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Knowledge is Powerful Stuff

Jul 21

Posted by Katie in Creativity, awesome, learning, life, technology | 1 Comment

One thing that I really regret is not learning more about technology. I’m convinced that we’re never going to go back to the days of my childhood, where the Internet was something that was pretty new as far as general use goes–remember when Jeeves was a part of Ask.com? And remember how you could ask him questions? Yeah, that was THE premier website of my elementary school days. **EDIT: Apparently, Jeeves is still alive and kicking! You can visit him here, if you’re nostalgic.** I know that growing up when I did, I’m pretty basic-level tech savvy, just by experience. Some people not too much older than I am actually have to work at using a lot of technological things that I take for granted–not knocking them, I can’t believe how much they’ve had to adapt (case in point: my parents remember when the VCR came out, while a friend much younger than I am didn’t realize that there was a time before Youtube).

But seriously, I wish that I had spent at least one class out of all my high school classes learning about computer science. You may think that this is a pretty nerdy thing to say, unless you happened to do so, in which case you’re probably thinking that it was an awesome thing to do, as well as a smart choice. Regardless of the real or imagined nerdiness, taking a computer science class in high school would have been really useful right about now. Why, you may ask? Well, aside from the fact that my fiance is seriously in to computers, the real answer is that we’re living in a time of transition, a time where pretty much every job I’m considering for a career would be greatly enhanced by a good dose of computer knowledge. Even books are going digital, and if I want to keep enjoying them, I’ve got to be prepared to do the same! Clearly, this blog is a big step forward, but I need to know more about the tech side of things if I want to be as valuable as I can be in today’s world. As a result of these musings, as well as of my impending graduation, I’ve decided to look into taking some sort of technical know-how class after I get married. I think that this time in my life, between my undergrad and graduate careers, will be best spent investing in the knowledge I ignored in the past. No matter what, it can’t hurt!

So here’s to gaining knowledge after college! I intend to keep learning skills that will be helpful to me, as wel as those around me. I also want to learn things just for fun, so if I come across a community college class that looks awesome, I just might take it! I think I’m becoming more inspired by the moment–so now seems like a good time to get some sleep and dream about coding and making awesome websites (Mark would be so proud!).

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Reading, writing, learning

Jun 23

Posted by Katie in Blog, books, fun, learning, writing | No Comments

As you may have noticed, the blog has started looking a little different, changing for the better–and will continue to do so for a little while. Here’s why: This summer is my last semester of college. I wanted to do something fun–for me, that is–since I will probably never take another English class again. I remembered back in the old days, when my parents took my brother and I to the library every summer, how we eagerly signed up for the summer reading program. Back then, reading was pretty much my only hobby, so I really got into the whole thing. This summer, in the absence of assigned literature, I decided to have my own summer reading program. However, there are no prizes in this program–no free books or pizzas or pool passes. No, this time around, I’m reading and reviewing books, and posting the reviews here, under the books tab. Why am I reviewing these books? Well, now I have at least two hobbies–reading and writing–and this little scheme allows me to indulge in both. Another reason is that maybe you’ll check out the books I’m reviewing, find one you like, and read it yourself. If that happens, we both get a little something out of the deal. Great, right?

Another addition is the causes tab. I’m a big believer in good causes, and I’m featuring those organizations that I believe in enough to send my own money to. Now, I’m not saying you have to go out and donate to these causes. If you don’t want to, that’s okay. I’m featuring them because I want you to know about some big issues I support–there are several of them–and I’m hoping that if you don’t know anything about these issues, you’ll learn about them. Knowledge of the problem, after all, is the first step to identifying the solution.

These are the newest changes to the site, but I’m sure they won’t be the only ones. Keep coming back to see what’s new!

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Day One

Jan 19

Posted by Katie in awesome, college, learning | 2 Comments

And so it begins…my last full semester of college. Sure, I’ll have two classes this summer, but seriously, those don’t really match up to the intensity of a full semester. I had my 8 am class this morning, where I found out that I’m pretty sure I’m going to like it, despite the terrible timing. The class is aerobic walking (which sounds funny), and it is made up almost entirely of women. There is, as of today, one lonely male. Maybe he’ll find a girlfriend, if he doesn’t already have one. One of my coworkers is in the class with me, as is a friend that I’ve had in several classes before. It should be a great way to get exercise and have fun, too.

My other class today was 20th century America. I’m pretty excited about this class, although I know that it will be quite a bit of work. Nevertheless, I am really looking forward to it! I still have three more classes to go before I’ve been to all of them, but I think that they have great potential as well. There is one that I am looking forward to a little less than the others, but I won’t say which one, just in case it turns out to be fun.

Our new roomie, Brandi, moved in last weekend, and so far she’s fitting in great! She is a lot of fun to hang out with, which is always a plus! I hope to spend a lot more time with my friends this semester, since I’m taking fewer hours. We’ll see how that goes!

Well, I’ve got a paper to write, so I’ll wrap it up for today. If I have a chance, I’ll update again at the end of the week so that I can tell you how my other classes are going. Oh! I almost forgot! My church is doing something really cool! We’re having 10 different goals in 2010, some of which will be community service-type things. The next one is a book fundraiser for a local Headstart pre-k class! I’m really excited about this, and can’t wait to kick it off! Check out our website for more details! You can find it at http://glenrosebaptist.org.

Later gators!

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Thinking of the wishful variety

Sep 17

Posted by Katie in learning, life | No Comments

Dear Everyone,

I’m sorry that my blogging has been rather skimpy of late. I have found myself swamped with learning! Between Shakespeare, East Asian Literature, Advanced Written Communication, Urban Development and Constitutional Law, I have so much reading to do I practically keep my books open all the time! Plus, planning a wedding is more complicated than it seems, but you can hear about all of that over at http://www.markandkatie.us.

One thing that I am really enjoying right now is the surprisingly fall-like weather! Here in Dallas, it has been rainy and cool for pretty much the past week. Although I am a sunshine-lovin’ gal, I adore the atmosphere provided by a chilly day and dark skies. Seriously, this is curl up by the fire, wrapped up in a blanket, drinking a hot chocolate while reading a good novel weather! If only I had the time. And a fireplace. Oh well, I’ll settle for reading a textbook in my under-the-lofted-bed workspace. :)

Well, that’s all I’ve got for now. See ya!

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There’s No Place Like…Homestay?

Aug 12

Posted by Katie in Mission Trip, South Korea, awesome, fun, learning, life | 5 Comments

Homestay (n): A foreign student staying in the home of a citizen of the country the student is visiting for a set length of time. Commonly experienced by study-abroad participants, and sometimes by short-term mission trip participants.

As you may recall from earlier posts, I had a little trepidation about staying in the home of a Korean family. I really didn’t want to offend anyone, and I was slightly afraid of what I might encounter. However, you may also remember that I was also excited at the prospect of learning a new culture firsthand. When we arrived in Korea, we were promptly deposited in an apartment a few minutes away from the church, our base. We had been told about homestays, but they never materialized…at least until last week. At dinner one night, Pastor Ryan (our liaison with the church)mentioned that he needed three of us to volunteer for a homestay. You could have heard a pin drop. None of us wanted to leave the home that we were used to and the friends that were now more like family. Brave Kristine finally asked if she could think about it. Later that night, she and I discussed our feelings about it, and decided we might be interested, but not enough to bring it up again. Fast forward to last Saturday. We are back in Suwon after a day trip to Seoul. Pastor Ryan has taken us to Pizza Hut (as mentioned in my last post) and he is sitting on the opposite end of the opposite side of the long table. Near Kristine. I don’t know how it happened, but somehow, she and I ended up committing to do a homestay for one night, then we would decide whether to continue. I was more informed than asked, but hey, that’s how good experiences happen, right?

So on Monday, we packed our bags and got ready to go that night after Kristine was done teaching at 9:00. I got done at 5:00, so I had to walk down the mountain hill that leads to the church alone. As I went, I wondered if they would like me, if I would like them, and what the conditions would be. It turns out that I shouldn’t have worried! Mr. Park has been coming to America fairly often for the last ten years or so, and speaks really good English. His wife, Mrs. Lee, is functional in English, and good at getting her point across. They have a nine year old daughter who is very beautiful, but also shy.

Mr. Park picked us up and drove us the 15 minutes to the apartment. When we got there, we were greeted by his wife and daughter, as well as a married couple with whom they are very close. That couple invited us all to their apartment the following day for Korean food after we got back from teaching. So much for staying one night! We are now staying until Friday morning, with our last night and family dinner scheduled for Thursday. :)

It is an interesting experience to say the least, but one that I am so glad I am having. There probably isn’t a better host family out there, as they have done nothing but make us feel welcome. Kristine and I have had some great times already…especially the delicious dinner prepared for us by the neighbors! We had crab, noodles, pumpkin soup (yummy!), rice cakes and more, making it the best meal we have had in Korea! I was really full for the first time since I’ve been here!

I know that I will remember this experience for the rest of my life, and I know that next time I’m offered a chance to spend some time with locals, I’ll say yes immediately!

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The Final Countdown

Jul 20

Posted by Katie in God, South Korea, awesome, learning, teaching, update, world | 2 Comments

So, in two days I will be headed to Suwon, South Korea. I’ll be there for 3.5 weeks, teaching English, leading VBS and learning a ton about Korean culture. The last time I went to Korea (last fall break), I learned a lot in only a week. The increase from this experience should be astronomical!

Our game plan has changed somewhat over the past few months, but as of today, it looks like we will be flying out of DFW at 10:10 Wednesday and landing in Tokyo around 1:05 on Thursday. The flight lasts 13 hours! Then we have about a six hour layover in Japan, and we will head to Seoul, where we will arive two or three (I can’t remember) hours later. From Incheon International Airport, we will have about an hour-two hour drive to Suwon, my home for the next month.

I am definitely excited, but I feel so unprepared/overwhelmed when I think about it. I have never been so far away for so long, which is exciting, but still challenging at the same time. I know I will miss my family and friends, and Mark, and American food, but I have my team, new places to see, new foods to try and, of course, God. :) I will be just fine, I think.

One thing that does have me slightly on edge is the fact that we might be staying in host homes, maybe even by ourselves. on the one hand, this is a really great, once in a lifetime, worldview shaping event that will be the best way to experience Korea. On the other hand, I do not know Korean, am kinda creeped out by several Korean foods, and a little worried that I may end up offending some nice people due to my lack of cultural knowledge. I think the pluses are undeniably better than the minuses are bad, but still, I am tad worried. :)

I don’t know how much internet time I’ll be able to snag, but I’ll do my best to keep you updated on everything.

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What’ve you been doing lately?

Mar 10

Posted by Katie in God, South Korea, awesome, learning, teaching | 1 Comment

Lately, I haven’t had the urge to blog, which is kind of strange. I guess it’s been because nothing really exciting has happened. At least, nothing that can be of any interest to anyone besides me.

A few days ago, though, I got some news that definitely got me excited. I found out that I am going to be going to Korea for a little less than a month this summer to teach English. Whoa. I still can’t believe it. The process was crazy, consisting of me wanting to go on this trip as soon as I found out about it in November, then deciding I didn’t want to go anymore after asking that a couple letters of recommendation get sent in (and not sending in the application), followed by receiving a call like last month asking me to set up a time for an interview (and please, fill out your application), to interviewing twice and then finding out I’m going. To South Korea. To teach. For three weeks. Again, whoa.

I am super excited about the whole shebang, but I am a little scared, too. I mean, what if I mess this up? What if I somehow get lost? What if someone wants me to eat fish intestines again? The thing is, none of these things are viable fears (except the fish guts). God has this totally under control, and I expect to learn a lot about trusting in and depending on him. So I guess you can say I am confident in my fears, because I know that when I am weak, he is strong.

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Round Two

Feb 2

Posted by Katie in Creativity, God, fun, language, learning, mission, refugee ministry, teaching | 3 Comments

Last time I told you about the beginnings of Ariel and I’s encounter with the Bhutanese refugee ministry that we joined. This time, let me take you in a little deeper…

On Thursday night, Ariel and I went to Target to get some things for the kids we would be teaching. We went through aisle after aisle finding things we thought would be useful to us. We got some cute stickers to pass out, some brand new crayons, paper to draw on, highlighters for prizes, neat pens, Play-Doh, and more. we also got a cool box to put it all in. We’re quite professional, Ariel and I.

When we got home, Ariel began to work on our lesson plan (she is an expert there, after all). we decided to teach about Jesus feeding the 5,000 people with only two fish, five loaves of bread and a major miracle. She created a whole curriculum, including a lesson, questions and appropriate craft. We definitely felt prepared.

Saturday arrives and we pack up our box, our Bibles and our lessons and head of north Dallas. We missed a turn on the way up, so after about a ten minute detour, we got there a few minutes late (but there really is no late here!). We sang some songs with the families all together (one song in Nepali that we knew the chorus to (no idea what we’re saying, though), a couple of songs where all we could do was clap, and a song in English that the missionaries taught the refugees). Now was the time. We took our three children into a separate room and began teaching them. Things didn’t really go as planned, though, because they had already heard our story on TV! We quizzed them on it and then started coloring, allowing them to teach us!  Ariel and I began to ask them how to say different words and phrases in Nepali, ensuring their continual amusement as two white girls tried desperately to wrap their tongues around polysyllabic words in a language where cloud and monkey apparently are said in almost the exact same way. What an adventure! I do remember how to say “black,” and we are definitely going to study some words before we go back so that we can impress them! Haha! we definitely had a wonderful afternoon with the kids. In the end,  few more boys came, giving us a total of five silly boys and a wonderful girl (as well as a very amused mother who sat in, too!) ranging in age from six to fourteen. We were promised that more children would come next time, so we are looking forward to that challenge.

Next weekend, Ariel will be attending a cool conference, so it will be Mark and I attempting to cross cultures and share Jesus with some new found friends. I love this job. :)

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Meeting Bhutan

Jan 25

Posted by Katie in God, learning, refugee ministry, teaching, world | 2 Comments

I have always loved meeting people from other countries and getting to share in their cultures (see many posts here for more details). I recently got a chance to become involved in refugee ministry here in Dallas. Yesterday, my roommate Ariel and I went to house church with some people who minister to Bhutanese refugees. It was an amazing experience that I will always remember.

We arrived after the apartment full of people had already begun singing in Nepali. Talk about being thrown into the culture! The language is complex and beautiful, and I really enjoyed listening to it. It was interesting, though, when they requested that Ariel and the missionaries and I had to sing a couple of songs. Talk about stepping out of my comfort zone! Hearing new believers talking about how they wanted to give their lives and trust to God was amazing as well. They have been through a lot, from being kicked out of Bhutan for speaking the wrong language (Nepali) and being the wrong religion (Hindu) to being relocated to Dallas, so it is amazing that they have decided to become Christians and begun following God with a great desire.

Next week, Ariel and I are going to start a children’s ministry so that the eleven or so kids can get something out of it as well. I’m looking forward to watching that develop into something great! I know it will be difficult, but the reward will be greater than I can imagine. We are definitely going to need God’s help, though! Oh, and prayers would be greatly appreciated!

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Forward and Back.

Dec 31

Posted by Katie in Creativity, Mission Trip, Passion, Photography, awesome, college, dream, learning, life, list, writing | No Comments

Wow. 2009 is just a matter of mere hours away. How did this happen? How was it just the start of another semester, and now that same semester is long gone? Seriously, these past few months have been the quickest moving period of time I have ever experienced. And boy, were they full! I mean, looking back, there was so much crammed into them that we should really only be in October now.

Here are some major highlights, just so you know what I’m talking about. I went to IL, had a couple of friends get married, started the semester, gotten a new roommate, seen many friends get engaged, had more friends get married, gone to Korea, hung out with friends, written papers, done projects, worked, taken millions of tests and quizzes, gone to the symphony, celebrated holidays, spent time with family, written a letter to the editor, gotten addicted to two shows, seen friends that I hadn’t seen in forever, helped plan/ prepare to be in a wedding, worked out, etc.

You have to admit that that is quite the list, especially since it all took place in a matter of months! There are some things missing from that list, though. Things I should have done, but didn’t. There are people I wish I would have called, books I really wanted to read, days when I should have gone out to take pictures, adventures I didn’t go on, and more. But really, I will do my best to make 2009 a year where I do all the things need to do (well, not all. I would like to have a reason to go on living!).

Here are a few things just off of the top of my head that I really want to do in this new year:

1. Learn how to cook. Not just easy stuff, but medium to hard level stuff.
2. Read a LOT. For fun, not just school.
3. Finally pull off that 4.0 I’ve been wanting. I know, I’m a nerd.
4. Accomplish something in the save the world category. I’m working on this right now, actually. I will write all about it when I have something definite.
5. Write something really good. Something memorable.
6. Go somewhere I’ve never been before.
7. Blog more often.
8. Go to Austin
9. Take more pictures
10. To be determined at a later date!

I guess that’s all for now, I’ve got a few things already on the agenda for 2009…my cousin is getting married, one of my friends is going to Denmark, and I’ve got my first 4000 level class coming up. It should be a good year. :)