Well, I'm back after a long absence of three weeks. Life has suddenly become very busy here in Korea. Last year, someone asked me whether the Koreans were slave-driving me yet. I laughed in reply and boasted of how much free time I had.
Hello 2010! I now also teach supplementary classes at middle school as well as evening classes (Mondays through Wednesdays) to parents and other adults. I also have a professional group, consisting of a bank manager and a dentist, with whom I meet on Wednesdays and Thursdays. (Yes, on a Wednesday, AFTER my other evening class!) The first two weeks saw me walking around like a zombie. But in this, the third week, my body has finally adjusted to the new schedule. Hence, me finally having time (and energy) to update my blog!
Korean classes are also going well. But between 5 evening classes, 4 nights a week, and Korean class every Saturday, I now only have Sundays to myself. So I jealously guard my Sundays. A Sunday is now my only time to rest and catch up on household chores. I even manage to squeeze in some time for a new hobby I just started.... painting! Who would have thought? I've never regarded myself as an artist. But at least I can do abstract stuff and call it art! So I am now slowly but surely decorating my apartment with art by moi!
Spring has also finally made an appearance, with beautiful flowering cherry blossom trees everywhere. Pictures of these natural wonders have always drawn me to Asia. I get a thrill every time I look at these trees. Sometimes, I cannot believe that I am here in Asia, and able to see and touch these very trees and their delicate blossoms, of which I dreamed for years and years.
And then, of course, Saturdays in Daegu are a treat. I get to satisfy the city-girl in me. Saturdays start off with an hour-long bus ride into Daegu, followed by breakfast at Starbucks with friends, prior to Korean class. I have met a wonderful group of like-minded crazies, and we have so much fun together, learning a new language! Class is usually followed by lunch together with whoever happens to be available. We try out a new restaurant every Saturday! This is usually followed by some form of shopping or another (shoes, or new jeans, or luxury groceries - imported from the Western World - [this includes avocado pears and South African wines at exorbitant prices, but what's a girl to do?], or just hobby supplies). And before we know it, it's the end of the day! So much socialising and shopping to do, not enough time!
Cherry blossom tree with a Korean ancestral home in the background.
Giant cherry blossom tree at Gunwi High School.
Awesome sight of a 'Spring shower' sky.
Cherry blossom tree lined avenue.
It rained cherry blossom petals!
Friendships and relationships are still progressing very nicely. I have more students wanting to practice their English, so I spend my lunch breaks walking outside with them, and talking in the fresh Spring air. One girl has even planned topics for me! Her topic for today was, 'Nicknames'! At my high school, they also started an English radio broadcast programme. I coach the students' with their enunciation etc, and thus can still wear my Speech and Drama Teacher hat!
I have also gained many new friends through my evening classes. The downside of this, however, is all the dinner invitations!!
So, I am happy to report that all's well here in the Land of the Morning Calm.
Till next time!
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