Karen Meets Korea

Life is so filled with funny moments. Lately I have felt as though I could make millions of dollars with some of my adventures here in Seoul. I wonder if we are provided to encounter the most embarrassing moments to humble us in our journey on this earth. First I will begin with general updates and then end on funny highlights. Get you favorite beverage, relax and enjoy this read as I bring you up to speed. Updates: As many of you already know I took the Millers Analogy Test recently. My score will be revealed by the end of July. I am planning to continue my education at the Yongsan Garrison Army base through the Troy University extension. Degree plan: Master's in International Relations. Due to begin in August. Special thanks to Rick Tavarres, my ... read more

Ever wonder why we think we have it all together when really we are not in control of the final outcomes. I find it so funny that we painstakingly plan, toil and stress over so so many things in this life that in the end tend to work out for good. Of course, our initial choices do play a role in our personal level of satisfaction in regards to the outcomes. Let me take you on my journey of highlights regarding some of my final outcomes for the week. I visited Insadong with my Hanji instructor, Sangsil. We enjoyed lunch and visited a few art galleries. She introduced me to the bus transit system. I personally still prefer the subway. After lunch she directed me to the subway entry for my home destination. I got on ... read more

I am told spring is right around the corner and I must say that I can feel the difference as the warmer days are making their much appreciated appearance. I see the signs of the trees green buds and the cherry blossoms delicate flowers beginning to reveal their inner beauty. One day this past week I was able to take off my jacket on my journey to and from the subway. It was refreshing! We have been experiencing the yellow dust which reminds me of the oak pollen in San Antonio. At this time the dust is not as heavy as the pollen, we will see as time progresses as to the increase in density. Currently I am working on what I would claim to be a beginner Hanji Painting masterpiece. My plans are to have ... read more

This week my amazing hubby Matt surprised me by bringing our oldest son Dustin, his wife Melissa and our 3 gorgeous granddaughters to Seoul for my Birthday. On Sunday evening I was playing soft music and working on a Hanji Painting when low and behold 3 little girls come bouncing in to greet me. I had tears of happiness flowing down my face. This was so awesome. I will share our journey this week more in photos and videos. Cyrstal was so kind as to design a daily itenerary of activities to do during their visit. Thank you Crystal, we are so appreciative. Mon, 03/07- We began our journey taking the subway to Youinaru Station to visit Building 63 the tallest building in Seoul. Building 63 contains aquariums filled with fish, otters, penguins, seals just to ... read more

This week I will take you along on my journey into Bangkok, Thailand. I had the pleasure of joining Monique and Pam on their adventure. It was time of discovery and bonding with new friends. Lifestyles in Bangkok are very enlightling. On this journey it is best to visit with an open mind that is completely free of judging others. I am learning about many cultures, customs and daily lifestyles which predetermine individual lifestyle choices that may be a bit foreign to my understanding. 02/22- Tues. Monique, Pam and I had planned to leave from DHL at 5:45 a.m. Upon arrival to the base I encountered a snag. 'I had left my base pass at the apartment which was 5 min. away'. Matt turned around and we went back to our home so that I could ... read more