So, this morning I woke up maybe 8:30am. It felt so good to sleep in. I am off school today because the semester is over. The only thing separating me from winter break is English Camp which starts Monday. Today is to be as follows: clean house, laundry, meet co-teacher and shop for English camp supplies, then come here and plan my butt off all weekend. :-)
So, I stepped out of my apartment this morning to walk to the next district's 24hr coffee shop (my favorite!) and the cold air turned my breath to steam. Traffic busied itself in the streets, buses going here and there, with the occasional crazy taxi driver speeding by. As I started the brisk walk towards my impending Skype date and Chai Latte, I was struck with a random thought. "THIS IS MY LIFE. This is my normal. This is my home for now." I am used to travelling. I love travelling. But I am not on a trip. I have an apartment. I have a job. I have a life?
Suddenly the words of an old song from Semisonic came to mind, "Every new beginning come from some other beginning's end." Hmm...I am not sure exactly when my life here began, (when this turned from a trip to a life) but does this beginning affect my old life? Not sure.
On a less random train of thought. I got my Christmas presents yesterday. I was so very happy to open the boxes and snack on homemade peanut brittle while reading the cards that the church kids wrote for me. The cutest one had to have been from one young boy who wrote, "Merry Christmas, have a great time!!! PS. Don't get arrested. Your buddy, xxxxx xxxxx" (I left off his name obviously...who would name their child xxxx?) Well, don't worry friend, I don't plan on getting arrested but your concern touches me.
Oh, I am so full of joy knowing all the love that comes from home. Even from the kids.
And I know that I am very blessed. Not sure if this "new beginning" is the end of anything at all. :-)
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Surviving Christmas!!!
I SURVIVED!!!!!!!!!
So here are some photos from the orphanage. I was kinda dead the rest of the weekend...
One of my little boys really loved his gift! Who wouldn't? It has sirens and lights....oh yeah!
My other boy liked his Legos and tossed the school supplies aside. Oh well...you can't win them all.
To the right: Many of the kids opening thier presents. There were 69 in total.
And below: Floppy's debut as baby Jesus in the Christmas play.
Got News back from the girls home in Thailand. I am all set to start volunteering there as soon as I arrive. I just need to buy my airfare. I will let you know how that goes...the prices are going up and I still haven't been able to make it to the bank. They open after I get to school and they close before I leave. So feel free to pray for my airline ticket aquisition.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Christmas is only a WEEK AWAY!!!!!!!
I can't believe it! I am just so darn excited! I know that it is not going to be the same without being with family and all... But if I Skype home on Christmas morning it will be Christmas Eve for all my family. And God has provided me some friends to spend the holidays with.
The Photo to the left is my first Christmas party. I hosted it in my Apt on Friday. It was so much fun. I made food and drinks (including homemade eggnog which was the first thing to go!) and we all exchange gifts from our secret Santa. Do you see the wonderful wrapping job that the boys did?...haha...Newspaper and all.
I got a mug from my secret Santa. It was awesome because it has this built in strainer for tea and the girl who got me knows that I like tea. It also is very earthy in color...which gives it even more bonus points. :-)
As for what's under my tree now. All for the orphans. The photo to the right is me holding my newly wrapped gifts. I swear that I have "adopted" my last child. It's just that Christmas is in a week and there were still 6 kids without gifts. So I grabbed a name of a six year old boy, skipped bible study, and headed three metro transfers over to Toys 'R Us. I picked up a set of battery powered emergency vehicles that make sirens and flashy lights. They even come with two emergency personnel....haha.
As for the Christmas play at the orphanage...they made me Mary. Typical! Ha ha. And for all who know my stuffed monkey Floppy, he will be playing baby Jesus. He is to be wrapped beyond definition in swaddling cloth. Haha....my little monkey is a star! The last responsibly I have for that is to finish getting candy and supplies for my booth and possibly help the balloon animal both with my limited balloon shaping skills. :-)
This week at school I need to plan my winter camp for my students, budget for winter camp supplies, and get winter break plans finalized. No problem....ba ha ha!
One last thing. God surely is a provider. I was scratching the bottom of the barrel so to speak when it came to finances. I spent a lot on the Christmas party (the chocolate alone had cost me 12 bucks and lets not even talk about the vanilla extract.), the After-school pizza party for my students (in which 8 pizzas were ordered instead of 6 because of language barrier), and the gifts for the orphans, friends, and family. BUT! Today I checked my bank account and there was surprise funds...Where did they come from? A friend said that it was probably my After-school overtime kicking in. What a relief and what wonderful timing from God!....just when I picked up the orphan's name wondering how I was going to afford a gift...and God provided.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Happy
I am very happy right now. I just had the most amazing class ever. Half the class was gone so it was more manageable. And, the students were attentive and loved the game we played to practice English. The more advanced students help the challenged ones and everything went well. When the bell rang for the end of class...there was a vocalized "AWWWW!!!!"
WHAT?!?!?!? My students wanted more and were sad that I was leaving. THIS MADE MY KOREA! I really feel like this was a gift from God because he knows that I have been having hard time connecting with my students lately.
Actually I had to have quite a prayer with him last night....it went a little something like this:
"Daddy, I miss spending time with you. And it's my fault when I don't spend time with you. I go around with the pretense of being very busy...but we both know I have the time...I just use it poorly. I don't like the me that I am when I am far from you. I am a selfish, judgemental, controlling, know-it-all, who goes around with this self righteous attitude but wearing a mask of humility. The me without you is UGLY! I don't want to look like her...I want to look like you. And I can only do that by spending time with you. Please help me to remember that."
So...I spent a little time with God last night...and I plan to do it again tonight. This is going to be a daily struggle to commit time to Him...but like any friendship, how can we be close if we don't hang out?
Anyway...winter break plans may finally be coming together. I am filling out an application to a home for girls at risk of being sold into sex slavery. I have signed a release so I can't say the country name or the organization on the Blog...but I really hope all things go through for that. They are a reliable Christan organization in need of an English teacher...but I am willing to do so much more. I told them that I would be willing to do anything from teaching and playing to cooking and cleaning. I just really want to do the work. :-)
Tonight is my big Christmas party with my orientation friends. I hope they like it. I have been making deserts and cleaning the apartment all week. Ha ha ha. We will be having Secret Santa...I wonder who has my name.... :-)
WHAT?!?!?!? My students wanted more and were sad that I was leaving. THIS MADE MY KOREA! I really feel like this was a gift from God because he knows that I have been having hard time connecting with my students lately.
Actually I had to have quite a prayer with him last night....it went a little something like this:
"Daddy, I miss spending time with you. And it's my fault when I don't spend time with you. I go around with the pretense of being very busy...but we both know I have the time...I just use it poorly. I don't like the me that I am when I am far from you. I am a selfish, judgemental, controlling, know-it-all, who goes around with this self righteous attitude but wearing a mask of humility. The me without you is UGLY! I don't want to look like her...I want to look like you. And I can only do that by spending time with you. Please help me to remember that."
So...I spent a little time with God last night...and I plan to do it again tonight. This is going to be a daily struggle to commit time to Him...but like any friendship, how can we be close if we don't hang out?
Anyway...winter break plans may finally be coming together. I am filling out an application to a home for girls at risk of being sold into sex slavery. I have signed a release so I can't say the country name or the organization on the Blog...but I really hope all things go through for that. They are a reliable Christan organization in need of an English teacher...but I am willing to do so much more. I told them that I would be willing to do anything from teaching and playing to cooking and cleaning. I just really want to do the work. :-)
Tonight is my big Christmas party with my orientation friends. I hope they like it. I have been making deserts and cleaning the apartment all week. Ha ha ha. We will be having Secret Santa...I wonder who has my name.... :-)
Monday, December 12, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Just Another Update
I survived the weekend. And I was even lucky enough to be told that I am getting off early today. YAY! Not a bad Monday at all. :-)
This was the weekend that I went with the co-teachers to Namhae..an island in the South Sea. It was a nice little countryside experience where I got to harvest some veggies from thier garden and we cooked them to go with our Sashimi for dinner. It was lovely. Then I went hiking the next day. Sunday was pretty busy too with all the things that were planned (Two Skype Dates, Church, Lunch, Bible Study, Cookie Baking...all before 5pm...and then I cancelled my last plan so that I could spend the evening with a friend watching Korean Drama and eating Quizzno's subs. Yes...much more relaxing!)
Oh...and I got a hair cut. It is really cute...but I am having issues accepting it. I have not cut my hair for the past maybe 7 years without donating it somewhere. And now that I got it cut here....I feel like I wasted it. I will take a photo for you guys once I start to feel a little better about it...but I have some thinking to do first.
On another note: My to-do list has grown so much. But it is ok because I hope to knock a few things off of it day. And hopefully get to bed a a decent time since my evening has not been planned to pieces (yet..haha)
Oh...and My Nana is going to be going home soon! She will be home for Christmas!!!!!!! She will still be doing rehab but she is going to have my grandfather drive her back and forth. She wants to be able to walk without help by the end of the week. She is a strong one! Thank you all for your prayers.
This was the weekend that I went with the co-teachers to Namhae..an island in the South Sea. It was a nice little countryside experience where I got to harvest some veggies from thier garden and we cooked them to go with our Sashimi for dinner. It was lovely. Then I went hiking the next day. Sunday was pretty busy too with all the things that were planned (Two Skype Dates, Church, Lunch, Bible Study, Cookie Baking...all before 5pm...and then I cancelled my last plan so that I could spend the evening with a friend watching Korean Drama and eating Quizzno's subs. Yes...much more relaxing!)
Oh...and I got a hair cut. It is really cute...but I am having issues accepting it. I have not cut my hair for the past maybe 7 years without donating it somewhere. And now that I got it cut here....I feel like I wasted it. I will take a photo for you guys once I start to feel a little better about it...but I have some thinking to do first.
On another note: My to-do list has grown so much. But it is ok because I hope to knock a few things off of it day. And hopefully get to bed a a decent time since my evening has not been planned to pieces (yet..haha)
Oh...and My Nana is going to be going home soon! She will be home for Christmas!!!!!!! She will still be doing rehab but she is going to have my grandfather drive her back and forth. She wants to be able to walk without help by the end of the week. She is a strong one! Thank you all for your prayers.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Playing Christmas Music
I am playing Christmas music and wrapping gifts. Which gifts specifically...these one...
I am very happy. These gifts are my two kids at the orphanage. I have my little girl that I love to death. And I also got a little 8 yr old boy that I have never met. But I have a feeling he will like the Legos...I mean...who wouldn't. Also, they needed some school supplies (thus the Simpson's pencil case and erasers...I'm not a fan of the Simpsons...but the kids here love it.)
As for the gifts for friends and family...they are America bound as of tonight. To avoid the issue I had with poor Alesha and Eliza's presents (Happy Christmas in April...hahah), I pulled out a calender on my fancy new phone and pointed to the 25th. With luck...you guys will get your presents soon. :-)
I am loving the Christmas music! Thanks to my Big Brother Kyle for sending me music before I went to Korea! I hear some stuff playing in the coffee shop and I always want to stop my walk and pop in for a cup. BUT...I promised myself no coffee shops until I get my apartment clean. I have been procrastinating on cleaning. Once I clean my apt. I am allow to treat myself to a Cinnamon Mocha Frappe at TOM and TOM's coffee. MY FAVORITE!
I hope I can get the cleaning done soon so I can splurge....:-P
I hope I can get the cleaning done soon so I can splurge....:-P
Friday, December 2, 2011
Open my Fridge and the Whole Place Smells like Kimchi
Hello all!
So, things have been going well. My co-teachers have invited me to a little co-teacher retreat at this villa in the countryside next weekend. The villa belongs to the family of one of the teachers. And it should be an interesting weekend. It will definently be a cultural experience...namely me never knowing what's going on (cuz when you get them all together, they kinda forget to use English for me...haha) So I will let you know how that goes when I get to that point.
Anyway, I have a phone now. :-) I am so happy with my techno toy. :-)
Also, this Sunday I am bringing a Guest English Teacher from orientation to my church. I really hope he likes it. It would be cool to start seeing people from my group head to church. The majority have claimed atheism and one Buddhism (but not devout...she's Buddhist only cuz her parents are).
You know the little girl who clung to me from the orphanage? <see below picture from November post>. Well, I got her name for the Angel tree project and am hoping to get her a HUGE stuffed animal for Christmas! I can't wait!
Not too much more is going on. Well, except me being a mean teacher one day. I was forced to actually discipline which is hard for me. But in the long run I need to be the teacher not the friend.
Though I do want to be someone approachable for help. Which I think I am.....I have a girl who is hoping to do a study abroad in the Atlanta, Georgia in January. She came to me to help her prepare for the phone interview and I gave her a list of questions that they may ask. Then she requested that we meet again to talk. The second time was yesterday and we discussed difficulties and culture of American high school. After that, she asked that I meet her one more time if she passes the interview so I can help her prepare to leave. If I help no one else in my career here...at least I know I helped one girl.
Anyway...enough of that...let me show you some photos.
Ok...so this was the most difficult thing for me to try to eat yet. (this is a tiny crab....chilled...shell and all. this was harder to stomach than the Mugwort/Woodworm and even the baby octopus. Yeah...will not be eating that again unless stranded on a deserted island. 
I thought this huge crab was going to escape his tank in the seafood market. I was like...RUN FOR IT LITTLE GUY!!!!!!
It's now the Christmas season here...and a visit to Nampo-Dong shopping district got me in the spirit. I couldn't help but set up my own little tree in the Apt. It's my little 3 foot Charlie Brown tree...but I love it. I even have gifts under it already that I need to send out for family soon. Hopefully I won't make the same mistake that I made with Alesha/Eliza's gifts...which are now on a boat to America...and should arrive anytime from February to April. We know for the future "Airmail" is the correct response to anything they ask in Korean. :-P
So, things have been going well. My co-teachers have invited me to a little co-teacher retreat at this villa in the countryside next weekend. The villa belongs to the family of one of the teachers. And it should be an interesting weekend. It will definently be a cultural experience...namely me never knowing what's going on (cuz when you get them all together, they kinda forget to use English for me...haha) So I will let you know how that goes when I get to that point.
Anyway, I have a phone now. :-) I am so happy with my techno toy. :-)
Also, this Sunday I am bringing a Guest English Teacher from orientation to my church. I really hope he likes it. It would be cool to start seeing people from my group head to church. The majority have claimed atheism and one Buddhism (but not devout...she's Buddhist only cuz her parents are).
You know the little girl who clung to me from the orphanage? <see below picture from November post>. Well, I got her name for the Angel tree project and am hoping to get her a HUGE stuffed animal for Christmas! I can't wait!
Not too much more is going on. Well, except me being a mean teacher one day. I was forced to actually discipline which is hard for me. But in the long run I need to be the teacher not the friend.
Though I do want to be someone approachable for help. Which I think I am.....I have a girl who is hoping to do a study abroad in the Atlanta, Georgia in January. She came to me to help her prepare for the phone interview and I gave her a list of questions that they may ask. Then she requested that we meet again to talk. The second time was yesterday and we discussed difficulties and culture of American high school. After that, she asked that I meet her one more time if she passes the interview so I can help her prepare to leave. If I help no one else in my career here...at least I know I helped one girl.
Anyway...enough of that...let me show you some photos.
Ok...so this was the most difficult thing for me to try to eat yet. (this is a tiny crab....chilled...shell and all. this was harder to stomach than the Mugwort/Woodworm and even the baby octopus. Yeah...will not be eating that again unless stranded on a deserted island. 
I thought this huge crab was going to escape his tank in the seafood market. I was like...RUN FOR IT LITTLE GUY!!!!!!
It's now the Christmas season here...and a visit to Nampo-Dong shopping district got me in the spirit. I couldn't help but set up my own little tree in the Apt. It's my little 3 foot Charlie Brown tree...but I love it. I even have gifts under it already that I need to send out for family soon. Hopefully I won't make the same mistake that I made with Alesha/Eliza's gifts...which are now on a boat to America...and should arrive anytime from February to April. We know for the future "Airmail" is the correct response to anything they ask in Korean. :-P
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Fighting
When you are "making it", "hanging in there", "rolling with the punches", or just plain "moving forward"...the Koreans simply say, "FIGHTING!!!"
So, right now I am fighting. Trying to re-group after a busy weekend hosting folks from Incheon. The one who was staying with me came in on Friday, so I had to rush back after making sweet potatoes for the Thanksgiving dinner and meet her. Then, we hit the sack. Saturday consisted of coffee and pasteries, stationary shopping, hiking, the spa, sushi, icecream then sleep. Sunday was more coffee, church, Thanksgiving dinner, bookstore, drop her off at the station, and sleep for me. I even slept through dinner. My body said, "NO MORE"
It was to my suprise when I woke up this morning and still wanted sleep. My head is in a kinda fog and I probably won't get the dishes done or the floor swept tonight. I am just Fighting through this monday with the hopes that I soon have internet in my apt.
On a less crazy note. I just finished the book "The Hunger Games" SOOOO GOOD!!!! May end up buying the second book online because I don't think the bookstore here has it in English.
Still trying to make Winter Break plans. I would like to know what I am doing before break begins. :-P
Hope Everyone is Well.
~Caroline
So, right now I am fighting. Trying to re-group after a busy weekend hosting folks from Incheon. The one who was staying with me came in on Friday, so I had to rush back after making sweet potatoes for the Thanksgiving dinner and meet her. Then, we hit the sack. Saturday consisted of coffee and pasteries, stationary shopping, hiking, the spa, sushi, icecream then sleep. Sunday was more coffee, church, Thanksgiving dinner, bookstore, drop her off at the station, and sleep for me. I even slept through dinner. My body said, "NO MORE"
It was to my suprise when I woke up this morning and still wanted sleep. My head is in a kinda fog and I probably won't get the dishes done or the floor swept tonight. I am just Fighting through this monday with the hopes that I soon have internet in my apt.
On a less crazy note. I just finished the book "The Hunger Games" SOOOO GOOD!!!! May end up buying the second book online because I don't think the bookstore here has it in English.
Still trying to make Winter Break plans. I would like to know what I am doing before break begins. :-P
Hope Everyone is Well.
~Caroline
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Good Times
First of all Nana is awake, she knows her family, she moves her limbs, and her speech is not slurred. PRAISE GOD! Thanks for all the prayers. Please keep the family in your prayers. My hope is that she will be home for Christmas. The doctor says no...but he has been proven wrong before. Let's see God get her home for the Holidays.
This was my first weekend at the orphanage. We just got to love on the kids...they all needed attention...hugs..and play time. I will be going back in a few weeks. We are having a HUGE Christmas party for them. Anyway, the kids were precious! Here are some photos to prove it.
This was my first weekend at the orphanage. We just got to love on the kids...they all needed attention...hugs..and play time. I will be going back in a few weeks. We are having a HUGE Christmas party for them. Anyway, the kids were precious! Here are some photos to prove it.
Also, I went to Swing Dancing. BEST IDEA EVER. I wasn't very good becaus it was my fist time swing dancing...but people were helpful..and I think I may get good at it with practice. I hope to go back in a few saturdays. They will even have lessons in December.
Sunday I went to chuch, then we all went out to lunch. I had Indian food which really made me miss India. It was sooo good. This was probably the happiest my stomach has been in Korea. :-)
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Attitude
I had a moment yesterday when I freaked out a little. I huffed and puffed when the internet kept freezing on my school computer. Then I had to stop and write down a little note to God.
"Father God,
My Patience is being tested. But is comes from an improper attitude...as if I deserve something... I think that I need fast internet. When having the thing at all is a blessing in itself. Sorry for my attitude!!! Please help me change it.
~CR."
I wish I could say that made me feel better about the slow internet...but it didn't. Ha ha. It did however give me something to think about.
And today, I spent 2.5 hours in a cell phone store with my co-teacher...and left without a cell phone. I guess it is my prayer or something...but I don't mind not having the phone so much. I know that when I need one, God will provide it. And until then...oh well.
Also, He has provided once again. Just as money was running into the double digits and I wondered how I would make it till payday...My settlement fee just went through in the bank. I now have not only enough for food..but some spending cash for thoses "necessities" like a Korean Dictionary or Workbook, and a new pair of leggings to save me from this cold winter.
As for my Grandmother, she had been in surgery for 14 hours and had a mini-stroke on the table. The doctor said that she shouldn't have lived and really couldn't figure out how she did. Which makes me even more thankful for your prayers. She is in an induced coma now and will be slowly brought out of it to assess the damage to her brain. Please pray that by some miracle that she has little to no permanent damage. I would love for her to be able to recgonize the family and chat with them for Thanksgiving. The doctor says no...but he has already been suprised once...THANK GOD!
"Father God,
My Patience is being tested. But is comes from an improper attitude...as if I deserve something... I think that I need fast internet. When having the thing at all is a blessing in itself. Sorry for my attitude!!! Please help me change it.
~CR."
I wish I could say that made me feel better about the slow internet...but it didn't. Ha ha. It did however give me something to think about.
And today, I spent 2.5 hours in a cell phone store with my co-teacher...and left without a cell phone. I guess it is my prayer or something...but I don't mind not having the phone so much. I know that when I need one, God will provide it. And until then...oh well.
Also, He has provided once again. Just as money was running into the double digits and I wondered how I would make it till payday...My settlement fee just went through in the bank. I now have not only enough for food..but some spending cash for thoses "necessities" like a Korean Dictionary or Workbook, and a new pair of leggings to save me from this cold winter.
As for my Grandmother, she had been in surgery for 14 hours and had a mini-stroke on the table. The doctor said that she shouldn't have lived and really couldn't figure out how she did. Which makes me even more thankful for your prayers. She is in an induced coma now and will be slowly brought out of it to assess the damage to her brain. Please pray that by some miracle that she has little to no permanent damage. I would love for her to be able to recgonize the family and chat with them for Thanksgiving. The doctor says no...but he has already been suprised once...THANK GOD!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Update
Soooo...just an update. I haven't said anything for a while so I will just kinda throw it all out there.
1). I got an email from my mom this morning saying that my grandmother suddenly had a stroke and was in surgery. So prayers are welcomed.
2). I am excited to start working more with my church. I just signed up for the childrens ministries and will be going to work at an orphanage twice a month. They say that the kids just don't get enough one on one time with people and they all really need love. I was told to be ready for lots of Hugs.....OH I AM SO READY!
3). I am reminded how blessed I am. My main co-teacher today told me, "You are lucky to be here." I said...yes I am! I love it here! She said, "You were not teacher chosen for this school. Actually is was a boy named Jack. But the Vice Priciple asked that we switch it with a girl since this is an all girl's school. Your name was picked randomly off the list because you are a girl." WOW! I am blessed not only to be in Busan, but to be at my school. Which is a walk in the park compared to the school she said I was originally placed in. (An all boys middle school). THANK YOU LORD!!!!!
My co-teacher is an athiest...but she said to me..."God took care of you."
4). Afterschool class has been cancelled for the next 2 weeks. Which is good, because it gives me time to catch up with lesson planning and to get home at a decent time. :-) I only work 8:00am to 4:40pm now. :-)
Thank you all or your prayers. I will let you know how things go.
1). I got an email from my mom this morning saying that my grandmother suddenly had a stroke and was in surgery. So prayers are welcomed.
2). I am excited to start working more with my church. I just signed up for the childrens ministries and will be going to work at an orphanage twice a month. They say that the kids just don't get enough one on one time with people and they all really need love. I was told to be ready for lots of Hugs.....OH I AM SO READY!
3). I am reminded how blessed I am. My main co-teacher today told me, "You are lucky to be here." I said...yes I am! I love it here! She said, "You were not teacher chosen for this school. Actually is was a boy named Jack. But the Vice Priciple asked that we switch it with a girl since this is an all girl's school. Your name was picked randomly off the list because you are a girl." WOW! I am blessed not only to be in Busan, but to be at my school. Which is a walk in the park compared to the school she said I was originally placed in. (An all boys middle school). THANK YOU LORD!!!!!
My co-teacher is an athiest...but she said to me..."God took care of you."
4). Afterschool class has been cancelled for the next 2 weeks. Which is good, because it gives me time to catch up with lesson planning and to get home at a decent time. :-) I only work 8:00am to 4:40pm now. :-)
Thank you all or your prayers. I will let you know how things go.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Alesha
Here's photos...just for you love!!!! :-)
Thinking of you and the girls when I snapped this photo....I believe the Caption will be: "Get your butts over here for some Pho...I am buying!"
The aforementioned Bookstore... :-)
Wandering around the neighborhood neighboring my neighborhood. :-P
The Beach that I visited this morning. Lot's of paths to take behind me...but this is city-side.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Free Time
I have some time to myself! Yay!
I had a half day off today and all day off tomorrow thanks to the Korean verson of the SAT's. They take this test sooooo seriously.
So today I wandered around a place that I had never been before. Snapped some photos, found a boostore with a foreign section, bought a book in English, thought of Alesha when I passed a Vietnamese restuarant named "The Pho", then sat in a gelato shop with yummy chocolate gelato and read some of my new book.
I don't know what I will do tomorrow with my day. Most likely go to this park near the beach that I heard about. It has good walking trails on the ocean side. I will be alone, but I will be careful (MOM...it's all good. :-)
As for my afterschool class. I got them Apples to Apples and hopefully they will enjoy it. I thought it might be good English practice. Also bought a couple simple books that I can read to them. Not sure how that will go. In the middle of class yesterday, one of my students asked, "Can we learn more Pop songs?". I said...sure! So, for Monday I am planning maybe a music monday, and I can teach them a good song. Many of them like Maroon 5. Ha ha.
Let me know if you have a good song in mind, teaching language, American culture, and with a decent music video.
I had a half day off today and all day off tomorrow thanks to the Korean verson of the SAT's. They take this test sooooo seriously.
So today I wandered around a place that I had never been before. Snapped some photos, found a boostore with a foreign section, bought a book in English, thought of Alesha when I passed a Vietnamese restuarant named "The Pho", then sat in a gelato shop with yummy chocolate gelato and read some of my new book.
I don't know what I will do tomorrow with my day. Most likely go to this park near the beach that I heard about. It has good walking trails on the ocean side. I will be alone, but I will be careful (MOM...it's all good. :-)
As for my afterschool class. I got them Apples to Apples and hopefully they will enjoy it. I thought it might be good English practice. Also bought a couple simple books that I can read to them. Not sure how that will go. In the middle of class yesterday, one of my students asked, "Can we learn more Pop songs?". I said...sure! So, for Monday I am planning maybe a music monday, and I can teach them a good song. Many of them like Maroon 5. Ha ha.
Let me know if you have a good song in mind, teaching language, American culture, and with a decent music video.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Getting Lost
So as you see in the video...hiking was quite an adventure but it was just what I needed. I was having a hard time lately with classes. Teaching so many students with so little help for such a long time. And many kids don't care to learn, let alone be respectful.
So, I am glad to have gone hiking. Went to church again this weekend and hope to make a good church family. It will take time though.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
First Day of School
OH MY GOSH!!! SOOOO HARD!!!
To be a good teacher, you need time management, you need to be an entertainer, you need to have 3 back-up plans, and (according to my co-teachers) you need to be older.
So...first day of school...very hard. I taught 5 classes today and only 2 I would call a success!
To be a good teacher, you need time management, you need to be an entertainer, you need to have 3 back-up plans, and (according to my co-teachers) you need to be older.
So...first day of school...very hard. I taught 5 classes today and only 2 I would call a success!
For the most part, the girls are very sweet. I am blessed but I am tired. I need better working conditions in regard to lesson planning. The tech guys returned my computer to me saying that I would not be able to connect to the internet at school. So....I am working at the PC Bang, saving the stuff on the zip disk, putting it on my comp, and presenting to the class. I am looking forward to getting a school computer lent to me...but as usual this is be taking some time...everything takes more time in Korea.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Fireworks
The subways were packed because this only happens once a year. I was sorry to lose my patience but there is a fine line between cultural difference and rude. And elbowing the American in the back 9 times is not a cultural thing. :-/ Lets just say that things got a little pushy in the turnstyles.
Friday, October 28, 2011
PHOTOS!!!!!
First Day of School
So today I followed Tori around.
Many of the girls would pass me in the hall and later on the streets and practice thier English, "HI NEW TEACHER..." or "HI CAROL..." (Caroline is too hard for them). Anyway, then they would giggle and turn away with an awkward shyness. They are so darn cute. Their English level is very low though. I am teaching at the equivelent of a vocational school...so the not-so-gifted attend.
Today I showed my co-worker the photo of my washer and asked them to translate the buttons. OF COURSE NOTHING IS THAT EASY. Every simple thing in Korea is an ordeal. So...it ended up being a group of four surrounding my camera...jabbing away in Korean for 5 mins and then saying we don't know. Then two of them took me back to my appartment and went upstairs with me...sat in front of the washer and figured it out. BUT..no one who went with me could speak English that well. SO...after some Sharades...we got it figured out. YAY!!!
I met the Guest English teacher at the neighboring middle school. She invited me to go to see the fireworks festival with her and her church friends tomorrow. She says that she goes to a university church taught all in English. I will see if I can get directions there from her tomorrow. I am looking forward to it.
Blessings to all and Grace,
Caroline R.
Many of the girls would pass me in the hall and later on the streets and practice thier English, "HI NEW TEACHER..." or "HI CAROL..." (Caroline is too hard for them). Anyway, then they would giggle and turn away with an awkward shyness. They are so darn cute. Their English level is very low though. I am teaching at the equivelent of a vocational school...so the not-so-gifted attend.
Today I showed my co-worker the photo of my washer and asked them to translate the buttons. OF COURSE NOTHING IS THAT EASY. Every simple thing in Korea is an ordeal. So...it ended up being a group of four surrounding my camera...jabbing away in Korean for 5 mins and then saying we don't know. Then two of them took me back to my appartment and went upstairs with me...sat in front of the washer and figured it out. BUT..no one who went with me could speak English that well. SO...after some Sharades...we got it figured out. YAY!!!
I met the Guest English teacher at the neighboring middle school. She invited me to go to see the fireworks festival with her and her church friends tomorrow. She says that she goes to a university church taught all in English. I will see if I can get directions there from her tomorrow. I am looking forward to it.
Blessings to all and Grace,
Caroline R.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
BUSAN!!!!!
Ok...so yesterday all the folk going to Busan got on a bus. This was a nice private bus with curtains and a television...haha. We all arrived in Busan in the afternoon.
My two coordinators and the Guest English teacher that I am replacing were there. Her name is Tori and I am so glad that she is here during my transition. No one else gets that priveledge...it is just an error in the contract. It is very good though because she has been a big help.
My appartment is teeny but AWESOME!!!! It is one room so my bed is in the kitchen...but it is just me so it doesn't matter. Photos to come. I am at a local PC bang (or gaming room) so I can't load the photos yet...unless I find a way to...I was just lucky to find the PC Bang to be honest. Ha ha!
My coordinators are awesome. They are so informal which puts me at ease...I know that the culture is very formal and I bow to my elders and all. They think I am funny because I am a westerner bowing to them. :-) Anyway, they have taken me shopping and footed the bill. I was able to get a drying rack (for laundry) to put in my loft and paper towels...scrub brush...even toothpaste. I went a little crazy when they told me that the school alotted a budget just for my first shopping trip. AMAZING RIGHT!!!
I had the health exam today...and yes I did cry when they took blood...IT HURT SO BAD...I am such a sissy when it comes to needles. And then no one spoke English so they were just dragging me from room to room doing tests...and they always grabbed my hurt arm...AHHH! But they were really nice. Then we went to the immigration office so I could register for my alien resident card.
I am shadowing Tori tomorrow to get an idea what my typical day will look like. So I have the rest of the day off. First thing I did was throw in a load of laundry...easier said than done. Imagine this: A washer half the size of the American washer. Mix all the buttons up. Don't have pictures. Change button sizes. And put it in Korean. I just kept hitting buttons until it started. I hope it don't kill my clothes...haha. I will have to ask my co-teacher tomorrow what buttons to push.
Anyway, after throwing in laundry I searched for a PC Bang...and here I am. I can't wait to show you guys photos. But it will come in time (as will unpacking..haha).
My two coordinators and the Guest English teacher that I am replacing were there. Her name is Tori and I am so glad that she is here during my transition. No one else gets that priveledge...it is just an error in the contract. It is very good though because she has been a big help.
My appartment is teeny but AWESOME!!!! It is one room so my bed is in the kitchen...but it is just me so it doesn't matter. Photos to come. I am at a local PC bang (or gaming room) so I can't load the photos yet...unless I find a way to...I was just lucky to find the PC Bang to be honest. Ha ha!
My coordinators are awesome. They are so informal which puts me at ease...I know that the culture is very formal and I bow to my elders and all. They think I am funny because I am a westerner bowing to them. :-) Anyway, they have taken me shopping and footed the bill. I was able to get a drying rack (for laundry) to put in my loft and paper towels...scrub brush...even toothpaste. I went a little crazy when they told me that the school alotted a budget just for my first shopping trip. AMAZING RIGHT!!!
I had the health exam today...and yes I did cry when they took blood...IT HURT SO BAD...I am such a sissy when it comes to needles. And then no one spoke English so they were just dragging me from room to room doing tests...and they always grabbed my hurt arm...AHHH! But they were really nice. Then we went to the immigration office so I could register for my alien resident card.
I am shadowing Tori tomorrow to get an idea what my typical day will look like. So I have the rest of the day off. First thing I did was throw in a load of laundry...easier said than done. Imagine this: A washer half the size of the American washer. Mix all the buttons up. Don't have pictures. Change button sizes. And put it in Korean. I just kept hitting buttons until it started. I hope it don't kill my clothes...haha. I will have to ask my co-teacher tomorrow what buttons to push.
Anyway, after throwing in laundry I searched for a PC Bang...and here I am. I can't wait to show you guys photos. But it will come in time (as will unpacking..haha).
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Provision
Luke 12:28
"If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith!"
God has provided soooo much! After my issues with not finding the right crowd at first, I prayed this morning. Coming to God should have been my first response but sometimes I forget. ANYWAY, I prayed for guidance. And I prayed that God send me a single christian...more if necessary, to strengthen me.
Since then, I have been contacted by three people...all christians.
Anyway, I loved it. The one girl and I headed out this evening after our nightly Korean Language class. We went down to a market. Saw stuff...played on the subway, bought icecream, and came back. I loved that I found someone to go out with who didn't only have beer on the mind. Drinking is a big part of the culture here and I am glad that I don't need to be caught up in it when God provides me with good people.
And now...by popular demand....PHOTOS!!!!
The Institute is picture above and then some of the delicious food that we get to eat! YUM YUM YUM! I am addicted to rice now guys. :-)
Now here is the subway. A photo of the
train that I took from my hip.
"If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith!"
God has provided soooo much! After my issues with not finding the right crowd at first, I prayed this morning. Coming to God should have been my first response but sometimes I forget. ANYWAY, I prayed for guidance. And I prayed that God send me a single christian...more if necessary, to strengthen me.
Since then, I have been contacted by three people...all christians.
Anyway, I loved it. The one girl and I headed out this evening after our nightly Korean Language class. We went down to a market. Saw stuff...played on the subway, bought icecream, and came back. I loved that I found someone to go out with who didn't only have beer on the mind. Drinking is a big part of the culture here and I am glad that I don't need to be caught up in it when God provides me with good people.
And now...by popular demand....PHOTOS!!!!
Now here is the subway. A photo of the
train that I took from my hip.
Lastly...Floppy and I having green tea icecream. :-)
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Shock!!!
Hey guys. I am still in orientation. I am having a little culture shock. Well two forms of it really. The first of it is the most serious. I am stuck in basically 2 buildings with about 200 English speakers from around the world. All over really, from South Africa, UK, Canada, US, everywhere and they range in age from 22-60yrs old. Anyway, I am pretty sure that all but one person I have met so far, drinks and swears like a sailor. I am not saying that I jugde them, don't like them, or that I think they are bad people. I just am going to need some adjusting from my little world of Southern Baptist University. I suppose for the first time in my life I am really in the world. Even before in my travels, I was very sheltered...the people I travelled with were Christian and I expected a difference in culture from those I was visiting. This trip however blind-sided me. I never thought to prepare myself to culture shock among the travels. I am really seeking my role here and becoming mildly discouraged. I mainly just want to get away from this orientation and go to my city and settle down into my new life. I am in Limbo now it feels.
The second culture shock is very minor. I mean little Korean things like blowing your nose in public being taboo, repecting the elders to the extreme (bowing), or strange toilets and such. But the Koreans are much more accomidating so it is not so hard.
Though I did have one run-in with a toilet. There it was, western style seating (yes!!!!!) but maybe about 8 buttons all in Hangul. I figured that I would find the flushing one before I did any business...just in case I did somehing stupid. (good idea!). So I stand slighty to the side of it and hit a few buttons. At first nothing happened. Then it made a noise, a little nozzle popped out of the back, and started shooting a pretty intense stream of water against the stall door. I was pressed up against the wall going...OH MY GOSH!!!! Trying not to get sprayed. I finally figured out how to turn it off...which was not the same button as on (which would have made life easier). I left the stall with the decent sized puddle in search for a "dumber" toilet.
Anyway, Jet Lag is still pretty intense and it takes a lot out of me. Also, I spent 17 dollars on an international phone card that I can't figure out how to use. BOOO!!! We will see what happens. I just need a lot of prayers and encouragement to find my way here. I left ALL my friends and family. I have no one here. And it has been difficult to build good relationships here...especially in such a short time. There are a lot of walls built up around people and it is hard to find sincerity. I think it is because everyone is so new to each other. We are all busy trying to simulaneously advertise ourselves to find new friends while defending our hearts against these strangers.
I love you guys and miss you!
~Caroline
The second culture shock is very minor. I mean little Korean things like blowing your nose in public being taboo, repecting the elders to the extreme (bowing), or strange toilets and such. But the Koreans are much more accomidating so it is not so hard.
Though I did have one run-in with a toilet. There it was, western style seating (yes!!!!!) but maybe about 8 buttons all in Hangul. I figured that I would find the flushing one before I did any business...just in case I did somehing stupid. (good idea!). So I stand slighty to the side of it and hit a few buttons. At first nothing happened. Then it made a noise, a little nozzle popped out of the back, and started shooting a pretty intense stream of water against the stall door. I was pressed up against the wall going...OH MY GOSH!!!! Trying not to get sprayed. I finally figured out how to turn it off...which was not the same button as on (which would have made life easier). I left the stall with the decent sized puddle in search for a "dumber" toilet.
Anyway, Jet Lag is still pretty intense and it takes a lot out of me. Also, I spent 17 dollars on an international phone card that I can't figure out how to use. BOOO!!! We will see what happens. I just need a lot of prayers and encouragement to find my way here. I left ALL my friends and family. I have no one here. And it has been difficult to build good relationships here...especially in such a short time. There are a lot of walls built up around people and it is hard to find sincerity. I think it is because everyone is so new to each other. We are all busy trying to simulaneously advertise ourselves to find new friends while defending our hearts against these strangers.
I love you guys and miss you!
~Caroline
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Hanguel
OK!!! I clicked enough buttons that I finally hit the right one. All the websites are in Hanguel...that is written Korean.
So I am in the Incheon Airport. I found a machine that allows you to put money in it and then connects you the the internet. NEAT! It is incredibly hard to type on so I appologize for any errors. At least it is not coming out like this anymore. ㅊ걋초됴. Ha ha! I had to ask a stranger how to make the keys english. Wasted my first 50 cents on that one. It is 6:30 am here and I don't meet my contact until 2:00pm. SOOOO.....
My plane leaving NC was late so I had to run to my connection in LAX. OMG! I was so sweaty and winded but I made it. My checked bags however did not. They claim to have it all sorted out tonight...but I had no address or phone number to give them. I have them my the EPIK coordinators number and hope that she will sort it al out...haha.
Other then constantly feeling lost with a dumb look on my face...I am good. :-) Didn't sleep much but I am good for now. Thanks guys for reading.
I will head to orientation and get back on the net as soon as I can.
Blessings,
Caroline
So I am in the Incheon Airport. I found a machine that allows you to put money in it and then connects you the the internet. NEAT! It is incredibly hard to type on so I appologize for any errors. At least it is not coming out like this anymore. ㅊ걋초됴. Ha ha! I had to ask a stranger how to make the keys english. Wasted my first 50 cents on that one. It is 6:30 am here and I don't meet my contact until 2:00pm. SOOOO.....
My plane leaving NC was late so I had to run to my connection in LAX. OMG! I was so sweaty and winded but I made it. My checked bags however did not. They claim to have it all sorted out tonight...but I had no address or phone number to give them. I have them my the EPIK coordinators number and hope that she will sort it al out...haha.
Other then constantly feeling lost with a dumb look on my face...I am good. :-) Didn't sleep much but I am good for now. Thanks guys for reading.
I will head to orientation and get back on the net as soon as I can.
Blessings,
Caroline
Monday, October 17, 2011
Oh Goodness!
So, to start with...I have been uber blessed! My friend from GWU paid for me to come visit her and all my friends at school. She has paid for my meals and driven me places. I am very honored to have such a great friend.
While visiting my Alma Mater I have seen quite a few people I didn't expect to. It has been great. I ended up doing some work with my old boss for old times sake. She asked when I was leaving for Korea and I replied, "Wednesday". She said, "Like this Wednesday?...2 days from now?" "Oh Goodness, it is only 2 days isn't it?" Well, as you can imagine, I had a little freak out after that. It has been so easy to push Korea out of my mind as something in the future...but now to steal a quote, "...time is racing toward us...".
I caught a pretty nasty cold on the way here. I figure I got it up north because I was a little out of it when I was saying goodbye to Mom in the airport. She cried....her baby is going to be across the world. I don't want her to worry though. But as for this cold, I have runny nose and stuffy nose...how do you get both at the same time....well, it is a science thing and it happens...just take my word for it. Then I had a throaty thing and now uncontrollable sneezing. I am so stuffed that I can't taste much at all. I hope it gets better. I don't want to get deported upon my arrival for having CZARS or something... :-P
Last thing I will tell you is that Delta Airlines never ceases to disappoint me. They broke one of my bags and is making it so difficult to get help. I can't continue with this bag to Korea because it is in no shape to travel. I have to dip into my saved money and purchase a new one. I will be trying Goodwill first. Then I need to re-pack the bag and hope it is still the same weight (it was 49lbs and the limit is 50lbs).
Love you guys and will write again with a ton to say from South Korea.
~Caroline R.
While visiting my Alma Mater I have seen quite a few people I didn't expect to. It has been great. I ended up doing some work with my old boss for old times sake. She asked when I was leaving for Korea and I replied, "Wednesday". She said, "Like this Wednesday?...2 days from now?" "Oh Goodness, it is only 2 days isn't it?" Well, as you can imagine, I had a little freak out after that. It has been so easy to push Korea out of my mind as something in the future...but now to steal a quote, "...time is racing toward us...".
I caught a pretty nasty cold on the way here. I figure I got it up north because I was a little out of it when I was saying goodbye to Mom in the airport. She cried....her baby is going to be across the world. I don't want her to worry though. But as for this cold, I have runny nose and stuffy nose...how do you get both at the same time....well, it is a science thing and it happens...just take my word for it. Then I had a throaty thing and now uncontrollable sneezing. I am so stuffed that I can't taste much at all. I hope it gets better. I don't want to get deported upon my arrival for having CZARS or something... :-P
Last thing I will tell you is that Delta Airlines never ceases to disappoint me. They broke one of my bags and is making it so difficult to get help. I can't continue with this bag to Korea because it is in no shape to travel. I have to dip into my saved money and purchase a new one. I will be trying Goodwill first. Then I need to re-pack the bag and hope it is still the same weight (it was 49lbs and the limit is 50lbs).
Love you guys and will write again with a ton to say from South Korea.
~Caroline R.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Seven Days and Counting
The title of this blog translates from Korean to "Hello" in the formal sense.
I suppose I am saying "Hello" to a new chapter in my life.
In seven days I will be on a plane to South Korea. I have no idea about details. I don't know what my apartment will look like, I don't know what age group I will be teaching, I don't know when my official contract start date is, I don't know when I will be coming home, I don't know much at all.
Normally that would bug me to death. Three months ago I was a control-freak planner. But, I went to India on a mission trip and realized that I have always put God's power in a box. I realized that when I did all the planning and "controlling" that I was limiting God because I was telling Him that I did not trust Him. Well...India is not a place you can plan for....and I grew a lot.
Long story short. I am trusting God..and I don't need to know the details. He has provided funds, clothing, documents, and people. And if He provided before the trip, you better bet He will provide during.
Anyway. Pray for me, friends. This is the start of an epic adventure.
Annyeonghaseyo Korea!
I suppose I am saying "Hello" to a new chapter in my life.
In seven days I will be on a plane to South Korea. I have no idea about details. I don't know what my apartment will look like, I don't know what age group I will be teaching, I don't know when my official contract start date is, I don't know when I will be coming home, I don't know much at all.
Normally that would bug me to death. Three months ago I was a control-freak planner. But, I went to India on a mission trip and realized that I have always put God's power in a box. I realized that when I did all the planning and "controlling" that I was limiting God because I was telling Him that I did not trust Him. Well...India is not a place you can plan for....and I grew a lot.
Long story short. I am trusting God..and I don't need to know the details. He has provided funds, clothing, documents, and people. And if He provided before the trip, you better bet He will provide during.
Anyway. Pray for me, friends. This is the start of an epic adventure.
Annyeonghaseyo Korea!
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