bookicooki

These days, I visit the library once a week with my child. It started as a way to support my child’s emotional growth, but now I look forward to that time myself. Recently, on a rainy day, I found great comfort in the quiet library, surrounded by books. And that day, I discovered a wonderful picture book that I’d love to share with you. Have you ever heard of “Hanok”? It’s a traditional Korean house built with native materials and designed to harmonize with nature. I’ve always admired Hanoks. I dream of living in one someday, away from the city, surrounded by peace and beauty. Unlike modern apartments, these homes feel warm, grounded, and alive. This children’s book, with its beautiful illustrations, taught me a lot about Hanoks—even as someone who already loved them. Let me share a few things I learned from it. A House Built in Harmony with Nature Hanoks are often built with their back to the mountains and facing water—what we call “baesanimsu” in Korean. This positioning ...

Last time, I shared a recipe for Nokdujeon, a popular Korean street food. Today, let me introduce you to one of Korea’s most beloved dishes—tteokbokki. Tteokbokki stalls are often found near schools, usually tucked inside small snack shops. Strangely, I didn’t enjoy tteokbokki much as a student. It became a favorite later—after dating and getting hooked on the taste. Even now, I find myself craving it regularly. These days, tteokbokki meal kits are widely available, but nothing beats the joy of making it from scratch at home. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are easy to find. And of course—it’s delicious. Some people unfamiliar with Korean cuisine may find the chewy texture of rice cakes a bit strange. Others hesitate because of the spiciness. But if you use mild chili flakes, I’m sure you’ll discover the charm of tteokbokki. There are two main types of rice cakes: wheat-based and rice-based. I enjoy both—the textures are different. Today, I’ll be using wheat tteokbo...

In Korea, the early monsoon season has arrived, and it has been raining a lot these past few days. I don’t know why, but Koreans often crave savory pancakes when it rains. Funny, right? On rainy days, the smell of frying pancakes fills the neighborhood. You might not believe it, but it’s true! I once read that the sound of rain and the sizzle of pancakes frying have a similar frequency, which might explain why we pair them. Interestingly, during the monsoon, flour mixes for pancakes actually sell more in Korea. In Korea, mung bean pancakes are called Nokdujeon, Nokdu Bindaetteok, or Bindaetteok — they all refer to the same traditional dish made from ground mung beans. So, on this rainy day, I was reminded of the nokdujeon I had with my kids at Gwangjang Market during a recent outing in Jongno. I wanted to recreate that at home. Let me share this simple nokdujeon recipe so you can enjoy the taste of Gwangjang Market, even without the rain! [Main Ingredients] 350g mung beans, 3...

As I was wrapping up my Genesis series, spring had already passed and it felt like summer was beginning. The sky was so clear and high—it was the perfect day to go out. Let me share about our outing to Jongno with my eldest child’s friend’s family. The day was exhausting because their family is so full of energy, but when I looked at the photos at home, I realized I had been smiling the whole time. It was a short trip, but one that will stay with me for a long time. Fun at the Seoul-Type Kids Café The Seoul-Type Kids Café is unfortunately only available in Seoul, but it offers great facilities at a very affordable price. Each location has its own concept, program, and age range, so be sure to check before visiting. If you live in Seoul, it’s worth looking into what’s near you! We visited the Hyehwa branch in the Olympic Memorial National Sports Center. The kids could play safely, and there was a small book space and resting area, so both children and parents could relax. The craft ...

Throughout this journey, we’ve walked through the stories of Genesis together. Seeing readers from all over the world engage with these reflections has been both humbling and joyful. But more than anything, I’m still amazed that we get to live in this world God created—with love and gratitude. Today, as we close the book of Genesis, let’s revisit the people and moments that shaped our faith. You may know these stories well, but I believe they can still speak to us in new and deeper ways. The People of Genesis – Moments of Faith Remembered 1. God’s Creation – The Beginning of the Covenant In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. [1:1, KJV] God spoke the world into being. From the void came order, beauty, and life—including you and me. Though humanity fell into sin and was cast out of Eden, God never abandoned them. Instead, He left a promise of restoration. Our journey of faith starts with this act of mercy and the Creator’s intent to dwell with us still. 2. Ad...

Joseph forgave his brothers despite deep wounds. Jacob followed God's will until his final breath. To be betrayed by family must have left scars, yet Joseph found healing and strength through grace. In this final chapter of the Genesis series, we reflect on Jacob’s last words and Joseph’s confession—and see how God's covenant endures beyond death. Though life ends, His promise never does. Let’s walk through this closing chapter of Genesis together. Covenant Beyond Death – Final Words and a Legacy of Faith 1. Jacob’s Final Blessing After moving his family to Goshen, Joseph spent time with his aging father, Jacob. As Jacob’s final days drew near, Joseph brought his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, to see him. Sitting up in bed, Jacob looked at his grandsons and remembered the God who had faithfully led him all his life. He then reached out to bless them. Surprisingly, Jacob placed his right hand on the younger, Ephraim, instead of the firstborn Manasseh. When Joseph...

Previously, Joseph tested his brothers. He framed Benjamin and watched how they would respond. Judah, the very one who once sold Joseph, stepped forward and begged to take his place. That moment changed everything. Seeing their hearts had truly turned, Joseph could no longer hide his identity. Though the brothers trembled in fear, Joseph forgave them and asked them to bring their father to Egypt. Settling in Goshen – Jacob’s Family in the Land Prepared by God Jacob Begins His Journey Invited by Joseph, Jacob made preparations to leave for Egypt with his entire household. But before the journey, he stopped in Beersheba and offered sacrifices to God. That night, in a vision, God said, “I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again.” [Genesis 46:4] Those words gave Jacob the courage to move forward. He set out without fear, holding on to the promise. Seventy family members traveled with him. It wasn’t a large number, but within that group was the beg...

In the previous post, Joseph tested his brothers. He falsely accused the youngest, Benjamin, and waited to see their reaction. Then Judah—the one who once suggested selling Joseph—stepped forward and pleaded to take Benjamin’s place as a slave. That moment felt so unbelievable, I had to turn back and reread the Scriptures to make sure it was the same Judah. In today’s story, Joseph sees his brothers’ hearts and finally reveals who he is. It’s like a scene straight out of a drama. But this isn’t fiction—it’s a moment of truth, of tears, and of grace that restores what was broken. Joseph Reveals His Identity – Reconciliation and God's Purpose Joseph couldn’t hold it in any longer. As he saw the sincerity of his brothers, all the emotions he had bottled up came pouring out. He sent everyone else away and wept aloud in front of his brothers—so loudly that Egyptians heard him, and news reached Pharaoh’s palace. “I am Joseph,” he said. “Is my father still alive?” ...

In the previous story, Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams with the wisdom God gave him. He became governor of Egypt and prepared for seven years of plenty and seven years of famine. By God’s guidance, he saved Egypt during the famine and gained respect even in a foreign land. In today’s story from Genesis 42 to 44, Joseph finally reunites with his brothers. But this is no ordinary reunion. As a leader, Joseph tests his brothers who come seeking food because of the famine. Through these tests, he sees their repentance and change—especially in Judah, who once betrayed him but now takes responsibility for his family. This is a turning point of forgiveness and God’s providence. Joseph the Governor – A Tearful Reunion with His Brothers Joseph’s Final Test Before His Brothers The famine was severe in both Egypt and Canaan. Jacob told his sons to go to Egypt and buy food. Ten of them went, but Benjamin stayed behind. The man they stood before was none other than Joseph, now ...