10 Things I Learned in May

At the end of each month, I write about things I learned. This practice has helped me pay attention to life, myself, and God's presence. In no particular order, here are 10 things I learned in May:

1. When there is an end in sight, you really appreciate the present. With our move to Hawaii drawing near, I find myself so grateful and aware of each moment we have left in Los Angeles.

2. You can guarantee a successful 5-year-old birthday party with a bounce house and make-it-yourself ice cream bar. 

3. Our church has been a place of leadership development for me. We've been part of Vineyard Underground for a little over a year, and I've had so many opportunities to lead, preach, and grow. I realize that this is unique for an Asian American woman in her early 30's, and am so grateful for our church community. If you want to listen to my sermon on Growth in Kingdom of God, it's posted here (the recording starts a few minutes into the sermon).

4. Trader Joe's Cookie & Cocoa Swirl. Sweet heaven.

5. I love watching my kids learn new things. Aaron took swim lessons for several weeks, and it was so fun to see him learn new skills and take risks.

6. 24's Jack Bauer still has it. On the other hand, Chloe O'Brian's eye-rolling, teen Gothic thing is getting tiresome. You gotta go, Chloe.

7. Overnight oatmeal is a nice alternative to regular hot oatmeal. It gets chilled in the fridge overnight, needs no cooking, and is ready to eat in the morning!

8. Always read the ingredient list on grocery items. I bought some almond milk at the store, thinking, "Healthy!" But then I got home and glanced at the milk carton, realizing that this particular almond milk had all sorts of preservatives. There are good, whole food options at the store, but I just need to remember to check the labels.

9. Looping Louie is the best game. It's created for kids 4 years and up. But we adults get way more entertainment out of it than our children. Hysterical and fun.

10. "If the pain of your story is not transformed, it will be transmitted." This quote by Richard Rohr rings so true, especially as I think about the recent Isla Vista deaths. May we each experience healing and transformation in places of pain today.