New occupation: teacher

My first day as a teacher is behind me and I couldn't be more excited to see what the rest of the year brings.

In Korea, students attend public school in the morning until around 2pm. At that time they attend Hogwon, private schooling (that's what I'm teaching). My teaching schedule is from 1-9pm.
My school, SLP (Songang Language Program) had just opened so my classes had only one student in attendance. It was intimate and relaxing. Focusing on one student was a great way to ease into the teaching world. The kiddos were really shy, so I smiled and spoke slowly. They grasped onto the lesson well and could understand me for the most part. I drew a lot of apples, mastered the ABC's, and got the spelling of banana down (it was tempting to burst out Gwen Stefani... but I resisted). It was a successful and thankfully, stress-free first day as a teacher!

This past weekend I toured the Jinju Castle with my coworkers Rob, Shirly and Jenny. Shirly and Jenny work as receptionists at SLP. They speak very little English, but enough to have invited us out. We communicate a lot through actions and facial expressions. Jinju Castle has a rich history pertaining to the Japanese invasion in 1592. It is a beautiful fortress with an amazing view of the city. The girls informed me this is a great place to bring a date (good to know). They took us to a quaint Italian resturant where I had my first Korean lasagna... it wasn't as good as Mom's, but then again nothing could ever compare. At dinner the women bonded over boys, fashion and food. Isn't it fascinating that regardless of the language barrier women talk about the same things?!

For anyone who is worried about the recent North Korea news, do not fret. South Koreans keep their watch, but overall they go about their daily lives viewing these attacks as repetitive inconvienences with no real threat. Europe and America seem to make a much bigger deal about the "war". So do not worry, I'm okay and I will be okay.

I am slowly learning Korean: thank you (kamsahamnida) and hello (annyong hasaeyo). It's a tricky language but I'll get there.

I met two foreigners who use to live in Michigan. Not only are they from the same state but one grew up in Cadillac and the other in Grand Haven... small world!

Some interesting Korean findings:

• Koreans don't bake. Hence, the utter lack of ovens in this city. One girl I met said her family uses their oven to store their pots and pans. Everything is cooked over an oven burner or boiled.
• Masks over the mouth is a frequent sight. Usually I'll see elderly Koreans wear them.
• It's cheaper to eat out than to buy groceries. Street vendors selling cooked fish and fried pork are on every street.
• The women here are very fashionable. They're always wearing their best. It's a style that remind me of the 80's, except without the color. Large/over-sized sweaters worn with leggings and high heels, classy jackets and large scarfs wrapped around their necks.

Similar to Korean fashion. Except everyone wears black and grey.

• South Korea has underwater piping called ondol. The pipes carry hot water under every home, warming my floor. I'm sure it's going to be a life saver once the temperature drops.
• There are outdoor clothing stores everywhere. Northface, Columbia, Mountain Hard Wear, and lot's of Korean brands stores line the streets. Becki- fly over and shop with me!
• It's common to see scissors at your dinning table. They use them to cut noodles, pork, and just about anything else. Chopsticks in one hand, scissor in the other.

I was able to Skype with Laura last night and thankfully catch Mom, Dad, Mitchell and Carl this morning. I haven't spoken with them since I arrived so it was so nice to hear and see them. *** Night time (for you Americans) is the best time to Skype for me. Email or Facebook me and we can arrange a Skype date! ***

Until next time, annyonghi kasaeyo (goodbye).

A city of sights

 After 23 hours of traveling I was excited to see this. I've always wanted someone to wait for me at the airport holding a sign with my name. Some dreams do come true.

 My first Korean meal. To the far right is pork (they love pork here). Kimchi is the on the far left of the plate, I'm not a fan.

The river is a mile from my apartment. There is a track alongside that I've reserved for jogging and walks. The view is breathtaking.

There is exercise equipment in every park. I notice a lot of older people using them. I wonder if the older generations here experience as many health issues as Americans?

Another view of the river.

Coffee shops fill the streets in Jinju. I find this one to be calling my name :)  Alot of the stores in Jinju have at least some words in English. However, that doesn't mean they speak English.

It is customary to remove your shoes when you enter someones house as well as some of the restaurants.

Outside the major department store.

I'm here, Jinju!

I arrived in South Korea with 2 suitcases (both under 50 pounds, thank you), a backpack and a hightened awareness that the next year of my life will be unlike any other.

Jinju is a small city on the southern end of Korea. It is a city of lights, friendly souls, parks, cofffee shops, and street vendors. I think I'm in love.

My apartment is small but comfortable. After the Michigan map, pictures of the family, Chicago crazies, and friends went up I instantly felt at home. I live a half a mile from my school, Jinju SLP. It's a new English language school. The interior is modern, friendly and impressive. I officially start teaching on Monday.

The language barrier has been difficult. There is a church nearby that hosts Korean language classes on Sunday nights, I'll be checking that out. I haven't met many foreigners as of yet. I know those English-speakers are out there somewhere.... I'm thankful for my fellow co-worker Rob. We've been able to tour the city, check out restaurants and discuss (in English) our expectations. Our other co-worker, Sue speaks broken English and has been helping us with the cell phone process and setting up wirless for our apartments. She went to MSU for a year and we bonded over our admiration of Michigan. Sue and one of the receptionists, Shelly took us to E-Mart last night. Imagine a Target, but in Korea. I tried some delicious, and some not so delicious, foods. We laughed together at my adventurous food intake. I asked the girls to show me their favorite Korean snacks, meals, pastries, and chocolates and am proud to say that I now have a pantry full of Korean cuisine.

I will begin posting pictures as soon as I find an electrical adaptor to charge my computer.

There are so many things to write about. But for now, this will do.
I hope everyone had a blessed Thanksgiving. Mine was spent laughing over spicy fish with some amazing Korean friends.

P.S. For Laura: I am 14 hours ahead of you. I'm living in the future, sis!