Thredup Review and Discount Code

This summer I placed an order on Thredup. It's a second hand clothing site. You can sell and buy from them. A giant plus for me is they have 30 days free return shipping, so if something isn't up to par or doesn't fit you can just pop it back in the mail and get a refund.

I spent $90 on 9 items. I love 6 of the items, like one and don't like or can't wear two of the items. If I was in the States I would have just returned the two items I didn't like for a refund. Now, I'm just going to try and sell them on a local flea market page.

Another thing I really liked it that everything came freshly washed and packaged well. I could literally wear everything straight out of the box. You could smell the scent of fresh washed clothes.

Now, for the goodies:

I ordered this lovely red jacket from Stile Benetton. It came new with tags.

This Forever 21 dress was around $3 and was also new with tags.

I really liked this Stile Benetton blouse, also new with tags at $10.

I thought this Daisy Fuentes top had black beading around the collar, but it turns out to be reflective pieces. I think I actually like it better.

 

 

 

I snagged this Calvin Klein top for less than $10. I wore it my office party today with a black cardigan and loved it.

I really really like this dress and it was one of my favorites when I ordered. However, it is WAY too short on the sides. The back and front are fine but for some reason the sides are cut really high. I tried it on with my jeans but it's too long for a top. I think it's okay paired with leggings though.

 

 

This next dress is NO-GO! It turned out to be statue of liberty green and hangs terribly. If I keep it it'll be for a Halloween costume.

 

 

I wore this dress already. My husband was Santa Claus for my school party and I wore this to look a little "elfish" . I'm half and half on whether or not to keep it.

I LOVED this dress. It wasn't new with tags but it looks new. Best part? It was originally $60 and I got it for less than $10.

 

 

Which item is your favorite?

 

Thredup has a great referral program. If you sign up through one of my links, then we both get $10 off when you place your first order. CLICK HERE. They've also been good about sending me coupon codes throughout the year, both through the mail and in my inbox.

The Land of Inefficiency

Korea's motto is "the land of morning calm".

I have a better one- the land of inefficiency.  If you want something done and you want it done inefficiently, this is the place to come.

Inefficiency #1:

Our apartment in Daegu is a prime example of inefficiency run rapid. Buildings are erected very quickly with little to no regard given to safety or function.  In our apartment our heating bill was outrageous because we couldn't close the window. Why? I'll tell you why. The wiring, cables and gas pipes all came in through the window. The drainage system for the air conditioner went out the window.

Inefficiency #2: Toilet Plunger

I didn't even think to include toilets on my list. Most of the ones over here can't handle more than one square of 2-ply, much less anything that comes out of your body. So, plungers are an extra vital necessity. Yes, I'm aware that's redundant. That's how necessary they are.

The first plunger I purchased over here was utterly useless. I don't even think it could be re-commissioned as a doorstop.  When you applied any amount of pressure on the plunger, the rubber part would flip itself inside out. Useless, right?

Inefficiency #3: Spatula

I used a spatula to flip a pancake and it melted. Enough said.

Inefficiency #4: The Mini-broom

Mine literally only comes up to my knee. Some are shorter than that.

It's been explained that these brooms came about because a family's living quarters used to be so small that they basically only needed something slightly bigger than a duster to clean with. That was then. This is now. Korea, welcome to 2014.

I've only seen one originally full-sized broom in this country and for several months I was the proud owner. Unfortunately, we couldn't bring it on the bus when we moved. I haven't seen one since.

I say "originally" because I once saw a man who modified his mini-broom by attaching some type of piping to the handle to make it longer. That man should be president. He can break the bonds of mini-broomdom.

My school has two  full sized mops and about eight mini-brooms for us to clean the school with. It's ridiculous. I'm considering gifting the school a set of full-sized brooms when I go home. Leave a legacy and all that.

Inefficiency #5: Washing Machine Draining System

My washing machine requires it's own room because when it finishes the cycle it empties  it's bladder on to the floor. The water goes down a drain in the center of the room. Nothing else can go in the room or it will also get soaked. Similarly, the window in the room must stay open or the floor won't dry,  as their is no ventilation fan.  Even when it is snowing outside.

Inefficiency #6: The Fresh Air Mindset

We can run the heat in the winter or the AC in the summer but as soon as it's turned on we must open the door. We need to let fresh air into the building when they're running. So basically, I'm heating/cooling the sidewalk.

Inefficiency #7: Eraserless pencils

This is a personal pet peeve for me as I've been duped by these things more times than I can count. I think it's a money making scheme. Why sell you a pencil with an eraser when I can sell you a pencil and then an eraser? Most pencils don't have erasers, some just have wooden ends and you can obviously tell the eraser is missing. Some, however, are topped with these things (metal, possibly) that are painted to look like erasers but have no actual erasing capability. Instead, they grate against your paper and make the nails on the chalkboard sound.

ARGH!

Midnight Madness Abounds or The Curious Case of the "American Snowman"

A little before midnight, my husband and I decided we would sneak outside and build a big snowman in front of my school for the children to enjoy. Once outside we discovered that the snow was very light and wouldn't pack enough to make a snowball, much less an entire man.

So we thought about it and decided to make a big mound of snow and then shape it into a snowman, An hour later, we had a four foot mound of snow, starting with a wide base and tapering off to a head. We plucked a carefully carved carrot into make a nose and decorated the rest of the features with black stones. For finishing touches, we tied an old sweater around the "shoulders" and topped it off with a paper birthday hat from my work party.  We were excited and happy with our creation.

When I walked into work the next afternoon, my boss gestured to the snowman and declared that she know my husband made it because it was "American style". I asked what she meant.

"A Korean snowman is made of two big balls and has a black hat."

I explained the problem with the snow not packing and how we cleverly maneuvered around the problem. As for the hat? It was the only one I had. She smiled as nodded as she usually does when I am speaking.

As each student, parent and bus driver arrived they asked about the snowman's lack of a defined body or black hat.  I fumed silently as each student was given the explanation that the snowman was "American style".

After about the 10th explanation, a light bulb went off. Unwittingly,  my boss was actually giving me a compliment. 

The sameness culture pervades South Korea. Everyone does everything the same way and if you don't you are questioned and asked to explain yourself. Sometimes, this place reminds me of a scene from A Wrinkle in Time, where upon arriving on a new planet, Meg and Charles notice that each is  identical and that in each driveway is an identically dressed child bouncing a ball to the same rhythm. Each Korean snowman probably DOES have exactly two balls and is topped off with the same, Lottemart bought, black hat.

My snowman, however, is American. In the face of a challenge, my husband and I rose above by putting our American ingenuity to use.

We thought creatively.

We overcame.

We built a snowman, despite all odds.

 

You, Mr. Korean Snowman, would have given up when you realized you couldn't make proper snowballs or didn't have the requisite black hat.

 

But not us, the Americans. We thought for ourselves. And we persevered. Long live American ingenuity!

 

 

Meet Gene. He's visiting from America.

 

 

  

Where I'm From

 

 

I am from cheese biscuits, from sweet tea and fried okra.

I am from the yellow house in the country and the brick one uptown.

I am from the snow white cotton fields, magnolias that reach sky high and the shimmering sea.

I am from eating fried chicken on Huntington Beach and shooting fireworks on Chrismas Eve.

I am from brown hair and brown eyes with tan skin, from Watson and Beasley and McLendon. .

I am from the gardeners and hunters and the hardheads.

I am from eating wooden doughnuts, stray cat parades and Princess Rachel bedtime stories.

From turning into pumpkins at midnight and lizardman lore.

I am from Baptist potlucks and Sunday School.

From meat and threes. From half a hots. From boiled peanuts and low country boil.

I’m from the Seminoles and the Scottish, red foxes and red devils.

I am from blackeye peas, fat back and nanner pudding.

From the house that was hit by fireworks, endless knock knock jokes and the grandmother who calls her granddaughter Lasagna.

I am from the little city with the big heart, the land of smiling faces and beautiful places, the school of hard work pays off and the mantra, “I think I can , I think I can, I think I can.”

 

 

*Inspired by a Mama Kat prompt.  

Top Gift Picks (That Won't Break the Bank)

It seems that everybody whose somebody these days is putting out a gift guide. So here's my list of gifts I think you'd enjoy giving and receiving this holiday season.

For the Booklover:

This handmade bookmark makes a sweet stocking stuffer:



Frostbeard, an etsy shop, sells candles scented in a variety of book related scents. I'm pining after "The Shire" and "Sassenach", from two of my favorite book series.  They also sell scents like bookstore and trashy romance.



I'm also excited to try Paddywax's collection of literary candles. They created scents based around authors. I'm especially interested in the Mark Twain candle.





For the Cupcake Lover:

These vintage inspired cupcake earrings were my one of my birthday gifts this year. I can't wait for them to come! I'd been admiring them for some time. There are matching rings and necklaces available as well!



I've also been craving this cute cupcake pan necklace:





For the Foodie:

I follow Lisa Leake's website, 100 Days of Real Food , and I can't wait to get my hands on her cookbook.





This is a great gift for the cook who likes to party! Great for serving foods that need to be shelled or pitted before eaten. They can also be used separately.




I love this brownie brittle. The chocolate chip is my favorite but they make a few other flavors.


For the Fashionista :

These pink and white earrings are currently on sale and come with free worldwide shipping for the season!



What better way to stay warm and stylish this winter than with these super soft boot cuffs or lacy infinity scarf in your choice of color?







This simple gold leaves necklace would make a stunning gift without breaking the bank!





For Your Man:

I think my husband would like these next two items for his mancave.

Who doesn't love bacon?


Or beer?


If your man likes to smell good I'd try this apple jack scented bar soap. for a stocking stuffer. This shop has a variety of scents so click around!




What's on your wish list this year? What gifts do you love to give?


*All recommendations are my 100% honest opinion. I am not compensated for any of the etsy links. If you click through and purchase from an Amazon link then I may receive a small commission.

**Inspired by Mama Kat

Ewww...Persimmons.

Okay, I don't think persimmons are eww.


I just think they taste like nothing.

If you know me, then you know I'm a flavor gal. If I'm going to eat something I want it to have lots of flavor. My favorite cake is lemon with chocolate frosting and blueberry filling. Lots of flavor going on in that one. Are you catching a ride on the flavor train?

So, when my sweet neighbor presented me with a bag of 10 persimmons I freaked. And by freaked, I mean I went on a pinterest and googling safari.

And I found many good looking recipes for jams and fruit butter but all of them required the persimmons be pureed, and I don't know if you've seen my kitchen, but that's not happening in here.

Anyway, I finally stumbled upon this delicious sounding recipe from Cook Play Explore.

So, I adapted it to fit my current living situation. Here we go:

8 persimmons, peeled and chopped
8 tablespoons water, divided
4 tablespoons honey
2 capfulls of orange juice
about 2 tablespoons cinnamon
4 teaspoons flour

Combine  persimmons, 4 tablespoons water, honey, and orange juice in a saucepan and  bring to a boil over medium heat (for 5 minutes). Reduce heat to medium-low, add cinnamon, and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.

In a small bowl, combine flour and remaining four tablespoons of water. Add to fruit in pan and stir until thickened. Remove from heat and cool before storing.

I let mine sit in the fridge overnight. Then, I mixed it with my plain yogurt. It was scrumdiddlyumptious! 

What do you do with your persimmons?

Taco Tuna Rice

I first made this dish for myself, without the tuna. My husband thought it looked and smelled delicious even though he isn't a rice fan.

I knew he would like it, but as a side not, a meal in itself so I started to think of ways I could beef it up for him while keeping it a relatively cheap meal. I immediately thought of adding some tuna. I'm not a tuna fan. He's not a rice fan. Maybe they would transform each other into something, not only palatable but delicious.

And it worked!

Here's the recipe I cobbled together. It's extremely flexible and can easily be adjusted to suit your tastes. Note, I made just around 3 servings.


Sautee diced onions, spicy peppers, minced garlic and about half a can of corn. Sprinkle with cumin. Add 2 servings cooked rice and half a packet of taco seasoning. Add a large can of drained tuna and stir to combine. Mix in salsa, just enough to cover but not enough that the meal is watery.

Cook until heated through and top with shredded cheese. I used Monterrey Jack.

I think that all of the flavors help to mask the tuna. I could barely taste it and it was really mild.

I'm linking up today at Oh Simple Thoughts. The discussion question today is how do you make your table a safe place for guests.

I think its really important to make people feel comfortable. I remember the first time I invited someone over for dinner on a whim. I invited them a day in advance because we had been scheduled to go out for dinner but I told her I felt like doing something more low key.

I am still amazed to this day that I didn't panic. I'm a planner by nature and I love to plan out dinner menus and decorations. If we're having company over for dinner I like to adjust my work schedule so that I can home earlier and get prepared.

I didn't do any of that that day but we still had an amazing dinner together. I made hot potato salad. I didn't even start cooking until my guest arrived! But we talked and shared wine as I cooked.

I think its really important to connect with your guests and not seclude yourself in the kitchen. They want to interact with you!

Also, I usually like to plan a variety and abundance of food. I would rather have to much and eat leftovers for the rest of the week than not have enough food for everyone to walk away feeling satisfied.

Behind the Blog: Rachel Rewritten

Hi y'all and welcome to the 2nd interview of our Behind the Blog series.

 Today, we're taking a peek behind Rachel Rewritten, written by Rachel Dillard. Like me, she recently started over in the blogging world.

She has some great recipes coming up soon. In the meantime, check out her inspiring post on cultivating friendships.

She's beautiful and so is her blog.

 

 

What do you do when you are not blogging?

 I'm a L&D nurse, so most of my time is spent at work--those 12 hours shifts are tough! If I'm not at work, I love spending time with my husband, cooking, working on DIY projects around our house, entertaining, and reading! I've also been practicing my photography a lot lately.

What inspired you to start a blog?

 I started blogging when I was in college, as a way to document life and the journey I was on. My reason to blog has transformed a lot over the years, but I keep blogging because I love the community, love having an outlet for creativity, and just simply love writing!

How did you choose your blog name?

After blogging at another space for almost 3 years, I was burned out and needed a break. Rachel Rewritten came about when I decided to get serious about blogging--it was created as a space for me to find my voice and rewrite my story! 

What inspires you to keep writing?

I write about anything and everything--favorite recipes, life happenings, thoughts in my head--I used to blog strictly for what was "popular," but now I blog the way I want to and just write what I love writing. I draw inspiration from other bloggers, friends, relationships, books I'm reading, and such. Almost anything can become blogging inspiration in my book!

Is there one thing you want your readers to take away from your blog?

 The one thing I've hoped and prayed is that people would come to my blog and find themselves encouraged--that they would see the joy of Christ and would leave with a little more happiness than they came with.


What are your favorite projects or posts on your blog?

I recently posted on how to spruce up your space--I love decorating but am on a budget, so I've found ways to do it on the cheap! Also, I love my post on how to pray for your husband--something I have printed out and use every day to remember.

Has blogging allowed you to do something really cool, that you wouldn’t have done otherwise?

 

I've made friendships with so many great girls and am actually attending my first blog conference in March-- Hope Spoken! I never would've known about it nor had the courage to sign up if it wasn't for blogging! 

What’s your current obsession?

 

 Practicing photography! I've had a nice DSLR for over a year now and truly haven't spent enough time on learning the art, so I've been working on that lately. It's been fun to explore and just snap photos as we go. 

 

What are your goals for this year? For the next 5 years?

 

Hmmm, that's a good question. This year, I created a list to hold me accountable. It's been fun to complete, and I need to do an update soon! For the next 5 years? Continue to grow my blog, travel to Italy, become more involved in a church home, and hopefully have a baby (or two!) Life is so great right now.

What three blogs do you enjoy reading and why? There are SO many blogs I love reading--the list is long and I have different reasons for each. It's hard to pick three, but I'd say:

1. Oh Simple Joys  I've grown to know Rachel well and I love her genuine heart. She posts the best recipes and has me intrigued about her "capsule wardrobe" idea. 

          2.   Happy is a Choice  Brittany and I text all the time, and I love the friendship we've created. Her blog is always full of great posts, from running, to marriage advice, to recapping fun weekends. She's the person I go to when I need a little blogging inspiration!

         3.  Carrie Bradshaw Lied  Kathleen is a Mississippi girl transplanted in California. I love everything about this blog, from her photography while traveling, her outfit posts, and her fun job! She has it all.

Doesn't she sound amazing? Go show her some love.

No, But I DO Have Voicemail

I don't know if its Korea or the whole world. I have a sneaking suspicion its becoming the whole world.

Companies and friends are starting to treat me like I'm a problem because I don't have a cell phone number to give out.

I've written my landline phone number on various forms at doctors, the contact lens store, the dentist and job applications.

Within 30 seconds of reviewing the form I've been pressed to provide a cell phone number. We NEED it they say. What do I do if I can't get in touch with you they ask?

I've even had a personal friend have the audacity to complain that they can't call me whenever they want.

Yes. Yes. Yes, you can. Everyone can call me whenever they want.

I just might not answer.

I might be working, sleeping, eating, or shopping.

In that case, the phone will go to voicemail, just like it would if I had a cellphone and were doing the above activities. There you have the option of leaving a voice or text message or a call back page.

And the world will not stop.

You do not need access to me 24/7, nor should you have it.

Cellphones should not run our lives. It is OKAY to miss a call. It is not the end of the world (most of the time) if you can not reach my right this freaking second.

Don't get me wrong. Cellphones are nice, especially when traveling or in emergency situations. But people got by pretty well with landlines before their invention.

I will have been cell-phone free for a year come September and to be honest with you, I haven't missed it.

Sick of the Shtick

Jim, Raymond and Frank, Doug, Tim.....the list goes on and on.

Who are these men, you ask?

They're all men from sitcoms who have the same problems with their marriages.

Most fit into the clueless dopes stereotypes and their wives are either ballbusters or are constantly annoyed by the men's behavior. The two fight an endless battle where one is constantly trying to dupe the other into doing what they want, whether it be more free time or a hand with the chors.

I know. It's TV. It's not supposed to be serious.

But it is to me.

It's serious to me because not only do I see marriages portrayed this way on TV but I have seen marriages that actually are this way.

I've seen men who let women take care of the kids and home 24/7 because they worked hard at work and now they want to relax.

I've seen women treat their husbands like they haven't got a clue.

I've seen men act like they don't have a clue to get out of the responsibility.

I've heard men and women talking to their friends about to manipulate their spouses into doing something their way or for them.

I've heard older women seriously talking to new wives about making sure their husbands are trained. (Yes, I know sometimes this is just a cheesy joke.)

I'm sick of it. Our spouses are a gift from God. Our marriages are not 100% perfect and neither are we. But our spouses are still a gift and should be treated like one!

We don't have to swindle, or manipulate our way through a marriage relationship. Your spouse married you because they love you. Be honest with them. Tell them what you need or want and listen and encourage them to do the same.

Marriage made you a team, not perpetual enemies. It's time to act like it.

Be honest.

Communicate with each other.

 Keep your marriage your marriage.

Put God first and your spouse second.

Stovetop Dinners

Since our move to South Korea, we haven't had an oven.  That coupled with the high grocery store prices has seriously limited the variety of meals I'm able to make.

One of our new favorite meals is a spin off Tuna Helper. My husband mentioned that he would like a "Helper" style meal. However, we are trying to eat better and boxed meals aren't readily available here.

So, I turned on my thinking cap...err...opened Pintrest. I typed in homemade helper and was greeted with lots of homemade versions of these ready made favorites.

We've tried a bacon cheeseburger version and a tuna. Hands down the tuna has been the best.

I created a recipe that suited our tastes based on the one I found at Iowa Girl Eats.

I'm going to be honest with you. This dish does not photograph well! But it tastes amazing. Promise.  Here's a picture anyway.

The recipe is really simple.

Boil and drain egg noodles or your favorite pasta. We use fusilli.

Sautee onions and spicy peppers in butter until soft. Season with salt and pepper.
Add in 1 1/2 tablespoons flour. Cook another minute.
Whisk in 3/4 C chicken broth and then 1/2 cup milk.

Add drained tuna, salt and pepper to taste and the cooked noodles.
Stir to combine. Turn off the heat. Stir in 1/4 C sharp cheddar (grated) until melted.

Serve it up!

Try this blueberry crisp for dessert.

Note: This dish heavily caters to my husbands preference for spicy food. To me, it's almost too spicy. However, it is so good it doesn't stop me.

PS: This is the dish I was making when I realized just how hot my kitchen was. The cheese was melting faster than I could grate it.

Do you have a favorite stovetop supper? I'm in the market for new recipes!

Behind the Blog: Carmen at Life Blessons

As promised, today is our first Behind the Blog interview.

 

 

 

Today's guest is Carmen from Life Blessons.

 

 

 

I've been a fan of Carmen's blog for sometime now. I really love how open and honest she is. I first started reading Life Blessons because I was interested in how Carmen lives out her faith. Reading her blog, brings me fresh inspiration and encouragement. As a fellow Christian, it's nice to feel that sense of community with other believers. Now, I also enjoy the glimpses of life as a new mother that she shares with us.

 

I feel like she posts a good balance of articles ranging from  her faith, marriage and motherhood to fashion and lifestyle topics.

 

 

Read on to learn a little more about Carmen.

1. What do you do when you are not blogging?

My husband and I recently bought a new house so any spare time has been spent doing a lot of house projects, unpacking and decorating. We also spend a lot of time outdoors with my daughter, Claire, who loves being outside.

2. What inspired you to start a blog?

I started my blog soon after my husband and I married and moved to Atlanta where I didn't know anyone. Blogging was a way for me to find community and connect with people virtually at a time when it was difficult to do so in real life.

3. How did you choose your blog name?

It came to me in the middle of the night as I thought about the purpose I wanted for my blog: to document the blessings and lessons I was experiencing--my "Blessons."

4. What inspires you to keep writing?

Lately I have not had the time to do much writing, between moving and raising an active little girl. But I am most inspired to write lately because I know blogging helps me remember these moments of my young daughter's life and document them in a way I wouldn't have otherwise.

5. Is there one thing you want your readers to take away from your blog?

I hope they are encouraged. I never want my blog to feel judge-y or better or stir up envy; I want it to be a place that helps people, whether it's connecting in their faith, making it through some of life's hard times or even coming up with a recipe for dinner. If you dig through the archives there's a little bit of everything there.

               7. Has blogging allowed you to do something really cool, that you wouldn’t have done otherwise?

 

It's allowed me to connect with a lot of really inspiring and friendly women that I never would have known otherwise, and feel like we're friends even if we've never met and I love that. I have also gotten to try out some cool products to review on my blog that I likely wouldn't have otherwise, and that's been a fun perk, too.

               8. What’s your current obsession?

Decorating my house and making it feel like "me." I have been enjoying the creative outlet and the results make me smile.
               9. What are your goals for this year? For the next 5 years?
While setting up our house has taken up a lot of energy lately, raising my daughter and figuring out how to be a God-honoring mom to her is my ultimate goal. It is new territory and so difficult to cultivate when all she understands is wanting to go outside and play. But we are learning and so my goal would be to continue to home that and create a family where Christ's love and the Spirit's fruit are evident.
                10. What was your most recent “Wow!” moment?
Probably something involving my daughter and how quickly she learns things. It keeps me in awe of her little, energetic mind and the God who created it. She is forever inspiring me and impressing me! I love watching her grow.

Please click on over to Life Blessons and show Carmen some love!

How I Feel When People Offer Me Chocolate

This obsessive head nodding is totally how I feel inside when sweets are mentioned.

The Family Month: Holidays in Korea Part 2

May is often referred to as the family month in Korea. Parent's Day, Children's Day and Teacher's Day all fall in this month.

On Parent's Day, children give their parents red carnations. Some students told me their schools have special performances, also.

As a child, I remember asking my parent's why America didn't have a Children's Day. My mom told me that every day is Children's Day. Schools and academies are closed on Children's Day. A good many students told me they received school supplies from their parents .The majority, however, told me that their families took a trip to somewhere like an amusement park, zoo or waterpark to celebrate.

Throughout the year my students bring me gifts of candy and fruit. On Teacher's Day they were especially generous with perfume, cheesecake, candy and lots of handmade cards and letters. I especially loved the note from a little boy in opening class. We were just learning out letters when Teacher's Day arrived. He made me  a card and scrawled "I love teacher!". So sweet!

This is part 2 of a series on the holidays I've experienced in Korea. To read the first part of the series, Candy and Spam, click HERE.

Moving to Mokpo: Another Example of God's Grace

We recently relocated to Mokpo. It is a much smaller city than where we were before. There are a lot more parks and places to enjoy nature. There's a hill by our apartment with a nature trail as well as plenty of bike paths and places to explore. I really like it here.                           


Getting here was a bit of a different story. About a week in advance we bought bus tickets for a 3 hour bus ride.

When we brought our suitcases down from our third floor apartment, we realized that an apartment on the second floor was flooding with sewage. It was cascading down the stairs!

We had to physically carry the suitcases down the stairs and try to avoid the sewage waterfall.  Yuck!

We had a lot of suitcases and a small cooler with perishables so we had to take two taxis. My husband took 2 suitcases and I took the other 5. We showed our taxi driver the bus tickets, which say the name of the terminal at the top and repeated the phrase "We want to go to the bus terminal" that we studied. My taxi driver nodded, and repeated bus terminal-ok.

So, we take off. And my taxi takes me to the train station and keeps repeating bus terminal and insisting we are there.  Fortunately, I know that we are only about 10 blocks from the bus terminal so I give him the last of my cash. Unfortunately, I have 5 huge suitcases to take with me.

I started praying. I knew we had an hour before our bus left. Surely, I could make it in an hour. So, I started walking.  And kept praying. I walked with 2 suitcases until I could just barely see the others, went back for them and kept repeating the process.

2 construction workers stopped and asked me in perfect English if they could help me. They carried my suitcases about 3-4 blocks, to a major intersection.

I started wheeling two bags across the intersection when a random German man and his Korean girlfriend appeared. They each wheeled a suitcase across with me. That left one suitcase on the other side of the street. As I stood watching it a small group of school children appeared.

"Is this yours?" They yelled across the lanes of traffic. I shouted back that it was and they formed a little ring around my suitcase. When they light changed they took off running and met me in the middle of the large intersection.

I crossed another small street. I could see the bus terminal and I could see my husband frantically pacing around. I knew he was worried. We don't have cell phones here so he couldn't call to check on me.

I screamed and hollered his name. I jumped up and down. I waved my arms.

Nothing.

So, I started walking, still about 4 blocks away. After 1 trip with the suitcases I shouted his name again. Nothing. And then the idea came to me.

And so I shouted my name.

Instantly he turned and saw me at the top of the hill. He came and we carried the suitcases down together. We still had 25-30 minutes before our bus left.

Halleluiah!

So, long story short, we are here and happy to be here.

Here are some pictures of our new place:

our apartment...we've since upgraded to a full size fridge and a trundle bed

 the park a few blocks away

the view from the top of the hill

 

hiking a small mountain

out and about

Two Isn't Better Than One

Let's face it. I can't keep it with two blog. And the new shiny one is getting all the attention.

So.... I'm combing them into one blog. Diary of A Chocoholic and Wit and Wanderings are becoming Diary of a Recovering Chocoholic.

In order to do this, I'll be moving the posts since November at Wit and Wanderings over to this site. I hope to move them at the rate of no more than two a day. That will start this weekend and then by the end of February everything should be fresh content.

So, stick around, things are about to get interesting.

Lessons in Gratitude

Being here, in South Korea, has taught me many things. One of the most important lessons I've learned has been gratitude.

The water here isn't potable without being boiled or treated first. When we first moved here we purchased a pack of six 2 liter bottles each week. In an effort to save money, I started boiling drinking water for us. It was very time consuming to boil enough water for two people and a dog. I can't imagine boiling it for an entire family. Something that, according to a friend, is fairly common. Thankfully, we were able to rent a water machine that filters water for us.

 

In addition to not being potable, hot water isn't available with the turn of a spigot. For hot water, we push a button on the thermostat and the water will heart. It doesn't take long, maybe 5 minutes or so.  However, this means when you take a shower in the winter, the hear turns off until you signal for the thermostat to stop heating the water.

 

In the winter time, out bathroom is freezing because we must leave the window open to prevent mold. There is no other ventilation and because of the bathroom's design, the entire room gets wet when we shower.  Likewise, the kitchen window stays cracked because that's how case, cable and other things are run into the house.

 

Some smaller, random things come to mind, like food safety and hygiene. Many restaurants don't have soap or towels. I've seen a waitress drink from a soup ladle and then return it to the pot.

 



 

 

As I've mentioned in a previous post, I've come to be more grateful for the smaller, everyday, blessings in life and I see God's hand in them. This past Christmas I was overjoyed to receive a box of American toiletries. The Christmas before, if they same person had given me toothpaste and deodorant, I would have believed them crazy or thought that they didn't care enough to purchase  a more personal gift. Not that you can get more personal that armpits and tongues.

 

Slowly, I've learned to be more grateful for what God has given me and for where he has allowed me to call my home. I've never been more thankful that I was born an American. ( I realize the environment and living conditions in Korea are not the worst in the world and that saddens me.) I  still think that as a country we've made some bad decisions and have wandered off the path. But now, I truly know how blessed we are and I hope we are brave enough to hold on to it.

 

 



 

Inspired by a Mama Kat Prompt

Candy and Spam: Holidays in Korea Part 1

Experiencing the holidays and celebrations of another culture is a fun part of traveling. We've been in Korea for almost a year now, so we've seen some interesting things come and go. Today, I'll just share a handful of the holidays with you.

Pepero Day came around on November 11th.  This is a day that would make Hallmark proud. Hershey should stand up and take notice. This day is entirely devoted to exchanging packages of wafer like cookie sticks.

http://coreaymas.wordpress.com/2011/11/10/pepero-day-tradicion-coreana-happy-pepero-day-feliz-dia-de-pepero/

 Some are dipped in chocolate, others have a chocolate filling. Some have nuts. Some don't. When I first saw them, I figured they would have a fake sweet taste and be pretty disgusting. After receiving several packages from my students, I discovered that the chocolate dipped with nuts is my favorite flavor.


 According to my students, this day was originally a day to celebrate farmers. According to Wikipedia, people originally traded Pepero with wishes of becoming tall and then. It also pointed out that the date, 11/11, resembles the cookies sticks.

Valentine's Day is celebrated on February 14th but it is a day for women to buy men gifts. Stores go crazy with big displays of imported candy, Pepero and Spam gift sets.

http://www.hormelfoods.com/Brands/BrandWall/SPAM-Family-of-Products

Men return the favor on March 14th or White Day. Again, the stores are filled to the brim with trinkets, chocolate and Spam. On both holidays, children brought me chocolate and handmade cards.

I'll tell you one thing. This country has candy marketing down pat. I wish I would have taken pictures of the outrageous displays. Even sidewalk vendors set up to sell candy and cheesy gifts.

Nothing, If Not Honest

My students very rarely refrain  from telling me what they think. My Monday/Thursday high-schoolers are no exception.

I walked into the classroom and greeted that as I usually do. Kip looked at me and exclaimed, "What happened to your clothes?"

Quickly, I looked down and scanned my clothes for signs of stains or tears. Earlier in the day, I'd had a narrow miss with a student splattering red sauce near me and I thought, perhaps, some had spilled on me and I'd overlooked it. I saw nothing.

"What's wrong with them?" I asked him.

"They've changed."

"No", I insisted, "I've worn this all day".

"No", he said, exasperated at my ignorance. He pointed to my sundress and heels.

"Your style. It was bad. It got better"

*Inspired by a Mama Kat prompt

Seventeen

The Mama Kat prompt that intrigued me the most this week was about a memorable summer. Whenever I think of that summer, I think of Tim McGraw's song "Seventeen".

Seventeen only comes once in a lifetime
Don't it just fly by wild and free
Goin any way the wind blew, baby

My 17th summer was a major turning point in my life. It was this summer that I began to chart the course for the rest of my life.

Seventeen, livin on crazy dreams

As summer approached, I faced the decision of choosing between spending a week with the Amish or a month long Governor's School at the College of Charleston. I chose Charleston and  it was a decision that changed everything.


Prior to that summer, I dated a boy for several years. By some standards, he could have been considered mentally or emotionally abusive. Despite my straight A track record, he told me I was stupid and that no one else would want "a girl like me". Whatever that meant.

That summer, I met my friends. Friends that I still hold dear to my heart. They encouraged me to end the relationship and stood by me when it turned it explosive. We went on picnics, shopping excursions and beach trips. We played board games, went on scavenger hunts and to the Imax. We laughed, and made enough inside jokes and memories to last a lifetime.

Legs hangin' off the Bayou Bridge
Feedin' fish potato chips
And talkin' about the mysteries of the universe
Yeah, the world was somewhere else
We had the Summer all to ourselves
And the stars went off like fireworks

 That summer, I opened my heart to another boy, and he broke it. At the time, I was devastated. Today, I am much stronger because of it. If we had stayed together, he would have become my crutch. To this day,  I cannot thank him enough. It was just what I needed to help me feel free.

The summer ended and I was ready. Ready for love, ready for college, ready for God.

Rock and roll and faded blue jeans
And standing on the edge of everything
Seventeen

One of my dear friends convinced me to attend Converse College and I truly believe that was the perfect place for me at the perfect time. Her friendship led me to the friendship of others who taught me a lot about my faith.

In addition to healing my heart and helping me to choose a college that summer gave me one of my closest friends. Luisa and I have  stayed close since that summer together. We spent even more time together in college. Out respective campuses were only minutes apart. She was the Maid of Honor in my wedding and, regrettably, I will be away for hers. She is a true friend and always will be.

My 17th summer gifted me with a free heart, a new found strength, and a second sister.

Seventeen only comes once in a lifetime
Don't it just fly by wild and free
Goin any way the wind blew, baby

Jane of All Trades

I've held quite a few jobs, but I can't really say I have a career. I graduated college about 3.5 years ago and I majored in Creative and Professional Writing.

I love writing and I want to make a career of it. I can't imagine going to school for something different. I think those 4 years really helped me to hone my skills.

I've been a baseball scorekeeper, concession stand worker, cashier, freelance writer, customer service rep and legal assistant. Now, I'm teaching English. I do not foresee myself continuing to teach once we return to the States. (Although. I have tinkered with the idea of teaching Pre-K.)

I love to learn new skills and have many interests, so its been hard for me to pick something that holds my interest and I feel I can commit to for a long period of time. That being said, my two favorite jobs have been working as a legal assistant and a freelance writer.

So, I'm in the perfect phase of my life to consider what career I would like to enter into. At the moment, I have a couple of dreams mashed together.

1. I would like to have a substantial amount of my income come from freelance writing. Yeah, I know, this isn't really a "new" career but one I've wanted to truly break into for a while. In the past, I've picked up side jobs here and there.

2. I would like to own a bakery. I'm not entirely sure I'd want to be the 5am baker, but I like to create flavor combinations, and design marketing.

3. I think I would also like to go into event planning. I really enjoy putting together events. I like to plan menus and decorations.

This post was inspired by a Mama Kat prompt. Hop on over to check out the other responses and to link up your own post.

How We Got Here

If you read my earlier posts, you may remember that I mentioned that my husband and I are currently teaching English in Daegu, South Korea.

                                                        (Our trip to Suseong Lake)

I would like to share with you the story of how we came to be in South Korea.

In 2009, my husband and I were dating. He took advantage of the opportunity to teach in Changwon, South Korea for one year. Before the year was out, we were engaged and I spent my summer vacation visiting him.



We married in 2010, moved to PA and tossed around the idea of moving back to South Korea pretty continuously.

In 2013, we were seriously considering either moving to sunny SC or back to South Korea.  One day, Mike looked at me and asked, "Tell me what you want to do. South Carolina or South Korea?"

Instantly, in my gut, I felt that I should answer South Korea. However, I spoke out of my own desire to move back to my home state.

Before bed, I did a Bible study in my Charles Stanley Life Principles  Bible. Throughout the Scriptures he highlights consistent life principles. Throughout my study,  one principle kept standing out. Basically, it said that to obey God means to obey the initial promptings of the Holy Spirit. (Side note: if you don't have one of these Bibles I highly recommend it. He explains things so clearly.)

I started to feel as if I should have gone with that "gut feeling" and told my husband we were going to South Korea. I prayed and asked God for a sign that this was the right decision. I turned to the next page in my Bible, and there it was- the same principle again!

The next day, I told my husband we should go to South Korea and explained why. We started looking and applying for jobs.

Nothing was coming through, yet we still felt this was what God was calling us to do. So, we put in notices at our jobs and with our landlord.

We packed up and moved out.

The day after we moved out, my husband found and applied for a particular job. Within days we had interviewed and accepted the job.

And, here we are 1 month into our second year's contract.

A New Adventure!

Hello!

I have an announcement!

I am starting a new blog, called Wit and Wanderings.

I am still going to post to Diary of a Chocoholic. Ideally, I want continue to post funny stories and  my baking adventures on this blog.

I'm starting Wit and Wanderings because sometimes I want to talk about my faith. When I post it on here I feel like I am coming across as preachy since this is not why you came to visit my blog.

I'm also going to sponsor a once a month book club on Wit and Wanderings. If you're a reader, please come by and link up your own reviews. I will have a theme each month and the post will go up on the last day of the month.  Since the month of May is almost over, I'm not going to choose a theme for the month. Post a review of anything you like.

If you're interested in learning more about my faith, as well as some life lessons I've been learning in Korea and want some good book recommendations please come over to Wit  and Wanderings and follow along there as well.

I'm hoping that working on both blogs will keep my creative juices flowing!

A Day in the Life

Since my life has changed dramitically since moving here I thought I'd give you an average play by play of my day.

8am-9:30 Wake up and walk the dog. Make Mike a sandwich for lunch and me a sandwich for dinner. Pack the lunchbox for Mike to take to work. Bible and devotional reading. Check email


9:30am Mike leaves for work and I shower

10am Dishes/ prep for lunch and dinner/Laundry

11am Eat lunch

11:30-12:30 Get dressed/Bible reading/ writing time

12:30 Walk the dog

12:50-1:20 Finish anything that didn't get done earler/ relax

1:20-1:50 Walk to work

2:20-9:45 Teach English classes. Involves copious amounts of Rock Paper Scissors. I have younger kids in the afternoon the older ones in the evening. My students range from 6-15 years old. We recently switched from a games heavy to a study heavy system so I also reject multiple requests for games in a 40 minute period. Between my classes I eat the sandwich/pickles/chips/yogurt combo I packed. I also have 40 students to call once a month and do telephone teaching. On Wednesdays work is finished around 6:30pm. Mike and I use this time to go to dinner together and go to Costco once a month. Otherdays, Mike finishes at 6pm.

9:45- 10:15 Walk home

10:15-11:30 Watch TV with Mike and head to bed

What does your day look like?