Cheolwon and beyond

Friday morning and I am exhausted. It's accurate to say that I live for the weekends - regardless of what the plans are, they are guaranteed to not sneeze on me and give me aneurisms - I don't make those kind of plans, but I do work for them.

Last weekend, December 5th was a monumental one. 

Background story: Every Wednesday, as I have mentioned before, we go to a sweet little bar called "MoonBlues". The owner, Mr. Cha and his best buddies, Mr. Alex, Mr. Kim and KoTol are sweet. They let us play whatever music we want and jam out on their instruments (don't worry, this girl is not one of the jammers, unless I'm into the SoJu and there is a tambourine). It's our weekly foreign gathering and where I've met my friends outside of school. 

Back to the weekend: Mr. Cha and the guys built a "pension" as they call it 

- a mansion outside the city. Friday night a crew of 16 of us hopped in an assortment of vehicles for over a two hour ride, arriving at the pension soon after midnight. Cheolwon is near the DMZ, like if you wandered away from base for a half hour, you may have crossed into North Korea and been another statistic ~ don't worry Mom, Dad and bros, it wasn't dangerous at all. When we got there the house was invigorating in an absolutely freezing kind of way, as no one lives there 90% of the time. The party started soon after arrival. The weekend turned into an epic eat, drink, noraebong, read, and play-fest. That sums it up best, rather than going into details. It was just awesome to get away from the city, see the beautiful mountainous countryside and breathe some fresh and frigid air. We are incredibly blessed to have the MoonBlues crew to experience with - an by "we" I wonder if I am referring to Ashley and I. Sorry Andrew, step aside. Apparently Ash and I are a "we". 

For example, "our" weekend plans involve another going away party, our school's Christmas program, a card making party, shopping and a noraebonging eve with our recruiter Vanessa. Vanessa, from pegasus, just showed up at work yesterday, like "hey, nice to put a face to the emails". We were blown away, assuming we would never put a face to that Times New Roman signature. Sunday she wants to do galbi, soju and noraebong - the three greatest gifts Korea has to offer. Then there is Saturday, which holds the end to a seemingly endless pain in the butt - Christmas performance. All of us teachers are stoked for that to be over, but that is not to downplay the cuteness explosion witnessed - the kids have memorized a series of songs and plays that they will perform in front of an auditorium of parents. We will feel like proud mama's watching our babies on stage, but it's more for the parents. Anywho, after this weekend there will be fewer tears, no less class time wasted on "Santa Claus is Coming to Town". Ahh...

Besides the weekends, all is well. It's kind of been a weird week though. I think too much fun and not enough consistency has thrown me for one. I'm seeking to find reason in my up and down mood swings and banking on that being it. It feels like when I am by myself I am just living for the future, be it the weekend or when I get to go home. I hate wishing away time.

In other news, I bought my ticket for Beijing - I'M GOING!!! Dec 26th to the 1st of January, Becca and I will hitting the hotspots of the city - no real plans yet, but that will come with time.

Best moment of the week: goes to the eagerly anticipated phone call from Mom and Dad. I miss the goofy stories and being able to share every detail of my life without being hushed. I love you Ma an' Pa!!!

One more random sidenote: I have a student who has a licking obsession, ya know, glue sticks, desks, my skirts and other students. He doesn't respond well to my daily fingershakings. Any advice??? Any mom's reading this who have dealt with this before?! HAhaha... gotta love Ryan.

Adventureland

So about these little adventures:

10-30 can be classified as my second trip to hospital. Part of our requirements to teach we have to prove that we are not drug attics, nor do we have any extreme health conditions that would force us to exit early. On my first trip I was told that I have low cholesterol, high blood pressure and poor eyes. By the second trip I had high cholesterol, low blood pressure and perfect eyesight. This instilled 100% trust in their health care system. I also took joy in their idealistic hope for the goodness of their people. Let me explain. I carried all of my paper work from each testing station (all 10 of them), after I urinated in a cup, I put it by ten other pee cups, that were poorly labeled and sitting by the exit of the station, no one spoke a lick of English, there were 9 people just standing around waiting for service, budging in line etc at every point. I want you to know that at no point did I tamper with my paper work or substances. There is a reason American hospitals are so systemized and protected - we would take advantage of such open opportunities; rather, we probably did, hence the strict regulations of today. On the trip home with my director Mr. Nam, I heard a park worth of dogs barking. When we pulled up to the location of this noise, I found myself locked in on rusty cages filled with beautiful pups. I couldn't help but dream - which puppy would I take home with me if I could not have them all. Just as soon as I had decided who I would rescue from the puppy play pen, Mr. Nam, informed me that they were not for pets, but for processing - they eat dog meat! I was nauseous the rest of the day at the thought of Chloe being tasted...

I can't say I found comfort, but I found peace in an article regarding such practices. It was from the perspective of a Hindu - ye who love the cow. They said that it is more insulting to them that Westerners eat beef multiple times a week with little regard for their culture. Just the same, Korean's don't view all dogs as best friends. Can't hardly argue that.

10-31 also known as Halloween, was one of the most exhausting days of my life. You would think it would be the most fun, filled with candy, parties and play time. With that came the need to constantly entertain the unappreciative whining candy whores! Overall, fun. I fell asleep at 9pm that night.

11-2 My second church experience in Korea began with an early Western brunch with Alison, the girl whose position I have taken over for - she is now teaching in the depths of Seoul, as Guri ison the outskirts. We had an amazing brunch filled with great food and enlightening conversation. Church managed to top that. I really like it there, and the people are incredibly welcoming - you can feel their love pulsating off their chests, so brilliant! This is the venue from which I take my Korean lessons (next entry).

11-8 My first Korean Lesson, mall trip, and club experience. The day started too early, heading an hour and a half away for our lesson at the church I have joined on Sundays. Thankfully, Ashley and I were not the only ones who were three weeks late for joining. They started a second session for us, and kicked our butts. Yes, I have 26 pages of hwk I have yet to do. They don't mess around. My proud moment was when the amazing teacher (she's one of the coolest people I have met here hands down!), reached out her high-five hand complimented with a "you are my best student!" This didn't stop. I hated it on the outside, as the other students glared, but deep down I was glowing through all my innards. Little does she know, that I won't always be that, as I am missing class this weekend and am overall a bad student, who can only pronounce well and repeat with ease. Ha.

After Korean class, a couple us (Becca, Chatch's old roomie who was up visiting for the weekend! She is teaching in Busan) hit up the CoEx - the biggest mall in Seoul. Good times. That night we exhausted a club club called Monkey Beach. It was themed out in a tropical decor and hiphop bumps. Needless to say, I felt right at home :) 

11-9 Came too early. I met Becca a teensy restaurant, where we chatted about the days events and prayed the rain away. As soon as we decided we would have to spend this one inside, we crossed the coolest umbrellas EVER - we eventually named them after famous unicorns - ya know, the things that seem to good to be true until you find them one day! Yeah. They were clear, so we kept them out rain and shine. Enough about that, we took a long walk passed the old prison (really lame, not worth writing about, but the umbrellas were), and through a gorgeous park.

It was covered in yellow and red leaves, giving both of us a taste of midwest home :) We played on the hilarious exercise equipment, offended a couple elderly as a result, and witnessed a fight in broad daylight - one of the rarest sites in Korea! We then embarked on a hike we were not prepared for - so what it was on cement most of the time. I will have to ask Becca the name of the temples we sought after. It was cool to get some of the rich history, see the Buddhist rock they pray too, and hear the faint chant of the monks. The lookout was the highlight of the hike. With our clear umbrellas in hand we basked on pride rock overlooking all of Seoul. Nothing could bring us down from feeling like the Kings (Becca's BF was with us at this point) and Queens of the most populated city in Korea. Afterwards, we descended down the mtn, exchanging teaching stories all the while, to Insadong - one of the oldest and most authentic Korean markets. If you ever receive a present from me (don't get your hopes up), it will most likely come from there :) It turned cold too quickly, so the three of us comfied up in a hometown comfort, Starbucks. It was so great to have my fellow midwesterners here to share stories with! I felt completely refreshed, ready to take on the following week of screaming kids and educating sponges.

11-10 concluded our second trip to the grocery store haven, we like to call CostCo. It is a little flavor of everything import and Western. Ashley and I will go there just to marvel at the magnitude of food and soy sauce (they sell them in gasoline gallon containers... hahaha... only in Korea, and maybe China or Japan ;). They have supported my kettle chip and snickers addictions - two habits I will not be kicking on this trip.

11-15 (This coming weekend) I am cramming myself in a teeny car with too many others to head 2.5 hours away to the beach. To be honest, I don't even know the name of the beach. I am just along for the ride! We are staying a nice camper along the shore!!! I'll let you know all about it when it's all over. 

That weekend has now come and gone. It was all that I dreamt the Korean ocean could be. On our drive there we stopped at a sweet cave to buy time, but it ended up being one of the highlights. I have never been in such unique carved out rock :/

Afterwards, we pulled up to our home away from home away from home. It was the sweet little trailer you see on your left. It comfortably slept 8, and had every imaginable amenity. I guess this is what the Korean's call "camping". Hey, I'm ok with that. There was little adventure involved, but was the best, most peaceful weekend I have had here yet. I spent my day in the sleeping bag you see on the bench (me) overlooking the lapping waves, finishing a book. At night we cooked, ate, then cooked again. If we weren't cooking, reading or eating, we took long walks on the beach. I ventured into the freezing water twice. I couldn't help myself! Overall, it was a dreamy and surreal weekend!

Fleeting, vibrant...

This week I was reminded of how temporary life can be. 

This is a dedication to my beloved Great Aunt Gerry, who I can still remember playing card games with us at the Grandma and Grandpa's cabin. This is how I will continue to fondly remember her. 

Two weeks ago, unknowingly I began a book about death and suddenness of it. Page 1 describes Susie Salmon's horrific murder with her being the narrator. From there she looks down over her family and watches her mystery unfold before their eyes. Rather than focusing on the mystery aspect, I am intrigued by her family's love and devotion to her after she has passed. This, as many other things, remind me that I need to tell my family and friends how much I love them. It is easy to show love when in the presence of someone, but to love from a far... well, it's new to me. I want to do everything I can to express to you (my family and friends) that I truly think of you every day and with that comes missing you. The further away I go, the more people I meet, the more I discover that they best people in the whole world are in Minnesota and Wisconsin. I am so blessed to have found you this early in life. Thank you, I love you and I miss you more than you know!

Story number three revealing life's fleeting nature occurred on Wednesday of this last week (10-19-08). As any other Wednesday, we headed to our neighborhood bar, MoonBlues. The night was average at most, it was on the walk home that our stories were altered. Unable to hail a cab, my friend Jared and I began the hike home. Along the way we passed a middle-aged plus man (the elderly men in Korea are called "Adjashies") curled in a little ball shaking from the cold. It was easily 10 degrees F that night. With my huge parka and socked feet, I was freezing. After walking past this "Adjashi" once, our consciences were left disturbed to say the least. We made it a goal to find this man a warm place to stay. Long story short, we couldn't find anywhere, the police came to our rescue and would not let him in the car with us. Realizing that our night was dedicated to the Adjashi and we were a packaged deal, the three of us were able to leave together and find a warm place for him. This was one night. What will happen the next? Are these his last hours? Is he destined to die freezing in the wealthy, bustling streets of Korea? This has been turning over and over in my head for days now.

Then today, I was shaken from my death fix by the joy of life. My sister, Jenna and her long-time boyfriend and my good friend, Tommy got engaged! The last five years have merely been a warm up to the journey they are about to embark on together. The idea of these two dears being together forever brings such color, vitality and vigor to the luminous life we live. I am elated to witness their passion for each other and their future triumphs to be tackled hand-in-hand. God bless you two! I couldn't be happier for a couple!!!

Moral of the week: Life is fleeting, temporary, provisional, yet brilliant while being lived. So spend it with those that extract that effervescence from it - I have found those that do so, my family and friends - you are loved and appreciated!

Updation Station

I'm haunted daily by the idea of people checking this blog and there not being anything new and exciting for 20 daysish. I would hate for your dedication to dwindle. Besides being a bit on the busy side, I haven't had anything too crazy too write about in recent. However, it seems there have a been a few fun activities. I am still waiting on the pics to come in, but once they do, I will obviously post them here.

Daily, I fill my time with nine hours at school - most of them are fun filled. My love and

 frustration continue to grow for my kids with every passing period. Their personalities are shining through all too brilliantly. There are kids who I thought were the kindest, most innocent little kittens that have become deceitful, passive aggressive bullies. Don't worry, that stuff does not fly in my class. With me, they have become far more comfortable... too comfortable. All Korean's enjoy a - what should I call it? - thumb plug?! Here me out, it is a cultural thing, a game. The kids think it's funny to poke you with their thumb when you turn around. This also does not fly on my watch! Overall, they are buttons who bring me 70% joy, 20% frustration and 10% anger - no aneurism yet, just a couple close calls. Part of working with kids is their constant germ sharing. I have come to terms with the fact that I will be sick a lot, as are the other teachers. There are always three others that share in my sniffles and blows. Speaking of the other teachers, they are all pretty cool. Shoot, I just like new friends. Ashley from Canada with boyfriend Andrew have become my closest friends. She is so chill and hilarious. We are practically inseparable on every adventure. 

Whether I mention her or not, she was probably there. I have

 concluded that I like almost all of them for the simple fact that it takes a certain soul to embark on this journey - I guess I like th

at soul. Everyone is so warm and friendly, eager to be besties. It's

 weird introducing myself to people now... before they were always introducing themselves to me - the new girl! I am no longer the new girl. Trippy. It is a simple reality - with every going away party, a new person enters the circle.

Not being the new girl, I have found that I am learning my way around and everything is done with far greater ease. I go on the bus, tube, and take taxis by myself now. It feels good to be independent... outside of my apt ;) The apt has become home. I am hanging Christmas lights and in the process of painting the mural - I have only thought of what I want to do with it, no final plans - once that is done, it will be all me!

Never thought I would have a “First Day of School” again!

I think it's safe to write about my first day of school now that my first week has passed. I must say, a weekend has never tasted so good!

I took my own classes for the first time - after five days of shadowing - this last Monday. My greatest fears that day will continue to be my greatest challenges throughout the year. SLP's (Sogang Language Program - my school) book system and class organization is, well, not systemized at all. As organized as the school is and as great as the books themselves are, figuring out what to use when and what needs to be done when has been next to impossible. All teachers agree that it takes a year to figure it out and then you're done! 

My other fear on Monday was that the kids would not absorb what I was spitting. For my sanity, I may have to come to terms with this hourly concern; however, it is my greatest motivation and number one reason for being here in the first place. 

The school has been great too me - setting me up in a nice apt, weekly outings so I can get to know everyone, and simply helping me get acquainted with the foreign land. The teachers are pretty cool - two other Americans, one Australian and two Canadians. It's a good mix. The foreign community is very welcoming too. I have been out a couple times with them. They introduce themselves the second you walk through the door - everyone is in the same boat for the most part - left a good home and are now trying to make the best of their new one. 

But the kids... I know that's what you really want to hear about (and ultimately what I want to write about). They are out of this world! I imagined them to be quaint little saints. Foolish Kelsey. Lets get real: Kids will be Kids, whether they are in America, Korea or Mars. They are wild, only want to play games and jump on you. They love screaming, kicking and coloring. 

However, there is one significant thing that is different... one of the greatest things about teaching in Korea vs. America is the freedom to express your love for the children. It is so brilliant being able to to tell your class that you love them and hearing it back. The second I walk through the door I get at least four hugs and, "I love you Kelsey Teacher (their title for the teachers)!" Have you ever heard of such a glorious thing?! It's sad that American kids don't get to hear that or express that. 

The picture on the left is one of my Kindy classes. We were celebrating October birthdays on Thursday and it was my Rachel's big day (girl front and center in the frufru dress). I was the host so we played pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey, and sang some lovely songs. It was the highlight of my week! 

As far as in the classroom teaching (as opposed to prep time, which stinks!) I LOVE IT! Mom and Dad were right when they said I would (they know me a little bit ;). I was surprised when I stepped in front of the class and felt completely at ease. Not to mention kids are the best audience ever. They laugh on command and sit quietly when I make them! It's the perfect relationship, really :)

TBC... currently brain farting

It's in the Little Things

There have been several little experiences over the last week that don't deserve their own blog, but are worthy of a mention. I think I will just continue to update this particular entry when something little happens, so REFER BACK TO IT!

When I am recognized as an American (always), people stop me to practice their English. It's pretty cute when I'm walking home in the dark and I hear a, "HELLOoO, HOWE AAA OOO TODAAAY?" Almost all children are getting some sort of English training, so the younger ones do the same, "Hello", whether we're getting on an elevator or eating dinner at a Japanese restaurant. They are so cute and eager to use the language :) 

My room is infested with mosquitos, so I pray for cold weather to freeze the minute lucifers and wear full body suits everywhere in the apt. Unfortunately, I can only cover up so much. My total mosquito count on my head alone - including my neck and ears - is 16! I never thought any bug could surpass my hate for spiders. Congratulations, you blood thirsty شيطان !

(10-19-08) Kelsey travels into a Seoul to meet a friend. The most adventurous part was the hour and a half sub-ride, in which I was the only caucasian appearing soul for the entire ride into Seoul (punny!). Have ever been stared at for that length of time by over a hundred people? Good times and God bless my iPod. Moral of that story was supposed to be that there are a lot of foreigners if you find the right pocket. In my case, a little pub in Itaewon. 

(10-22-08) Results are in from the infamous test: this girl is gluten sensitive. Eh, I knew it, I just didn't want to admit it. Now what do I do with that? I just had a pb&j... is that so bad? :/

(10-24-08) Norebang (sp?) is the Korean version of karaoke. It is unlike any karaoke I have ever experienced in the states. Here, you rent a room- in our case, for 20 - and are in control of every song that comes on. We had a near even split of Korean teachers to Foreigners (as we call ourselves), so about every other song was an American hit then Korean hit. I began one of the most shy performers, only shaking the tambourine in the corner. By the end of the night, I was the last one standing, still performing [poorly]. They couldn't get me off once I got started! It was one of the most fun things I have done since being here. If you ever get the chance to do private karaoke... DO IT! You will not regret it, just as I do not regret screaming "Born in the U.S.A." to a majority Asian crowd. Sure we got booed off the stage, but we had fun when we were up there!

Till next time: Have a sunny day and a starry night!

My Apt... not pimped out

American (Italian, whatever) Pizza Saves the Night!

My pizza is getting cold. All I want to do is devour something “normal”. Ms. Song and Mr. Nam, my directors, were kind enough to pick up some PAPA JOHN’S for me… never has their garlic butter sauce looked mouth watering amazing. I have a feeling there are going to be many overwhelming appreciative moments throughout this adventure/experience/trip.

I arrived right on time to Seoul, got my bags quicker than any other (another passenger dubbed me the fastest... NBD) and without complication, made it through customs. My directors picked me up promptly and Mr. Nam was nice enough to take my bag… you know, the one with my fighting utensils! I think I have bigger muscles than he, regardless, he insisted – breaking a sweat all the while! Tehehe...

The road "home" took an hour and a half through Seoul. Incheon, the island they call their airport is on the east end, while Guri Shi (my home for the next year) was on the west, allowing me to see the glory that is downtown Seoul. Guri Shi is hardly as glamorous – two lane streets with obnoxious flashing lights, motorcyclists cutting cars off with little regard for their safety, not to mention horns’a’honkin. I’m currently staying at my motel (would tell you the name, but couldn’t pronounce it), a little whole in the wall with ripped carpets in the hallway and slippers in the bathroom. The toilet is taped shut reading, “this toilet has been disinfected”… good things I guess. The walls are pink with roses, my bed, low to the ground, as is all the furniture. They have provided me with a large TV, and my own bubbler for water. Tonight I will enjoy my pizza, attempt to watch an American show, settling for Miami Vice and everything nice. 

[I don't know it at the time, but there will be much else I do this week in the love motel, but watch American movies. And what is more American than Rambo, Kindergarten cop and Pretty Woman? Them Koreans have us down pat!]

Too Many Titles to Decide on One (10.8.08)

I’ve been dying to whip out my laptop, as thousands of thoughts have run through my head in the last four and a half hours. I’ve come up with about thirty-two (approximate) titles for this blog and a billion starter lines.

I am a mere hour into my flight and have had seen too many things… I cannot imagine South Korea offering more stories! I really have no idea what I am getting myself into.

From the beginning: October 8^th started too early, 5:30am as I had a lot to accomplish before my 3pm flight: finish packing, finish cleaning, finish breakfast and finish my goodbyes. Noon o’clock came way too soon. This was one of the most bittersweet moments of my life - saying goodbye to everything that is dear to me, while embarking on a new adventure. I prayed for the cheapest expense for carrying my own weight in a suitcase. As it turned out, my muscles had shrunk and my body weight was skewed… I passed with a mere switch of 2.5lbs and $50. Whew… I knew all would be well at that point. Soon after this relief, I bent over in my dress to take my crap kickers off, reassured by mom that this was no feat for meEe.

The goodbyes lasted until I had to cut myself off. With my boots back on, laptop back in the bag and pillow under my arm, I managed to squeeze in three more waves by my adoring family. As soon as I left their site, the tears began and the excitement subsided, until God brought Donda and Tom into my life. Sitting two benches away from them, I convinced myself a beer would pass the next three hours by quickly. With nothing to write (YET), I brought my buddy (Mac book bestie) out and looked busy. They asked what I had to write about… implying I had just finished the trip of a lifetime and was headed home. I explained that I was headed to my temporary home. The rest was history. Two pints and two stools later, we had covered everything from the 60’s, our love for traveling, and the current election. Although we differed in political views, we couldn’t deny the pleasant two hour conversation that flew by. Once again, I was reminded of why I am headed half way across the world (where I have never been) to teach English (which I have only recently perfected myself) to an age I have yet to be told. In those two hours, my every belief was reaffirmed and then some.

Have you ever heard your name called over the intercom at an airport? Me neither… until today. Apparently, the conversation with D and T were too good and I had lost track of time. Personally, I think they were a little hasty in the intercom call as I was the tenth person on (for some reason I entered through first class and was filed to the back row - figures). The last row in a plane is an experience in itself. I have been stomped on and elbowed twice in an effort to get to the bathroom (again, one hour in), I have yet to decide if this is prime seating or the top of the heap?! I have an aisle seat and a window seat, yet am constantly reminded of my vicinity to the bathroom, food, children and the crude flight attendants who spare no one their  discouraging words. Did I mention they gossip about passengers in front of passengers! Classy broads. Eh, they were nice to me. One more benefit to the back seat: we are the first to be served and the last to have our garbage taken? I am sitting with my laptop in one hand. There’s something to be said for inspiration, go with it regardless of the [dis]comfort factor. My dinosaur finger position is LOL worthy.  Yet, the most exciting event thus far had to be the gentleman who sniped a pretzel bag prior to them being distributed and prior to his relieving himself. Upon his return to the two-foot isle, he found himself stuck behind the cart with pretzels. I bet plane treats have never tasted so bitter as those he cowardly consumed for fifteen minutes while waiting to get back to his seat.

Good times in the back seat… I can’t imagine Korea offering more excitement ;).

You decide on an appropriate title:

Debatably: Airports are one of the most bittersweet complexes, next to hospitals.

How much will a Leine’s cost in a year?

Best advice thus far: Local yogurt will keep you well guaranteed! Think: all the probiotics from the cows who are exposed to local diseases. Duh! Why didn't I think of that?!

Will Minneapolis look the same when I fly in in a year?

Do you think they say the Oreo serving size is 4 b/c that is the amount in the package? What is the serving size on a whole carton? 32?!

What is the best seat on the plane?

How many people can stand in line for the bathroom?

Remember: use bathroom before mealtime (most popular time is after - a good 20 minute wait - so what I timed it. There were four meals served and I had nothing better to do!)

Would you wait in line behind 14 others… now 17, waiting for two restrooms? Figure it out people!

How loud can a baby scream? Lets find out!

Rather than requesting an aisle seat, or window, can you request to be seated by the most petite, quiet and considerate people?

How good does your name sound across an airport intercom? Mine sounds amazing - thanks Mom and Dad - you were really thinking!

It’s too bad my last American meal burned my tongue and ended on the floor shortly after. Perhaps it’s a sign that I should be eating Korean food for a year!

If people think my impressions in America are funny? Am I going to be Korean funny?

I should have packed lead pipes for 50 bucks more… always be prepared! How much do lead pipes cost in Korea?

Is it possible that a black electronic box be your best friend?

The most lethal combo: Grande Pints

Can you do yoga on a plane? She can!

Is it possible for one’s carry on to weigh more than her claimed luggage… it is if you pack textbooks!

“That was the worst landing in my 30 years of being a stewardess!”

Bad idea: standing zone by bathroom (aka my seat)

I am a dirty blonde in a sea of well-dressed coal haired beauties.

I hope I didn’t give a bad impression by cutting in line forcibly via American caregivers advice. Oops… I made it on time though!

These are just some of the thoughts I would have uttered to my best friend…

Still here...

So, here I am blogging... never thought I could be a blogger. Heck, I already love journaling and my favorite subject to write about is myself and my experiences :) This might not be so bad after all!

In researching this foreign land I'm about to conquer, I have come upon many a blog. Seems like the most practical method for me to display all that is going on when I'm in Korea. This way I don't have to mass email you all and you can read about my biz whenever you'd like. However, I still expect to hear from you. I want weekly emails, monthly letters and bi-monthly gifts :) I'm going to miss you all so much, ease that by keeping the updates comin'.

As for the actual flight date, it has not been scheduled yet. Once I get my visa, then I can book a flight. I'll keep y'all posted.

Signing out, KelsO

PS I blog for fun, not for a living... please excuse the grammar as I loath proofreading my work :) Thank you!