Park Family During The Korean War

 PARK FAMILY - Diana's mother's family

My mother was the 2nd child in a family of 7 members (my grandparents had 5 children).  Each of the children had distinct character traits. Kun-eemo (Keyport) was loud and bulsterous, my mom (Helen Kim) the quiet teacher-type and talented musician, Toronto eemo was the 3rd child who embodied beauty and elegance, Samchoon (John Park) was a CPA always joyful and as only male took his headship responsibilities respectfully, then the youngest was San Francisco eemo (Jinsoo Rhee) who was the carefree and silly spirit of the family.  This family immigrated from Korea to the US with in early 1970's.  They grew up in the church, loving Christ and living His joy despite challenges and hardship.  I look at my uncles and aunts and all I see are smiles and laughter...deep rooted pure, joy.

During the Korean War I've only heard two stories.  I'm documenting so that we remember.  When my grandmother shared these experiences with her grandchildren, tears of joy and gratitude poured down her face seeing God's faithfulness through it all.

(1)  Halabojee (grandpa) was a wealthy man.  When the Korean army approached his home, the family hid in the house.  Grandpa stepped outside and explained to the soldiers that he was too ill and unhealthy to serve in the army.  Grandpa went inside the house and grabbed his brother's x-rays of a broken bone as proof of being to unfit to serve.  This was the deciding factor to release or recruit my grandfather.  God's grace was prevalent in that moment as the soldiers returned the x-rays, turned around and left their house.  My grandfather was spared, did not have to leave or be separated from his family. Thanks be to God.

(2)  Also during the Korean War my mother and her family had to escape and travel to cross boundry lines.  In the dark of night, my grandfather and grandmother gathered their 5 young children and belongings and left the house.  They had to travel along the riverside beach to reach a bridge to get to the other side for safety.  14 feet putting one foot in front of the other, trying not to make a sound or be noticed, they finally reach the bridge and the soldier guards asked "where are you coming from?"  My grandfather responds saying, "we came from our home, walked along the riverside beach so we can cross this bridge."  The guard responds, "How?!?!  This beach is covered with land mine explosives!"  "I just told my family to be quiet and pray to God," grandpa replies.  In absolute amazement and thanksgiving, all families members were able to cross the bridge safely knowing God is with them and hears their prayers.  Thanks be to God.

Halmonee & Halabjee

Halmonee's 95th Birthday!

Kim Family During The Korean War

KIM FAMILY - Diana's father's family

 When Steve Sungil Kim (Diana's dad) was 6 years old, the Korean War began.  Steve had an older brother and an older sister, making him the youngest amongst three children.  Jeungjobu (Steve's dad) was captured, separated and taken to prison by the North Korean army for believing in Jesus Christ.  North Korea saw his Christian faith as unacceptable and a threat, that he was taken to Korean prison then moved to a higher-security prison in Russia years later and (unconfirmed) likely died there.

Jeungjo Halmonee (Steve's mom) was left to care for her three children during the war and escape - the burden was too difficult.  Carrying family luggage, journeying with the kids they had to stop, rest and decide how to endure further.  His mother decided to continue on, taking both boys (older son Harry and Steve) because males were the family lineage of descendants.  The daughter was left to the care of Jeungojo Halmonee's mother-in-law with the intention of someday reuniting again.  However, the war had separated the daughter forever as she was raised and currently lives in North Korea.  Nearly 35 years later, in 1989 after a long investigative search, communication and legal clearance process - Jeungo Halmonee was able to reunite with her daughter in China for 1 day.  Eemo's (Steve's sister) personal family, health, even living status is unknown to this day.  Jeungjo Halmonee lived 94 years before dying from dementia on November 12, 2013, leaving her two sons, Harry and Steve Kim, 6 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren behind.  My faithful Halmonee was one who carried much burden and sorrow from family tragedy.  She was often found reading her bible and praying in her basement for hours of the day, which was her source of joy and peace.

2020: Pandemic Hopwoods

2020 was a historical year on many levels.  The CoVID-19 (Coronavirus) worldwide pandemic stopped life as we knew it, in every corner of the globe.  International travel was halted, many businesses closed doors and every public event was cancelled and closed (schools, churches, sporting events, concerts, vacations, holiday celebrations, playgrounds and even birthdays).  Everybody quarantined in their home, while many lost jobs, healthcare employees working around the clock 24-7, technology companies thrived, and porch delivery services excelled (for some restaurants, grocers, and retailers).  

THE GOAL: stop/slow the spread of a deadly contagious virus. 

While we experience a global health crisis, the USA made history.  Politics was a great contributor to a divided nation during President Donald Trump's administration, unfortunately during a time when unity was needed most.  Lawmaker's response to CoVID-19 varied which added another level of disunity (some states/cities follow scientific guidelines of wearing face masks and socially distance 6 feet, while others did not).  The death of George Floyd had reignited the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement which highlighted our country's history of perpetual and systemic racial failures.  In November, America was watching the presidential election race closely when President-elect Joe Biden and Madam Vice President-elect Kamala Harris (first female, first Black, first South Asian in office) made history, declaring victory over current President Donald Trump.

For the Hopwoods, we hunkered down and thankfully have each other.  Diana snagged up face masks, hand sanitizers, all-purpose cleaners and toilet paper while reminding the kids to wash their hands frequently.  Alex opened his laptop from home everyday, and thankfully Expedia secured funding early in the recession.  The kids quickly got familiar with their iPads, Chromebooks, and software programs like Seesaw and Zoom.  When schools closed their doors on March 16, 2020 some teachers describe spring 2020 as "crisis learning", not knowing when education would resume in-building again. In lieu of traditional school, we had fun with minute-to-win-it games, balloon racquetball, obstacle courses and learning new life skills (right vs. left, counting coins, wearing face masks properly and folding laundry to name a few).  In September 2020, the boys transitioned to "fully remote online learning" and we organized a room from storage to school-office.  1.5 hours of live Zoom instruction, lunch, then an additional 30 minutes of Specialists Zoom meeting in the afternoon (with teachers who showed-up and conquered daily). Despite having to cancel a California & Korea vacation and simultaneously watching Expedia stock decline, we're thankful Alex continues to holds his position and family camping in Mt.Rainier and Camano Island were acceptable vacation alternatives.  The boys pass the time by playing video games like Minecraft, following professional football games and learning how to fish.  In addition to helping Diana around the house, Naomi learned to ride a bike, began to read and engaged in circle-time preschool via Zoom (2x/week).

With a simplified lifestyle, we're thankful to cling to the utmost priorities of life: faith, family, and love.  In FAITH we believe that God is at work, resetting many hearts to what's important, and know that the pandemic will resolve at the right time.  FAMILY is the only people who we can tolerate our isolated behaviors, emotions and vulnerabilities with grace, compassion and laughter. Busy activity schedules are substituted with more playful games and movie nights together. Work, school, church, meals all together all at home, all the time.  LOVE is what empowers us - "we love because He first loves us" (1 John 4:19).  Love to family, friend, colleague/teacher, marginalized & oppressed (underprivileged), even the tired & weary (essential workers and emotionally depressed).  In our conviction to love others - we wear face masks and obey health guidelines because "wearing is caring".  Alex regularly donated groceries to non-profit organizations, and Diana became responsible for the school's Care Closet of delivering food, household essentials and school supplies to low-income families every week.  Blessed to be a blessing!

 

2020-2021 milestones included:

• Jeungjo Halmonee's (great-grandmother's) 95th birthday
• Halmonee's (Diana's mother's) 70th birthday
• James family 20th wedding anniversary
• Diana's 40th birthday
• Sold the Mount Baker, Seattle house (which we owned for 14 years).  

With heavy hearts we honor and remember: 

• Paul Nelson, 63 (Alex's uncle, passed in October 2020)
• Barb Trevino, 71 (Alex's aunt, passed in December 2020)
• 441,000+ other Americans who have died from CoVID-19 
• 2 million+ souls worldwide from CoVID-19

Our NEWcastle

The Hopwoods have moved to the Newcastle/Kennydale neighborhood.  After 8 years of marriage, we have bought our first home together!  While the real estate market rises, we took advantage last year and sold Alex's Kirkland condo, we are keeping the Mount Baker Seattle house as a rental investment property (which Joanne and I bought together in Dec 2006).  With both of these in mind, God has allowed us to expand our wings for a more spacious home to serve a new community.

We are incredibly grateful and blessed to have a new home for our family!  After a 3 year search and 6 offers later, we were matched with a seller who graciously accepted our offer.  Alex working with the seller's wife at Expedia may have given us an advantage above the competition, but really it was our sympathy sobb letter that pulled on their heart strings.  Since we have walked though so many open houses, we had referred to this house with the kids as "The Tarantula Trampoline" house because of the enormous trampoline in the backyard and its captivating decorative tarantula in one of the staged bedrooms which Ethan admired (later to find out the stuffed tarantula was a subliminal message describing the festive Halloween neighborhood).

With the new house comes change.  Change...from city sirens to deer crossing, from grocery being 2 blocks away to a 12 minute commute, from zero kids on the block to being the newest kid on the block, from a 10 minute walk to school to a 10 minute bus ride, from backyard raccoons to backyard bunnies, from all the Amazon Prime benefits to only a few services (boo, no more Prime Now deliveries).  The most difficult part of the transition was NOT the packing or actual moving.  If you ask Diana - she'd say preparing the (old and new) homes with prep, prime and painting 6 rooms before families moved while also maintaining status quo for the family (school, meals, laundry, grocery shopping, packing, tball activities, toddler class, bathing kids, bedtime routines, etc).  Diana worked 16 hour days during those transition weeks.  The most difficult part of the transition for Alex was (1) maintaining a hold of the finances - sequence of events between extreme taxes, closing on the new home, and getting new tenants, and (2) commuting Luke to/from kindergarten in Seattle from April-June, while living 13 miles away.  The morning traffic was only bearable with the carpool lane, but Alex took Luke to school in morning, then catches the bus to work from a park & ride without any complaints (from door to door was about 1 hour each day), Alex loathes traffic.  The most miraculous part of the transition (apart from our offer being accepted) was the abundant grace the kids had through it all - the kids were flexible, cooperative, and patient - they never felt scared or anxious...a pure miracle from God!  Although its just the beginning, we have yet to find a home church, make new friends and change schools in September, but so far...Christ is leading the way holding our hands through it all and we don't feel anything but LOVED.

Mount Baker, Seattle

Newcastle/Kennydale

Unpredictable Beauty - NAOMI

Naomi, you are greater than we ever expected and an unpredictable gift!  Statistics convinced us that you were going to be a boy, but we were jaw-dropped astonished when we opened up our 2015 Christmas gift to see the blood test read "XX chromosome (female)" on the results.  We thought you would come (4 days early), but you decided to make your debut fashionably 3 days past the due date.  We predicted your delivery to be a quick & speedy 2 hours, but the anticipation lasted 7 hours.  We also thought you would be just over 7 pounds, but to our amazement you came out surpassing us all at 8 pounds 12 ounces!  Unpredictable and beyond expectations.

On the Tuesday morning of June 27, 2016 our church friend Erin Perkins came over to watch your brothers while mom & dad went out to breakfast to celebrate our 7th wedding anniversary.  We drove to the restaurant, parked the van and decided we weren't going to make it through the meal.  So we detoured through the McDonald's drive-thru for pancakes on the way to the hospital instead.  Arriving at the hospital around 9:30am, I declined the wheelchair and went directly to triage where I was admitted at 3cm dilated with contractions every 5-6 minutes.  In company with Amy Kirk, we moved to our delivery room, started fluids, got an epidural around 11:00am, and received antibiotics for Group B Strep (which requires 4 hrs prior to delivery).

Then we waited.  Waiting for antibiotics to settle in, waiting for my water to break, waiting to be fully dilated, waiting for you to descend.  While waiting daddy got coffee and a sandwich, Amy was checking emails and getting her classes covered by other trainers, and I was able to order broth soup and have clear liquids while watching tv (nothing good worth noting). The nurse talks about the terrible Hillary/Trump politics and noted that I've been contracting every 3 minutes, one contraction that even lasted 3 minutes long.

4:00pm now and Dr. Bridges determines that its time to manually break my water and check how progressive we could be with one big push.  Successful, its 'go time'!  Gowns on, everyone in position....1 big push (counting to 10)...you were born at 4:28pm!  Brought directly to my chest all goopy with adorable chubby cheeks (before taking your vitals under the warmer), I'm proud of you and right away love being your mother, holding you close to me, and hearing your first breaths/cries.

Naomi Joy Hopwood born Tuesday, June 27th, 2016 at 4:28pm.  Weighing 8lbs 12oz and 21.5 inches long, surpassing your brothers in both categories!

NAOMI:  meaning "pleasant or beautiful".  Eemo Joanne was the original suggester of the name and your father and I put it at the top of the potential names list quickly.  Once we saw you, Naomi was very fitting.  The biblical Naomi from Ruth 1 lost much was heartbroken and became bitter, but God saw her as a blessing and encouraging mother-in-law to Ruth.  He never viewed her the way she poorly viewed herself.

 

DnA Covenant Vows

On June 27, 2009 Alex and I have committed to a covenant with the following vows.

marriage vows

ALEX

I Alex, take you, Diana, to be my lawful wedded wife.  I accept the responsibility given to me to love you as Christ loves the church with the humility and strength He supplies.  I promise to serve, support, and trust in you, helping you to become a woman who is sanctified in the ways of the Lord.  With His help I will love you with patience, sensitivity, and understanding.  I praise our Lord for giving you to be my wife.

DIANA

I Diana, take you, Alex, to be my lawful wedded husband. I vow to uphold God’s will for me to be your helper, submitting to you as unto Him. I will be faithful to you, honor and respect you as we serve our Lord together as one. I promise be by your side, to support you in your efforts to grow as a husband and as a Christian. I praise our Lord for giving you to be my husband.

ring vows

ALEX

I give you this ring as an outward symbol of my commitment to you.  I pledge myself to you and you alone in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

DIANA

I give you this ring as an outward symbol of my commitment to you.  I pledge myself to you and you alone in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

One 'Rock' Unskipped

Announcement email to the family dated May 5, 2008.

Dear Family,

With great joy & excitement, I announce that Alex & I as we are recently ENGAGED!

This past Friday, Alex picked me up for a surprise date night which started off with a stroll through Seward Park near my house. On our walk, we were casually talking about all the great things God is doing in our lives and enjoying the beauty of His creation on the dry, overcast day. As we encountered a beach of rocks, we couldn't pass up the opportunity for a little competitive rock skipping (which Alex let me win). After our first round, we both were seeking for more skipping rocks and in so doing Alex got down on one knee and asked, "Diana, how about this rock?" To my surprise, I gasped for air, had the biggest smile, tears running down my face, and was speechless. After a few precious words he asked me to marry him and I emphatically said "YES!"

The night continued with a fancy delicous dinner at Canlis Restaurant, then we joined Joanne & Jaime at The Local Vine in downtown Seattle afterwards for a celebratory toast.

It was a magical evening and we are truly excited for what lies ahead!  We are very thankful as Jesus has blessed us with His love and grace throughout our relationship.  Without God, we wouldn't have met 10 months ago or be where we are today.  I look forward to introducing you to Mr. Alex Hopwood.  We are in prayer for a 2009 wedding.

Blessed,
-Diana (and Alex Hopwood)

New Year...New Addition - ETHAN

Some people start a new year aiming to stop habits or start anew. Whether its to get fit and healthy, set financial goals or new traditions. In January 2014 we started the new year with a new family addition!

Sunday, January 26, 2014
4:00 am - Contractions became intensely stronger.
4:30 am - Its 'go time' with contractions about 7-8 minutes apart. I tell Alex we probably should call my mom (Halmonee) so that she can make her way over to our house. Time to load the car with our bags and "BREATHE!"
5:50 am - Mom and dad arrive to our house and caught me eating a piece of zucchini bread. Contractions were 5 minutes apart now and we're headed to the hospital.
6:15 am - Check into the Swedish Hospital Triage center about 4cm dilated.
7:30 am - Moved into a very spacious delivery room. Nurse checks dilation and requests an epidural. Also gives me the GBS antibiotics which takes 4 hours to settle in (baby is likely going to arrive before the 4hr expiration).
8:00 am - Nurse says I've dilated nearly a centimeter every 15 minutes. Now at 8cm, I get an epidural and my friend, Amy Kirk arrives.
10:00 am - Dr. McDermott and the attending resident notice that baby's heart rate drops and its no longer worth waiting the full 4 hours for the GBS antibiotics to take affect. "We're going to break your water and have a baby" says the resident.
10:19 am - After 1st set of active pushing, the top of his head came out with a "shower cap" over his forehead. After the 2nd set of pushing, he was here!

Ethan Joseph Hopwood was born on Sunday, January 26, 2014 at 10:19am. He weighted 7lbs 10oz and was 19.75 inches long.

The umbilical cord was wrapped round his neck twice, and after the nurse cleaned him and took his vitals he was brought into my arms with irregular breathing. Because Ethan arrived before my full 4hrs of antibiotics (we get to stay in the hospital another day) and with regular breathing issues; it was a case for nursery care. Ethan's strength was demonstrated when nurses said he may be away from us in the nursery for about 4 hours depending on his recovery, but was returned to mom & dad only after an hour.

ETHAN - meaning "Strength". Also a wise counselor to King Solomon.
JOSEPH - name given by Halmonee and Halabogee after the biblical Joseph of Arimathea. (Matthew 27:57, Mark 15:43, Luke 23:51, John 19:38)

"Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Council (and disciple of Jesus), who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body." (Mark 15:43).

 

  

Our 2011 Christmas Gift - LUKE

Its been a smooth 41 weeks of carrying our unknown child. Unsure if its a boy or a girl, unsure of its features, unsure of what it even sounds like. Although six days past the expected due date, our child is absolutely perfect.

Saturday, Dec 3, 2011
3:53 am - Beginning of strong contractions (avg 30 mins apart)
7:02 am - 1st time having breakfast at Silver Fork restaurant (avg 15 mins apart)
12:54 pm - 1st call to the doctor. Doctor's response: "give it another hour." (6 mins apart)
2:30 pm - 2nd call to the doctor. Doctor's response: "come to the hospital" (5 mins apart)
3:15 pm - Arrived at the hospital and admitted into triage. Confirmed I was 4cm dilated.
4:00 pm - Received my really large birthing suite.
5:10 pm - Decided to get the epidural (probably at 5cm dilated), later received 2 additional doses epidural, my parents visited & prayed over me.
10:00 pm - Nurses realize my water broke at some point in time.
11:00 pm - Nurses identify that baby's heart rate is dropping with each contraction (due to pinched umbilical cord).

Sunday, December 4, 2011
12:20 am - Dr.Bridges informs me of baby's heart rate dropping and that alternative methods may need to be considered, but try natural first. She also confirmed I was dilated enough to start pushing.
12:35 am - Began pushing with each contraction. The doctor used the vacuum and if the baby didn't come out, then the next solution is cesarean. One final push and...
12:54 am - Alex announced that its a baby BOY! Our son's umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck twice, nurses cleaned him and took his vitals. Alex immediately tended to our little boy, then when they brought him to me on the bed - Alex began to pray aloud (this is what really melted my heart to tears). Praise Jesus, he is healthy...no cone head, no heart issues, and doesn't have jaundice.

Lucas James Hopwood (goes by Luke) was born on Sunday, December 4, 2011 at 12:54am. He weighted 6lbs 14oz and was 20.25 inches long.

Thank you Jesus for answering all our prayers from the beginning. Thanks to all the doctors, nurses and staff at Swedish Hospital-First Hill for your compassion and great service. I could not of had a better first-time experience and really do appreciate you staying up through the late hours to comfort me and ensure a healthy delivery. As I've told others, "I would do it again." Thank you!!

 

Woohoo!

(Diana) For dessert, unscramble the cupcake letters to figure out what it says.
(Mom) "I see the word baby. B-A-B-Y"
(Sisters) "Baby, what? Woohoo!"
(Mom) "Oh yeah, its says 'Baby Woohoo!'"
(Diana) "It says 'Baby Hopwood', but we'll name it Baby Woohoo for now."

Now I get it why they call it the "Miracle of Life"...because this gifted blessing is created as just that...a divine miracle! Our little child is a healthy 13 week old fetus (apparently the size of a lime) and seems to be as chill as its daddy. We are incredibly excited and joyfully looking forward to November 28, 2011!!!

Moorea! (aka: TAHITI)

Moorea is a gorgeous, little island in French Polynesia just 9 miles northwest of Tahiti.  Its a beautiful reward after the exhausting adventure getting there.  Our layover flight to LAX was canceled and therefore we missed our Tahiti flight out of LA.  Since flights out of LA are limited and there aren't any inter-island connections once you arrive in Papeete; I highly recommend starting your travels one or two days before you actually start ordering poolside mai-tai's.  Despite the canceled flights, misconnections and the unexpected 6 hour bus ride, a secluded beach was still worth the effort.  Below are a few pictures from our heavenly vacation.

Samchoon's Legacy

John Sungsoo Park was born on October 29, 1954 in Seoul, Korea and died on February 5, 2011 in Seattle, Washington at the age of 56.  He was a son, husband, father of three children, a brother, mentor and a lover of Christ.  I called him Samchoon (meaning uncle in Korean). 

Samchoon was a humble, generous and selfless man who devoted his life to serve Christ and love others before himself.  Aside from owning his own CPA firm, Samchoon spent his time as an elder at Korean Presbyterian Church of Seattle, rarely missing a Sunday service and always sharing the gospel until his final days.  From church sport activities to weekly church meetings, Samchoon's priorities never wavered.  He truly loved God's people as if they were all "blood related," serving the church with great compassion and dignity.  Samchoon taught me that it wasn't nearly enough to go to church, that to be a Christian we are to live completely devoted to Jesus.  And that there is great value in loving and serving Jesus, desiring more of the Holy Spirit as a church community. 

The fruits of Samchoon's labor on earth was apparent at his memorial.  It was quite obvious he had an impression on hundreds of lives.  Many people flew to Seattle from various corners of the continent on a moments notice to celebrate John's life.  The sanctuary was packed full with over 400 people, and an additional 100+ people listening in while standing outside in the cold weather.  Despite the interment service the following day, many people sacrificed their own agenda to honor and bid Samchoon a final farewell.  Its exactly what he would do for them.

It amazes me how Samchoon provided and attended to the needs of his parents, wife and children (for many years had seven people in the same house), while running his own business, and actively involved with church - he carried such a heavy load.  And despite his busy schedule always made time for you.  How does someone with such a large (proverbial) plate  demonstrated a headship, a loving marriage, and a joyful heart with such grace?  He enjoyed the outdoors and was the first to introduced my family to the quality goods at REI.  He was the adult with great responsibilities yet his child-like joyful spirit never escaped him. 

A few months prior to passing away, Samchoon prayed over a family meal and while I only recorded a small snip - he prayed, "Jesus always guide them (family members).  Always be the master of their lives.  (with appreciation & gratitude) God, thank you so much!  I pray in Jesus' name.  Amen."

Samchoon, THANK YOU!  Thank you for your encouragement and your example through the years.  Thank you for continually pointing us to Jesus, for the many hugs & laughs you shared and for humbly leading our family well.  I love you, Samchoon!

Thee Birthday Celebration

There's many reasons to celebrate: a new job, promotion, retirement, graduation, engagement, wedding, family addition or even a new home.  However of all these occasions to get a greeting card and  raise a glass, the best celebratory reason to honor and uphold, is Jesus and his existence on the earth.  Yes, I'm talking about Jesus Christ's birthday (aka Christmas).

If I knew someone who was turning 2,010 years old - I would hope the birthday party to be huge!  From flowers, decorations, food/drinks, music, photographers, transportation and additional costs, the average cost of a wedding in Seattle is about $30,000.  Even the multiple-day wedding events in India aren't as intriguing as Jesus birthday party.  Although its definitely a great reason to 'go big' and party it up, its minor league compared to how JC rolls.

Participating in Jesus' birthday is unavoidable and providentially designed that way.    We have eight Christmas events to attend to this month...it seems overwhelming but its always a joyous occasion.  Jesus doesn't need money to determine his worth or value.  He honors His own birthday every year in playing joyful carols in every store & on every radio station, receiving Christmas card surprises in your mail, sentimental candlelight church service, happy people of all ages, time off from work and the selfless act of giving gifts and love to one another.  What's most impressive about this birthday party is that its an international event and Jesus invited EVERYONE to participate!

May you and your loved ones enjoy the Christmas festivities with joy and gladness.  Happy Birthday Jesus and thanks for the party invite. 

Thankful for FRIENDS

I can't help but be thankful for all the family & friends in my life who have brought me so much joy this year.  What an encouragement it is to walk with people who simply love Jesus.  At home, work, church, on weekends, or over beers, God continually orchestrates the gospel around me through these peeps...its awesome!  Kamsa mi-da, mahalo, domo arigato, gazie, thank you!!!

I light of the Thanksgiving spirit, I've posted couple of my favorite thanksgiving memories.  Get your Joey pants, do a little dance, and have a joyful holiday surrounded by love, laughter and delicious grub!

Boston/NYC vacation

The culture and history of the east coast is so rich (and so are the wallets). We caught a red-eye flight to Boston and since our hotel room wasn't ready we decided to eat in the hotel restaurant. Although the eggs and bacon were good, it wasn't quite worth the $25, so being half awake it wasn't the best first impression either.

Boston, oh I love this city! I couldn't get enough of the Irish pubs, tax-free clothes and how much history that has been preserved throughout the years. From original gas street lamps to one of the oldest baseball stadiums today, you can't help but appreciate the old ways of doing things. Although the Red Sox lost their home game, Alex's youthful excitement was shining when he got a signed baseball from manager, Terry Francona.

New York took us by surprise when the subways were clean and the people didn't elbow us or talk to us with an attitude. Between great eats, shopping, parks and tourist attractions we made full use of our vacation. The new Yankee Stadium was absolutely beautiful...but so was Central Park, St.Patrick's Cathedral, Grand Central Station, Ellis Island, and Time Square. I can only suggest two things when visiting the Big Apple: a smart phone to help you find, locate & navigate around the city AND great walking shoes (no slippas or heels) to help you wondering the blocks a little longer.

Here are some pictures from our vacation last September:

JOY-FULL Summer

Have you ever wanted to be the woman who ran with life and genuinely enjoyed it? For several months, I routinely asked God in prayer to fill my heart with His joy. I desired to be consistently happy (where no one could identify my "time of the month"), to have a child-like spirit who doesn't worry about responsibilities and simply saw the glass always half full. I passionately wanted to be alive and joyous, but was unsure of how to get there.

I wanted the few closest people to me, who know everything about me to be the ones who make me laugh until my abs hurt (heck, I didn't have very many friends to play the role). While still bitter and disappointed with myself I hid in my turtle shell, not letting anyone in and becoming the woman with a lot of acquaintances but no true friendships. While at community group one night, we split into gender small groups for prayer time. When it was my turn to address any prayer needs, I defaulted to my regular request of desiring to experience His joy.

Since the time of our ladies prayer group, nearly four months has passed and I stumbled upon my prayer notes as opportunity to check-in with what Jesus has been doing in these ladies lives but I immediately realized that my request has been fulfilled (Amen)! From summer BBQ's, weddings, and baby showers with these ladies - I noticed that I was happiest after being with our group members. I wanted to do more, laugh more and have more time with the ladies who have filled my 'empty friendship' cup. Turns out Alex said he hasn't seen me this joyful since our early dates together; it truly has made a difference.

Jesus not only knew that I was lacking a relationship balance with other women, but used these women to pray for me while also being the answer to my prayer. These community group girls which Jesus placed around me has radiated my heart with an abundance of joy. Its been a JOY-FULL summer being around cool people, laughing really hard, and sharing life together.

"The LORD is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous. A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones."
Proverbs 15:29-30

Marriage T-Ball

Its softball season (yeah)! This time of year brings fond memories of the first time Alex & I met each other on the softball field. Softball is our favorite activity in which we both equally enjoy playing and exceed well at. We collaborate well and have a lot of fun on the field, but how do we have the same experience in our marriage?

We're 11 months into marriage now (such rookies, right?) and its like we're picking up a ball for the first time. Its foreign and unfamiliar territory. As we're in the t-ball phase, I've noticed a lot of relevancy of how the Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) is actively coaching us through our marriage fundamentals.

THE COACHES:
God the Father - the Father is the General Manager who sees all, knows all, and wants the best for his team. The Father owns the vision and has Jesus and the Holy Spirit to help execute and communicate the plan. The Hopwoods can try to play according to the guidelines but in order to win in the end we rely in faith, hoping that we succeed according to God's plan. Without the Father's support, love, guidance and direction we're simply a couple amateurs still in t-ball.

Jesus Christ - Jesus is the Head Coach who submits under the General Manager. He can often times be the translator between the Father and us as players, so that we fully comprehend the Father's training, vision and intentions. Jesus is the experienced coach who understands when we make an error, lose our temper and have to patiently wait on the bench. When the Hopwood duo doesn't know what pitch to throw next, its Jesus who makes the decision for the right direction of the game. Alex & I like to celebrate in the end when we get to pour a Gatorade of praises on our Head Coach.

Holy Spirit - the Holy Spirit is the Assistant Coach who encourages and roots for us through the good and the bad. When the Hopwood team is down and behind, it is the Spirit who changes the momentum & motivation - from hot-head frustration to a loving hug of success after the competition.

Although I often forget that I'm on the same team as Alex and also fail to know whether we're playing offense or defense; we are both learning some key fundamentals of success.

THE FUNDAMENTALS (P.A.T.S.):
Patience & Perseverance - whether we win or lose during the season, we both agree to fight the good fight until its over...all the way to old-age retirement. I wanted the happy, vanilla, fresh & pristine marriage out of the box, but with such high expectations and only 11 months new, it requires some hard work and a lot of practice. Fight to the end with patience and perseverance.

Attitudes - the honeymoon was great, but it's game time. Whether we lost our swing or conquered an opponent, we try to learn from our coaches the elements of having the right attitude. Often times in competition or at war with evil, we need an attitude check in understanding the importance of being selfless and practicing humility. This attitude check of humbleness not only makes it easier to have fun but also to serve, lead, and love one another without grumbling.

Teamwork - we'll have our exciting & successful highs where we unconditionally love and support one another. We've also had our share of the brutally challenging lows of nagging and arguments as well. This means that each player need to be flexible, collaborate and trust one another in order to learn and grow TOGETHER as one cohesive team.

Studying strengths/weaknesses - a good pitcher/catcher duo is a pair who knows each others thoughts for the next pitch in any given scenario (i.e. batter, outs, base runners, etc.). The key to understanding teammates involves observation and a lot of communication. Although I don't know all of Alex's best pitches, it has been fun testing them out and talking them through on the mound. From what I see has a lot of potential and I can respect his consistency.

We each bring different skills and talents to the field. As newlyweds, there have been occassions where I have ran in the wrong direction or failed to contribute to the team success; but after each event its been a joy to celebrate with our juice boxes for the love of the game. There is opportunity to refine our skills to be an even stronger team, but for now we're young rookies who have really enjoyed playing t-ball.

Family growth

I love my Kim & Hopwood families for its one-of-a-kind uniqueness, embracing love, Christian example and the generational growth & legacy. However, last Sunday was Easter in which I had the privilege of spending with my church family at MHC-Ballard.

Easter Sunday is a holiday in which Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Where Jesus conquered death by raising up from his own tomb to be with his friends and Father. Unfortunately, this holiday brings back poor memories as a child of wet grass fields with hidden plastic eggs and I was more concentrated on avoiding dog poop more than I was about getting prizes. Now as an adult, I've realized that its more than grass stains and colored boiled eggs, its about Jesus solidifying his majesty & power over all things (he can't be trumped, He's the real deal). This is expressed with SO much joy & excitement as if I was a MLB rookie pitcher who just won the world championships w/ a no-hitter...it's THAT cool!

Easter marked an incredible milestone not only for the church body but also for the many people who took a bold step for Jesus. Pastor Cliff Ellis said that Mars Hill had "close to 20,000 in attendance for Good Friday & Easter, another 19,000 watched online, and 376 were baptized." Alex & I are volunteer leaders who help in coordinating baptisms at the Ballard campus. We needed 12 volunteers for each of the 5 services, and we began with nearly seven committed volunteers total, then somehow our Lord continues to provide and we ended up having an abundance of helping hands for each service. Through this ministry we got to serve 129 attendees who stepped forward and got dunked for Jesus. I'm continually amazed at the work that Jesus is doing around us - drug attics being transformed and changed, prophetic dreams coming true, rape victims being reborn, and others finally giving up their own (sin, desires, control, etc.) saying "yes" to Jesus' invitation.

Nearly six years ago I knew I found a "home church" where I could participate, learn and get involved with. But I never thought this church of drug attics, alcoholics, rape victims, indie rock-worshiping congregation would actually be my family. Similar to my real families, Jesus' family is just as quirky, as unique, and also growing rapidly. I'm honored to serve, learn and experience from the church and be a part of HIS-story.

To preview some of those stories, click here.

"Happy" New Year!?!?!

A new year stems new beginnings (for better or worse). 2010 definitely has a lot of new stuff: new home improvements, new places to see, new friends, and with a new last name is the beginning of a new family. With all these new & exciting elements, I can't help but wonder...is it necessarily going to be a "happy" year? There's more work to be done, more planning, less time, and more/new responsibilities. As we look forward to the year ahead, please be encouraged that "with man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26

Tuesday, January 12th, marks the day when a 7.0 earthquake hit Haiti. While the Haitian people are starting the new year in devastation and hopelessness, Alex & I have been praying for over 7 months on where God would have us do missionary work and we see the earthquake as an answered prayer for our us to serve in. Alex begins 2010 at Microsoft and by February, he was gifted with a new job at Expedia. It really is true when they say, "when one door closes, God will open a new one."

May you find joy and happiness in all the things God has in stored for you this year and the many years ahead.

Alex's Testimony

Alex got baptized at Mars Hill Church - Ballard campus on Sunday, December 7, 2009. Proceeding each service, we stood in front of the congregation at all 4 services and Alex gave his testimony while Pastor Bubba Jennings coached him through on-stage Q&A. Alex says that its not enough to be morally good person, who abide by the (christian) rules. God calls us to covant relationship and faithfully believing that He ultimately has better plans for our lives (beyond religious practices, works/deeds, good will and moralism).

On this day, Pastor Mark Driscoll pre-recorded the sermon from the Jordan River while speaking of Jesus being baptized in Luke 3. We were well supported with family and friends in the attendance hooting & hollering their support throughout the day and while Alex got dunked in the tank at the 11:15am service. God continues to change a person's heart with new motives, desires, and perspective. In the end, its really not about us....we have an awesome Father who takes care of us and is worthy of adoration! See Alex's story on video!

Alex's Testimony from Diana Hopwood on Vimeo.

Alex gets Dunked from Diana Hopwood on Vimeo.

From 09.Dec Alex Baptism