such a simple life here; everything is at my fingertips, and I have Ms. Lee. She's my cleaning lady that works from 9-4, every Thursday, for a nominal fee. She does an incredible job of keeping our home clean and organized.

-We went to another base today with some friends to watch Charlotte's Web. There was one phrase in the movie that I just can't rid my mind of; it went like this: "What's good for the goose is good for the gander." Now, how true is this? Very, I think!

-For the first time in my whole 29 years of life (I'm having some firsts over the last week), I along with my husband had a full body massage. It was sooooo nice! That was my gift to us; he was a little shocked when we wound up Queen Massage (I can't imagine why). I think he thought I was kidding, but kidding I was not! And great it was!

-I've been buying a lot of fabric over the last few weeks. I have been inspired to sew, I'll be posting my latest projects soon! My wheels are turning with ideas when I'm supposed to be sleeping.................hmm..................sounds like I have a problem! My friend Annee over at the Earnest Review has something to do with this...........I think!

-Jordan shares his popcorn with me today at the movies; one little piece at the time, and he was so very proud of himself! I love my children.

-I am on the MOPS steering team; we are getting geared up for the year, and I'm just a little excited about that!

Okay, I'm starting to fade; I should join my husband in bed. I hope my mind doesn't start running again. Does anyone know where a switch is? :) By the way, I told you I had some random thoughts!

New Friendships

Over the last month and a half, we have said goodbye to many of the folks we call "friends" here at Osan. It is bittersweet. Bitter, because who knows if we will see them and when. Sweet, because we shared some good times and made some great memories. On a happier note, we are making new friends almost daily. There are always new faces, and it's easy to pick them out, because we are a very small community. I was reading in one of my devotional books just the other day, and the topic was friendships, and the cultivation of them. The author, Emilie Barnes, speaks of friendship-making, and how important it is to teach our children those skills. I realize that we have a vast opportunity to do that as a family who moves often. As a mother, I can make that a positive experience, or I can make it difficult; it all depends on my attitude and outlook on the situation. I can also teach my children that yes, friends come and go, but Jesus is always there. He will never leave you! Proverbs 18:24 tells us there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

"If a man does not make new friends as he advances through life, he will soon find himself left alone. A man should keep his friendship in constant repair." Samuel Johnson

A Stranger's Generosity

We ventured out to the Flying M (a steakhouse here on base) tonight. A big juicy hamburger sounded good to Greg and I, and we thought it was a good way to start a 4 day weekend! The restaurant is pretty small, and it seems like we always make a little more noise than we should. Nevertheless, we had a nice time and we all had hamburgers, except Jamison; he ate squash and bananas! I did notice a couple that sat diagonally from us. They were probably in their 50's (which sounds younger and younger as the years pass by); they looked at us several times, they were watching the kids. The lady especially liked Jamison, she had several smiles for him. As they left, we smiled at each other, and that was it. When our server brought the bill to us, she said, "your bill has been paid." We were a little awestruck, with smiles on our faces, which must have beckoned a little more explanation. She then said there was a couple that was dining there tonight, they were regular customers, and every time they are there, they pick one or two tables and pay for their meals! We did not know them, and they paid for our dinner - how generous! How nice to have been the recipient of this kind couple's generous heart. It made Greg and I want to do something for others; generosity breeds generosity. This actually reminds me of my Daddy; I can remember him buying meals for other's when we were eating out and not wanting to have any recognition for doing it. He is a very generous man; so when you read this Daddy, remeber that I love you and that your always a thought away!

Before I was a Mom

 Before I was a Mom, I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby. I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous. I never thought about immunizations.
Before I was a Mom, I had never been puked on, pooped on, chewed on, peed on. I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts. I slept all night.
Before I was a Mom, I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests, or give shots. I never looked into teary eyes and cried. I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin. I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.
Before I was a Mom, I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put her down. I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt. I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much. I never knew that I could love someone so much.
Before I was a Mom, I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body. I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby. I didn't know there was such a strong bond between a mother and her child. I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.
Before I was a Mom, I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay. I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache, the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.

My friend Amy emailed this to me, I thought it was fitting, and what do you know, it expresses my thoughts pretty good. I am so thankful for my children, and have such wonderful memories of each one as I read this little poem. Happy Mother's Day to all of you Mama's!

Korea Bound!

I have been in the States for about 7 weeks, and have not blogged until now; pitiful, I know. We have had a great time. At any rate, I have so much to post when we get back to Korea and get somewhat settled. We leave on Friday, the 4th and get back late Saturday. Greg's Mom will be joining us for a few weeks, I can't wait for her to see Korea! I guess I should head to bed, it's getting late. Keep us in your prayers as we travel.

I'm So Excited.................

In exactly 12 hours from now, me and the kiddos will be on a plane, headed back to the US! I am soooooooooo excited, and somewhat nervous. I am not a lover of flying, muchless flying for 15 hours, and having the kids by myslef. I will say that God has given me a peace, and I am constantly turning my fear over to Him. I know that He will be with me, and that He will give me the strength to make it! I love knowing that God cares for me, and that He has promised in His Word to give His children what they are in need of. I know that He has every detail and all 15 hours in His hands; how awesome and comforting! As I've been thinking about leaving, I realized that I will miss my "family" and home here in Korea; but I also can't wait to see my family and friends back in the states. So, see you all soon! Pray for me, and I will post once we get settled!

"Cast all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7

Changes

"Things do not change; we change." -Henry David Thoreau

I was reading a book recently and came across this quote. I don't usually remember quotes, but this one has been replaying in my mind. After some thought, I know why. Let me explain! We have been in Korea for six months now. To put it kindly, I have not been overly fond of this place, I have been somewhat ungrateful and have found myself complaining, a lot!
I am not sure when God allowed this huge transformation to take place, but I realize that I am now happy here. This is our home! Nothing has changed that would give me a new attitude, God's grace has reached down into my heart and changed me. He has given me a grateful heart and spirit. We have so much to be thankful for, and we have an opportunity for some wonderful memories. So with all that being said, I want to say that I am trying to embrace this experience and give it my best shot!!!