Morning sickness continues during this last month of pregnancy. I had to go into ER again last weekend due to non-stop coughing. Whew....I'm almost there and soon there will be no more barfing!
These past few months, I have been writing about what happened to C.J. and myself during the past 8 months, especially in financial area. Now I would like to share what we learned: AM I A GOOD MANAGER?
Again, we realized that Matthew 25:12 is so true; that God gives to those who handle His resources responsibly and faithfully. If you were the master, who would you entrust with your finance, someone who has a track record of being wise and responsible with money or someone who does not know where his money is being spent.
Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together! (Matthew 25:12, NLT)
Having experienced how God has met all our needs during the past tough, very tough 9 months, C.J. and I are at peace about us becoming a one-income family as we welcome a baby into our family.
TAPO
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Thursday, March 4, 2010
God on Our Side - Door Opened, Door Closed
On 2009 Thanksgiving weekend, big news arrived in C.J.'s e-mail inbox. The e-mail was containing a job offer from the Department of Defense (DoD) to work in Korea for three years. Initially, we thought it was a spam mail, but after confirming over the phone with the actual HR person who sent the e-mail, it wasn't a joke any more.
C.J. had been applying for DoD jobs since early 2008, and this job he was offered was one of the many positions he had applied for in May 2008. We were excited, but I wasn't sure if the timing was right, because at that time, I was on bed rest due to severe case of morning sickness and was not sure if my body could handle the trans-pacific move. However, as it was something that we had been asking, seeking, and knocking for a long time, we decided to accept the offer.
Then, about a month later, we found out that C.J.'s then-current job would not be available from February 2010! At that time, C.J. had been working as a contractor for the City of Chicago for three yeras. However, obviously the City of Chicago union filed a complaint two years ago asserting that the work C.J. had been doing should be given to a union member, not to an outside contractor like C.J., and the union won the job. Of course, C.J. did not know this was happening all those years, so when he heard the news, it was a shock not only to him, but also to his company.
Whew....what could have happened if C.J. did not get the job offer from DoD? What could have happened if we decided not to accept the offer? Insurance, mortgage, baby....How would we have handled all the expenses?
Realizing how perfect the timing was, C.J. and I could not stop praising God. I still remember telling CJ how overwhelmed I was by His work.
TAPO
C.J. had been applying for DoD jobs since early 2008, and this job he was offered was one of the many positions he had applied for in May 2008. We were excited, but I wasn't sure if the timing was right, because at that time, I was on bed rest due to severe case of morning sickness and was not sure if my body could handle the trans-pacific move. However, as it was something that we had been asking, seeking, and knocking for a long time, we decided to accept the offer.
Then, about a month later, we found out that C.J.'s then-current job would not be available from February 2010! At that time, C.J. had been working as a contractor for the City of Chicago for three yeras. However, obviously the City of Chicago union filed a complaint two years ago asserting that the work C.J. had been doing should be given to a union member, not to an outside contractor like C.J., and the union won the job. Of course, C.J. did not know this was happening all those years, so when he heard the news, it was a shock not only to him, but also to his company.
Whew....what could have happened if C.J. did not get the job offer from DoD? What could have happened if we decided not to accept the offer? Insurance, mortgage, baby....How would we have handled all the expenses?
Realizing how perfect the timing was, C.J. and I could not stop praising God. I still remember telling CJ how overwhelmed I was by His work.
TAPO
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
God on Our Side - Maternity Coverage
It was October of last year that God started stirring waves in our quiet lives in Chicagoland. After noticing some unsettling symptoms, we found out I was pregnant. It was amazing news! However, soon we realized we didn't have maternity coverage. Out of negligence, we were still carrying the same health insurance we had as singles and didn't purchase maternity coverage. I started having severe morning sickness which left me debilitated. However, without maternity coverage, I didn't dare to see a doctor. That was mid October.
In two weeks, C.J.'s company started accepting renewal/new applications for employee health insurance. Until then, it was our understanding that in the state of Illinois, it takes one year of waiting period for the maternity coverage to become available after enrollment. However, we found out that BCBSIL's policy changed in October 2009 to waive the waiting period for new applicants!
We enrolled for the new insurance which became effective on November 1, 2009. I saw a OB/GYN doctor on November 3, and was admitted to ER on the same day and then hospitalized for the next three days for malnutrition and dehydration. The bill for the ER visit and hospital stay came about $80,000, but most of it was covered by the new insurance and we paid only $90.
Looking back at the three weeks gives me goose bumps all over. What could have happened if we didn't have the insurance? What could have happened if BCBSIL still required the one-year waiting period for maternity coverage to become available? We could have either damaged my and baby's health or ruined our finance. God's timing couldn't have been more perfect. I may sound obnoxious, but I do see God's hands diligently working for us in BCBSIL's policy change that happened in October 2009.
TAPO
In two weeks, C.J.'s company started accepting renewal/new applications for employee health insurance. Until then, it was our understanding that in the state of Illinois, it takes one year of waiting period for the maternity coverage to become available after enrollment. However, we found out that BCBSIL's policy changed in October 2009 to waive the waiting period for new applicants!
We enrolled for the new insurance which became effective on November 1, 2009. I saw a OB/GYN doctor on November 3, and was admitted to ER on the same day and then hospitalized for the next three days for malnutrition and dehydration. The bill for the ER visit and hospital stay came about $80,000, but most of it was covered by the new insurance and we paid only $90.
Looking back at the three weeks gives me goose bumps all over. What could have happened if we didn't have the insurance? What could have happened if BCBSIL still required the one-year waiting period for maternity coverage to become available? We could have either damaged my and baby's health or ruined our finance. God's timing couldn't have been more perfect. I may sound obnoxious, but I do see God's hands diligently working for us in BCBSIL's policy change that happened in October 2009.
TAPO
It's Been a Long Time!
Hello Everyone,
I apologize for having disappeared for the past 5 months. God has been doing amazing things in our lives in such a speed, so I haven't been able to make time for anything other than taking care of our basic daily needs. It's been a crazy 5-month, but C.J. and I witnessed 'God on our side' in every step we took. For the next few postings, I plan on writing about how we experienced God's faithfulness during that period, especially in financial area. I hope our testimony will encourage you in your journey toward financial freedom.
Blessings,
TAPO
I apologize for having disappeared for the past 5 months. God has been doing amazing things in our lives in such a speed, so I haven't been able to make time for anything other than taking care of our basic daily needs. It's been a crazy 5-month, but C.J. and I witnessed 'God on our side' in every step we took. For the next few postings, I plan on writing about how we experienced God's faithfulness during that period, especially in financial area. I hope our testimony will encourage you in your journey toward financial freedom.
Blessings,
TAPO
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Time to Splurge
A few weeks ago, C.J. and I took YJ out to Blue Man Group show. We wanted to do something very special for YJ's birthday. After much brainstorming, I decided if it were not for this special occasion, none of us would ever have a chance to go to Blue Man show. Especially, I doubt that the TAPO couple would dare to go to such a pricey show on their own without a serious excuse.
The show turned out to be great and we all had much fun. Most likely, it will be once-in-a-lifetime experience to all three of us, and the fact that we were able to share the experiece together meant a lot.
It was a very fun and meaningful evening. I have to say it was one of the best splurging's we have done.
TAPO
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Until Death Do Us Part
I like to use things until they become unusable. I still use the leather purse which I got in 1995. My infamous backpack with wheels was purchased in 2002, the same year when this laptop computer was bought. Shoes are worn until they become unrepairable.
The mouse that I use was a gift from a friend of mine. I believe it's only about 4 years old. It's functional and I have no problem with it. However, C.J. insists I need a new one, a cute one like the Plumberry Mouse in the picture above.
C: Honey, come here. I think you will like this. Isn't this mouse cute? I'm thinking about getting this for you from eBay.
H: Let me see...it is really cute. Then, is anything wrong with my mouse? Is it not working? It was working fine yesterday...
C: No... your mouse is working, but it's not fun. I want you to use this cute mouse.
H: Hey, I am as happy as I can be with my mouse.
C: You know what? Also, there is this little crack on the side of your mouse...here, see?
H: So, is it not functioning because of the crack?
C: No...but...
H: I'm going to use this mouse until it goes dead.
C: Then, how about this? How about if I get this Plumberry one for your Christmas gift?
H: Well, I can't let this old one go until it does not work any longer. How about if you get me the Plumberry one when my old one dies?
C: ....Ok, we'll do that.
C: Honey?
H: Listening.
C: Are you going to keep me until I die?
H: Of course!
C: Are you going to get a new husband if I die first?
H: It depends...Are you?
C: Hmm...I think I'll eventually remarry. But, I'll miss you a lot, though.
H: (duh?)TAPO
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
To Give or Not To Give?
Every year, we receive many letters from friends asking for financial support for their short-term or long-term missions trips. Whenever we receive them, we take our time to discuss whether we have to give or not and ,if we decide to help, how much we have to give.
Not long ago, we received one of those letters from a couple whom C.J. has been friends for many years. They were going on an overseas missions trip for about 10 days and asked for support.
C.J.'s response was 'Of course we have to give, because they are my long-time friends!'. However, my response was very different: 'They've become my friends as well, but knowing that they are not responsible with their finance, I have much reservation'.
Since it's not like I have unlimited financial resource to support everyone who needs help, I would like to give to those who have the history of being responsible and faithful with finance so that my gift would not be wasted.
TAPO
Not long ago, we received one of those letters from a couple whom C.J. has been friends for many years. They were going on an overseas missions trip for about 10 days and asked for support.
C.J.'s response was 'Of course we have to give, because they are my long-time friends!'. However, my response was very different: 'They've become my friends as well, but knowing that they are not responsible with their finance, I have much reservation'.
Since it's not like I have unlimited financial resource to support everyone who needs help, I would like to give to those who have the history of being responsible and faithful with finance so that my gift would not be wasted.
TAPO
Monday, September 28, 2009
FREE 2010 New Yorker Calendar
How about a FREE calendar for 2010? New Yorker Magazine is giving away free calendars.
Go over HERE to sign up for your calendar. Allow 6-8 weeks for delivery.
TAPO
Thanks 'It's Hip 2 Save'!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Free Entree at Panda Express - 9/25/2009 only
Tomorrow, Panda Express is offering FREE entree of SweetFire Chicken Breast. It's not buy one get one free. It's Completely Free! I plan to check out Panda Express near my work for lunch tomorrow. HERE is your coupon.
Only valid at participating locations, so please call ahead.
TAPO
Hooray to Local Banks!
A few months ago, we decided it is wise to take advantage of current low interest rates and refinance. We thought we would save a lot of money by reducing the total mortgage interest we will have to pay over the remaining mortgage life.
During our pre-bank visit research, we found out that small local banks give much more favorable rates than larger, well-known banks. After much discussion, two local banks were picked for visit: Liberty Bank and Harris Bank. I want to take this opportunity to share how impressed we were with the sincerity and honesty of their service.
At the Liberty Bank, a young banker welcomed us into his office. As I have believed wisdom comes with aging, I didn't expect much from the young man. However, he spent almost an hour to explain and answer our questions. He was sincere and he did not try to 'sell' stuff. We were given a free mortgage 101 lesson. At the end of the visit, CJ and I found out that Liberty Bank does not offer commission to its bankers for selling products, which explained why the young man was able to be fair and honest with us.
Next, we visited Harris Bank. The morgage banker, Kevin, was not in the office. However, instead of telling us to come back later, another banker went an extra mile to let us talk to Kevin over the phone. Kevin was straightforward: He said, "Why are you going to waste that $1200 refinancing cost? You'd better use it to pay toward your remaining mortgage balance. Even though your mortgage rate goes up next year, it will be a minimal increase." He could not have been wiser! Refinancing cost is 100% wasted money. However, if we put it toward our mortgage principle, it will reduce the balance and therefore reduce the interest. With our current mortgage balance and mortgage interest rate, $1200 is greater than the money we will save on interest payment by refinancing.
The first banker helped us understand the basics of mortgage and refinancing. However, Kevin's insight was what the first banker at the Liberty Bank could not offer to us. If we had talked to only the first banker, we might have gone ahead with refinancing by now! Whew....Praise God!
Without consultation, plans are frustrated, but with many counselors they succeed. (Proverbs 15:22, NASB)
Where there is no guidance the people fall, but in abundance of counselors there is victory. (Proverbs 11:14, NASB)
TAPO
During our pre-bank visit research, we found out that small local banks give much more favorable rates than larger, well-known banks. After much discussion, two local banks were picked for visit: Liberty Bank and Harris Bank. I want to take this opportunity to share how impressed we were with the sincerity and honesty of their service.
At the Liberty Bank, a young banker welcomed us into his office. As I have believed wisdom comes with aging, I didn't expect much from the young man. However, he spent almost an hour to explain and answer our questions. He was sincere and he did not try to 'sell' stuff. We were given a free mortgage 101 lesson. At the end of the visit, CJ and I found out that Liberty Bank does not offer commission to its bankers for selling products, which explained why the young man was able to be fair and honest with us.
Next, we visited Harris Bank. The morgage banker, Kevin, was not in the office. However, instead of telling us to come back later, another banker went an extra mile to let us talk to Kevin over the phone. Kevin was straightforward: He said, "Why are you going to waste that $1200 refinancing cost? You'd better use it to pay toward your remaining mortgage balance. Even though your mortgage rate goes up next year, it will be a minimal increase." He could not have been wiser! Refinancing cost is 100% wasted money. However, if we put it toward our mortgage principle, it will reduce the balance and therefore reduce the interest. With our current mortgage balance and mortgage interest rate, $1200 is greater than the money we will save on interest payment by refinancing.
The first banker helped us understand the basics of mortgage and refinancing. However, Kevin's insight was what the first banker at the Liberty Bank could not offer to us. If we had talked to only the first banker, we might have gone ahead with refinancing by now! Whew....Praise God!
Without consultation, plans are frustrated, but with many counselors they succeed. (Proverbs 15:22, NASB)
Where there is no guidance the people fall, but in abundance of counselors there is victory. (Proverbs 11:14, NASB)
TAPO
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