In the End........

It's been a week since she's been home, and what a week it's been. 

This has been a life changing occurrence, one that neither of us will ever forget. 

We have done some pretty phenomenal things together, seeing various people, places and things.  I believe that everything we have experienced has prepared her for South Korea on her own.  But never have I seen her float the way she has since she's been home.  She describes the trip with enthusiasm I didn't know existed.  I can tell when she's reminiscing, a smile-a genuine wide smile spreads across her face and her eyes light up.  

There is a chance she can go again next summer.  Now I know, in entirety, how the program works:  In actuality KLACUSA takes about 80 kids a summer.  Half of those are selected and awarded a scholarship while the other half pay a larger part of the program fee (and there is no application/essay required).  This year the "other half" paid $1300.  One of the students on the trip has been three times.  Her first time was scholarship sponsored, the other two trips her parents paid for.  So...depending on interests, time, money and life happenings she may go again in summer 2013.

The first 2 days back she spent glued to Facebook.  Every few minutes a fellow student turned friend was either requesting her friendship, accepting her friendship, adding new pictures, tagging her or requesting a tag. Based on photos alone they all look like they had a ball!!! 

She is still jet lagged.  Over the last two days she has slept a little longer during the night.  Every morning when I wake up she is up.  Dressed, hair done, make up perfected-and smiling.  There have been several nights that she has woken me up at 2 or 3am to share a story about her trip or show me an item she'd forgotten to share.  And I live in the moment, not ever wanting this excitement to end. 

She came home with wonderful stories, a new level of maturity, a new nickname (The girl with the hat and red nails), and an appreciation of the hard work it took, as a family, to get her there. 

These last 3 months have been wild.  For us both it's been a mixture of nervousness, excitement, denial, confusion, happiness, satisfaction, relief, pride, sadness, fear, trust, anger, but most of all love. 

I am beyond proud of Tenaysia and her accomplishments.  

Until next time.......

City life by day

City life by night

Country Life

Visiting a high school

The Namsan Tower

The Converse Club

Samulnori classmates

Doing more than watching the throne

Having a great life!

Skin glistening at the farewell party

Interview with a Weary Traveler

 
I'm sitting at the table with Tenaysia Powell.  Tenaysia, 14 years old, has recently returned to Arizona from South Korea.  After sharing a lovely dinner of home made sesame chicken, I thought it was time to document answers to random questions.

As always Tenaysia's response is in bold print.

How was your flight there?
Boring.  All I did was watch the screen in front of me that showed where the airplane was on a map.  

Were you afraid on the flight?
NO, No, no.  I did communicate with the flight attendant in hangul (old school Korean language) on the way back.

How many different modes of transportation did you guys use?
2, airplane and bus.

How did the buses compare to Sun Tran?
(With great enthusiasm) The frickin' city buses were like our tour buses.  They were clean, no graffiti and had TVs! They were just....Nice!

Were the buses handicap accessible?
Ummm, I don't think so, I'm not sure.

What side of the street do they drive on?
Right.

What side of the bus was the steering wheel on?
Left.

Are there more cars or bikes?
Lots of cars.  Seems like because it's so heavily populated, and so many people drive cars, it would be dangerous to ride a bike.

Did you like your roommate?
Yes, Except for one thing (I've promised not to repeat it).

Who did you like the most and why?
Harrietta and Nayong.  They were fun to hang out with.  They were very nice.

Who did you like the least and why?
Kelsey.  She was a bossy hypocrite.

Did you ever get bored?
Only on the bus when we were on our way somewhere.

Did you have a hard time falling asleep?
Only the first 2 days.  By the 3rd day I was used to the time change and fell right to sleep.

What did you spend most of your money on?
Snacks.  Most of them were by one get one free.  Not, by one get one half off, FREE!  That made me want to go back for more.

What was your favorite snack?
Probably...The Mini Pringles.  It was funny because we drew on the Pringles guy.

What item did you spend the most money on that you actually brought home?
My black and gray panda shirt.

How would you describe the weather?
Humid.

What city that you've been to could you compare the humidity to?
Chicago. 

If you could go back for one day, what would you do there?
Noraebang (Karaoke)
Why?
Because it was fun.
You could do Karaoke here.
Mom, it's not the same.  There's a better countdown, flashing lights, comfortable seats.  So, it's like you're at a club but no alcohol and lots of fun.
Did you sing?
Yes, duh!
What did you sing?
Yellow Submarine, Lonely, Cry, Rolling in the deep, Fantastic Baby, It hurts, Oh Yeah, and Please don't Cry.
You sang all of these alone??
No, we sang them together.  There were 2 microphones and we shared them. 

Tell me about your overnight trip.
We stayed the night at Yeongju, a village that did not have wi-fi.  The most memorable thing there was a moth as big as a bird, and the buildings were amazing.  They are at least 600 years old.  You can relate to being that old mom! Hahahahaha!  My favorite thing about the village were the mountains, we were surrounded by them--mountain, after mountain and it was so green there.  Very peaceful. 

What was the name of the temples you went to?
I don't remember.  We mostly went to palaces, not temples.  Although we did go to a Buddhist temple.  Students go there and bow 109 times so they can pass their exams.

Speaking of students, tell me about the high school you visited.
Our group were the very first Americans to ever visit.  There was even a news crew there to report the story.  As soon as we got off the bus the students began to cheer and clap for us.  I was so proud to be an American.  Liz, a high school student, said they did a major clean up to prepare for our visit.  There was fake grass and a couple of fake rocks in the bathroom.  That was so weird.  We ate bulgogi with the students, it was delicious!  Liz was really cool.  I am happy I don't go to school there, they only get 2 weeks off for summer vacation.  We toured the school and got to spend time in the classrooms.  Me, Harrietta and Kelsey got to sing with the most famous Korean folk singer.  We freaked out when she hit the high notes!

Explain your Samulnori class.
It was fun!  It's basically a Korean drum class.  Each drum has different tones.  The double sided drum seemed to be the hardest to play.  The cymbals were challenging to play on beat.  The drum was difficult to hold and play at the same time, it was important to use your feet to balance the drum--we sat on the floor when we played.  We'd play a beat following the director, each beat would get louder and louder.  In between each section we'd have to say a tongue twister, I never got it right.  Before we started to play we'd have to rock back and forth to get in a zone and wait to be told when to begin playing.  After our last lesson the teacher joined in on a body pile!!  
If you were able to go again would you take the class again? 
Oh Yes!!!  I heard Taekwondo was insane!

You were so nervous about the Namsan tower, how did that go?
Well, turns out we needed to buy a ticket to go to the top and I was out of money!!  It was pretty to look at, glad I didn't go all the way up.  The view was beautiful from where I was, that was enough.

What was the most disgusting thing you ate?
Probably this muffin bread thing.  It tasted like the "s" word.
You've tasted the "s" word before?
Do you want to taste the "s" word? hahahahaha!  It had no flavor.  It was just bread.  It was, I don't even know how to describe it.  It was gross is all I can say.  

What was the best thing you ate?
Sesame Chicken.
Did it taste better than mine?
Yeah, you know Mom, I don't want to hurt your feelings and please don't take this the wrong way, but no.  Yours kind of tastes like it but not much. 

Now that you've been to South Korea, what country do you want to go to next?
Ummm, oh wow, there are so many places I don't even know where I want to go next.

Do you still want to live there as an adult?
Yep.
In the city?
Yep, because it's nice.  It rains, the weather is cool.  Items are relatively inexpensive.  The people are kind.  The fashion is so 2012, not like Tucson and it's 1976 style.

And what do you want to do?
Teach. 

Do you still think it's your destiny?
Yes.

When you have children what will you tell them about this experience?
This was the most amazing thing I've ever done.  Hard work definitely pays off.
This experience was life changing.  It opened my eyes to what the world has to offer.  I feel more mature since I've been home and I am so glad I got to go. 

******!!!!!!SURPRISE!!!!!*******

The very end of my 8th grade year, I got a new waterbed and comforter set to go along with it.  It was a great way to start my high school years.  I remember the excitement and the feeling of maturity.  The water bed was a full size with drawers underneath and a shelf along the length.  Note, by the end of my junior year the mattress had way too many holes and was replaced with old couch cushions.  To be a teenager again.....

I wanted to do the same for her.  Before the trip came to be I was hoping to send her away for a weekend with one of her aunties or uncle so I could redecorate her room.  The blessing of South Korea was perfect!

The state of her bedroom pre-Korea was a bit unorganized.  No bed frame to speak of.  Her white baby dresser was in her closet.  Drawings (mostly by Aunt Imaunii) all over the walls.  A black bookshelf held her TV.  A black shelf mounted on the wall with knick knacks.  Pac-Man, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Wave, and random video game posters were plastered on the walls.  Chinese fans and glow in the dark stars over her window...sensory overload!  Her bathroom was cute.  A simple zebra patterned shower curtain with black/white towels and rugs.  She had mentioned being tired of it, she was wanting something more colorful.

The hope was to organize and girl-ify her room some.  Before she left we went shopping for a new comforter set.  She chose the reversible kind with hues of yellow, white, gray, and black-stripes on one side, flowers on the other.  While it spruced up the room some it wasn't enough.

The day after I returned from Chicago I began the painful task of removing all of the drawings and washing the walls.  Everything in the room came out!  Where did all this crap come from?????????  Me I suppose.

The original plan was to purchase a new bedroom set.  After talking to Grandpa Larry, he was kind enough to surrender the bedroom set that was in the spare room on Rimrock Drive-that of which belonged to Naysia's Nanna.  My mom and I spent a Saturday morning making 2 trips to Grandpa Larry's to pick up the furniture: a full size bed/frame, dresser and table.

Van Gogh's Starry Night was presented to her by Angela and Todd during her 'Going Away Party'.  Hokusai's The Great Wave poster was framed.  Cherry blossom room divider from the 17th Street Farmer's Market.  Baseboards were scrubbed, new curtains hung, old posters carefully rolled up and put away.  Japanese Cherry Blossom air fresheners plugged in, bathroom a wild array of colors......a room carefully put together-where she'll feel the love as she is surrounded by items from so many important people.

The night she came home it took about 2 hours before she finally opened the door to her room.  She was so surprised!!!!  With my mom and I in attendance she stood in the center, mouth gaped open, slowly spinning around she looked at everything that surrounded her.  And then it dawned on her where the furniture was from and she became solemn, she wishes-we both wish- Nanna was here to enjoy these most recent events.  Momma Marie would be so pleased with Naysia.

In the middle of the night she woke me up just to thank me for all that had been done for her.  Since then she has added several boy band posters to the open wall space.  She spreads herself across the bed, crosses her arms, and smiles sweetly.  Mission accomplished!

Bibbity Bobbity Haboob

First things first, I need to know why she's crying.  It went on for so long I was starting to think there was a 'Yellow Shirt' I may need to choke.  Yuna came over to assess the situation.  As she came up behind me she says, "See Mom, she's alive...Oh no, what's wrong?"  Naysia let me go.  Stood erect, took off her glasses, wiped her face with the sweater sleeve, opened her eyes sweetly smiled and said,

"I had an awesome time"

"Mom, I'm hungry and I'm out of money"

That was music to my ears!!  My tense shoulders dropped and I smiled.  Yuna ran off as she had other students to tend to.  Miss Kim, who Naysia had been walking with, came over to introduce herself.  While she did not stay for the entire trip she had escorted the children there and back.  Part of her duties that day were to make sure Naysia made it to Terminal 2 for her Southwest flight to Phoenix. Dr. Moon obviously relieved her of that duty since I was there.  She shared her good wishes and I thanked her for taking care of my girl.  

I had so many questions to ask, but Naysia first had to say goodbye to her new friends.  There was a large group of students behind us.  She made her way over and I began to follow her, but stopped.  She needed that moment alone.  I stood in the corner and watched her interactions, mesmerized by her as she loved on her new friends.  She has become an incredible young lady.  She made her way back to me with tears in her eyes.  

We negotiated the carrying of bags and slowly made our way, by foot, to Terminal 2.  As we strolled we were arm in arm.  I wanted to know everything!  (I'll address specific topics in a later post).  She talked about the flight, food, weather, people, buildings, museums, bugs, money, cosmetics, roommate, clothes, the city and the countryside.  

We had a 3 hour wait ahead of us.  Once we got our tickets and checked luggage we got some lunch.  At the table not only did we eat, but go through her 1405 pictures and videos.  I've never seen her so fired up.  I did not want the moment to end.  We were able to find an empty row of seats near the tail of the plane.  I was certain she would sleep, but gratefully she did not.  We continued to talk, and soon after we started the gentleman next to her began to chime in as well.  

The flight was great until we neared Phoenix.  There was turbulence, and lots of it.  Everytime the plane shook she grabbed my arm tighter with her right hand.  On the left side she grabbed the arm rest.  The gentleman would kindly bring up a topic in an attempt to ease her fears.  As we looked at the window the turbulence creator was apparent....what I was most afraid would happen, a haboob on the horizon. 

Once luggage was claimed we went outside and were hit by a blast of hot wind and sand.  We walked against the wind with our eyes squinted to the blue diamond shuttle pick up and were sitting in good ole Lance within 10 minutes.  I was hoping that the haboob had already gone over I-10.  We jumped on the freeway.  The Wild Horse Pass exit was in my rear view; but in front of us cars began to disappear into the dreaded dust storm.  What are we gonna do now????  

I was scared.  Quickly I pulled over but could not remember.  Are the lights left on?  Off?  Blinkers?  I wish I had paid more attention to the 10 o'clock news.  I was on the verge of crying.  All I could envision was a car slamming into the back of us, or a side swipe.  Ugh!!!  

But my little Naysia, wide awake, with a grin on her face says, "Mom, it's going to be fine.  Let's just sit here and talk some more.  It's actually kind of fun, like an adventure"

For 30 minutes or so we sat, and talked.  And as I pulled onto the freeway and cruised home all I could think about is how very fortunate I am to have her.

Later we learned the haboob knocked out power for about 9000 in Phoenix, and the airport was shut down for nearly an hour.  We made it in just in time. 

The Rebirth

 March 11, 1998.  A seemingly unhealthy feeling of excitement and fear are in my heart.  I have never been that nervous.  That day could not come fast enough, yet I did not want to face it.  Sure, pain was going to occur, but what I was most afraid of was how I was going to raise this little beauty on my own.  Her father was uninterested-I was to be her everything.  After 4 hours of labor she was finally in my arms.  She cried and tears quietly fell from my eyes.  Although family and nurses were around, in that moment it was just the 2 of us, nothing and no one else mattered.  That night, after all the visitors left and it was just we, I was filled with hope, love and thankfulness. Suffocated by emotions, I could not cry or smile.  All I could do was bask in the blessing of motherhood.

Fast forward to July 21, 2012.  As I waited in the airport I was once again excited and fearful.  It's been a very long 3 weeks without her.  Fear began to set in.  What's taking so long for her to surface?  I had not been that nervous since the day she was born. 

Every time I saw someone in a yellow shirt, butterflies would appear...only to immediately disappear.  30 minutes passed, 45 minutes passed and still no Naysia.  One 'Yellow Shirt' from their group came out!  She must be right behind.  But she wasn't.  I rocked back and forth, checked the time repeatedly, read the screen over and over again.  Where is my girl?!!

And then she turned the corner.  She walked alongside one of the teachers, yellow shirt donned, hat on, and all luggage in tow.  We locked eyes and I waved furiously.  She calmly made her way around the metal bars.  I fished through the crowd. We hugged...and cried. In that moment it was just the 2 of us, nothing and no one else mattered, it was just me and my girl.  Once again I was filled with hope, love and thankfulness. It felt so good to have my baby in my arms!

The Happiest Place on Earth

I lit a candle Friday night and prayed for safe travel for Naysia and her group, among other things. There was very little sleep for me as all I could do was think about what lay ahead.

The alarm went off at 5am, but I did not get out of the bed until 515am.  I showered and dressed~most thrilled that for a change I did not have a bag to pack.  Checked, double checked and triple checked for ID and cash in my purse.

The car was gassed up the night before so no early morning stops needed to be made.  I was on I-10 West by 645am.  As I entered Phoenix my only thought was, please don't let there be a dust storm this evening on our way home.

The flight to LA was uneventful.  I luckily had a window seat.  On the way I read and dozed off.  We arrived right on schedule.  I printed my return ticket and headed to the Tom Bradley International Terminal.

Asiana Flight 020 was scheduled to arrive at 12pm, I got to the terminal about 1145.  The arrival floor is set up like so:  There is a circular area in the center of the room that makes for a dramatic arrival.  Surrounding the area are bars to keep those waiting from entering.  Along the wall is a huge screen announcing flight times, arrivals, delays, etc.  As I faced the area I noticed people straggling up a ramp on the right side.  I settled into a spot directly across the ramp and impatiently waited for her to walk up-Her flight arrived 10 minutes early, surely she'd be making her way around the corner soon.

As I waited I people watched.  Numerous nationalities, ages, professions, men, women, boys and girls all gathered in the same room, waiting.  Waiting for a friend, family member, undoubtedly a loved one to emerge.  I smiled listening to cheers, reading "welcome home" signs, and seeing people embrace often times with tears rolling down their cheeks.  This was one of the happiest places I've ever been.

I was about to burst waiting for my turn to hug my girl!

Just Do It

 I spent part of last night researching summer programs in Korea as I know she wants to return next year.  The program she's currently participating in is a one time only deal, the others are pretty costly. If she forfeits Christmas and her birthday we may be able to make an exchange student trip happen in 2013.

She's a day ahead.  The time in South Korea is Tuesday about 9:15am.  I have her activity itinerary saved on my desktop and I noticed her tonight is what she has been dreading.....the Namsan Tower.

I'm hoping that since she is with her new friends that she will be encouraged to face her fears and go as high in the tower as they possibly can. 

I wish I could get her on the phone and tell her, remind her, to do just do it!

5 more days til she comes home and I have structure :)  I can hardly wait to hear about this great adventure.

Since She's Been Gone.....

What I thought was going to happen: The days after returning home from Chicago are going to go by so slow.  I am going to be a mess.  I am going to be so bored.  I am going to miss Naysia terribly!

What has happened:  The days after returning from Chicago have flown by!!  Work has kept me hella busy-and stressed out.  I won't share the issues here but all four days were quite miserable.  I'm off today with a possibility of going into work looming.  I may not show up tomorrow, we'll see.
That being said, my days have been long on campus, and I've had to do hours of work at home.

I had a "moment" on Tuesday night with all these wild thoughts running through my head. I went to bed thinking.... I'm so lonely, I'm so bored, what am I going to do,  I wish I had a husband and more kids to pour my energy in to.  Crazy, right? Right.

Spent some time with my mom and Imaunii on Thursday.  We had a movie night, watched 'The Woman in Black' and 'Safehouse'.  I worked hard in the drive-thru and brought home McDonald's double cheeseburgers and fries.  A big cup of Kool-Aid with a dash of whipped creme vodka made for a good night.

I've had several invitations to hang out with friends but have not been able to.  I've been working on Naysia's "welcome back" surprise, which has been tedious, but fun!

Late Wednesday night I had a welcomed surprise.  The program leaders sent parents a Shutterfly link to view pictures they have taken of the students.  As I went through about 500 photos, with each click I was hopeful that Naysia would be visible.  If a picture is truly worth a thousand words, it looks like they are all having a fantastic time.  They've done some incredible sightseeing, she seems to have made several friends.  Three students and a teacher have had birthdays-so they were celebrated, presented with some pretty elaborate cakes.  The skies are gray and the clouds hang low.  At most times they have umbrellas in hand and Naysia is wearing her hat in every picture.

This is the longest we've been apart, of course I miss her very much.  This time next week I'll be about to head to Phoenix and fly to LA to meet her. This week has provided a tiny glimpse into what life will be like as she continues to grow older and explore her freedom.  So just what am I going to do when she is grown?  Undoubtedly my care, concern and responsibility won't disappear, it will change.   I need to explore other interests besides working and cake decorating.  And most importantly I need to learn how to use the TV, DVD player and PS3.

Chicago Style Facebook Stalking

 

It was best for me to go to Chicago the first week that Naysia was gone.  My flights from LA to Chicago and back home were rather uneventful.  I slept most of the time.

Chicago with Chai was great.  This is the first time we've been apart this long~thus the first time ever that I've been on "vacation" this long without her.

Here is a brief summary of my 6 days there.

Eat, sleep, sweat, sight see.

Clarke's, Pot Belly Sandwich Shop, Grand Lux Cafe, Haagen Dasz, Lou Manati's, Giodarno's Pizza, Churros, Ice Cream, Marvin's Homemade Popcorn, Baskin Robbins, Millennium Park Hot Dog Stand.

Navy Pier, Water Taxi, cirque Shanghai, Seadog Speed Boat, Greenhouse Theatre, Art Institute, Millennium Park, Chicago Cultural Center, Oak Street Beach, 57th Street Beach, The Amazing Spiderman, Field Museum, Navy Pier, Lincoln Park Zoo, Scattergories, and the Sears Tower Skydeck.

WHEW!!!

The first couple of days were torturous because I had not heard from Naysia. I had learned they arrived safely from another~but I wanted to hear from her! Finally, on Thursday night I got a message from her.  All was well!!!  Since then her posts have been pretty vague.  The time between activities is brief, they are keeping the kids quite busy.  She responds to all of my questions but not with much detail.  Naysia has been posting pictures of food.  I have seen where she is "friending" students that are on the trip with her.  So, I've spent far too much time on their Facebook pages (stalking) piecing together photos and comments to get a better idea about what they are up to. 

Tonight I am really missing her.  Currently taking a break from a big surprise I have planned for her return home.  Over these next 10 days I will be working, having dinner with friends, and definitely spending some time with Imaunii and my nieces. 

Why is He is so good to little ole' me

The drive to Yuna's apartment was about an hour long.  Along the way we talked about any and everything that came to mind.  She is a great conversationalist.  She asks intriguing questions, and answered anything asked of her.

We arrived at her place just after 1am.  Our plan was to sleep.  She would leave at 5:30am to go to church (she was 14 days into a 40 day prayer event).  She would return about 6:30 to pick me up, we'd stop for breakfast then head to LAX.

She insisted I sleep in her room, claiming she always sleeps on the couch.  Although the room was warm and unfamiliar, I quickly surrendered to sleep, dreaming of Naysia.  I awoke at some point checked the time, estimated how much longer she'd be in the air and cried on purpose.

I could hear her alarm go off.  The bathroom was in the bedroom so she quietly tipped in.  I bid her a good morning, she did the same.  As she was getting ready she asked if I wanted to go to church with her.  She explained that the service was in Korean, but she would translate for me.  We could leave there and head for breakfast.  Why not?

The church was about 5 miles from her home.  We rushed in, late.  Found a pew in the back, a spot being saved for us by a friend of hers.

She translated on occasion.  The teaching covering the topic I needed....Trusting God!  We may not always understand God, but should never cease trusting him.  The story of Elizabeth and Zacharias was highlighted.
While Naysia is no John the Baptist, this touched me.  Less than 6 hours prior I let my baby go across the world, and I had to/have to Trust that my father God will keep her safe and get her back to me.

Ya'll, the congregation prayed and I knew not a word they said but I could feel the spirit flowing through.  I cried and prayed and praised God.  I am so incredibly grateful that I was there in that moment.  Up until then I had been telling myself that everything was going to be fine.  Maybe if I said it enough I would believe it.

I left there believing.

Yuna and I had breakfast at a McDonald's near the airport.  We sat for at least 1-1/2 hours, again talking about anything that came to mind.  Her life in Korea, my life in Arizona, children, men, food, hobbies, jobs, and dreams.  We exchanged personal phone numbers and email addresses.
At the Delta drop off I thanked her repeatedly for sensing and responding to not only my overnight needs, but also my spiritual distress.

She truly is one of the kindest people God has put in my life.  

Angel In Disguise

Yuna could not have shown up soon enough.

She gave me just what I needed, a hug.  Aware of the obvious distress she reached over and touched my arm, "Naysia is going to be just fine."

She apologized for not being able to talk when I passed her the first time.  She was talking the family of a student, Iris, who missed the flight. Iris was to return tomorrow, stand by status, to Korea.  If that didn't happen she would not be able to go at all. Yuna was obviously upset at the possibility that the student would not be able to go. 

Noticing my luggage behind me she says, "Oh right, you are traveling too.  Where are you going and when do you leave?"

"Going to Chicago to see my sister, I leave at 10am"

Her eyes widened.  "10am!  Where are  you staying tonight?"

"Here, at the airport."

Quietly we stood there.  Her eyes shifted quickly back and forth.  Her thoughts were clearly racing.

"I cannot let you stay here tonight."

"How do you feel about coming to stay at my place tonight?"  Sensing my concern she continued.

"I live alone.  I can bring you back here in the morning."

 "Yuna, I don't know.  I don't want to put you out.  Is this against the rules as a foundation employee?  I can't let you do that."

"I insist.  You must come, I cannot let you stay here.  As long as you don't mind a dirty, smelly place you are welcome to come."

We stood there.  Everything for a reason, right?  I quickly pieced together a hundred scenarios over the last hour that put us both there at that very moment.  I grabbed my belongings, wished a happy life to the older woman and the young man, and followed Yuna to her car.

Tears at the Tom Bradley Terminal

I watched her until I could no longer see her, hoping she would turn around one more time.  Hoping for one final wave. 
She never looked back.
I took the escalator upstairs to the food court.  I could not help but cry.  It wasn't a nasty snot bubble cry, but a silent falling of tears.  I made eye contact with no one as I rushed to a table sitting in a back corner, in the dark.  I was happy, proud, excited, nervous, scared and tired.  It's 1030pm, my flight to Chicago wouldn't leave for nearly 12 more hours.  It was going to be a long night.  I hated that I was there alone.  I wished someone was there with me to say all would be fine.
The time limited the people I could call.  I slowly collected myself and did 3 things.

Called my mom.
Posted a status on the ever therapeutic Facebook.
Found something to eat.

The love and encouragement from my momma stretched across the miles.
FB comments were like hugs from afar.
And the late night avocado with dinner was soothing. 

After an hour of sulking I thought it would be best to find a spot to camp out for the night.  Knowing I'd be there for hours I was well prepared, with journals, novels, and puzzle books in hand to keep me entertained.
Earlier I had scoped out some comfy red chairs.  I would spend my night there.  I wasn't the only one with the same idea.  As I rounded the corner, I see all the seats had been taken.  People were sleeping on them-not one chair available.

What am I going to do now?

In the same vicinity there was a darkened corner with several weary travelers laying on the carpet.  They were covered by sweaters, with their heads propped up by luggage.  I created a makeshift pallet and lay down.  Fifteen minutes later I jumped up.  I couldn't lay there all night.  My nerves had gotten the best of me, I was uncomfortable and cold.  I took the escalator down stairs and to my delight there was Yuna.

She was enveloped in a conversation, made eye contact, we waved but I kept it moving.  I slowed down my pace, hoping she would yell out after me, but she didn't.

I walked towards the elevator Naysia and I took to get upstairs, and noticed a few more-empty-comfy seats.  And I sat, prepared to stay here for the night.  To my right was a young man, to my left an older woman.  There were about 3 seats between them on either side.  It was fairly quiet here, and dim.

I was feeling better until the woman began cussin'. "Sh*t"....."Muthafuc*as"....."Fuc* you"!  Whoa!!!!  I looked over at her, thinking perhaps she was on the phone.  She wasn't.  These words were being belted out to strangers walking by.  She then turned to me and began telling the story of a family that had left just before I came~it was then apparent that she was drunk.

The young man then begin to talk about how he had been on 6 flights over the last 24 hours and was trying to get home to Hawaii.  "Do you have change for a $20?"  "Can I use your cell phone?"

They talked to me, to each other, to themselves.  All I could think was, Lord have mercy!!!
I looked up and Yuna was walking by.  I wanted to yell out her name, but didn't.  At that point I just wanted to talk to someone I knew, especially her because she knows the ins and outs of the program and would certainly put my thoughts at ease.  She walked briskly and eventually turned her head, saw me and came over.

Farewell my little Lady

We hung out near the other yellow shirts.  The weight of what was about to take place loomed heavily in the air as we walked past small families.  If concentrating we could make out fragments of conversation....

Mom~Nervous         Nays~Excited

"Are you excited?....."
"It's going to be okay....."
"Don't forget to......."
"Going to miss you....."
"Make sure you......"

Some students were upstairs having a bite to eat at the food court.  Naysia was not interested in eating.

There were very few words between us.  Every time I attempted to give instruction on one topic or another, she gave me the look that translates to 'shhhh'.

 It was apparent that some of the students knew one another.  There was an attempt to encourage her to introduce herself to others, she refused. 
A young lady named Heather came over to introduce herself.  She was super sweet and asked great questions of Naysia.  I slowly backed away so they could have some time to get to know each other.  As I wandered around several parents expressed the remembrance of us from the awards ceremony, calling us "Arizona". 

The time quickly came around.  At 10:30 the kids were summoned to the center, between the ticketing counter and food court.  They were to line up single file with their ticket and passport in place.  Parents gave hugs, kisses, and last minute words of wisdom.

"Give me some sugar Nays"
"MOM, don't say that in front of everybody!!"
"Fine Nays, give me a hug then"

We embraced, but only for a short period of time.  See, in wrapping my arms around her the hat fell off of her head, she dropped the ticket and the passport. 


"Come on Mom!!!!  What are you doing??!!!"

After picking everything up, we stood just a few inches apart and locked eyes.  Nothing but space and silence in-between us, her eyes began to well up~as did mine.  We didn't need words to say, be safe, have fun, i will miss you, I love you.

Farewell Naysia

Watching her walk away was by far one of the hardest things I've ever done in my life.

L A X

I haven't been to this airport in years!!  I forgot how huge and busy it is!!  We got off the plane in terminal number I don't even know.  We collected our luggage and tried to figure out where to go.

Finally Found the Terminal

Someone from KLACUSA, in a yellow shirt, was to meet us at baggage claim.  We found an information center and asked a very nice lady for help  We needed to get to the Tom Bradley international Terminal.  She told us to go to the double doors, make a right, avoid the shuttle, walk about 10 minutes, follow the signs, go into the building, take the elevator up to the 3rd floor and we'd be at the right spot.

We took off.  Out the double doors and walked for what felt like 10 minutes.  To our left was traffic, to our right were departure/arrival doors.  We, rather I, did not see a sign for Tom Bradley.  Thinking we had missed it-and following other people-we walked into terminal number i don't even know.

There was a heated argument taking place between a traveler and an airport employee.  I tried to wait for it to let up so I could ask where we were going but it was lasting too long, and getting louder.

We walked to the next entrance and asked if we were headed in the right direction.  We were told to stay on the sidewalk, walk about 5 more minutes and we'd run into the terminal.  And eventually we did.

We rushed into the building, were directed to the far left, got on the elevator and went up to the 3rd floor.

When the door opened, apparent chaos was before us.  We did not know which way to go.  No yellow shirts in sight.  Time is ticking and frustration is mounting.

We turned to the row on our immediate left.  There are ticketing counters on either side of the row, probably 30 total.  Lines were long, people had tons of luggage and boxes.  Numerous languages being spoken, and no Asiana ticket counter in sight.

We go back to the starting point and realize there are more ticket counters to our left.  We rushed to the next row, no Asiana ticket counter. UGH!!!!

Back to the starting point again, and discovered yet another row of counters.  As we approached the row we were stopped by a Yellow Shirt!  Yes!!  We were in the right place.  Her name was Mrs. Kim.  She is a Korean Language teacher that would be on the flight with the students.  Naysia was given a name badge and we were told to go to the last ticket counter on the left to check in.  When we got to the row there was another chaparone that had specific information to be written on the luggage badge.  She presented her passport, got it back~~and her plane ticket.

All students were to wait near the food court until 10:30pm.  At that time they would all go thru security together.
We have 30 minutes to enjoy each others company.  I sure wish I were going along.

Tucson to Los Angeles

July 2nd:
I didn't sleep much the night before.  Tossing and turning, cleaning and sending out random emails.  Naysia woke up about 9am and spent the majority of the day hanging out in front of the TV.  We eventually got housework done, but not without an argument.  I hate to come home to a dirty place!!

3pm she screams out my name.  I rush to her room and she says, "Mom, I'm getting nervous."
"Me too Nays"

I took Mom to work at 4:15, then stopped to pick up some tortillas to take to Chai and Marvin.
At 5:30pm we got in the car with Grandpa Charles and Imaunii, and headed to Tucson International Airport.

It was quite eerie there.  The sky was dark with storm clouds.  Absolutely no cars at the departure gate, and we were helped as soon as we approached the ticketing gate. We sat at gate 6, alone for an hour or so before more passengers began to arrive.  We were due to leave at 7:35pm but as we looked at the screen discovered the time had been pushed back to 7:50. 

While we waited we played Fruit Ninja on her cell phone and had generic conversation.  Boarding started at 7:30pm.  There were very few people on the plane.  We initially started out sitting at the very front of the plane.  I like the leg room.  She did not want to sit there because the incline during take off would be too evident.  So, we moved to the middle of the plane.

The flight was short and sweet.  We shared the headphones and tuned into Spotify offline.  We tried to contain ourselves while listening to LMFAO and Usher party jams.  Turbulence was minimal but scared her nonetheless.  Every time the plane so much as shook, she grabbed by arm and held on tight.

"Mom, I can't believe this is happening" were the words she whispered as we landed at LAX.

Fruit Ninja Battle

Canon to Chicago:Kodak to Korea~The Camera Wars

Chicago bound

Who is taking which camera?  This question is almost as important and perplexing as why did the chicken cross the road.  We have 4 cameras--but the fight is over the Canon.

We got the Canon when we went to Washington, D.C. about 3 years ago.  When we got that one, I gave her my most recently purchased slimline 3x crappy Kodak.

Have a ball in Korea

All along the idea (my idea) has been, I'll take the Canon to Chicago, and she'll take the Kodak to Korea.  Sounds perfect!  Even the starting letters match up nicely.

Couple nights ago she voiced a ridiculous request....she wants to take the Canon!!!  And she put up a fantastic argument.
"Mom, don't you want me to get some great pictures?  Don't you of all people want me to capture Korea?  Won't you be working on a scrapbook?  You know the Kodak just takes okay pictures.  I may not ever go back to Korea again.  You've been to Chicago before.  You already have great pictures of the city."  She laid the guilt on thick!

So, here I am this morning.  All 1496 pictures have been deleted off the Canon.  The Canon placed lovingly in camera bag along with batteries--and put in her luggage.
All 601 pictures deleted off the crappy Kodak.  Charger and camera in my luggage.
:(

She Inspires Me

Seems like I just walked in the door and heard about the possibility of her world travels.  As I sit here tonight, my emotions have stretched from one extreme to the next.

In our private moments I refer to Naysia as my life saver, one day I may share the story of us, of my ridiculous life before she came along.  Since the day she arrived she has been teaching me how to be a better person--and this experience is not to be excluded.

This trip is about more than her dreams coming true.  For me, it's been a huge lesson of trust. 

Trust strangers to look after her.  Trust she will be safe as she travels.  Trust that people will be kind.  I have to trust that she will make it home.  I've had to make some sacrifices in order for this to happen, so I'm trusting that an abundance of money will surface. All along I've had this feeling that if I went along I could protect her from any harm.  Who am I?  The one that will protect her will be at her side.

I am inspired by her faith.  I am inspired by her drive.  I am inspired by her confidence. 

This time tomorrow she will be leaving on a jet plane.  For tonight I will snuggle in next to her and be thankful for all that has, and will take place.

~~*Party Time*~~

 

I had been toying with the idea of giving her a "going away party".  A few weeks ago it sounded great, but as the time approached, with so much to do, I didn't think it would be feasible.  It wasn't until yesterday that I made a definite decision to have a few people over.


Cake made and spaghetti sauce cooking by 10am.  Guests were expected to arrive about 1pm.
There was more than enough food.  Spaghetti, salad, garlic bread on the menu.
No agenda in place, just well wishes.


Chocolate cake with the South Korean flag on the table, world map and flag meaning on the wall.   
Bob's Burgers on the TV


Great Grandpa Henry, Great Grandpa Mary, Grandma PeeWee, Grandpa Charles, Grandpa Larry, Great Aunt Lisa, Great Aunt Kida, Great Uncle Eric, Aunt Sanita, God Mother Angela, Cousins: Kiki, Tanaya, Annisa, Tatiana, Aaliyah, Trae, and Tommy were all in attendance.


            We gathered in the living room and praised God for his blessings.  We blessed the meal and prayed for traveling grace~and even prayed for Lisa who will soon give birth. Hand claps and cheers burst out at the right time.

Wouldn't you know it, we ran out of food.