The Big Red Suitcase

Our original plan was to pack on Sunday night.  I'm glad we didn't wait.
There was laundry to be done, boxes to look through and containers to fill.

After 3 hours of what seemed to be very exhausting work, she is mostly ready to go! 

Our large red suitcase has been sitting in my closet for about 3 years filled with clothes I can't fit anymore.
There is something way wrong with the previous statement.  First, we don't go anywhere long enough to take more than a carry on.  Second, why do I still have these clothes??

The smallest/favorite backpack has been missing.  I've needed it my last 2 trips and couldn't find it.  After much searching in the storage closet it was found.  Again....why do I have all this stuff??

I do love looking through bags that have been traveled with.  Inside the backpack was a crumpled up plane ticket, hand sanitizer, lip gloss, and coin purse.  Once the ticket was smoothed out I could make out the details, ah, very fond memories!

We sat on her bedroom floor folding clothes.  Agreeing, disagreeing, and agreeing again on what she should take.  Who's mom takes the time to remove facial creams and hair products from the original bottle with chopsticks and put in 3oz bottles?  Naysia's mom. We followed the 'suggested item' list provided by KECLA.  We still need to pack some minor items like batteries, a notebook and an umbrella. 

This is really happening.  It's still hard for me to believe the fact that she's going.  She still, for the most part, remains cool. 

We wrapped up our night at Reid Park with great conversation, reflection on summers past, a light jog, and several laughs.

Sure at this point I've been awake--and crazy busy--for 20 hours, but I wouldn't trade this day for all the tea in China.

3 days left in the land of ToDo: You are NOT the father!

My alarm went off at 3am.  The plan was to get to work, crank some stuff out, and be gone by 11am.
As I was getting dressed, Naysia comes barreling out of her room.  Donned in her pajama pants, hair neatly placed, and wide awake-she wanted to know what I was doing up.  She had come out to get a snack to eat while she finished watching Maury.  As we stood in the hallway and talked I could hear "You are NOT the father" in the background.

I stepped into my dark, quiet office at exactly 4:20am.  It stayed quiet until about 6:45am, when the day shift started to roll in.  A few items were checked off of the list.  My eyes were on the clock, counting down til it was time to come home.  I called Naysia about 1130 to let her know I was running late.  She answered the phone short of breath and difficult to understand.  I couldn't tell if she was laughing or crying.
We have a nice green yard, and the grasshoppers in the neighborhood seem to enjoy it.  As she was leaving Grandma's next door, there was a grasshopper chillin on the screen.  Based on her description it had to be at least 4ft tall.  I stayed on the phone long enough to hear the story, jam packed with fear, then attempted to finish up at work.

One of my sidekicks at work, Jackie, is just too sweet.  In the relatively short time we've known one another, she has become one of Naysia's biggest fans.  She supports her and cheers her on.  She was kind enough today to send home a card for Nays filled with sweet words and cold hard cash.  Naysia was completely surprised!!

I got home about 1pm then the running around began:
1)  Rainbow Store.  She didn't want to go but managed to find a t-shirt.  I picked up a sun dress.
2)  Shoe Carnival.  Today was the store's soft opening.  Cheerful staff, neatly stacked boxes--apparent that wild children haven't attacked the store yet.  She finally found the damn red Converse she's been looking for, and a pair of super cute sandals.  Good thing we wear the same size shoe!
3)  JCPenney, again.  She got some clothes, a watch and some hair accessories.  I got a few things, too.
4)  In & Out Burger.  Hungry, can you say animal fries????

Then the check cashing debacle began.
Naysia has an account at a credit union, wayyyyyy on the otherside, on purpose----so we can't get to it and take money out.  Naysia still had her $200 scholarship check that needed cashing to add to her spending money.  At this point it's about 3pm, it's 104 degrees out, and we are both ready to go home.  Wal-Mart is close by so we decided we'd cash the check there.  After standing in line for about 30 minutes the cashier tells us they won't cash the check because it's hand written.  Ugh!!!!!!  We jumped in the car to make the long trek to her credit union.  Behold!  There's an Ace Express Cash around the corner.  I've never been to one of these places so I have no clue how it works.  There was one teller working, Guadalupe, and there was nothing 'express' about her.  She had to enter check info, Naysia's info, my info, call KECLA for check verification, then call the bank for account verification.  Because we were there so long she waived part of the fee.

Next stop:  Compass Bank.  Set up an additional savings account for her, it's in the neighborhood, and they are great.  Guadalupe was very nice, but she will not cash Naysia's next scholarship check.  

Shipwrecked 1907 Heidsieck vs. Old Milwaukee *with a coupon*

Car conversation this morning was nil.  She had on her headphones and I listened to the radio.  It was one of those mornings where the same song is on 3 different stations at the same time, and it's not a party jam.  I should've known then that the day would be filled with challenges.

Dropped her off and was very late picking her up (was busy terminating an employee, ilovemyjobilovemyjobilovemyjob).  She was grumpy and I didn't really care.  The only thing that was going to soothe me at the moment was a trip to Dairy Queen.  We ordered a couple of Reese's PB cup blizzards and headed home.

Today's to do list was worked on.  I completed one essay draft, and modified the one sent in last night.  Both were sent in about 4 hours after getting home.  I also respond to either 2 or 3 discussion topics, it's all kinda fuzzy now.

Last week Grandpa Larry and Jo had given Naysia a $50 gift card to Penney's, so we headed over to find a swimsuit.  She also found a couple of tops, and so did I (I'm trying to prepare for my Chicago trip).  We ended up spending far more than planned.  On the way home she was angry because we didn't get the hippie shorts, the wild socks, wide brimmed hat, Sonic chicken nuggets and poster from Zia Record Store.

I tried to explain to her that I am not made out of money.  She replied, "I know!"  My question, "Why do you keep asking for stuff when you know I can't get it?"  I never really got an answer, but there was a whole lot of attitude going on in the passenger seat!

When we got home I broke out the Monopoly box, gave her the amount of spending money I had last week, and we went through every transaction...slowly whittling it down to nearly nothing.  At the end she left the room bummed.  My intention was not to hurt her feelings; rather to get her to understand the reality of what's going on in my pocketbook.

What we want $275,000/bottle

What we can afford $0.83/can

If I could give her everything I would.  I wish money weren't an issue, but it is.  I wish her Dad helped out financially, but he doesn't.  What I make is what we live on.  And heaven knows it's not enough for our champagne taste. 

5 days left in the Land of ToDo: Goodwill

5 days to go and oh so much to get done. 

Our early morning conversations remain about the same.  Today I asked her if she was getting nervous and/or excited.  She said yes.  I asked her why.
"I am afraid of the airplane and the Namsan tower".
Airplane: It's high in the sky, take off is scary, and you can't get out.
Namsan Tower: Over 700 feet tall. 
Naysia is afraid of heights.  I recall when we went to D.C. how frightened she was when we went to the Washington Monument.  The only reason she went to the top is because no one was willing to wait on the ground with her.
I reiterated the importance of soaking in this life changing experience, creating a new Naysia, journaling the experience and taking lots of pictures. 

Today we were able to cross a few things off of our To-Do list.

Shorts.  Considering the fact that she does not wear them, I refuse to spend lotsa $$$ for a clothing item that is likely going to be put in the bottom drawer upon her return home.  Two Goodwill trips (Tanque Verde/Bear Canyon and Speedway/Swan) and $41 later, she got eight pair of shorts.  I wish she'd wear them more often.  Her skin is a beautiful brown, legs are nicely toned.  Umm, on second thought, she should get back to keeping them covered once school starts.  
Now we just need to run the shorts through the washing machine about 3 times.   

Toiletries.  Thought we had it all covered when we went to Target, but she still needed hair conditioner, sun screen...and somehow hair dye ended up in the basket.  

School for her.  She completed her necessary essay about football last night and turned it in today.

School for me.  Tonight I submitted one of two essays to the tutor.

Most importantly this afternoon, the monsoons rolled in and we climbed into her bed and took a wonderful nap.  I love this girl...it's gonna be a long 3 weeks without her.

Paging Dr. Dre

I don't share this often, but growing up I was a huge fan of N.W.A.  In 1990 I never would have guessed that Dr. Dre and his 'beats' would be the topic of discussion this beautiful Tuesday morning.

Naysia and I were headed to school/work, counting down the days til takeoff.  The morning kind of went like this....once again, she's in bold letters.

"How you feeling Naysia?  Excited?  What all do we need to do before we go?"
"Mom, yes, I'm excited but do we have to keep talking about it?"
"Yes, yes we do"
"I don't know what else I need, I think we talked about it all last night."
"We need to go shopping at the Goodwill.  I don't have a whole bunch of money to----"
"Mom, I know!  You've said it over and over, I know you don't have that much money!!"
"Okay, so we'll go to Goodwill and get some shorts.  Maybe we'll go later today, maybe tomorrow, actually we'll probably have to wait until the weekend.  Hey, when are you gonna start packing?  I guess you'll have to wait until Saturday if we aren't going shopping until then.  I don't know yet what we're gonna do about a phone.  If I send my phone with you you can only use to call me 3 times.  When you get there, if there's an emergency, and on your way home.  Otherwise the phone will have to be turned off at all times.  You will have internet access and we can text..........................................blah blah blah."

I look over and she is rolling her eyes.

"Mom, are you doing that thing where you act like you are talking to me but really talking to yourself?"
"Yes, yes I am"

A few more minutes pass and we begin to talk about what music she will listen to while she is away.  

"Mom, I want to take my phone so I can listen to Spotify or the Ipod...and I need new headphones.  Smaller ones, kind of like yours, but I need 'Beats'.  Have you ever listened to music with 'Beats'? It's amazing, you can hear everything!!"
"I don't have 'Beats' money"

The eyes roll.

"So, I suggest you call up Dr. Dre or shoot him an email and see if he can possibly donate some headphones to you cause I can't buy them"

The eyes roll again.

Being the mom I am I researched 'Beats' prices. $97.00 for a pair of his cheapest headphones. Dre has lost his mind!  Does a concert ticket come with these things????  A ticket to a movie starring Ice Cube?  No 'Beats' for Naysia....

SkullCandy to the rescue!

The Countdown Begins

Well....the countdown technically began for me last week.  About 10 days ago my life began getting-and will continue to be-hectic until she leaves.
Friday I headed to Phoenix for work's annual Symposium.  Afterwards my brother, Loren, picked me up and I stayed the night with him and my sister in law, Hope. Saturday afternoon the plane travel began.  Phoenix...Dallas...Houston...Albuquerque...Tucson.  I had a very nice, very relaxing, grown folks visit in Houston.

On my way to New Mexico I comprised a to-do list.  How am I going to do it all?  Where's my SuperMom cape?

This time 7 days from now we will be landing in LA......Uggggghhhhhhhhhhh!!!

PAGE 1

Pause Buttons and Gift Cards

Here's a little back story.....Naysia hates shopping, especially with me.  Apparently like most moms I'm pretty lame.
That being said, here's a brief glimpse of what our shopping trip was like this afternoon. 

After work/school today we tried to do a little shopping.  We first stopped at DSW for flip flops.  She didn't want flip flops, she wanted red Converse.  That's great, but they didn't have her size.  She tried on a size 10 and attempted to convince me that they fit.  When asked to demonstrate, she did this slow shuffle to keep from showing just how big they were.  She pleaded her case about how great they were, I did that muffled whisper mom yell thing, trying not to embarrass her.  We left with no shoes.

Next stop Target.  Naysia does not wear shorts, ever.  Amazing to me because it's 108 degrees out.  Junior section of the store had some cute items, that is if you like your butt cheeks hanging out.  We disagreed about everything: shorts, t-shirts, shoes, earrings, pajamas, purses, lip gloss, deodorant--the only section we didn't fight in was the grocery aisle, only because we didn't go over there.

45 minutes and $100.07 later... She got plenty of powder and pajama pants.  She still needs shorts, t-shirts and flip flops.  I need more time and money.  What has to be put under the pillow for a gift card/pause button fairy to make a visit tonight?

Butterfly Tummy

Taken in the Montgomery's back yard

It just dawned on me that 14 days and 12 hours from now we will be heading to TIA-LAX, her to Incheon, me to O'Hare.   Butterflies immediately set in.

Not much new has happened since Plane Ticket Friday.  Yuna and I have exchanged emails about a few minor details (roommate choice, clothing selection, meet up location at airport, passport security, currency exchange, Korean humidity) 

Last night we covered three points
~Stepping out of her shy comfort zone, participation, and asking as many questions as she can
~Avoiding 'girl drama'.  Because wherever there are girls, there is drama
~Avoiding boys. Period.

Here is our to do list for the next 14 days:
*She is still in summer school, every weekday through the 28th.
*This week I'm working through Wednesday, have a major cake project to do Thursday, Phoenix Friday, Houston Saturday-Monday.
*Shopping for t-shirts, shorts and powder
*Bumming luggage from somebody

And most importantly...remain calm.  

Plane Ticket Friday

Up early this morning, credit card in hand, hot green tea on the desk, Missy Elliott on Spotify, glasses smudge free, fingertips on the keyboard.  

Kayak, Expedia, Orbitz, Delta, US Airways, American Airlines, CheapOair Tickets, Virgin America, One Travel, Priceline, Travelocity..............searching all sites to buy a ticket just right.

Ticket One Purchased:
Departing 7/21 from Phoenix to LAX, returning 7/21 (yep, the same day).                                    
Going to meet my baby.  I will be so ready to hug her and hear about her trip.

Ticket Two Purchased:
Departing 7/3 from LAX to Chicago.  Naysia and I will fly out of Tucson to LA on7/2.  She and her crew will head out 7/3 just after midnight.  I will leave a few hours later to go see Chai and Marvin.  Can you say Independence Day at The Pier! 

Ticket Three Purchased:
Departing 7/9 from Chicago to Tucson in the wee hours of the morning.

This chick is ready for take off

The next step of this awesome adventure is shopping!!!

32 hours Part Ten: Elevator Tears

This entry is one of many detailing what occurred in a few short hours.  Get your popcorn ready.

We shut the place down.  We were the last family walking out of the door.  We had been there so long I was a bit disoriented, but Naysia quickly found the elevator.  

She wanted to carry all that she acquired.  With award, check and flowers in hand, she stepped into the elevator and I followed.  

Before the doors could close, tears began to well up in my eyes, and soon fell softly down my cheeks.  
I have been brought to tears before by one accomplishment or another, but this was on a level that I have never known.  I am blessed to have her in my life.  I am honored to be by her side during this incredible journey.  Her passion astonishes me.

I looked at her with amazement, love and pride.  She looked at me and said, "What's wrong with you??!!!!!"

"Naysia I am just so proud of you.  This is one of the best nights of our life."

We got off of the elevator, took a couple of pictures in front of the building and made our way back to the car, back to the hotel, back to Tucson.  

 

32 hours Part Nine: Dr. Ailee Moon

 This entry is one of many detailing what occurred in a few short hours.  Get your popcorn ready.

Dr. Ailee Moon is the President of The Foundation for Korean Language & Culture in USA and a professor at UCLA

She is from Korea but as a child growing up she did not want to follow the plan her parents had hoped for her.  They wanted her to be a doctor, physicist, scientist, or chemist.  She hated the periodic table-and anything scientific.  She wanted to work with people.  She loved the idea of sociology or politics.  She knew that love would not be nurtured in South Korea, she wanted to come to America.

So, she staged a hunger strike.  The first day her parents thought it to be comical.  By day 2, especially day 3 her mom begin to worry that she would starve to death.  Dr. Moon shared that through the door she could hear her mom pleading with her dad to allow her to come to America before she died.  Dr. Moon said she cheered, secretly of course, as she heard her mom's plea.  Dad conceded.  She was sent to America and says she would do it all again. 

She has been taking students to South Korea for about the last 10 years.  We talked about the program and selection process. She receives hundreds of essays a year.  The concentration is usually from California, New York and Virginia.  Recently she has begin getting submissions from Europe.  The Virginia location has been discouraged by the low numbers of students chosen from their location and are considering establishing a similar program; as are European schools.  She says that often times essays are submitted before information is even sent out; students are hopeful that if they get essays in extra early they will have a better chance.

The selection progress is tedious.  She keeps the group of traveling students small, not for financial reasons, but because she wants the program to be meaningful, life changing, educational, and she wants to be involved with each student individually.  She has many contacts in both America and Korea and the amount of monies donated is unbelievable.  KLACUSA provides scholarships of many types.  This is great to know for college!

Parents often ask her for advice, especially when it comes to steering their children in the direction they think is best.  Having gone against family hopes, she often sides with the child.  She tells parents to support children in whatever it is they decide to do with their lives.  If they are passionate about it they will surely succeed.

She spent a great deal of time with us, and by the end of the night I felt more comfortable with the decision to send Naysia.  She praised Naysia for her passion.  Gave her some tips on having a success professional life in South Korea.  She also praised me for supporting Naysia.  I can hardly wait to hear the wisdom she will impart on Naysia while they are away.

Dr. Ailee Moon is definitely someone we need to maintain a relationship with.

32 hours Part Eight: My girl Yuna

Yuna's in the house!!!

 This entry is one of many detailing what occurred in a few short hours.  Get your popcorn ready.

The last time I had spoken to Yuna, I asked her if she'd be at the ceremony.  She in a very nice way said No.  Having known that I did not bother to seek her out.

As we made our way through the buffet line we got to the last tray and someone says, "Are you Tenaysia's mom?"  "Yes."
"Hi, I'm Yuna"

You would've thought we'd known each other forever.  Smiles and hugs all around!!!  I thanked her for being so patient with me and so kind.  She congratulated Naysia.  Then the awkwardness kind of set in.  So, Naysia and I had our dinner and meanwhile Yuna continued to work the room.  I was so happy to have met her.

At (what we thought) the end of the night, just as we were about to leave, Yuna had served her self and was going to sit at a table across from us.  I hopped over and quickly explained the blog and asked if we could take a picture with her.
2 hours later we were still talking.
She came over and posed for one with my camera, then her camera, then again with both.  She sat at our table.  Her plate at the other grew cold.  She asked all sorts of questions....

When did you guys get here?   When are you going home?   How long did it take?   What did Naysia do while I drove?   How was the food?   How was the beach?   Where are you staying?   Where is Naysia's dad?   Is Naysia nervous?   What type of roommate do you want?   Mom, what are you going to do while she's gone?   What are you going to do when she is grown and gone?   Are you sure you are going to be okay?   You're seeing her off AND meeting her in LA upon return?   Is Naysia always this quiet?  And then they started talking in Korean.  I was sitting in between them and slowly moved out of the way.  She talked about her life in Korea.  Encouraged Naysia to pursue the language.  Told us about additional scholarship opportunities.  Reviewed what to pack, especially powder and shorts to combat the humidity.

I would frequently say "We won't keep you any longer, go eat, we'll leave" and she kept talking.  Eventually a server came over to throw her plate away.  She brought it to our table.  All along people were coming over goodbyes, well wishes and see you laters were exchanged.

At this point it had been about 45 minutes and surely conversation was winding down.  Just when I thought we had covered it all she asked if I had met Dr. Ailee Moon yet, President of Foundation for Korean Language and Culture in USA.  We had not met her.  Yuna's face lit up and said....."She's just the person you need to speak to" and she dashed off to get her.

32 hours Part Seven: You came all the way from Arizona??

The Proud Family

 This entry is one of many detailing what occurred in a few short hours.  Get your popcorn ready.
Tons of pictures were being taken in the auditorium.  Everyone was so happy.  Cameras flashed with pictures of friends and strangers alike.

Naysia was approached by several people in the auditorium, not only congratulating her award-but amazed that we came allllllllll the way from Arizona to receive. 

I, honestly, was still a little fired up that her name wasn't called.  What I learned later was that most of the kids were from California.  Naysia was the only one from Arizona.  There were 2-3 others from New York, and 1 from Virginia.  The assumption was that out of state students would not be present.  Their names were on the screen but weren't called.  Many apologies were given.  It ended up being to our advantage that she was announced that way.  She met many students that will be on the trip, family members and members of the program that wanted to hear about our road trip.  Had that not have happened we probably would've not been so social. 

Dinner was on the second floor.  We stood in line a chatted with those nearby.  As we made our way into the room we could see several buffet tables, L shaped.  And about 20 round tables that could seat about 10.  The room looked like it served as a dance studio during the day.  The food was catered by a well known LA Korean restaurant.  I couldn't possible tell you all that was served-here's a very generic list.  Rice, fish, sushi, beef, kimchi, stuffed crab shells, wings, and mussels-that's what was on my plate.  There was plenty more food that I did not try. 

We got to the table and there was not a fork in sight.  Sure I've had plenty of time to learn to use chopsticks, but why.  We were seated with 3 families.  It took some time to warm up for conversation.  Although all the students at our table had gotten scholarships, Naysia was the only student at that table going on the trip.  All the families were Korean-Americans so they talked lovingly about their home country and praised Naysia's ambition.

Most of the food we selected was new for us.  Naysia, who is generally a picky eater dove right in.  Kimchi isn't as bad as it's made out to be.  She thought it was hilarious that I could hardly eat with the chopsticks.  Our plan was to quickly eat, get back to the hotel and get to bed since we'd be leaving in the morning.  At this point it's 7:30pm.  All I wanted to do was get one more picture.  Two hours later we were still there.

32 hours Part Six: Y u no call my name

This entry is one of many detailing what occurred in a few short hours.  Get your popcorn ready.

We walked into the building.  To the left was an unmanned desk, directly in front were a set of elevators, and we didn't know which way to go.  I remembered in our literature there being something about the second floor, so we went into the elevator.  As the door opened to the 2nd level we knew we weren't in the right place, back down we went. We got off at the first floor, turned left and found a set of double doors.  Standing outside was a woman and a screaming child.  I couldn't understand what she was saying, but "Stop all that crying!!" translates very well. We cold hear muffled microphone talk and entered the room.

Straight ahead was a group of about 40 students on stage.  To the left a podium with a woman reading names, a gentleman front and center shaking hands with, posing and presenting awards to the students.  We were too late.  Sitting in the back row a woman dressed in all black summoned us over.  "Is she a recipient?"  "Yes."  "Is she here for King Sejong award or Hunminjeongeum award?"  In my nervousness I replied, "That one", referring to Hunminjeongeum.  She then says, "She'd better get on stage, that's what is being presented now."  As she talked I was reading the list she had in hand and noticed Naysia's name under King Sejong.  This was a great discovery for two reasons:
1.  King Sejong's group would be awarded next
2.  Hunminjeongeum recipients were getting $100 scholarships, King Sejong recipients were getting $200.

I pointed out Naysia's name under the second group.  She told us to have a seat and Naysia would go to the stage with the next group.  We found a seat on the far left.  Naysia, feeling like she was overdressed, wanted to change shoes.  She had put on her heels in the car and now wanted flats.  I refused to let her wear her teal Converse.  We ended up switching shoes.

About ten minutes into sitting, her group was summoned.  Approximately 30 students walked on stage.  She retreated to the back row.  Now I'm that mom standing in the far left aisle, trying not to be in the way, but determined to get some good pictures.

There was no time for long, drawn out speeches.  They immediately dove into calling students names.  Proud parents cheer kids on.  Grandparents clap.  Little sisters and brothers squeal.  I'm thinking out my cheer strategy.  I don't want to embarrass her too much but she has to hear me.  Meanwhile the camera is propped perfectly, finger on the trigger, waiting.  Name number 15 is called, 'Danisha', I got ready to snap, Naysia got ready to walk up then quickly realized it wasn't her name.  We made eye contact and smiled a little.  She later told me the kid next to her laughed a little at the same time.  Name number 29 is called, it still isn't Naysia.  Then the moderator says, "Congratulations students!"  What???!!!!!  Oh hell no!  I didn't want to get crazy mom up in there....but what about Naysia?!!!  Simultaneously Naysia has the same 'Oh hell no face' going on and begins to stir.  The award presenter quietly tells the moderator "We missed someone".  "What's your name?"  Moderator frantically searches through names and certificates.

"Tenaysia La Shawn Powell.  Magee Middle School.  And she's all the way here from Tucson, Arizona"

Naysia shuffled front and center.  Received her award.  The crowed roared. 

And all I got was one fuzzy picture.

The students were all called to the stage for a group photo, dinner immediately followed.

32 hours Part Five: Wilshire Blvd vs. Wilshire Pl

This entry is one of many detailing what occurred in a few short hours.  Get your popcorn ready.

We made it back to the hotel about 4:30pm, decided to take a nap, get ready at 5pm and leave at 5:30pm.  The ceremony was set to start at 6pm.  According to Google Maps we were within walking distance, getting there in about 10 minutes.

The alarm screamed at 5pm.  We were groggy and grumpy.  We quickly got dressed, directions in hand, walking shoes on, dress pumps in the bag and began our search for 680 Wilshire Blvd.  Heading east on 7^th Street we hustled into the heart of downtown.  We made a left on Figueroa then a right on Wilshire Blvd.  We breeze by buildings numbered 900, 800, 700 directly on the corner~~it must be across the street!  We get across the street and the next building is 655.   What??!! 

If we were in movies this would be the scene where the camera pans around quickly then pans in on our faces, zooming in on beads of sweat and obvious confusion.

We rushed into the 700 building and asked the security guard where 680 was.  He asked, “What is the name of the building?”  “Korean Education Center.”  “I don’t know where that is.”  Ugh!

I happened to have KECLA’s number saved in my phone.  Luckily someone answered the phone.  I told her where we were and she said, “ohhhh, you are on the wrong street.  You are supposed to be at Wilshire PLACE, not Wilshire BLVD.  But it’s okay, just head west on 7^th street about 3 or 4 miles and we’ll be at Wilshire Place on the right.”  My heart sank.  At this point it’s 5:50pm, and we are on foot. 

I told her our predicament, and especially how upset I was because we were going to be late.  Her response was, “Its okay, we never start on time anyway.” 

We speed walked across streets and made it back to the hotel to get the car.  I felt a little foolish.  We had passed this very building on our way to Koreatown earlier in the day.  It’s about 6:10pm and we can’t find parking.  The nearby parking garages were specifically for apartment tenants and building employees.  There was street parking close, but occupied.  I did not want her to miss another minute of the ceremony.  She was dropped off at the door while I hunted for a spot.  I told her to go in and that I’d be in shortly.

Naysia waiting for momma

All those nights at the Reid Park track paid off in that moment. I parked about 3/4 mile away and ran.   I rounded the corner of the Korean American Education Foundation at 680 Wilshire Place and found my baby still standing outside.  She didn’t want to miss a minute without her Mom.

32 hours Part Four: Koreatown

This entry is one of many detailing what occurred in a few short hours.  Get your popcorn ready.

Alex, concierge at The Mayfair, pointed out the bus stop across the street from the hotel.  He said either bus 51, 52, or 53 would get us to Koreatown.  We were to get off at 7^th Street and Vermont.

We stood at the bus stop with our $1.50 fare in hand, along with about five other people.  Bus 53 pulled up and we boarded.  The machine wouldn’t take my bill, and the driver wasn’t going to move until it did.  He barked that the corners could not be folded and the bill had to be smooth.  I found an edge on the machine to smooth it out, inserted the dollar and turned around to find not a seat in sight.  Naysia and I held on tight.  He drove fast and stopped hard.  This went on for about 15 minutes. 

About a block before Vermont, Naysia looked out of the window and saw a building with Korean writing on it.  She wanted to get off immediately!  We got to Vermont, exited the bus and her face lit up.  Vermont ran north and south.  Across the street from where we were there were stores lined up, all with Korean lettering.  We’d walk a few feet, she’d stop to read.  We eventually made it to Vermont and Olympic, and although we knew we were in the right place, there was a sign at the stop light that read “Koreatown”.  We crossed at the light and found more shops, and tons of restaurants.  We peeked into meat markets and inhaled the aroma of Korean BBQ. 

We were trying to find a novelty shop similar to what we’d seen in Little Tokyo the previous year but had no luck.  We deduced that Koreatown, unlike Little Tokyo, was not meant to please tourists.  She did manage to find an ‘Angry Birds’ shirt just for the sake of saying she got something there. 

After about an hour of getting a minute glimpse of the Korean lifestyle we rushed to the bus stop, returning to the hotel to get ready for the ceremony.

32 hours Part Three: The Historic Mayfair

This entry is one of many detailing what occurred in a few short hours.  Get your popcorn ready. 

This trip was not planned with plenty of time or money.  Everything we did was on a tight budget, including the hotel reservation. The criteria was as follows:  Near the location of the ceremony and reasonably priced.  Several hotels popped up during the internet search, most of which were more than what could be spent.  The guest reviews of The Historic Mayfair were a mixed bag, we decided to give it a try.  http://www.mayfairla.com/

Pros

1. Located downtown
2. Beautiful Lobby, especially the mirror upon entrance
3. Garage parking with easy access to entrance
4. Great nighttime view of LA
5. Friendly staff, especially the concierge
6. Bus stop nearby 
7. About 2 miles from Koreatown

Cons

1. Immediately west of the hotel the neighborhood was a little sketch.
2. Fuzzy eyesight came in handy inside the room, the room we stayed in looked nothing like the photos posted on the website.
3. Rickety elevator that smelled like armpits and marijuana
4. Limited outlets
5. Ironing board and iron were literally falling apart
6. Upon our departure we were given wrong directions to the freeway 
7.  It took an act of congress to leave the parking garage
8. Several computers in the lobby for guest use, but only one worked
9. We're pretty sure it's haunted by the ghost of Raymond Chandler.

 

32 hours Part Two: Beach Time

This entry is one of many detailing what occurred in a few short hours.  Get your popcorn ready.

We love the ocean and beach.  Don't know how else to say it.  You name a quality and we love it. We generally go at least once a year but this time was different.  We weren't entirely sure we would make it there.  Because it wasn't our purpose for going, we weren't prepared. We realized we didn't have swimsuit, towels, buckets or shovels.

This was the first time I've gotten lost going to Santa Monica Beach.  We were on one freeway when we should have been on another and next thing you know we were in Hollywood.  I was hoping...praying that we could get to Santa Monica sans freeway travel, but Google Maps said otherwise.

We got to the beach later than hoped for, but thoroughly enjoyed what time we had.  Parking was $7.  We threw a couple of turkey and cheese sandwiches in a bag along with some chips and Hi-C.  After washing our hands we strolled along the shoreline.  We ate as we walked. The breeze off of the water was refreshing, and the water was cool as it rushed over our feet.  We listened and watched as a middle aged man received his beginning surf lesson.  We made up stories about what a tanner's reaction would be if we kicked sand at them, and daydreamed about living in one of the homes with an ocean view.

About an hour later we made our way back to the car with sand between our toes.  Took one last look at our friend the ocean and bid adieu.

32 hours Part One: 1053 miles

 This entry is one of many detailing what occurred in a few short hours.  Get your popcorn ready.

My eyes are burning, and my stomach growls.  What's for dinner tonight?  The thought of going to work tomorrow brings a scowl to my face.  I should be asleep.

In 32 hours we managed to drive to Los Angeles, make the most of every second, and drive back home. Start to finish we logged 1053 miles.

We've driven to Los Angeles several times.  Each time with specific plans.  Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm, and Hollywood are highlights.  Last year we went specifically to see the Parra-Whitehead family and had a fabulous time.

This trip was different from any other.  It was all about honoring Naysia.

We pulled away from our doorstep at 2:38 am.  The tank was full but our stomachs were empty.  My plan was to have breakfast in Quartzite, AZ.  Before we even made it to I-10W we were in the Jack In The Box drive thru line.  We ordered breakfast sandwiches and hit the freeway.  Traffic was light so we made it to Phoenix in no time, stopping in Buckeye to top off the tank at $3.63/gallon.  It wasn't long after that that a stomach ache set in-along with Naysia's snoring.  So much for her company.   She slept as we passed our favorite "Gold Nugget" exit, crossed the Colorado River and there was no traditional cheer as we entered California.

Our next stop was Palm Springs.  Our usual Loves station pumps were under construction so we went across the street to a Shell station.  I cringed a little at paying $4.09/gallon.  I made Naysia get up to stretch.  She ran a couple of laps around the car, while I stretched.  We prepared our snacks for the next leg.  As we got ready to leave this lady approached the car asking for gas money.  Apparently she had a rental car, needed to fill the tank before returning the car and had forgotten her purse at home.  I hope she wasn't Jesus in disguise because I said no. As always we admired the wind mills and resisted the urge to stop and pose with them like we always do.

As we hit Riverside I could feel my blood pressure beginning to rise.  The traffic was horrible from that point on.  Construction, stop and go traffic, cars cars and more cars!  We were running about 85mph and cars zoomed by as if we were standing still.  I stopped looking at the time so I don't know exactly what time we hit Santa Monica beach. 

We had to get back on the freeway to find the hotel....ugh.  We stayed in downtown LA with many cars, pedestrians and one way streets.  We drove again a couple of hours later to the location of the ceremony.  We found a gas station nearby and filled up so when the time came to leave we could just jump on the freeway.

The alarm went off this morning at 1:45am.  By 2:21am we were on the I-10 East ramp headed home.  I am so glad we left when we did.  Although it was dark, there was very little traffic to navigate thru. And while drivers still zipped by us, there was no stop and go, and no long string of brake lights.  It was slightly frightening driving thru the San Gorgonio Pass.  The wind blowing hard, shook the car.  And the windmills we love during the day blinked eerily with red lights.

 We stopped in Palm Springs at a Travel Center for gas at $3.73/gallon~but most importantly a cup of cream and sugar with a hint of coffee.  While Naysia slept, I was buzzing-singing and putting out some creative driver seat dance moves.
6:30am we pulled into a Quartzsite Pilot and got gas for the last time at $3.75/gallon.  Naysia finally woke up and we had great conversation reflecting on the 24hours prior.  

Almost home, about an hour away I got sleepy.  Very sleepy.  Pulled into a Loves parking lot and got out of the car.  I contemplated another cup of "coffee" but decided the best thing to do was get some blood pumping.  Hair in a wild pony tail, pajama pants, flip flops and tank top on I began to do some jumping jacks and stretches.  Needless to say Naysia was embarrassed, which only encouraged me to do it more!

9:50am, 1053 miles later we pulled up to the front door.  Tired, sore, exhausted, smiling and praising God for getting us home safely!

S n a i l.......M a i l

We read an email last night that was sent from Yuna on Monday stating that she had not received the packet/check we sent out last week. When we mailed it out on May 30 we were assured it would arrive no later than June 1st (was due May 31st).  By the time I had read Yuna's email it was already too late to call.  Checked the USPS website for delivery confirmation, according to USPS, the package had been delivered that day, June 5th.

I asked Yuna to please confirm receipt.  She did so this afternoon.  They now have everything they need from us.  We have a "Golden Ticket" Yellow T-shirt, passport and itinerary. 

Tomorrow I'll pick up the rental about noon.  We're undecided about a departure time, will likely be in the wee hours of Friday morning.  A healthy dose of coffee, Monster, Red Bull, 5hour Energy and No Doze ought to get us there in no time.

Tyrone

Has this ever happened to you?  On the road, snacks in the backseat or the trunk.  You stop to fill the tank and the kids want a snack that's not in the backseat or the trunk?  You buy the candy bar from the station in the middle of no where.  And it costs 5 times what it would at the grocery.

Well, in an attempt to avoid that situation, last night I bought and prepared every snack Naysia could possibly ask for on the road.

~Angry Birds Fruit Snack
~Cheeto Hot Fries
~Ruffles Cheddar
~M&Ms
~Tapioca Pudding
~Pringles
~Bananas
~Mini Vanilla Wafers
~Water
~Orange Juice
~Hi C Juice Boxes
~And some turkey/provolone cheese sammies


This time around I didn't get sunflower seeds.  I love to eat them when I drive. Last summer we had a major road trip, apparently the salt from the seeds had me looking like I was on crack.

Tonight we'll clean house, tomorrow eve we'll pack a bag.  I can hardly wait to celebrate Naysia, and put my toes in the sand.

Sunshine at Nighttime

It seems like almost every time something exciting is about to go down, the Queen is asleep.  And I have to wait, and I do so quite impatiently.

I'm now working 10 hour days. During today's lunch break I picked Naysia up from summer school, took her home, and returned to work. On the way home she talked about how tired she was, how she swallowed 3 bugs while on the track, and getting hit in the head with a basketball. 

When I got home this evening about 6:30pm I checked the mailbox.  Inside it was a large white envelope.  Once again I rushed inside.  She was asleep. 

So, I waited. I had breakfast for dinner, watched Hell's Kitchen, worked on a jigsaw puzzle and got thru most of MasterChef before she began to stir. Not wanting to alarm her, (apparently I get overexcited) I waited a few minutes before mentioning the envelope.  Once she appeared to be wide awake I went to the kitchen table, picked it up and took it to her.  As she lay on the couch she gazed at who it was from and attempted to open with bare hands and had no luck.  After a couple minutes she asked me to get the scissors, I did.  She tried to cut the package open, and had no luck.  I suggested pulling the package taut with one hand and cutting with the other, and still no luck. 

In her frustration she tossed it over for me to open.  Done, with pleasure.  I cut about 1/2 an inch off the side, resisted looking in, and passed it back to her.  She smiled.  I smiled.  She turned the envelope over.  It was as though sunshine poured right out~in the form of a bright yellow T-Shirt.  We embraced the moment.  No words were exchanged.  She looked at the logo and slowly rubbed her hand along it.  Also enclosed was the trip itinerary which she has read, and reread. She then very loudly burst out with, "If you do not stop taking pictures...!!!" 

All the pieces are slowly coming together.  Happening right before my eyes yet it's still so hard to believe that a month from today we'll be 6,368 miles apart.

No bills today

I've been checking the mailbox daily in anticipation for the arrival of Naysia's passport.  Having woken up at 5am, it's been a long wait for the early afternoon delivery of mail.

I left home for awhile late morning but raced home this afternoon. I couldn't wait to get home to check the mail.

As I walked from my car to the mailbox the sun peeked through a few wispy clouds, and the heat quickly warmed my skin.  The small silver mailbox key intermingled with the others as the keys quietly jingled in by hand.  I silently prayed that today would be the day. Standing there I believed that when the door swung open what we've been waiting for would be inside.  And it was.

A red, white and blue envelope-"US Government Official Mail" sat inside, all alone. I quickly grabbed it and walked briskly to our home.  I frantically unlocked the door and found Naysia sitting on the couch watching 'Monster Quest'.  I gave the envelope to her.  She didn't pay much attention to what the envelope said~but the huge smile on my face certainly gave it away.  She ripped it open, and squealed a little.

It still needs to be signed, scanned and emailed to Yuna.  We will get that done today.  

This time 30 days from now we'll be getting ready to depart from TIA.  For the moment we are enjoying the excitement of the build up.  Now, where's my purple marker?  I must head to the refrigerator and check off another item on our 'Korea To Do List'. Yippee!!!

Un-making wise decisions

Naysia and I woke up this morning with new thoughts about going to L.A. next week.  

After thinking about it I asked myself...."Self, this time a week from now will you wish you were on the road, celebrating Naysia's success, meeting those she'll travel with, and possibly going to the beach?"
Yep. 

Naysia decided that she'd rather read road signs and scan through fuzzy radio stations as opposed to running a mile and lifting weights next Friday.

So, the car has been reserved.  A hotel room has been booked.  We are suckers for a good road trip.