From Our World to Yours

Chihuly at Cheekwood

2010-07-10T17:43:00.001-07:00

Some amazing blown glass sculptures at Cheekwood. I hope we are able to go back and take a few more pictures!

finishing touches

2010-07-05T14:52:00.001-07:00

Just an update for mom... this old mirror is a perfect touch! Thanks, thanks!

Living Room

2010-06-03T05:49:00.001-07:00

For Our Guests

2010-06-03T05:43:00.000-07:00

Master Bedroom

2010-06-03T05:36:00.001-07:00

The Kitchen

2010-06-03T05:23:00.001-07:00

Posting these first for Jana. :) I do love the openness of this kitchen. In Choonghwan's words, "It's very friendly." I don't feel trapped like I did in the apartment; I can work in the kitchen and visit with my guests- or my husband. Maybe I'll actually be in here more!

A few pictures...

2010-05-03T14:24:00.000-07:00

Just a few snapshots of our new house as we s l o w l y get things together.

The sunroom... my favorite room!

the view from the sunroom...

your room when you come and stay with us !

I'll post more eventually, but hopefully that will satisfy some of you for now. :)

Intergalactic!

2010-01-10T16:16:00.000-08:00

Nashville is host to the "Intergalactic Bead Show" which I stumbled upon a few years ago when I saw a sign that said "BEADS --->" and told Choonghwan to follow that sign! I look forward to the upcoming shows as I know that I will be able to find great deals on beautiful and unique beads that will make beautiful jewelry pieces.

I was so happy with my recent purchase of some staples and some pretties. I'm posting "before" pictures of the beads and may actually get around to posting some of the finished products as well.

at $2-$3 a strand, these are deals!

cleaned, shiny, and ready to be purposed!

Gill's Mountain

2009-11-03T13:46:00.001-08:00

It's beginning to look a lot like...

2009-09-12T10:22:00.000-07:00

Well, really it's not. The Christmas season is a ways off, but I have found some great deals on beads and have enjoyed creating some "festive" holiday jewelry. I will stock them at Men of Measure around mid-November, but have put a few pair online at my 'etsy' shop: http://www.crossfield.etsy.com/.

Or, if you're interested in purchasing a pair 'direct', you know how to find me!

Busy Beading

2009-07-20T09:06:00.001-07:00

Just a few of my recent summertime creations.

Check out a few other items at http://www.crossfield.etsy.com/

Kimbab

2009-07-10T10:28:00.001-07:00

One of our summertime favorites that we never actually made in Korea because it was so cheap to go buy it. About $1 a roll made it the perfect food to pick up and take on a picnic or a road trip.

Preparation for this can be a doozie, and you only want to make it if you're planning on making a lot. Also, it doesn't keep very well... although I discovered a trick for leftovers that I will tell you at the end of the post.

Okay... first is preparation of ingredients:

Fry eggs into a thin omelette. This square pan is perfect!

Cut carrots into long strips and saute with a bit of olive oil and salt. Put them aside.

Also cut cucumbers into long strips. (No need to cook these.)
Here we actually used turkey sausage, cut into long strips and browned. Koreans use imitation crab, ham, or sweet marinated ground beef. The ground beef is really our favorite, but takes a lot of prep time.

The key to any kimbab is the pickled radish. These should glow when you turn off the lights, and you can buy them pre-sliced or do it yourself. If they are pre-sliced, it's good to rinse them before you put them in the kimbab.

And, of course, you need the kim (seaweed) and the bab (rice)! A friend taught me to season the rice with a bit of salt, sugar, vinegar and sesame oil. I think she is a genious! Once you've got everything prepared, put it all out on the table and get down to it!

Spread a thin layer of rice onto a sheet of seaweed. Add all the fixin's.

I don't know what this tool is called, but you'll need it to help you roll the kimbab.

Once it's rolled tightly, it's ready to be sliced to eat immediately or wrapped (not refrigerated!) to be cut later.
We like them thinly sliced and Choonghwan thinks the ends, although ugly, are the best part!

Okay, like I said, do not refrigerate these guys. The rice will harden and then it's over. You can cover them with saran wrap or aluminum foil. It is best to slice the rolls right before you serve them. You have to make these the day you plan on serving them.

If there are leftovers after everyone is full, you can refrigerate them overnight. (better than just tossing them out!) Then, the next day, dip them in egg on both sides and lightly fry each side and serve hot. If you don't finish those, say "adios!" and don't make as much next time!

Dduk-bok-gi

2009-07-10T10:06:00.000-07:00

A popular Korean "street food" that is one of our winter-time favorites!

The sauce contains red pepper paste, red pepper powder, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, green onions, sesame seeds and beef broth.
The sauce should be heated on medium heat until it begins to bubble.
Then toss in chopped veggies (we like carrots and onions) and stir for a bit.
Then add meat. Koreans usually use "odaeng tempura" (fish patty?) but we opt for ham at home. Also add the dduk (Korean rice cakes) and stir until soft. We also boil ramyen and toss it in at the end.

Mix it all up, pull it from the stove to the table, and eat it hot!

Warning: strange slurping sounds and spicy sighs may disturb the neighbors!

Beach Baby!

2009-07-03T11:25:00.000-07:00

I ♥ Garden City!

I can't really sum up why it's my favorite place on earth... there's something about the smell, the ocean breeze, the sun... I just love it! This year my childhood dream came true when my family packed up to head home, but Choonghwan and I got to stay on for another week! (Thanks Byron and Karisa!) Actually, I think having the second week made the first week with family very enjoyable as I felt like we had plenty of time... the week crept by. After the fam left, Choonghwan and I moved down the beach to stay at the home of some very generous friends and got quite comfortable with "beach-living." We even pondered the possibility of purchasing beach property in the future. Anyway, I think I went into beach withdrawl after having to return home, but now I can look back with fondness instead of wincing and wishing we were still there!

As always, here are a few pics- both from our time with family and our time on our own.

Let's go on a Piknik!

2009-05-26T15:50:00.000-07:00

My cousin introduced me to piknik.com, an on-line photo editing program, and I have to say that I am almost addicted. If I had a faster internet connection, I would probably be on there all the time, but I think that the slow connection is a blessing at this point. However, it is really fun to see old pictures take on new life with a few clicks and drags. I've posted a few of my favorites with various features applied:

The color just "pops" in this one!

the softened look is somehow more romantic

maybe Picasso would include us in his "Blue Period"

"Say Cheese!"
*click*

Jungle Haze

"Beauty and the Beast," "American Beauty," or "Pleasantville"?
(only one of those worth watching!)

This would be my resume picture if I were looking for a new job!

Roses are Red...

2009-05-13T17:42:00.000-07:00

That's not always true!

We made it to Knoxville for Mother's Day and one of the neighbors was having an open garden. The roses were gorgeous, and the overcast skies made for perfect picture-taking weather. I usually prefer to take pictures of people, not of things, but how can one resist raindrops on roses?! Plus, these offer another testimony to God's majesty and His care for creation.

He is Risen!

2009-04-16T16:12:00.000-07:00

Even a week after the Easter celebration, those words are still true!

There's something about the weather on Easter weekend... the dark clouds and storms on Good Friday and the transition to sunlight and warmth on Easter day... God seems to be speaking through creation of his miracle of salvation. It is as real as the weather: the storms and the sunlight.

Creations continues to testify through symbols of new life: the eggs, the animals and everything in bloom. The dawn of spring seems to forgive the harshness of winter. Hope is alive.

He is risen, indeed!

2009-03-29T11:25:00.000-07:00

Six Years.
Seis Años.
6년.

Sometimes it seems like we're still on our honeymoon, and sometimes it seems like we've been married twice as long. There have been surprises, joy, disappointments, tears and laughter- what an adventure! The fun is in getting to know each other more each day, falling in love with the familiar, and getting swept of your feet by something you never expected. I am still learning the meaning of "for better or for worse" as the worse times often bring us together and in greater need of each other, and the better times probably don't receive enough of our praise or thanks.

How God knew that Choonghwan was perfect for me doesn't matter; what matters is that He knew and he clued me in just in time. I am thankful not only for the relationship we have together, but for the relationship we share in our Lord and the testimony that echoes from our "love story."

Happy Anniversary, Baby! Thanks for these six years of sweet lovin' and here's to many, many more! 사랑해요!

"Tour of the South"

2009-03-28T19:51:00.001-07:00

I wasn't going to sit at home alone during my spring break this year, so I started making plans to travel, and invited myself to stay with family along a "Tour of the South" road trip.

The first stop was Knoxville where Choonghwan was able to join me for the weekend. Since Monday was my 30th birthday, mom had planned a birthday dinner with family, and Katy and Chip were also able to make it down for the evening. I have to say that I was especially touched by this birthday. Birthdays seemed like such a special event as I was growing up, but since we've all married and moved away, the celebration has kind of dwindled. I think part of that is just being an adult- boo! Anyway, the sentiments in the cards, the thoughtfulness behind the gifts, and being surrounded by family just because it was my birthday was very, very special and meaningful. A perfect way to start year #30!

From Knoxville, I headed to Athens to stay with Aunt Pat. Again, I was impressed with a wonderful homemade birthday dinner that was cooking as I pulled in. I enjoyed our visit so, so much and was also glad for Pat's help and generosity in getting me to Atlanta to help Kane and Jana with their week.

For those who don't know, my little brother is getting his PhD at Georgia Tech and has just hit the home stretch in that process. The short of it is, because of a glitch in the process, he was in a place to need my help, and I was honored and glad to do it! I really enjoyed just being an extra pair of hands for Kane and Jana and Mara Kate. I am so thankful that we have established a relationship that allows us to ask for and offer help. I was also glad to see God in the details of the timing of my trip, knowing that He will continue to provide for us all as He sees our every need!

From Atlanta, I headed to Birmingham to visit with Patch and Laren. Patch was a HUGE help with our taxes and Laren was a great listener when I found out that Choonghwan's paycheck had bounced... ! On Friday, Laren and I took a tour of Birmingham which included the farm where her family boards their horses. It was such a pretty place, and I was so impressed with Laren's rapport with those beautiful creatures.

To sum up this trip in one word: PERFECT. Travelling was safe and smooth, there were opportunities to give and receive, and I was reminded again and again of just how blessed I am to have the family and friends that I have. I so, so glad the thought of this trip crossed my mind and that I seized the opportunity. Thanks to all who opened their doors!

pitter patter

2009-02-16T14:23:00.000-08:00

Our little apartment came alive this weekend as we kept Mara Kate so Kane and Jana could have a romantic Valentine's Day. Okay, so that's a guise... we have been wanting to have her for a while, and it just happened to work out this weekend! Thanks to Tuie and Papa Dog for bringing her our way, and thanks to Jana for meeting us half way in Chattanooga.

We really had a sweet, comfortable time and enjoyed watching each other taking on "parenting" roles. Mara Kate was a gem, which is to be expected from her upbringing, of course. I am really proud of all three of us for the "new" things we did!

Now our apartment is much quieter, and I'm sure Kane and Jana are getting an ear-full as Mara Kate relays all that went on. Here are a few pictures from our time together.... take note of all the smiles! :)

At the library's performance of "Anansi"

making pizza for dinner (no pepperoni's on MKs slice!)

playground!

cute!
Choonghwan is such a good sport!

the "carous" ride

books, books...

and more books!fruit 'naks on the way to meet mommy... a happy girl!

Giving Thanks

2008-12-06T15:48:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving has passed, but there is still plenty to be thankful for: only two weeks of school remain til break, I've had SO much fun shopping for Christmas, Choonghwan has been off on Sundays, and there is more Family time to come! Other than that, I don't have much to share, but do have a few recent pics from Thanksgiving travels.

Thankful for some "away time" with Choonghwan!

Thankful for Laren and Patch's hospitality!

Thankful for hugs and lovin'!

Thankful for moms and grandmoms!

Thankful for the finer things in life that we don't deserve but are somehow gifted to us!

F A L L

2008-11-21T15:24:00.000-08:00

I wasn't sure this was going to be a pretty fall, but it has been gorgeous and long-lasting on our end. We made a "fall trip" to Knoxville so we could get a chance to be with family. I'm looking forward to seeing lots of them over the upcoming holidays (and a special girl's birthday), but with retail schedules, hospital schedules and travels, I don't think we'll have a chance to be all together in one place. I plan to have fun making the best of it all...

Beading...

2008-11-03T18:52:00.001-08:00

Beading has been a hobby for a long time, but I've recently enjoyed spending more time letting the creative juices flow. Here are a few of my recent favorites:

Dak Galbi

2008-10-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

This has to be one of my favorite Korean dishes, and cooking it tonite brought me back to the restaurant outside of Mok Dong subway stations in Seoul. We must have visited that place weekly! I thought I would share pictures of the process...

The chicken is marinated in the following: red pepper paste, red pepper, pepper, rice wine, garlic, ginger, soy, sugar and sesame oil. (With all of those peppers, you know it's spicy!)

Add sliced cabbage to the mix and simmer...

Cook until things just begin to blacken...

The final product! (above) Just put the pan in the middle of the table and eat right out of it!

After most of the meat and cabbage is gone, cut the "kim" (seaweed) into small strips, add rice and red pepper paste, and simmer again...

Dak Galbi Bokum Bap!

(just in case you weren't full before!)

Labor Day

2008-09-02T15:38:00.001-07:00

Life seems to be setting somewhat of a normal pace for us (if there is such a thing) since we have moved back from Korea. When we first moved back, I felt such an urgency to be with family, probably because I had been away for so long. I would jump an any chance to see family, and if something came in the way of a trip to Knoxville, I was often crushed. The time apart made me realize that it is worth anything- time, $ and any hassle- to be with family. During my first year of teaching, I felt like I couldn't get away enough, and Choonghwan's various jobs have sometimes made it difficult for us to get away together. With us living in Nashville, and family spread out in Knoxville, Birmingham and Atlanta, it is possible to be on the road every weekend!

All of that to say that this past weekend was so enjoyable. It wasn't perfect- We missed Patch and Laren, and Choonghwan and I had to come separately. And, of course, holidays are always shortlived. But, still, it was wonderful time with FAMILY!

My Rachel Friends

2008-07-22T06:51:00.001-07:00

Above are pictures from Rockmont with Rachel Pearl.

Below are pictures from Rockwood with Rachel Collins.

I was not very fond of these cows following us, but Choonghwan thought it was very amusing!

This summer the only plans I had involved a trip to Charlottesville, VA. I'm really happy with the way the summer turned out, and it's not quite over yet. Rachel Pearl invited me along on a trip to Rockmont where we enjoyed the cooler weather and greener grass and also were able to catch up with some good friends. Choonghwan got his first "travel days" of the summer and met us in Knoxville at the end of our trip, and then he and I picked up on our own adventures at the Collins' farm in Rockwood, home of my other dear friend Rachel. I enjoyed good company and laughs and watching Choonghwan with the cows and the four wheeler.

If your confused after reading this because of all the Rachel's and the Rocks, here's another version: My city friend and I headed to the mountains and I met my country friend on the farm. The bottom line is this: I had a great time and kicked myself for not doing all of this sooner, but now I know that I will do it again soon!

Atlanta Visit

2008-07-05T08:14:00.000-07:00

sometimes it's hard to get Mara Kate

to smile in pictures, but not at the Quarium!

jellyfish!

This summer has afforded me more time to travel and visit with friends and family. I've really enjoyed these opportunities- the only downside being that Choonghwan is busy with his new job and often unable to join me.

Most recently I visited Kane, Jana and Mara Kate in Atlanta. I extended my stay longer than usual (thanks guys!), and had a chance to do some sightseeing as well as participate in some family routines. I even cooked a Korean meal! We took lots of pictures at the "Quarium," and I have lots of mental pictures of our trips to the pool and the bead shops. I was also glad to be there long enough to see Mara Kate relaxed in her element- making up songs, talking to herself, singing, saying funny things, and just being cute!

One thing I've realized this summer is just how blessed I am to have family that loves each other and wants to spend time together - playing, sharing, giving, talking, teaching, learning and growing closer through it all!

Ladies' Trip

2008-06-30T07:22:00.000-07:00

The Barker girls, and myself, took a girls' trip up to Charlottesville, Virginia. It was a nice treat from mom, a good location, and a needed break from the boredom of summer. We really had a great time- there was plenty to do, so we didn't get bored, but we were able to relax and had lots of time for conversation about our husbands, in-laws and how to love each other better.

On the way up, we stopped at a local winery and sampled some wines (although we're smiling in the picture, there were a lot of "blech" faces during tasting!) We stayed at a lovely bed and breakfast tucked away in the Shenandoah Valley- way, way away! Our day in Charlottesville included an historical tour of the Monticello, Jefferson's eclectic home, an afternoon of shopping in the Pedestrian Mall (including a bead shop!), a movie, and dinner at Crozet Pizza. On Sunday we headed to the Martha Washington Inn in Abingdon and saw "Don't Cry for Me, Margaret Mitchell" at the Barter Theater. (None of us young gals had seen "Gone with the Wind," so mom had to fill us in, but she did a pretty good job and we enjoyed the play.) The Martha was luxurious- we all wanted to come back with our beaus- and we finished the trip off with massages!

It really was a memorable time together, and a blessing to be able to enjoy the time together.

Grand Canyon

2008-05-28T15:34:00.001-07:00

This year the gang's splitting up for a boyz trip and a girlz trip. The boys just got back from the Grand Canyon (and Vegas, but what goes on in Vegas, well, you know.) It looks like they were able to survive without their women, but I think we're all glad they came back to us. Although they almost didn't, thanks to bad weather and cancelled flights. I think these pictures of the "men" are cute, and am glad that Choonghwan can stop others to ask them to take pictures! The ladies are headed to Charlottesville in a few weeks...

심심해요...

2008-04-20T09:49:00.000-07:00

Choonghwan doesn't return from Korea until Wednesday; I have cleaned and organized everything in sight, and now I am bored. Thought I would post a few photos from our most recent trip to Cheekwood. We've really enjoyed our membership, and if we decide to stay in Nashville, I know we will join again. But for now, all our plans are "up in the air," so to speak. It will be interesting to see what is revealed. Enjoy the pictures; we enjoyed taking them!

Cheekwood Botanical Gardens

2008-03-29T15:54:00.000-07:00

Today, March 29th, 2008, marks the 5th anniversary of our wedding and our marriage.

The scenery at Cheekwood reminded us of our wedding day five years ago; especially the overcast weather that made for great pictures. We took lots of pictures with Mom and Dad as we walked all around the gardens. We've taken family to Cheekwood before, but have never enjoyed it as much as today- gardens are very enjoyable with a mother who knows so much about plants! Mom was pointing out every plant that she used in our wedding, and that also made it extremely meaningful. We had so much fun today that, instead of going out for a fancy anniversary dinner, we've decided to stay in and eat Ramen noodles! And we'll enjoy it just as much as we would anything else...

Enjoy the pictures. Aren't they gorgeous?!

He is Risen... Indeed!

2008-03-29T15:38:00.000-07:00

It was great to come back from our cruise and stop by in Atlanta to celebrate Easter with everyone! Jana and Kane taught Mara Kate to complete the proclomation, "He is Risen!" by shouting, "Indeed!" God's gift of salvation in the death and resurrection of Jesus is the greatest life-changing miracle! We are also thankful for the blessings He has given us as a family!

Cruise!

2008-03-29T15:13:00.001-07:00

For the celebration of our 5th anniversary we decided to do something we've never done before and take a cruise. It really was a wonderful time. We enjoyed simply relaxing and being together. We made the most of the fun on the boat and enjoyed the "excursions" to Cozumel and Yucatan. Great shopping, amazing food and fun sights to see. Below are some pictures from the Mayan ruins at Dzibilchaltun. I loved going back and forth between Spanish and Korean! (And yes, Choonghwan did get seasick the first day due to some rough weather, but he found his sealegs soon enough!) We would recommend this for anyone looking to relax, get away and explore a new place!

IDEA!

2008-03-14T18:29:00.001-07:00

While packing for our upcoming cruise, I was trying to be super-organized. I had on my list to charge camera batteries, and as I was doing so, I had the following idea. Although I'm sure it's not an original, it was to me, and I just had to share. (My sister-in-law and I recently had a talk about blogging, and I think this is something she would do!)

Here's the idea: Write down your contact info and snap a picture of it. That way, if your camera gets lost and falls into the hands of an honest helpful soul, they can find your info while browsing through pictures trying to see if they recognize a face among the pictures. I know, I know, it may be unlikely that someone will actually do this, but that's what I did recently when I found a cell phone in a rainy Target parking lot. I called the last number dialed and eventually found the owner and returned the phone. Made me feel good. My results are below:

Annual Trip to Nashville

2008-03-03T12:14:00.000-08:00

Kane and Jana have started a sweet tradition of trekking to Nashville for an annual visit. It's not always easy to schedule such fun road trips, especially when we are the farthest away of the other "family" choices in Knoxville and Birmingham. SO- we are very thankful for the time they took to travel and visit. We enjoyed relaxing with them in our home and took them to school, Cheekwood, the Pancake Pantry and even played on our apartment playground (the first time we'd done that in the two years we've been living here... funny what having a two year old around can do to change your viewpoint!) Of course we were sad to see them go, but looking forward to our upcoming stops in Atlanta to visit again!

I must be...

2007-12-06T16:37:00.000-08:00

... the luckiest gal in the world! To come home after a looooong day at school and find my sweet husband making kim-bab!

Give Thanks

2007-11-30T15:15:00.000-08:00

It's been a different school year this year, a lot of icky, but I have been learning to give thanks in the midst of such. Really, there is plenty to be thankful for as God is good.

One of the things I am most thankful for is family, and I am especially thankful for each opportunity we have to spend time together. Here are a few recent snapshots of our gatherings...

We took a detour through Birmingham so we could ride with Patch and Laren to Mara Kate's 2nd Birthday in Atlanta... Phew!

Choonghwan is a great uncle!

At the Varsity in Atlanta after the birthday party.

Mom and I travelled to Kingsport for Katy's first wedding shower.

Elmo shoes!

Mara Kate loves Christmas trees, and I was happy to help her make one at Fantasy of Trees.

2007-07-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

BEACH BABY!

We always love our time at Garden City. This trip was especially great because ALL of the family was there, plus the Coffins, plus our niece, Yeon Soo... 14 of us in all! Everyone was in need of this vacation- Kane and Jana had just moved into a new apartment with the help of Patch and Laren. Laren is also studying for her nursing test and Patch is starting a new job. Dad had just returned from a business trip to NY and mom had been helping with weddings and hosting family. Choonghwan and I felt especially blessed to be able to relax after being on the go with his family the week before. God is truly to thank for such a wonderful time of family fellowship. May you all enjoy your summers and your families as well!

This is what it looked like all the time... a BIG crowd

of people and Mara Kate in the middle!

American Vacation

2007-06-28T08:59:00.000-07:00

Choonghwan's brother's family has been visiting us this past week. It has been a wonderful, busy time for all! Choonghwan and I have been able to enjoy some Nashville sights that we haven't seen before. We took a dinner cruise on the General Jackson Showboat, toured the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Historic Lynchburg and visited the Belle Meade Plantation. We were also able to spend time in Knoxville and made a day trip to the cabin in Waynesville. The Choi's enjoyed lots of great deals at TJMaxx, Marshall's, JCPenney's, Dick's and WalMart. We also ate several great meals, and I enjoyed being able to cook for a crowd! Yeon Soo is staying with us for the next month and we expect to have more fun and excitement. Here are some pictures of a few of our journeys.

Waynesville Country Club

Size 80 pants at Men of Measure!

Mimi

2007-04-22T13:46:00.000-07:00

No material thing can ever replace a loved one.

Since Mimi's passing last October, mom and her sisters have been sweet and generous to share a few things of hers with the "girls" in the family. Some of the items have great sentimental value to me. Some things I do not recognize as being Mimi's, but they have tremendous worth to me because I know they were hers. I have enjoyed incorporating some of these precious items into the rooms of my home; I think of Mimi each time I see them. How thankful I am for the time I spent and the memories I made with my lovely grandmother!

A fancy pickle jar that, as a child, I remember being on Mimi's buffet

A silver jewelry box that was kept in Mimi's bedroom. I used to "sneak" back there during family dinners and look at all of her jewelry. I still love jewelry boxes!

A jewelry box and a dish that Mom chose to give me for Easter. Jana and Laren each received treasures as well.

My name is Wayne, and I will be your server.

2007-02-18T14:28:00.000-08:00

Adjusting to life in another country is not an easy task. I remember the feeling of homesickness while living in Korea, even though I knew it was where God wanted me to be at the time. It has been challenging for both of us to tackle life in America. I know Choonghwan wishes that he could speed up the process of learning the language and overcoming cultural differences. I am so proud of him. One of the hardest things for him has been finding employment that is satisfying. He recently quit a part-time job at FedEx that he picked up over the holidays. It just wasn't right for him.

He recently took it upon himself to apply at Cracker Barrel and was hired as a server. I have never seen him more tickled about a job! He has really worked hard to learn the American phrase-ology for taking orders and waiting on customers. God has once again blessed him with a friendly and helpful staff of co-workers, and we are both thankful for that grace. It is good for me to see joy in his heart, and to realize that it comes from his joy of serving others. I know that God will bless Choonghwan as his smile and enthusiasm blesses others while they enjoy their meals.

Engaged!

2007-02-18T14:23:00.000-08:00

My littlest brother, Patch, recently got engaged to the love-of-his-life, Ms. Laren Lott, from Birmingham, Alabama. We are all looking forward to the wedding in August and are so happy for both of them!

The Barkers come to Nashville!

2007-02-18T14:04:00.000-08:00

Choonghwan and I had the most delightful weekend with the Barkers just a few weeks ago. They took the time and energy to make a four hour drive from Atlanta to Nashville, and settled in with us on a Friday evening. Jana had "warned" me that it would feel like they were moving in with all of Mara Kate's baby gear... it did! Our apartment felt so empty when they packed it all up and left on Sunday.

We really had a good time doing new things in Nashville. We ate at the Rainforest Cafe and the Pancake Pantry. Mara Kate took her first ride on a carousel, and tried mandarin oranges for the first time. Our little apartment came alive with Mara Kate pushing her walker around and climbing all over the couch. It was fun to watch her be at ease, and also to watch Choonghwan enjoy and entertain her. It was also fun to call Tuie and let her know that Mara Kate was saying "BeBe"! (pronounced Dee-dee in Mara Kate language) It was equally as good to catch up with my little brother and his lovely bride. It has been such a blessing to have Jana as a sister-in-law. I was glad to finally open my home as they have been gracious on so many occasions to open their home to us!

Somehow, all of the pictures of Kane and Jana ended up on their camera... I promise, they really were here!

Mara Kate settled into her routine in BeBe and Choonghwan's apartment

Mara Kate all dolled up and ready to go out for the day!

Mara Kate likes to eat what she sees others eating... Choonghwan was good to share his caramel rice cakes! Aren't they a pair?!

Thanksgiving and Christmas 2006

2007-02-18T13:49:00.000-08:00

It's a lazy winter afternoon, and I've finally found time to update a bit...

Here are a few pictures from the holidays. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas we were able to see and spend time with all of the Kane family members... aunts, uncles, cousins and more! We really did miss Mimi, but were blessed to know that she was home for Christmas. For me, this past Christmas was less about the festivities and the gifts and much more about family. Choonghwan enjoys the "American" Christmas more and more each year; we both really enjoy relaxing in K-town.

Thanksgiving in Athens... love those smiles!

Daddo drew my name for Christmas and also gave presents to his girls. Since Pat was in Martin, I got to be an honorary Kane-girl for the evening.

Don't we look cute!

Family

2006-11-06T09:41:00.000-08:00

Choonghwan and I spent the most relaxing weekend with my sweet family in Knoxville. The weather was enchanting... not too cold, not too hot, and the fall colors were extraordinary! I especially enjoyed not having an agenda since my fall break includes today, Monday, and tomorrow. I just love these pictures that show the beautiful scenery and our enjoyment of each other as family.

Anonymous Comments

2006-11-06T09:39:00.000-08:00

I've gotten e-mails from many of you that you were unable to leave a comment... sorry! That was my ignorance. It should be working now so that anyone can leave a comment... I'd love to hear from you.

Mimi

2006-10-24T08:07:00.000-07:00

My grandmother, Alice Lee Kane, died this past Friday morning. She had been sick and in pain for some time, and was at peace with leaving this earth and her family behind to go and be with her Savior.

Death is such an intangible event that causes thoughts and emotions to come and go. I rejoice that her death was not a tragedy; she was not taken from us, she left to go home. I weep for the future ahead without her; we will miss her Christmas morning. Her leaving brings change.

I sat awake at my parent's house early Saturday morning; my mind was full of thoughts and emotions similar to those above. Putting them on paper helped my heart to be at ease. These are the thoughts I wrote down and want to share.

"When you lose someone you love and treasure so much, you'd expect your world to come to an end. Your brain to stop processing. Your mind to go numb. But it's just the opposite. Since Mimi passed on Friday, and even since I heard of her failing condition the night before, my mind and heart have been flooded with memories, thoughts and emotions.

As I spent time at school on Friday preparing for a sub in the possible future, I could only think of Mimi and her love for her students. I wouldn't have wanted to be anywhere else that day but doing a job that she loved, surrounded by students who I love, and who I knew she would have loved as well. Surely, she loved hearing my stories of school and students, and she always encouraged me to persevere.

When I received a call during sixth period to call Mom, I knew that Mimi was gone. My students presented their memorized dialogues in Spanish, and then we played a game. I decided to have them go in order by birthdays, and I started with January. One boy shot up his hand, "My birthday's January 1st," he said. "So is my grandmother's," I said, and there was a simple joy and peace about saying it.

The drive to Knoxville took much longer than it ever has. As we listened to Christian music, songs filled with words like grace, love and mercy, I could only think of heaven and the beauty that is hidden in death. What can describe it? I couldn't think of words, but I knew that Mimi was able to. I knew that she was there. Home.

Choonghwan was so good to drive me to be with my family. We didn't talk too much, but the words he did share with me said it all, "I really lost a friend," he said about Mimi. Simple words, but true. He enjoyed her so much, probably because he knew she enjoyed him. When he was hugging me before we left, I just wept and said, "She loved you so much." He knew. That's why people loved Mimi so; she always showed her sincere love and enjoyment for people of all kinds.

Coming home to a house full of family and friends was another miracle of the day. The hugs felt better, sweeter than they ever have. We talked and laughed and told stories of our lives and childhoods. These were lives that Mimi, by God's grace and provision, had given to us. She loved us all so truly.

As I am flooded by thoughts in the early morning hours, I can't sleep. I am thinking of family coming together. I feel almost ashamed for being so excited to see everyone again for such a sad occasion, but as my thoughts keep coming, I realize that we are coming together to celebrate Mimi's life and encourage and love each other at the time of her death.

In the last four years, there has been a wedding to bring us all together, and Mimi made it to each one, always looking stunningly beautiful. I thought, at first, how we were gathering now without her. No. We are gathering now because of her. And we will celebrate, and we will cry as we remember her. And we will laugh outloud because we are a family who knows how to enjoy each other. That's who Mimi so graciously taught us to be.

And that's the kind of family we'll continue to be, because Mimi knew joy in the Lord as she loved Him, served Him and walked with Him in life and in death. And she walks with Him now, and for that my heart rejoices!"

As I wrote those last thoughts about Mimi's presence in heaven, a light on the other side of the room came on. It startled me, then gave me a reassuring peace. I closed my eyes and prayed thanking the Lord for his gift of salvation. As I opened my eyes from praying, the light turned off. Surely God is with us and the power of his love is real.

Back to School

2006-09-23T07:12:00.000-07:00

The first six weeks have just ended, but it has taken me this long to even think about getting something up here about school. As the weeks have gone by, I am feeling more confident and more encouraged in my ability to do this job. What I realized from the get-go is that teaching is more than just one job. Yes, I plan lessons and I teach them, but there is so much more. I am an administrator, a counselor, a book-keeper and a warden at times!

I do love the students, and after six weeks together they are part of my life. We laugh together, get frustrated with each other, and share successes and failures. Middle School is definitely an appropriate age for me as they are so unpredictable, so imaginitive and still children at heart. They try to play it tough and act grown up, but laugh at the silliest things!

I have enjoyed refreshing my Spanish and found that it has been useful when contacting parents. I thought this would intimidate me, but I have really enjoyed it, and I have found out that most parents are on my side. "My side" is simply wanting the best for their student in both the areas of academics and behavior. Since my students have seen my interaction with their parents and my ability to communicate, many behavior problems have been curbed.

So... only five more six weeks to go... I plan to keep a smile on my face and take a sick day soon!

Our Home

2006-07-01T09:15:00.000-07:00

Family and friends have asked to see pictures of our apartment since our move to Nashville... so here they are! We love our cozy place and it has come together so well. (With the help of many folks, of course!) Take note of the small "guest bedroom" and come see us sometime!

Garden City, SC

2006-06-17T12:46:00.000-07:00

I've decided that the perfect trip between moves is a week at the beach with family. It's the best way to relax and forget about all of the work that was done in moving out and all of the work that is ahead in moving in. Plus, it is simply precious to spend time with family as we get older and our lives get busier.

We really enjoyed ourselves at Garden City and the only thing that would have made it better was having Patch along with us. We sure did miss him! It was especially sweet to have Mara Kate, six months old and full of smiles and laughs. Enjoy the pictures!

What's in a name?

2006-05-22T09:53:00.000-07:00

My family gets a lot of laughs from Choonghwan's American name, "Wayne." I guess it's because it's just a good, southern, country soundin' name... (especially as his co-workers like to pronounce it "whine" or "wah-een"... I can't even spell the way they pronounce it!) Choonghwan is a southerner, though, he's from South Korea!

Strangely, the nickname does make people more comfortable in speaking with him. I guess it takes away the fear of mispronouncing "Choonghwan." As a wife, I get to call him lots of things, so it doesn't really bother me... it's just one more affectionate term to throw in the mix.

Stolen

2006-05-22T09:41:00.000-07:00

I stole these pictures from Kane and Jana's blog. They are just too cute and too sweet! I know Mara Kate is their daughter, but she's my niece! I'm so excited to be spending a week at the beach with her and her parents, as well as my parents and my sweet husband... (we'll miss you Patch!)

CHRISTMAS

2006-01-07T08:52:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was especially wonderful with all family members in attendance! That includes spouses and two new babies... Mary Anna and Mara Kate.

Mara Kathryn Barker

2006-01-07T08:41:00.000-08:00

Our sweet niece, Mara Kate, was born on November 27th, 2005!

We love spending as much time with her as possible, and especially enjoyed this Christmas when she came to Knoxville with Kane and Jana.

Isn't she adorable?!

Family... hers

2005-10-30T13:22:00.000-08:00

My cousin, Alice Ann got married in Athens a few weeks ago. Our family had the BEST time, as my grandmother would say. Really, we did have a great time. The eight of us spent a long weekend travelling back and forth and enjoying the wedding festivities. For me, it is such a comfort to know that I will see them all again soon. No plane trip back to Korea next week. :)

Family... his

2005-10-30T13:17:00.000-08:00

Choonghwan's family came to visit us in Tennessee this September. Well, his parents and his older sister stopped by. We spent the time playing mini-golf, shopping, hiking and visiting family. I survived his mom's "takeover" of my kitchen, and decided that living with the in-laws isn't a priority for me. Most of all, I was thankful for them to be able to see how God is providing for us here, and how my family loves and admires Choonghwan as one of their own.

Up and Running... Walking

2005-10-30T12:56:00.000-08:00

We've been back in the states for a while and have seen one season change to another. We've been able to catch up with some friends and catch some friends up on our thoughts and happenings, but we haven't seen all of the faces we'd like to see. Time will schedule those in, we hope.

We're in the great metropolis of Jefferson City, Tennessee. Choonghwan loves the long highway with no traffic and drives it thirty minutes to work at 5:30 am. He is thankful to have found work at Berkline Furniture in Morristown. His co-workers are happy to call him "Wayne" and he comes home with lots of stories. How THANKFUL we are for employment in a kind place.

I'm "working" my last semester at Carson Newman with a semester of student teaching ahead. These courses are not my cup of tea, but I realize they are necessary to pave the road ahead.

We're just about 10 minutes off of I-40 so stop by and see us sometime...