We had so much fun at the reception - thank goodness they put our table in the corner! Here's most of the small group....Martin, Joe, Haley, Chris, Danny, and Eric.
Tuesday, April 15
Congrats Chris and Hae
Last Saturday, Joe and I celebrated the marriage of Dr. and Mrs. Chris Lee! Chris and Haley are both members of Joe's small group, so it was a special treat to celebrate all together, and most of the small group was actually a part of the ceremony. God's blessings on your marriage!!
We had so much fun at the reception - thank goodness they put our table in the corner! Here's most of the small group....Martin, Joe, Haley, Chris, Danny, and Eric.
We had so much fun at the reception - thank goodness they put our table in the corner! Here's most of the small group....Martin, Joe, Haley, Chris, Danny, and Eric.
Friday, April 11
20 years
Yesterday, April 10, marked 20 years of walking with Jesus!
It is pure joy to remember the early days, even though I was only 6. I remember making the decision that I wanted to be fully Christ's - body, soul, and mind. Knowing that I could no longer rest on the faith of my parents, yet thankful for their teaching, by His grace and in faith I pledged to be a covenant keeper.
Wow...20 years!
I have to admit that I felt a moment of sadness yesterday, wishing I had "more to show" for 20 years of growth in my spiritual walk. I guess I imagined I would feel different. But the Lord in his mercy reached down in to my soul and reminded me right then that we've had an amazing 20 years! Despite great sin, sadness, tilling of the soul of my heart, and the pain of the heat peeling back the dross, there have been glorious times of worship and service to my King, moments of grace when I cannot deny His perfect leading in my life, awe-inspiring times of learning new truth, and a constant assurance of His presence with me day by day. The memories are a flood of joy!
During class last Monday, my professor was lecturing on the consequences of sin. As believers, we've been set free from the eternal consequences of sin, yet we're still living among them, and quite honestly, we often confuse ourselves and live as if they really apply to us as well. I was particularly impacted by the lecture/discussion on the believer's fight with indwelling sin. Swain said he remembers believing as a child that growing more and more like Jesus meant gaining more and more victory in perfectionism. He always imagined that sanctification had an end on earth; you know, like those little old ladies in church every Sunday no longer fight with their sinful nature. Sound familiar? Without a doubt, I believed that too! Clearly, I still wrestle with these thoughts. Where I expected to be at this point in my walk is far from the instense struggles I'm feeling today.
But....there is good news. As a consequence of the Spirit’s indwelling presence, we have been engaged in an internal battle with our sinful nature. What, when, where is triumph? Most poignant to me was this point: we measure triumph by engagement in the fight, not by evidence of total conquest.
Whew~ There is freedom in truth! I know that 1) total conquest will only come in the next life, and 2) faith is not passive; faith is actively engaged in sanctification. But it's a beautifully ironic truth that the battle raging so real inside of me does not mean that God is not keeping His promise to sanctify me, grow me, develop me into a true Christ-image. Even though I'm tempted to feel like it, I'm not losing the fight against my sinful nature. Rather, it is this very battle that evidences His work in my life, His keeping of those promises. I am triumphant through faith: fully involved in the battle against my sinful nature and fully calling upon Jesus as the only true eternal Victor.
So encouraging in the deepest part of me!
And so, I celebrate 20 years of this glorious road. I am a daughter of the Most High King. I am a co-heir with Jesus of the riches of this King. I am pursued, loved, adopted. I sit at the King's table every single day! He might be busy, but the King still delights in sitting by the waters in the coolness of the end of the day, and just...talking. The King is pleased to hear my praises and worship of Him like a fine aroma. He overwhelmingly and abundantly provides for me; He has given me all things. Yes. This is the place I've called home for 20 years.
When I'm tempted to live outside the beauty of that castle, with thoughts, feelings, and actions that are of the world outside... When the enemy within tells me that it can't really be that good, so stop living like it... I feel so encouarged to take up that fight with rejoicing. No more sadness that I'm still fighting. Lord, give me 20 more years of battle, and more! YOU have already gained the victory - I'm yours!
Happy Birthday to me! :)
It is pure joy to remember the early days, even though I was only 6. I remember making the decision that I wanted to be fully Christ's - body, soul, and mind. Knowing that I could no longer rest on the faith of my parents, yet thankful for their teaching, by His grace and in faith I pledged to be a covenant keeper.
Wow...20 years!
I have to admit that I felt a moment of sadness yesterday, wishing I had "more to show" for 20 years of growth in my spiritual walk. I guess I imagined I would feel different. But the Lord in his mercy reached down in to my soul and reminded me right then that we've had an amazing 20 years! Despite great sin, sadness, tilling of the soul of my heart, and the pain of the heat peeling back the dross, there have been glorious times of worship and service to my King, moments of grace when I cannot deny His perfect leading in my life, awe-inspiring times of learning new truth, and a constant assurance of His presence with me day by day. The memories are a flood of joy!
During class last Monday, my professor was lecturing on the consequences of sin. As believers, we've been set free from the eternal consequences of sin, yet we're still living among them, and quite honestly, we often confuse ourselves and live as if they really apply to us as well. I was particularly impacted by the lecture/discussion on the believer's fight with indwelling sin. Swain said he remembers believing as a child that growing more and more like Jesus meant gaining more and more victory in perfectionism. He always imagined that sanctification had an end on earth; you know, like those little old ladies in church every Sunday no longer fight with their sinful nature. Sound familiar? Without a doubt, I believed that too! Clearly, I still wrestle with these thoughts. Where I expected to be at this point in my walk is far from the instense struggles I'm feeling today.
But....there is good news. As a consequence of the Spirit’s indwelling presence, we have been engaged in an internal battle with our sinful nature. What, when, where is triumph? Most poignant to me was this point: we measure triumph by engagement in the fight, not by evidence of total conquest.
Whew~ There is freedom in truth! I know that 1) total conquest will only come in the next life, and 2) faith is not passive; faith is actively engaged in sanctification. But it's a beautifully ironic truth that the battle raging so real inside of me does not mean that God is not keeping His promise to sanctify me, grow me, develop me into a true Christ-image. Even though I'm tempted to feel like it, I'm not losing the fight against my sinful nature. Rather, it is this very battle that evidences His work in my life, His keeping of those promises. I am triumphant through faith: fully involved in the battle against my sinful nature and fully calling upon Jesus as the only true eternal Victor.
So encouraging in the deepest part of me!
And so, I celebrate 20 years of this glorious road. I am a daughter of the Most High King. I am a co-heir with Jesus of the riches of this King. I am pursued, loved, adopted. I sit at the King's table every single day! He might be busy, but the King still delights in sitting by the waters in the coolness of the end of the day, and just...talking. The King is pleased to hear my praises and worship of Him like a fine aroma. He overwhelmingly and abundantly provides for me; He has given me all things. Yes. This is the place I've called home for 20 years.
When I'm tempted to live outside the beauty of that castle, with thoughts, feelings, and actions that are of the world outside... When the enemy within tells me that it can't really be that good, so stop living like it... I feel so encouarged to take up that fight with rejoicing. No more sadness that I'm still fighting. Lord, give me 20 more years of battle, and more! YOU have already gained the victory - I'm yours!
Happy Birthday to me! :)
Thursday, April 10
Stamping
Last Saturday, I spent all afternoon watching movies and making cards! I stamped for 5 hours and had over a dozen cards to show for it. It was so much fun!! Call me if you want to join me next time. :) Here are a few samples of my favorite cards.
Wednesday, April 9
spring break
A very welcome spring break was had by all RTSers a couple of weeks ago. Oh, how I love spring break! Don't you think the working world should have a spring break too?
yum! We lunched at Harmoni on Edgewater Drive...quite possibly my favorite restaurant in Orlando!
Well, it was a great week off from my regular schedule, even though I worked a great deal at PI and around the house. But on Friday, Noriko and I spent a girly day including lunch, a movie, and coffee! Loved it.
yum! We lunched at Harmoni on Edgewater Drive...quite possibly my favorite restaurant in Orlando!Wednesday, April 2
Adventure in Africa!
I'm so excited for my big bro, Nels! He's headed to Africa today on a project with Overland Missions!!
About a month ago, Nels and his family attended a commissioning service for Overland Mission's first long-term folks. This organization mostly focuses on short-term ministry projects among the most remote villages in Africa. But it was exciting to be sending out LT-ers.
At this service, Nels learned that Overland Missions has been building a logistical base camp as a terminal for their bush expeditions of evangelism and pastoral support. Nels casually mentioned that he would be happy to serve them through help creating some design concepts and presentation artwork. By the end of the night, they decided Nels really needed to visit the site in order to best represent the style of architecture as well as the environment and landscaping.
Today, Nels is boarding a plane to join a small team meeting at the logistical center to evaluate and plan for the upcoming construction. So quick...so amazing...so exciting!
This opportunity came to Nels and his family during the same weekend as some other difficult family news, which made Africa such a blessing for them. It was something to look forward to, a beacon of hope that God gives His best to His children and is sovereignly working out His plan.
Pray for Nels! And pray for Ashlee as this is the longest they've been apart in 6 years of marriage. I'm so thrilled for them to be a part of this adventure!!
About a month ago, Nels and his family attended a commissioning service for Overland Mission's first long-term folks. This organization mostly focuses on short-term ministry projects among the most remote villages in Africa. But it was exciting to be sending out LT-ers.
At this service, Nels learned that Overland Missions has been building a logistical base camp as a terminal for their bush expeditions of evangelism and pastoral support. Nels casually mentioned that he would be happy to serve them through help creating some design concepts and presentation artwork. By the end of the night, they decided Nels really needed to visit the site in order to best represent the style of architecture as well as the environment and landscaping.
Today, Nels is boarding a plane to join a small team meeting at the logistical center to evaluate and plan for the upcoming construction. So quick...so amazing...so exciting!
This opportunity came to Nels and his family during the same weekend as some other difficult family news, which made Africa such a blessing for them. It was something to look forward to, a beacon of hope that God gives His best to His children and is sovereignly working out His plan.
Pray for Nels! And pray for Ashlee as this is the longest they've been apart in 6 years of marriage. I'm so thrilled for them to be a part of this adventure!!
Tuesday, April 1
Home with Jesus
I loved Jim Britton. He was one of my heros. With all of the PI family, I mourn his loss in our midst but rejoice that he is with Jesus face to face! Jim exclaimed the joy of the Lord with every kind word, every backrub, every genuine "how are you?", and every email he sent overseas. He was loved the world-over because of the way he passed along the love of Christ.
Truly, truly.......well done, good and faithful servant!
Tuesday, March 18
tried, true, and oh so sweet
I'm sure I've posted this sometime before, but the following is really, truly my favorite song ever. Each time I listen to it, I hear something new that touches my soul.
Jesus, I am Resting, Resting
Jesus I am resting, resting in the joy of what Thou art
I am finding out the greatness of Thy loving heart!
Thou hast bid me gaze upon Thee, as Thy beauty fills my soul
For by Thy transforming power, Thou hast made me whole
O how great thy lovingkindness: vaster, broader than the sea!
O how marvelous thy goodness lavished all on me!
Yes, I rest in thee, Beloved, Know what wealth of grace is thine,
Know thy certainty of promise and have made it mine.
Simply trusting thee, Lord Jesus, I behold thee as thou art,
And thy love, so pure, so changeless, satisfies my heart;
Satisfies its deepest longings; meets, supplies its every need,
Compasseth me round with blessings: Thine is love indeed.
Ever lift thy face upon me as I work and wait for thee;
Resting 'neath thy smile, Lord Jesus, earth's dark shadows flee.
Brightness of my Father's glory, Sunshine of my Father's face,
Keep me ever trusting, resting, fill me with thy grace.
I first came to love this song in Japan, a time of explosive growth in my walk with Christ. But I feel like I'm still on the quest to truly rest in the joy of what He is! Can you actively...rest? Well, that's me. My prayer is that we will all be continually finding out the greatness of His tender, loving heart!
May these words encourage you in communion with Christ today. Happy Holy Week - lets celebrate what made this communion possible - praise Him!
Jesus, I am Resting, Resting
Jesus I am resting, resting in the joy of what Thou art
I am finding out the greatness of Thy loving heart!
Thou hast bid me gaze upon Thee, as Thy beauty fills my soul
For by Thy transforming power, Thou hast made me whole
O how great thy lovingkindness: vaster, broader than the sea!
O how marvelous thy goodness lavished all on me!
Yes, I rest in thee, Beloved, Know what wealth of grace is thine,
Know thy certainty of promise and have made it mine.
Simply trusting thee, Lord Jesus, I behold thee as thou art,
And thy love, so pure, so changeless, satisfies my heart;
Satisfies its deepest longings; meets, supplies its every need,
Compasseth me round with blessings: Thine is love indeed.
Ever lift thy face upon me as I work and wait for thee;
Resting 'neath thy smile, Lord Jesus, earth's dark shadows flee.
Brightness of my Father's glory, Sunshine of my Father's face,
Keep me ever trusting, resting, fill me with thy grace.
I first came to love this song in Japan, a time of explosive growth in my walk with Christ. But I feel like I'm still on the quest to truly rest in the joy of what He is! Can you actively...rest? Well, that's me. My prayer is that we will all be continually finding out the greatness of His tender, loving heart!
May these words encourage you in communion with Christ today. Happy Holy Week - lets celebrate what made this communion possible - praise Him!
~~~
(dear SB...what sweet fellowship we had over these words in Japan, which I often remember with teary eyes!)
Friday, February 29
weekend at the lakehouse
Happy Birthday Presidents Washington and Lincoln...we're celebrating at the Lakehouse! Thanks to a long weekend and the generosity of new friends, my family had a grand time in the North Florida woods on the shores of Lake George earlier this month. Oh my goodness, it was so much fun! Everyone was there, and we went fishing and four-wheeling, walked trails, played pool, watched movies, swam, explored the local area, and ate like champs! It was really fun to be together in the great outdoors!
So...funny story...the dirt bike just really didn't want to start, despite the valiant efforts of both Nels and Joe. But Joe wasn't going to take 'no' for an answer. If you heard anyone say "where's joe?" ...you could pretty much bet he was in the garage working on the dirt bike. I was inside talking to Ashlee when I heard a noise, looked out the window, and saw Joe sitting up tall and proud on that bike, and flying by! :) I had a real good laugh.
So...funny story...the dirt bike just really didn't want to start, despite the valiant efforts of both Nels and Joe. But Joe wasn't going to take 'no' for an answer. If you heard anyone say "where's joe?" ...you could pretty much bet he was in the garage working on the dirt bike. I was inside talking to Ashlee when I heard a noise, looked out the window, and saw Joe sitting up tall and proud on that bike, and flying by! :) I had a real good laugh.
Thursday, February 28
Here's to an AMAZING year!!
This is a picture taken almost at the beginning of our relationship...giddy with excitement to be together and both about 20 pounds lighter! :)
A wonderfully surprising and beautiful year later... enjoying life and love!
Thursday, February 14
Happy Valentines Day!
May you know today how deeply loved you are by the Father!
the King of Kings
your Creator
the One who holds all things in His hand
your Provider
your Lover
the One who longs to be your very best friend
the Holy One who reigns forever!
---HE has chosen YOU---
Relish in His love today!
And that Love has sent family and friends to demonstrate His kindness in so many different ways - I celebrate you all today!
Monday, February 11
hiking in florida
Joe recently found an extensive set of walking trails near his house, so we went to check them out a few Saturdays ago. We spent 3.5 hours in the park and only enjoyed the shortest trail! It was beautiful - fully shaded, in the backwoods of nature, sounded by lakes. Joe was determined to find an alligator, and I really wanted to meet a wild boar. Instead, we only found a few friendly deer. We're excited to go back and explore more!
Enjoying the lakes
We highly recommend Moss Park and the Split Oak Forest Trails! It was a great place to walk, talk, and enjoy being together.
Thursday, February 7
for my global friends
My
country-hopping,
geography-mastering,
culture-loving,
multi-lingual
friends who have (or currently) live around the world will appreciate this picture...
Look what I found posted in all the bathroom stalls at the place where I teach English!
country-hopping,
geography-mastering,
culture-loving,
multi-lingual
friends who have (or currently) live around the world will appreciate this picture...
Look what I found posted in all the bathroom stalls at the place where I teach English!
Generally, laughing out loud is not a typical, or even welcomed, noise to make in the bathroom...but i couldn't help myself...i think it was the mental picture that really made the laughter start...
Oh, how i love internationals!
Wednesday, February 6
a random splattering of pictures
because there haven't been any new pictures recently...here they are...
Japanese food on New Years Eve - a family tradition
Isn't our God amazing?!
This picture was taken last December, as Joe and I were coming out of the grocery store. We were talking about work that day, what we were going to make for dinner, and all of life's perplexities. Suddenly, the Lord caught our attention with this magnificent display of His handiwork! We literally stood in the parking lot for about 5 minutes just gazing up at the sky, while the world continued to bustle around us.
Japanese food on New Years Eve - a family tradition
Joe and I attended a wedding of friends in early January. We emerged with several beautiful pics with Chloe Kim!
Such a good looking picture
Blue Man Group!
Blue Man Group just opened at Universal a few months ago..and I've been wanting to go since I first started seeing the billboards for this show! Former work colleagues of Joe's visited Orlando several weeks ago and invited us to join them for dinner at Hard Rock and then Blue Man Group. It was such a special treat from the Lord! I have to be honest...it's a bizarre show. It's unlike anything you've ever seen. It's hard to describe..except for FUN!
Oh yes...I had to get a pic with this very, very strange creature covered in blue
(don't his eyes hurt by the end of the night??)
Monday, February 4
chuckle of the day
I've been meaning to post this for a few days.... But I was listening to Steve Brown on the radio last week and he was responding to listeners' emails.
One said:
"Can you explain to me what modernity and postmodernity mean?"
Steve Brown started, "...well, no one knows for sure..."
I laughed out loud. The truth is, for all the books I've read and all the discussions I've had and all the seminar's I've attended on post-modernism...this is my same conclusion!
:)
One said:
"Can you explain to me what modernity and postmodernity mean?"
Steve Brown started, "...well, no one knows for sure..."
I laughed out loud. The truth is, for all the books I've read and all the discussions I've had and all the seminar's I've attended on post-modernism...this is my same conclusion!
:)
Thursday, January 31
a List
I'm a list maker. I l-o-v-e making lists. And I'm excited about life right now.
So here's my latest list: what I'm excited about in 2008.
(in no particular order, except for no.1)
1. Joe Yoon
2. starting full-time at RTS
3. helping dreams come true: connecting people with places overseas
4. my new Bible Study at church
5. seeing the sunshine! (a.k.a. not being in an office all day)
6. coffee breaks with friends
7. eating healthy and feeling good
8. cooking for joe
9. joe's new grill! which makes very very yummy pork tenderloin
10. working out at UCF's gym
11. teaching english and building relationships
12. stamping and cardmaking
13. my birthday
14. not making much $$ and watching God provide :)
15. the blessing of a new computer for student life
16. watching my nieces grow up
17. welcoming a new niece or nephew in august! (on both sides...joe and me)
18. God's goodness. And faithfulness. And mercy over me.
So here's my latest list: what I'm excited about in 2008.
(in no particular order, except for no.1)
1. Joe Yoon
2. starting full-time at RTS
3. helping dreams come true: connecting people with places overseas
4. my new Bible Study at church
5. seeing the sunshine! (a.k.a. not being in an office all day)
6. coffee breaks with friends
7. eating healthy and feeling good
8. cooking for joe
9. joe's new grill! which makes very very yummy pork tenderloin
10. working out at UCF's gym
11. teaching english and building relationships
12. stamping and cardmaking
13. my birthday
14. not making much $$ and watching God provide :)
15. the blessing of a new computer for student life
16. watching my nieces grow up
17. welcoming a new niece or nephew in august! (on both sides...joe and me)
18. God's goodness. And faithfulness. And mercy over me.
Tuesday, January 22
Do as You have said
God's promises were never meant to be thrown aside as waste paper; He intended that they should be used. God's gold is not miser's money, but is minted to be traded with. Nothing pleases our Lord better than to see His promises put in circulation; He loves to see His children bring them up to Him, and say, "Lord, do as you have said!" We glorify God when we plead His promises. Do you think that God will be any the poorer for giving you the riches He has promised? Do you dream that He will be any the less holy for giving holiness to you? Do you imagine He will be any the less pure for washing you from your sins?
He has said, "Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Faith lays hold upon the promise of pardon, and it does not dealy, saying "This is a precious promise, I wonder if it be true?" but it goes straight to the throne with it, and pleads, "Lord, here is the promise, 'Do as You have said.'" Our Lord replies, "Be it unto you even as you will." When a Christian grasps a promise, if he does not take it to God, he dishonors Him; but when he hastens to the throne of grace, and cries, "Lord, I have nothing to recommend me but this, 'You have said it;'" then his desire shall be granted.
Our heavenly Banker delights to cash His own notes. Never let the promise rust. Draw the word of promise out of its scabbard, and use it with holy violence. Think not that God will be troubled by your importunately reminding Him of His promises. He loves to hear the loud outcries of needy souls. It is His delight to bestow favors. He is more ready to hear than you are to ask. The sun is not weary of shining, nor the fountain of flowing. It is God's nature to keep His promises; therefore go at once to the throne with "Do as You have said."
Morning and Evening by Spurgeon :: January 15, morning.
He has said, "Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Faith lays hold upon the promise of pardon, and it does not dealy, saying "This is a precious promise, I wonder if it be true?" but it goes straight to the throne with it, and pleads, "Lord, here is the promise, 'Do as You have said.'" Our Lord replies, "Be it unto you even as you will." When a Christian grasps a promise, if he does not take it to God, he dishonors Him; but when he hastens to the throne of grace, and cries, "Lord, I have nothing to recommend me but this, 'You have said it;'" then his desire shall be granted.
Our heavenly Banker delights to cash His own notes. Never let the promise rust. Draw the word of promise out of its scabbard, and use it with holy violence. Think not that God will be troubled by your importunately reminding Him of His promises. He loves to hear the loud outcries of needy souls. It is His delight to bestow favors. He is more ready to hear than you are to ask. The sun is not weary of shining, nor the fountain of flowing. It is God's nature to keep His promises; therefore go at once to the throne with "Do as You have said."
Morning and Evening by Spurgeon :: January 15, morning.
Tuesday, December 25
Christmas Sweetness
What an amazing day this has been! Merry Christmas friends!
It's nearing the end of Christmas day and since I have a new computer :), I can update my blog!
It's been a wonderfully amazing day and I am filled to the top with gratefulness and love for the Author of my life! After stockings, gifts, and a delectable breakfast with my family this morning, Joe and I went to his church to worship the One who's birthday we celebrate. I really enjoyed the service (in both English and Korean!) and found it to be a precious way to center my heart on the Lord. During the congregational Christmas carol singing, I could not keep the tears away; I stood in awe and gratefulness for God's rich blessings in my life, most particularly the miraculous, humble birth of the King of Kings!
Yes, my heart is very full today.
It was a super special treat to spend this Christmas with Joe. He was a champ traveling to three different family celebrations, and spending time at my parents' home on Christmas morning. Have I told you how much I dig this guy? I am blessed "immeasurably more than I could ask or imagine"!
I'm hoping New Years will be a little more quiet and relaxed. Not only have the last several weeks been pretty crazy, but we now turn our attention to Joe's move this week into a new townhome. We are praising the Lord for his provision and also looking to Him for our rest.
Finally, I'll leave you with a sweet story about my nieces. We drove to Jacksonville last Saturday to celebrate Christmas with them. Ella (6) opened a small Mickey Mouse snow globe from her Nana that she absolutely adored. In fact, she wouldn't let the snow globe out of her hands, not even to open another present. The juggling of both the snow globe and the other gift was too much, though, and the snow globe dropped on the wood floor into a million pieces. A now tear-filled Ella left the rest of us so sad for her and also wondering how in the world we were going to clean up this messy spill in the midst of paper and ribbon and boxes and gifts. In the meantime, Emily (4) had found her snow globe (two girls...everything comes in pairs) and was just opening it up. She saw Ella's tears and didn't miss a beat. To every adult's astonishment, we heard a sweet small voice call out over the crying, "Ella, you can have mine!" This story makes me tear-up as I retell it! Emily was so quick to share in a way that would bless her sister Ella. May I also find that same joy in blessing others! What a sweet story I'll never forget.
Well, that's all I have tonight. My heart just felt so full that I wanted to give our God the praise! Join me in thanking Him again for His incredible love in our lives - Come, let us adore Him!
It's nearing the end of Christmas day and since I have a new computer :), I can update my blog!
It's been a wonderfully amazing day and I am filled to the top with gratefulness and love for the Author of my life! After stockings, gifts, and a delectable breakfast with my family this morning, Joe and I went to his church to worship the One who's birthday we celebrate. I really enjoyed the service (in both English and Korean!) and found it to be a precious way to center my heart on the Lord. During the congregational Christmas carol singing, I could not keep the tears away; I stood in awe and gratefulness for God's rich blessings in my life, most particularly the miraculous, humble birth of the King of Kings!
Yes, my heart is very full today.
It was a super special treat to spend this Christmas with Joe. He was a champ traveling to three different family celebrations, and spending time at my parents' home on Christmas morning. Have I told you how much I dig this guy? I am blessed "immeasurably more than I could ask or imagine"!
I'm hoping New Years will be a little more quiet and relaxed. Not only have the last several weeks been pretty crazy, but we now turn our attention to Joe's move this week into a new townhome. We are praising the Lord for his provision and also looking to Him for our rest.
Finally, I'll leave you with a sweet story about my nieces. We drove to Jacksonville last Saturday to celebrate Christmas with them. Ella (6) opened a small Mickey Mouse snow globe from her Nana that she absolutely adored. In fact, she wouldn't let the snow globe out of her hands, not even to open another present. The juggling of both the snow globe and the other gift was too much, though, and the snow globe dropped on the wood floor into a million pieces. A now tear-filled Ella left the rest of us so sad for her and also wondering how in the world we were going to clean up this messy spill in the midst of paper and ribbon and boxes and gifts. In the meantime, Emily (4) had found her snow globe (two girls...everything comes in pairs) and was just opening it up. She saw Ella's tears and didn't miss a beat. To every adult's astonishment, we heard a sweet small voice call out over the crying, "Ella, you can have mine!" This story makes me tear-up as I retell it! Emily was so quick to share in a way that would bless her sister Ella. May I also find that same joy in blessing others! What a sweet story I'll never forget.
Well, that's all I have tonight. My heart just felt so full that I wanted to give our God the praise! Join me in thanking Him again for His incredible love in our lives - Come, let us adore Him!
Tuesday, December 18
What's happening?
Hello friends! I'm not even sure if I have any readers anymore, but here's an update of what's been going on around here the last few weeks.
I went to Jacksonville to celebrate my niece's Ella's 6th birthday! (6 going on 16) She's such a sweet girl whose personality is strikingly similar to her aunt's! :) Here she is (with Emily) wearing her new apron from Aunt Becky - her PINK spatulas are tucked in the pockets, if you can see them. She got right to work making cookies that night! She loves helping Mom in the kitchen.
Ella is a die-hard Florida Gators fan like you've never seen in a 6 year old. So I made her a bulletin board for her room. She can be a sports fan...but notice the girlyness here. :)
Skeet shooting! It's hard to see here, but this is Joe taking out a bird for dinner.
I know my form looks terrible here, but that gun was soo~ heavy! And look at my face..i'm scared to even pull the trigger! :) But I did hit my target several times...so, have no fear! If we need to shoot some dinner, I'm your woman.
Last Thursday night, we went to the RTS Christmas concert - which is becoming a tradition for Joe and me! Last year, this was one of the first things we did together - a small group from work planned on going to the concert. My roommates, particularly Ashley (below), were both excited to meet this guy they had been hearing about.
After last year's concert, Ashley, Joe and I went to grab something to eat at Houlihans. As we sat in the booth and I heard Ashley laugh and laugh at Joe, I knew he had passed the "roommate test." Sure enough, we said goodbye in the parking lot and walked to the car together and she exclaimed, "Becky! I want you to love him forever and ever!" "Shhh!!" I freaked out. "Ashley, he'll hear you! ...And I think that's your martini speaking."
Well.
She called it.
So we went back to Houlihans after this year's RTS concert to celebrate together. :)
Zoe Kim turned 3! She's so precious; we were glad to celebrate with her! (Joe's boss at Pioneers and my boss at Pioneers are married. This is their middle daughter - #2 of 3).
Yay for sweaters! This picture was taken yesterday, December 17th. It was the coldest weather we've had yet this season and the first real day we've been able to wear sweaters! Joe was particularly excited as he's really missing snowy Maryland right now.
That's about it, folks. Joe is staying here in Orlando for Christmas, so we're excited to spending our first holiday season together! And we'll be celebrating our Lord's birth with my family as well. What a blessing this year has been! Thank you Lord!
Merry Christmas to you all!
I went to Jacksonville to celebrate my niece's Ella's 6th birthday! (6 going on 16) She's such a sweet girl whose personality is strikingly similar to her aunt's! :) Here she is (with Emily) wearing her new apron from Aunt Becky - her PINK spatulas are tucked in the pockets, if you can see them. She got right to work making cookies that night! She loves helping Mom in the kitchen.
Ella is a die-hard Florida Gators fan like you've never seen in a 6 year old. So I made her a bulletin board for her room. She can be a sports fan...but notice the girlyness here. :)
Skeet shooting! It's hard to see here, but this is Joe taking out a bird for dinner.
I know my form looks terrible here, but that gun was soo~ heavy! And look at my face..i'm scared to even pull the trigger! :) But I did hit my target several times...so, have no fear! If we need to shoot some dinner, I'm your woman.
Last Thursday night, we went to the RTS Christmas concert - which is becoming a tradition for Joe and me! Last year, this was one of the first things we did together - a small group from work planned on going to the concert. My roommates, particularly Ashley (below), were both excited to meet this guy they had been hearing about.
After last year's concert, Ashley, Joe and I went to grab something to eat at Houlihans. As we sat in the booth and I heard Ashley laugh and laugh at Joe, I knew he had passed the "roommate test." Sure enough, we said goodbye in the parking lot and walked to the car together and she exclaimed, "Becky! I want you to love him forever and ever!" "Shhh!!" I freaked out. "Ashley, he'll hear you! ...And I think that's your martini speaking."Well.
She called it.
So we went back to Houlihans after this year's RTS concert to celebrate together. :)
Zoe Kim turned 3! She's so precious; we were glad to celebrate with her! (Joe's boss at Pioneers and my boss at Pioneers are married. This is their middle daughter - #2 of 3).
Yay for sweaters! This picture was taken yesterday, December 17th. It was the coldest weather we've had yet this season and the first real day we've been able to wear sweaters! Joe was particularly excited as he's really missing snowy Maryland right now.That's about it, folks. Joe is staying here in Orlando for Christmas, so we're excited to spending our first holiday season together! And we'll be celebrating our Lord's birth with my family as well. What a blessing this year has been! Thank you Lord!
Merry Christmas to you all!
Wednesday, November 21
Happy Thanksgiving!
5 things I'm thankful for this year: (in no particular order)
1. Joe -- falling in love with Joe has been the greatest, most amazing thing this year! I'm so thankful for the Lord's blessing in that relationship. I'm thankful for how Joe teaches me about my Lord and leads me into His presence each day. I'm so, so grateful for Joseph Yoon.
2. My parents -- my parents have graciously reopened their home to me this year and piled blessing upon blessing as I moved back in. This is an amazing time to be home with them and has allowed me to pay for life and study for my Masters degrees at the same time.
3. Friends, old & new -- I'm so grateful that God has not only ordained for us to live in community, but He has blessed me with great friends to walk through life with. With all the craziness of this year's transitions, I'm especially grateful for those who have invested in me.
4. Cruise! -- the cruise to the Bahamas in February was an awesome gift from Pioneers. It was relaxing, adventurous, and a special blessing of a vacation when I really needed it!
5. The Presence of the Lord -- This has been a huge growth year as the Lord draws me further out of my own sense of strength and deeper into a heart that fully trusts Him. I am so incredibly thankful to know a more real sense of His presence during this time, knowing that He walks with me through every challenge, every fear, every insecurity, and every joy. It's not just in the big picture that I can see His hand with me, but through every little detail in the midst of the struggles of life in a fallen world.
I was encouraged this week in a devotional to not just think about what you're thankful for - and isn't that such a wonderful thing to do? - but to also write it down. A thanksgiving journal is a precious way to review year after year how our Faithful God takes care of us and blesses us as His covenant children. So, I pass that along to you as well.
Happy Thanksgiving, Friends!
1. Joe -- falling in love with Joe has been the greatest, most amazing thing this year! I'm so thankful for the Lord's blessing in that relationship. I'm thankful for how Joe teaches me about my Lord and leads me into His presence each day. I'm so, so grateful for Joseph Yoon.
2. My parents -- my parents have graciously reopened their home to me this year and piled blessing upon blessing as I moved back in. This is an amazing time to be home with them and has allowed me to pay for life and study for my Masters degrees at the same time.
3. Friends, old & new -- I'm so grateful that God has not only ordained for us to live in community, but He has blessed me with great friends to walk through life with. With all the craziness of this year's transitions, I'm especially grateful for those who have invested in me.
4. Cruise! -- the cruise to the Bahamas in February was an awesome gift from Pioneers. It was relaxing, adventurous, and a special blessing of a vacation when I really needed it!
5. The Presence of the Lord -- This has been a huge growth year as the Lord draws me further out of my own sense of strength and deeper into a heart that fully trusts Him. I am so incredibly thankful to know a more real sense of His presence during this time, knowing that He walks with me through every challenge, every fear, every insecurity, and every joy. It's not just in the big picture that I can see His hand with me, but through every little detail in the midst of the struggles of life in a fallen world.
I was encouraged this week in a devotional to not just think about what you're thankful for - and isn't that such a wonderful thing to do? - but to also write it down. A thanksgiving journal is a precious way to review year after year how our Faithful God takes care of us and blesses us as His covenant children. So, I pass that along to you as well.
Happy Thanksgiving, Friends!
Tuesday, October 30
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