It's really a bizarre, and wonderful, experience to watch Barack Obama from overseas. He really has captured the world's attention and there's a noticeable burden that has been lifted - I know it's not just in my head.
I was lucky enough to travel to several countries under Bush's watch and several after Obama took office. The difference in the world's perception is really something to be noted. Also, living in a foreign country has enabled me to see just how much the world looks to the US. I actually feel proud these days, and that's something I haven't ever experienced when abroad.
On a more lighthearted note about Barack: A co-worker last month said that she had a dream about Obama and he was "so sexy." ;) Ha!
Anyway, next week I head back to work and teach away! I'm eager to get going. I loved the past 2 or so weeks but lordy do I need more to do with my time! I met with my new co-teacher yesterday morning. Her name is Lee Youn-He and she is so adorable! I just know that we are going to work so well together. Her English is insanely good and she's 26 in Korean years, so just 1 year older than me (Korean's turn 1 they day they are born and then add another year on January 1st).
Also, my new teaching schedule is so much better than it was last semester! I only teach 20 hours a week (1 teaching hour = 40min.) and I have a reduced amount of lessons to plan as a result. Hoorah!
Ooh, and one thing I was worried about was the fact that Chung Nam was moving to a different school. She was like my lifeline - seemingly perfect English and very organized. She was in charge of the English department and was the one who ensured I got paid/answered my questions (even when I called her at 8pm on a Saturday because our electricity went out!).
Chung Nam has moved to a different school but the new English person (Mrs. Ha) is a women I have worked with and enjoy. She is famous in Gyeonngi-Do and has written books and won all kinds of English related awards -- now she's in charge of me! Communication is key with teaching overseas and I'm very grateful to have had 2 great people overseeing me.
Too much text in this post! I do have a few pictures, actually. Last week David and I went to the Seoul immigration office to get his greencard (long story) and then went to 63 City. Mrs. Ha actually bought David and I tickets to see 63 City when I first got here, so we finally made use of them, though we do need to go back to see the IMAX and skyart. We visited the indoor aquarium, ate lunch at the famous bistro and hung out with Julia for a while! Pictures:
Oh hello, sea princess!
These fish didn't move and they look just like leaves!
I love these colors!
I said to David, "Oh look! Lion Fish!" And he said, "It's you!"
Lobster
These fish eat your dead skin right off! They have manicure/pedicure places in Seoul where they use these fish -- totally going.
Jellyfish are so ethereal.
Pretty!
I love sea otters!
Anyeonhikeesayo! ^^*
Wendy
3 sprinkles:
I've heard about the pedicure places where fish nibble your dead skin!! Actually my grandma told me about it. (the same grandma you said is a smart cookie, haha. it's true!) I would totally try that out, too.
Nice pictures and interesting reading, (especially the part about "Korean years" !??)
TTFN, ta ta for now :)
I feel the exact same way about our president [and get an amazing swell of pride just calling him that]. Even in the face of all of this economic strife, I feel a calm just knowing that he's behind the wheel. Even if it's a long hard struggle, I have faith that he'll always come out on top somehow simply because of his positive attitude...it's a nice change, having an optimist in office. :)
That jelly fish picture is awesome and would be one to beat on together!!!!
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