tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72394241487990496642024-03-05T02:15:58.668-08:00Bullet Trains and BicyclesI'm a Saffa living in South Korea. I'm teaching English while learning a lot about myself and the world in which I live. Designed to update friends and family, share experiences and help people thinking of taking on an adventure like this. I hope you will take this journey with me and enjoy the ride as much as I am.Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-39285053635792105642013-06-10T08:57:00.001-07:002013-06-10T08:57:55.066-07:00Life post-Korea<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Man, it feels good to be posting again. I should have done this
post a month ago at least but I've been putting it off for some reason. It
feels like I've opened an old diary filled with all the little memories I may
have forgotten or stories that I still think about often. I'm once again so
grateful that I kept this record of all Korea had to offer me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I've been home for about 2.5 months now and
it honestly feels like Korea was a life-time away. When I see people
who I haven't seen since I've been home and they ask
the inevitable "how was it?" question I tend to think - how
was what? My lunch? My weekend? Ooooh, you mean Korea. It was great. It is so
difficult to explain what that year meant to me and all that happened...it
was after all completely life changing and often people ask out of
obligation and not because they're really interested which makes it hard to get
into the real nitty gritty stuff. I have had many an
interesting conversation about the North/South drama though, and
I've thoroughly enjoyed being able to tell the people that care to
listen about this weird little country I spent a year of my life immersed in.
But no matter how long the conversation lasts, it's impossible to cover
everything. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's been harder to readjust than I imagined. Friendships have
drifted, people changed, routines were no longer familiar and I've found
myself floating through the days, feeling like I have no control over things
and hoping that my life will eventually start to be productive once more. I
miss Korea. I miss my friends, I miss the food IMMENSELY and I miss the
routines I had gotten used to...walking though the streets to visit friends and
getting my feet wet when entering the bathroom. Okay no, I do not miss that. I
walked into my shower wall the other day while trying to get the shampoo out of
my hair (and keep it out my eyes) because I wasn't used to having a shower with
limits. I still sometimes have to beat the urge to bow to new, older people I
meet and throw in some Korean words here and there that have just become habit.
But generally I've managed to put my Korea life behind me and am trying to move
forward with my life here. There are definitely times I sit back and wonder
whether or not I made the right decision to come home when I did but I think that's
normal. I'm really happy that I've managed to keep in touch with my friends I made over there and we try to make regular Skype dates or send voice notes and
pictures back and forth which keeps me in the loop. I really hope to meet up
with them in the future. What I predicted before I left has turned out to be true...once you live in another country, a part of your heart will always belong there. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Despite the doubts and difficulties, it really is amazing to
be home. The first thing I did when I got home was have a Mugg and Bean
breakfast and then a bath. I was in heaven. I've loved being in the culture
again, surrounded by diverse smiling faces with the unmistakable
South African charm and good spirits. It's been so good to catch up
with family and friends again and I'm so grateful for the few who
have really embraced me since being home. I've spent a lot of time with Jodie,
the friend I went over to Korea with originally and we often find ourselves
relying on each other to understand what it is we're going through. I spent an
awesome few days at my Uncle's holiday farm, Wyndford, which is very possibly
my favourite place in the world. While there I hiked a part of the Drakensburg
with my Dad, where we did the chain ladder and it was the most
incredible experience with him. See, all the pain and suffering
hiking in Korea paid off ;) I’m still waiting to go see some wildlife
in Pilansburg which will hopefully happen in the July holidays. Work wise, I
have started working at a local high school as a substitute and PT teacher,
which is less than satisfying but I’m grateful to be busy. I also have some
au-pairing lined up, am tutoring and just trying to keep busy. My plan is to
start my Masters in Development Studies next year so am really just
working towards that and will see what happens from there. NGO work is
definitely where I want to be getting involved.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> ____________________________________________</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Right. So that part of my blog was written about 6 weeks ago. My bad. In my defense though, half way through the post we lost our internet connection which forced me to stop and then life got in the way. So it is now 4 months since I came home and things are much better. I've found my feet and my happiness here once more and although not in the ideal work situation, I have some exciting prospects on the horizon and am very positive about my future - beginning with Masters next year (if I get in). I've made a bunch of new friends so my </span>Saturday<span style="font-family: inherit;"> nights spent alone and wondering what on earth I'm doing back here have thankfully ceased to exist. I've joined a gym, am back in the habit of driving on the crazy Jozi roads and after having my cellphone stolen in the first 2 weeks of being home - I'm back to being a fully functioning South African citizen :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I manged to cook some Korean food the other night...Jjimdak - my favourite!! And it wasn't half bad (well I don't think it was). I'm very excited to try out the few Korean restaurants that we have and cannot wait to see what the Korean Supermarket has in store for me. I do get very jealous of all the pictures I see of my friends still there and all their adventures but if being away from home has taught me anything, it's taught me to make the most of where you are. My heart has swelled with love for my home town and I'm trying my best to make the most of all we have on offer here. Funny how when you're away, you miss </span>everything<span style="font-family: inherit;"> but as soon as you're back, you begin to take it all for granted again. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I feel as though coming home, and these short 4 months since, have taught me almost as much as being away last year did. I've grown so much and am learning new things all the time. I'm forcing myself out of my comfort zones and refuse to say no to any opportunity I feel will be worth it. I've had to cut certain things out of my life that were harmful to me, and have tried to adopt a range of better habits. The pre-Korea Bron wouldn't be so brave. I've found faith again and a church to call home - which in itself has opened my eyes to a million things I've been missing. Life is good here in Africa, it cannot be denied. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I plan to keep writing, </span>although<span style="font-family: inherit;"> about what I'm not sure. I'm no longer falling off mountains or eating strange food so what can I entertain you with? We all know my jokes aint that funny. I will be posting on my brother's blog - </span><a href="http://rockingitchristianstyle.blogspot.com/">http://rockingitchristianstyle.blogspot.com/</a> so you can find me there but I'll also be starting a new blog, 'The Ramblings of a Day Dreamer' as soon as I get someone to help me design it.<br />
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Looking back on my year abroad, it seems almost surreal. I read my old posts and sometimes I cringe at the self-centeredness of it all, sometimes I smile at a memory I had forgotten but mostly I am so incredibly grateful for the opportunity I had to live in such an amazing country. Life lessons learned, some hard and some harder still since getting home. For all the struggles and frustrations, I wouldn't have changed that year for anything. If anyone is thinking about doing something like this - do it. Make sure you're doing it for the right reasons and be prepared to make the most of anything and everything thrown your way. You'll never regret it.<br />
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And so I guess this is it friends. Thank you for taking this journey with me. Thank you for all the support, love and encouragement from all parts of the world. I hope this post hasn't been as disjointed as I feel it has...maybe I've lost my touch! I'm off to look through my scrapbook and the AWESOME quotes book my friends in Korea made for me before I left. Winter has come to South Africa, and so I'll be doing this all in front of a roaring fire. Did I mention it's good to be home?<br />
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Peace, love and happiness - Bronners out. <br />
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Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-77812744192947344152013-02-12T18:54:00.002-08:002013-02-12T18:54:25.582-08:00안녕히 계세요 - Goodbye ㅠㅠHow did I get here so quickly? On the way to school today I was just taking in the scenery, thinking - damn, it's actually here...my last day of teaching in Korea. Although I've been ready to leave for a while now, the fact that it's time to go has tugged on my heart strings much harder than I ever expected. I've addressed my schools and said goodbye, had many letters passed and awkward goodbye exchanges. It's here. It's time to go home.<br />
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I don't even know how I'm going to convey everything I want to in this last post. This year in Korea has been life changing. I am going back a changed, matured, stronger woman. I think differently, I want different things. I can never quite explain what living here has done for me - you'll just have to see it I guess. My very good friend, Su, also leaves this weekend and we've both been struck by how emotional we are (okay her more than me, we all knew I was the cheesy one but Su's surprising herself a bit too ㅋㅋㅋ). I have learned so much this year. I've learned what it means to be different, to be the outsider. I've learned what it means to put yourself in others shoes and accept that your way of seeing things is not the only one and is sometimes very wrong. I've learned to be patient - goodness knows my kids have tested that. I have realised more and more here how this is the time of my life to be a little selfish, to really live and take chances because it's not worth looking back and thinking "I should have"...fear cannot hold me back from spreading my wings. I've learned above all to suck it up. No one cares about your bad days, your homesickness and your tears. I don't mean this in a 'Koreans are so cold and heartless way', not at all. It's just different here and I had to accept that. It's made me stronger, it's taught me to rely on myself more. I had a job to do, I had to forget about all the other stuff going on. I feel like I know who I am now more than I did before I came. I know this is common for people going into the work place after college but I will always credit Korea for helping mold the person I am today. I learned how to teach - my kids and teachers have given me so much without even knowing it. Saying goodbye to them has been a challenge. These kids are the hardest working ones I know and I just want them to be happy. It breaks my heart to see and hear how many Koreans, old and young, are not satisfied with their lives.<br />
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Korea is the most incredible country. It's had to build itself up from a pretty dark past and has worked as hard as possible to get to where it is today. The people are determined - even if that determination comes in the form of an aggro ajjuma who feels your existence is merely there to annoy her. It is a county full of contradictions: you cannot blow your nose in public but can spit the most disgusting balls on the floor at any time, and fart and burp like it's nothing; Westerners are seen as being too 'out there' and dress too provocatively but K-pop encourages young kids to dance and dress like they're 35 year old private dancers and it's seen as okay; you have to recycle and heaven forbid if you don't but finding a public trash can is close to impossible; they celebrate traditions and things as old as patriarchy and yet have some of the most modern facets of society that I've ever seen. Bullet trains and bicycles. I don't know if I'll ever come back here to visit (teaching here again will always be an option should other things not work out) but I am so happy I got to experience this culture first hand. The people are interesting and I really wish I could have gotten to know more of them on a personal basis. I'm no longer satisfied with simply seeing places, ticking off countries on a map. I want to learn more and become fully immersed in different cultures, including my own back home - it's eye opening. Everyday has been an adventure here! Some good, some bad, but an adventure nonetheless. Oh Korea, we say with a smile. I will never forget you.<br />
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I had the most wonderful weekend this past one, spending time with the Jecheonians, friends who I've made over the year who up until now, I never really thought of saying goodbye to. I've said it before; the friendships you make while living abroad are like nothing you have at home. Friends here become your support base, your sounding board, your family away from home and for me, often the only source of conversation. We share our lives, our good days and our bad days. They understand what you're going through because chances are, they're going through it too. These bonds created are strong enough to stretch out over the time and space that is bound to come at some point. And saying goodbye sucks. It sucks because we're sprinkled all over the world and chances are high we'll never see each other again. I don't want to let go just yet. And so thank you, everyone, for being there for me when I needed you most. For the laughs, the advice, the tears and the nights spent drinking and talking about nothing and everything at the same time. Thank you for supporting me and my blog, my teaching struggles, my homesickness. I will miss each and every one of you.<br />
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Su: Thank you for everything, always. All the happiness in the world for your next adventure - I have no doubt that you will have the most amazing time traveling and every student who gets you as a teacher will be very lucky indeed ^^<br />
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My friends and family back home have also been a huge source of support and I could not have done it without them. I don't want to get too 'shout out-y' but I've been amazed at how much I have gained from my relationships back home, even from across the miles that separate us. Coming home is that much sweeter when you know people are excited to see you again. I will always feel like by living in two places, a piece of me belongs to both. Once home, I know I will never feel completely whole again because a part of me will continue to see Korea as home, as part of who I am. A friend who has recently returned home remarked that she felt more homesick once in SA than she ever did in Korea - I expect I'll have those days too. It's scary to be walking into the unknown...for those who are wondering, I really don't have a solid plan for this year. Travel. Study. Rest. Work. I don't know what lies ahead but I know my adventure is not over yet; I refuse to let it end here.<br />
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I have some videos and things I might try to upload in the next few days and I'd like to do a post or 2 once home, but this is kind of the end of this blog too. I have so enjoyed keeping it, and getting feedback on my posts. It's been a record of the year and I have been overwhelmed by all the people supporting it! Thank you for caring about what I have to say ;). I hope I can start another blog if I find I have interesting things to talk about!<br />
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And so this is it. Almost time to enjoy my last meal at school, and get my apartment packed up and ready to go. I don't think I could ever find the words to properly say goodbye, so for now I'll just say see you later. It's sure been real :)<br />
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<br />Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-15709936027804205262013-02-11T17:22:00.003-08:002013-02-11T17:22:41.963-08:00Changing HabitsWhen you first arrive in Korea, it feels like everything is foreign - because it is. The language, the people, the skyline. You are accosted with a hundred different sensory experiences and it can feel overwhelming. I remember wondering how I would ever adapt, get used to all these news things. Korea really is an adventure for your senses: your eyes find the flashing lights and colours that abound every street..your nose picks up the amalgamation of Korean cooking and sometimes street sewers which is not pleasant...you hear the taxis hooting, the music blaring and the language surrounding you that you know so little about...you feel the humidity or cold flush against your skin - the air feels different here...you taste the many flavours of new foods and drinks which linger with you long after the meal is over. It's an explosion for your senses. There are new customs you need to learn and new habits you form while leaving old ones neatly packed inside your suitcase, waiting to be reopened when the time is right. I was thinking how I have changed this year, not just in the way I am but in the things I do. I thought I'd make a list (gotta love the lists) of some of the habits I've picked up here and some which I have had to leave behind.<br />
<ul>
<li>Taking off my shoes at school and home has become second nature to me and I actually think this is something I might continue to do at home. It's clean and it feels unnatural to walk inside a house with shoes on now.</li>
<li>Walking through swinging doors in Korea has been interesting. When I first got here, I would wait if it looked like someone was coming out, I would hold the door open for the person behind me (and expect the same in return) and would just be courteous about how I navigated in and out. What that got me was a whole lot of doors in my face and weird looks. Now, I just walk. The door swings closed and I don't worry about whether or not someone was behind me (unless I'm with foreigners obviously). Each one for themselves out here. </li>
<li>I also have learned that lines in Korea are a loose concept and pushing in is not something frowned upon. The number of times I've been blatantly pushed out of the way (and I mean shoved) or had someone cut a line is ridiculous. I've had to forget about personal space and stand right behind the person in front of me if I want to ever make it to the front. </li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTucvo5HfQ0Niw_bKq4BjQiV4GBlPWfbffKJrGxYSV-q6QcXlkQnuxZeLsuYi_gAraSEYrlPqg5KEUN_jYF_MuT7ZAZ2edoJLi4K45OfUejbBKPbv7schbr6fdzzs2ILNxk8lLuvaXNVs/s1600/2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTucvo5HfQ0Niw_bKq4BjQiV4GBlPWfbffKJrGxYSV-q6QcXlkQnuxZeLsuYi_gAraSEYrlPqg5KEUN_jYF_MuT7ZAZ2edoJLi4K45OfUejbBKPbv7schbr6fdzzs2ILNxk8lLuvaXNVs/s1600/2.gif" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what getting to the front of anything looks like</td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>I tend to wave with both hands, especially around my kids.</li>
<li>I have learned to speak slowly, and add a little American twang when needed if I'm trying to talk to someone Korean. Maybe my way of speaking has changed completely? I also accentuate my speech with lots of hand gestures.</li>
<li>I can use chopsticks like a pro and actually prefer them to a knife and fork sometimes. </li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5D4QxP4XvRjAazFDPL_X0k-4-HSeKFWoJaHX7wt_BAqHXX6ZeGQADbEme4Cq4ARxor57CkRNWqisxi_SiB8WMqNEz3vfpNjt_qlcNc86gXwvb_rQMnKOmDbf_mfZA5tJ1uuamDfunzPQr/s1600/MJVzI.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5D4QxP4XvRjAazFDPL_X0k-4-HSeKFWoJaHX7wt_BAqHXX6ZeGQADbEme4Cq4ARxor57CkRNWqisxi_SiB8WMqNEz3vfpNjt_qlcNc86gXwvb_rQMnKOmDbf_mfZA5tJ1uuamDfunzPQr/s1600/MJVzI.gif" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe I'll start feeding my cat like this? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>I don't tip - something I need to remember to do when I get home.</li>
<li>The bowing - I bow to anyone older than me and sometimes my kids if I forget. I just bow, all day every day as I'd rather be the foreigner who bows too much than the rude girl. This I know I'll struggle to stop doing at home; it's become such second nature.</li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTf1IkvghCPtri2iop3d57FPGeQIk6oCuz9Cjs3yZyVNaFZm6hE9cDLFaT2jx9wefvxNA_feT9USlYtzeurxnsnDohmxrySCCCrfXs50w75sx6EjwQc6f5JI-aETccr2t_uI2Km-LIMX7M/s1600/bow.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTf1IkvghCPtri2iop3d57FPGeQIk6oCuz9Cjs3yZyVNaFZm6hE9cDLFaT2jx9wefvxNA_feT9USlYtzeurxnsnDohmxrySCCCrfXs50w75sx6EjwQc6f5JI-aETccr2t_uI2Km-LIMX7M/s1600/bow.gif" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how we do! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>I've become used to not worrying about my belongings - at dinner, out and about, wherever we are it is not a concern to leave my bag around. I don't really worry about walking alone at night. I'm used to living in a country where burglar bars, electric fencing and barbed wire are not a necessity. I need to get my act together when I get home or I'll be penniless. </li>
<li>I've tried to pick up the taking/giving things with 2 hands but I do forget that sometimes, so I've failed a bit there</li>
<li>Not saying 'bless you' when someone sneezes, and not being surprised when no one says it to me. This was a hard one to break. </li>
<li>Speaking softly, or at least more quietly (is that even English?) in public. I've had enough dirty looks and we've been told to be quiet enough for me to just shut up on public transport. </li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ObuWkW7hRK3PIIaEMBgSB_npMk0IMe3SHEOy3AaX_iQLMAOkGbF2_Neh0UcNOiLYWRjRKo8yPpM28Xg2d1vxNKNJeH-2zKVDPm97A3Yc_61LvHp5hxIcoiv9Rlo_Irdg54F9Inx7mBWB/s1600/quiet.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ObuWkW7hRK3PIIaEMBgSB_npMk0IMe3SHEOy3AaX_iQLMAOkGbF2_Neh0UcNOiLYWRjRKo8yPpM28Xg2d1vxNKNJeH-2zKVDPm97A3Yc_61LvHp5hxIcoiv9Rlo_Irdg54F9Inx7mBWB/s1600/quiet.gif" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Every ajjuma, on every train. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>Swiping my card for as little as \1000. No card charges here means I very seldom carry cash (a pain in the ass for everyone when it comes to splitting dinner). </li>
<li>Using a squatter toilet and not having a mini panic attack when I see one.</li>
<li>Picking up on social cues and body language, mixed with the words I do know, to try and understand what's going on around me. I've gotten pretty good at this I think. </li>
<li>Sitting on the floor to eat - although something quite normal now, I still really don't like it. </li>
<li>I've picked up some sayings and words from my foreign friends and Koreans alike, which now colour my speech. Includes things like the Korean words for hello and thank you which have become my go to greetings. </li>
<li>I've also had to change some of the words I use: traffic lights, sweater, garbage etc. It's not uncommon for me to use a word that no one understands which I then need to "Americanize'.</li>
<li>I've gotten into the habit of expecting fast, free, easy internet access everywhere. It's going to be quite an adjustment coming home to the connection problems that are inevitable.</li>
<li>Drinking coffee through a little straw - so weird at first, and still an odd concept but I enjoy my coffee with a straw. Go figure. </li>
<li>Using public transport, or my legs, to get everywhere. </li>
<li>Eating quickly and not worrying about stretching over people, having people eat off my plate or try to feed me. </li>
<li>Using scissors to cut meat - chopsticks don't cut (duh) so often we use scissors to cut the meat into bite sized pieces. </li>
<li>I've managed to get the hang of the roads and don't freak out when a bus nearly takes me out or we seem to just drive through red lights. Okay that's a lie. I will never understand/be comfortable with the Korean roads.</li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWgLdeJVjQV0LwUmo6xFOqceqIxvU5_x0iq8EzqcutsCOsmEhH9M_ntpybFd8vjQdF_2MUph6K9Vuh7tSBVqYxf82ABdU49k5Km5rdxuVdV-VbPlHMQYOATTXHvsws9vv1bAdEG-zq4ub/s1600/tumblr_m4wv0uzMRR1r2knh6.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWgLdeJVjQV0LwUmo6xFOqceqIxvU5_x0iq8EzqcutsCOsmEhH9M_ntpybFd8vjQdF_2MUph6K9Vuh7tSBVqYxf82ABdU49k5Km5rdxuVdV-VbPlHMQYOATTXHvsws9vv1bAdEG-zq4ub/s320/tumblr_m4wv0uzMRR1r2knh6.gif" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how I feel on the roads of Korea </td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>On that note - I check every where several times before crossing any roads. You need your wits about you if you're going to survive. </li>
<li>I've picked up the bad habit of simply zoning out. So much goes on around me that I just don't understand so often that I've gotten pretty good at just 'checking out'. I better snap out of that once I get home and am expected to be aware of what's being said around me. This includes just smiling, nodding and saying 너ㅣ (yes) even when I have no idea what was said. </li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWgNo6jwSl8n0pCo-zuGP0UAt3UWtMqPOBvHU1KvfPy-vrhSCZr8VTyo-Ku8u4GTVXt5RO0G92a1k18439_4h0zZix1ohKNKhJVnIlzgwmrz03b1oJi-F2TTnFmOcXLaUhGa6GdRMVEdN/s1600/tumblr_m4vimppo7B1qj3ir1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWgNo6jwSl8n0pCo-zuGP0UAt3UWtMqPOBvHU1KvfPy-vrhSCZr8VTyo-Ku8u4GTVXt5RO0G92a1k18439_4h0zZix1ohKNKhJVnIlzgwmrz03b1oJi-F2TTnFmOcXLaUhGa6GdRMVEdN/s320/tumblr_m4vimppo7B1qj3ir1.gif" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All. The. Time. </td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>This is more a 'I'm a worker now' and less a Korea thing but earning money and living with such a comfy salary has made me spend before thinking on a number of occasions. I need to get that under control, soon. </li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF_BS80GjTxRyhDPL8UpqvpHQlMQpbkKEIbEjK-259y7epWgcC-7pn0NcziKF9olJ5IQArdGd4v7-ZMwTNlHWQgQO1y4TCUK8qkeKHj0XuNJr4LeeZuNSn-zyn1EjmG7rs8Ifa87QVGCcE/s1600/tumblr_me45h3VeXT1rol1w1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF_BS80GjTxRyhDPL8UpqvpHQlMQpbkKEIbEjK-259y7epWgcC-7pn0NcziKF9olJ5IQArdGd4v7-ZMwTNlHWQgQO1y4TCUK8qkeKHj0XuNJr4LeeZuNSn-zyn1EjmG7rs8Ifa87QVGCcE/s320/tumblr_me45h3VeXT1rol1w1.gif" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When in Korea...</td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>Learning to keep your emotions in check. Aint nobody got time for tears little girl, suck it up. Lesson #1 in Korea. </li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNpM03AQuiDdvk0RlxeETzR-TeX_sfEm61XXNA4ciMHQvTezE9frc-TpnLVpfNN8uvZUvmXI1jfZYrcs7Prln74szlZZVoitBGoncAvXudObrlEAqpAwbbJDkp3sBl5SYcwgxZe_mIKoNA/s1600/aint.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNpM03AQuiDdvk0RlxeETzR-TeX_sfEm61XXNA4ciMHQvTezE9frc-TpnLVpfNN8uvZUvmXI1jfZYrcs7Prln74szlZZVoitBGoncAvXudObrlEAqpAwbbJDkp3sBl5SYcwgxZe_mIKoNA/s320/aint.gif" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have to send with dear Sweet Brown. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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<div>
Did you enjoy my little motivation GIFs? Wanted to keep you entertained!! I think I could keep going for ages but these are the main ones. I've really just learned to not be surprised by a lot of what goes on around me. We adapt, we change, we learn to fit in where we are. I'm sure I'll pick up my old habits pretty quickly and slip into the way things are back home but I've really loved being immersed in a completely foreign space this year. There's something exciting about it and as my time here draws to an end, I'm a little sad about going back to what's 'normal'. </div>
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<i>Do you have any habits you've acquired or had to leave behind? Let me know in the comments section! </i></div>
Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-28152489941730319272013-02-07T20:14:00.000-08:002013-02-07T20:14:08.779-08:00DMZ - hey North Korea, hey! I've been meaning to blog about my DMZ experience for the whole week but I'll admit it...I've been lazy! And then the realization hit me that if I don't do it now, I'm going to run out of time, because my Korea chapter is closing much quicker than I'm ready for it seems.<br />
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I love history. When I travel, I love including historical sites or museums in my itinerary. I love the feeling of walking down paths that I've learned so much about. So you would think the DMZ would have been the first item on my Korea bucket list. But I actually almost never made it. Life got away with me here and I accepted that the DMZ was not going to happen for me. I just had no time, and it was Winter - apparently that's not a good time to go. But after speaking to some friends one night who convinced me this was something I needed to do, and when my friend Jeanette offered to join me, I went ahead and booked it! And boy am I glad I did. It's something I highly recommend everyone doing. I didn't know all that much about the DMZ and its history before I went but once on the tour, I was so happy I sucked it up and went. A part of me has been putting this post off because there is SO much information I could try and put down but I think I'll alternate my take on things with links to other sites - or else we'll all be here till next week. Also, Wikipedia did help refresh my memory on a lot of things so there's my reference ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg71hgTX3mQCVkX7c4u8aW0Xn6b7ch0i7T_1Rx_0AUAwCP4qZTIzQ79L9qvzOHMGLnClxU3BD_u4tUSKJ_VL6j1B-h4DfI6MsRpP9ms_flqBnhH0ur59Yid3gbKpgahex96bdEErwMRQDsY/s1600/419633_10151216413506836_1071030076_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg71hgTX3mQCVkX7c4u8aW0Xn6b7ch0i7T_1Rx_0AUAwCP4qZTIzQ79L9qvzOHMGLnClxU3BD_u4tUSKJ_VL6j1B-h4DfI6MsRpP9ms_flqBnhH0ur59Yid3gbKpgahex96bdEErwMRQDsY/s320/419633_10151216413506836_1071030076_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Okay so what exactly is the DMZ? I hope I don't have to be the first to tell you that North and South Korea are divided. As much as I'd love to give a more thorough lesson on their history, I'd encourage you to read up on it. The DMZ or Demilitarized Zone is the buffer/border that cuts the Korean peninsula in half and is the most heavily militarized border in the world. Fun place. I don't know the specifics but I do know that it is INCREDIBLY difficult to get into the North, and almost impossible to do so from the South. These two are not friends. After the Korean War (1950 - 1953), an armistice was signed, causing a cease fire but no actual peace treaty was signed. The Korean war was a really dark time in Korea's history and it's been really interesting reading up on it. The Military Demarcation Line (MDL) is the line that divides the Koreas according to agreements at the time of the armistice The DMZ runs 2km from that line into the North and 2km into the South. I know we look down on it but <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korean_Demilitarized_Zone">Wikipedia</a> has everything you need to know about this all so I'd rather direct you there.<br />
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The actual tour starts in Seoul, at the <a href="http://affiliates.uso.org/korea/">USO</a> Camp Kim base. We took the USO tour as I'd heard great things about it and I would recommend them to others too. It's expensive but it includes the JSA which a lot of other tours don't, and our guide was really clued up! From there we drove for about an hour to our first stop - the 3rd Tunnel. South Korea has found 4 tunnels believed to have been made by the North in order to plan a surprise attack. Although only 4 have been found, it is believed that more may exist. We are able to see the 3rd tunnel which was discovered thanks to a North Korean defector. There is a museum on site as well as the famous DMZ sign, but we did not have time to look around too much. The trip into the tunnel is an intense 350m walk down at an 11degree angle. Once at the bottom you duck (who am I kidding - you all duck while I walk straight through) through a long tunnel leading to the first blockade of concrete wall, as insurance that none of us and none of them can wonder through onto the wrong side. Walking back up is quite a feat, and although the tunnel was less than exciting, it was interesting to see.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_0C05aSjbgdcnpkoKpauBaUE1fCwmOS8FXzLzfC29o1qpDQY6eUmJRQa50ZmwXcHI-NBEu5f0lUOJg8cReGX40Sxf76bAt2dRIKR0QDpnz-0wdE-bmKiAfPqEeWZK8-Qml7pcBIkuDtV/s1600/541479_10151216413376836_1077068607_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_0C05aSjbgdcnpkoKpauBaUE1fCwmOS8FXzLzfC29o1qpDQY6eUmJRQa50ZmwXcHI-NBEu5f0lUOJg8cReGX40Sxf76bAt2dRIKR0QDpnz-0wdE-bmKiAfPqEeWZK8-Qml7pcBIkuDtV/s400/541479_10151216413376836_1077068607_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A diagram of the tunnel</td></tr>
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From there we got back on our bus and went to the Dora Observatory and Dorasan Station. The Dora Observatory is where you get the first real glimpse out over the DMZ and into North Korea. You can use the binoculars (500won) to get a closer look and are only allowed to take pictures behind a certain line. They are very strict on this (there are Korean soldiers there to enforce it all) and I think I heard it has something to do with ensuring no pictures are taken of the ROK soldiers on their rounds. In fact throughout the tour we were only allowed to take pictures in certain areas and many times we had to take them facing the North, and none of the South. Safety I guess. We went on a beautifully clear day so could see right into the North, and could really appreciate just how barren everything is. North Korea is a country in crisis. The mountains are dead and the trees stripped of their bark, which was cooked and eaten by starving North Koreans. It's just a dead land, sprinkled with odd buildings - many of which are fake (will talk about that later).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVtG_qXo7ts-zDuq9X6bFyk5GM7nwKdvdsU8AM7wSrAfT_h5kRWaNlMr4a0PUhmEd4SdS3X7v5uOJCyCGyE3_VQ_2WiwSlVCgrnnD9sqLBL6n_PW4FCoxJCYzFvx81j-Z_Is1Rqwx24Kx0/s1600/377588_10151216416641836_1124618413_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVtG_qXo7ts-zDuq9X6bFyk5GM7nwKdvdsU8AM7wSrAfT_h5kRWaNlMr4a0PUhmEd4SdS3X7v5uOJCyCGyE3_VQ_2WiwSlVCgrnnD9sqLBL6n_PW4FCoxJCYzFvx81j-Z_Is1Rqwx24Kx0/s320/377588_10151216416641836_1124618413_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unification is a big theme throughout </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVZ0uJGe0DvgcYXCZbEA1QGYuJdElaCKid-YS5HDDGO5IG0J0-it331tbSUi2b7Uj2NHtRS8FefV7_amhTUyVWx8td9dkTW3uAcNRtxkNGXJ1JPfLKNu0hjLeSXQa84lfyM3eU-D0mzr8/s1600/13204_10151216416006836_1498049622_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVZ0uJGe0DvgcYXCZbEA1QGYuJdElaCKid-YS5HDDGO5IG0J0-it331tbSUi2b7Uj2NHtRS8FefV7_amhTUyVWx8td9dkTW3uAcNRtxkNGXJ1JPfLKNu0hjLeSXQa84lfyM3eU-D0mzr8/s320/13204_10151216416006836_1498049622_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The observation area behind me - you can see the yellow demarcation line for pictures.</td></tr>
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From there we hopped back on the bus and took a trip to the Dorasan Station. Here we saw the border gate between North and South (though it's really just for show and very special exceptions - you cannot just pop over into the North). The Dorasan Station is this huge, beautiful, modern, deserted building. It once connected North and South Korea and was at one point used to take industrial goods to the industrial region within the DMZ but the North put a stop to that. The station has been restored and is now used for tourist purposes only (although we did see a train come in and drop people off - I think it must be part of some kind of tour). It's amazing to see all this going to waste, but I think the hope is that one day it will run between the two countries once more. We got to walk along the tracks and it truly felt like we were right in the middle of these two contrasting countries. We had lunch in the area too which was over -priced but quite delicious! Oh also - between the 3rd tunnel and the Dorasan areas we drove past what are supposed to be live mine fields, and lots of security. You cannot escape the feeling that you are walking on a forbidden kind of land. It's uneasy, but captivating. Jeanette also bought a lovely bottle of North Korean beer but it met its end on the bus terminal floor during a mad dash to make a bus (we don't like to talk about it) ;)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ-4kGd1w6wiWH3NUJE2g7RdXOK2aksMYf2M8W69Ok6NIQygklrBpSppwGluBnL-GR3jt5_GgSQXmgt-m8rVWiYRJi3n6m-qeHpuwDacpcCVinx8h1LQvYpISyzfBPfsTz67k85jOtjWiu/s1600/11877_10151216420076836_876091603_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ-4kGd1w6wiWH3NUJE2g7RdXOK2aksMYf2M8W69Ok6NIQygklrBpSppwGluBnL-GR3jt5_GgSQXmgt-m8rVWiYRJi3n6m-qeHpuwDacpcCVinx8h1LQvYpISyzfBPfsTz67k85jOtjWiu/s320/11877_10151216420076836_876091603_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To the left, North Korea's capital and to the right, Seoul. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGbE9yRwrjq7JNyhvoCmNzaEf2yFOKuAk5WuuJ88xfoiGoHUFym09It7UqofsbXc2kkl16Gz1RU468M-gHnRVMczb50EouEZUQdbeV1luK7AhMmgSf_L5zZVVoc0uAB_ggyXYiwdgjJEhX/s1600/149405_10151216420006836_1568638717_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGbE9yRwrjq7JNyhvoCmNzaEf2yFOKuAk5WuuJ88xfoiGoHUFym09It7UqofsbXc2kkl16Gz1RU468M-gHnRVMczb50EouEZUQdbeV1luK7AhMmgSf_L5zZVVoc0uAB_ggyXYiwdgjJEhX/s320/149405_10151216420006836_1568638717_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deserted train tracks leading to the North</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawq7I2i1VB5rQxAF_h6Jx9WSM9CIuZ6XXYFo5F1SU08GBg_L_x2rpe41zG8OTHi3i72fhyAbTnWxBdWrRuKuJ8KOcIIMGuoqsGraiCwbgP_Bn7zoknM8ElKv7Vu8neSoe6KNzcYen7WPy/s1600/44306_10151216420331836_505498713_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawq7I2i1VB5rQxAF_h6Jx9WSM9CIuZ6XXYFo5F1SU08GBg_L_x2rpe41zG8OTHi3i72fhyAbTnWxBdWrRuKuJ8KOcIIMGuoqsGraiCwbgP_Bn7zoknM8ElKv7Vu8neSoe6KNzcYen7WPy/s320/44306_10151216420331836_505498713_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's really quite strange to be in a quiet Korean train station</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCkP-rgW_Diwj-nvMPgG-9zHwnsvgRrmuUSf7dxtD7vEbd_xG2Dl4mRHOXjHVjSf-74k_7P2vzm-A898qO5gi9T3N7hg6MGyuJ-vNhQMeCrzoeLEom6b1LPu3VTQ67EnFVpfWgIamE7VN/s1600/537805_10151216417156836_1101814349_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCkP-rgW_Diwj-nvMPgG-9zHwnsvgRrmuUSf7dxtD7vEbd_xG2Dl4mRHOXjHVjSf-74k_7P2vzm-A898qO5gi9T3N7hg6MGyuJ-vNhQMeCrzoeLEom6b1LPu3VTQ67EnFVpfWgIamE7VN/s320/537805_10151216417156836_1101814349_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Live mine fields and security blockades </td></tr>
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Then it was off to the place I was really looking forward to - the Joint Security Area or JSA. This is where sh*t got real, to put it the only way I know how. Jeanette and I were really nervous. This area is within the village of Panmunjom and is the only place within the DMZ where North and South Korean soldiers stand face to face. The JSA is where the North and South come to meet over any diplomatic issues and was previously used as the site for military negotiations as well. We pull up to Camp Bonifas, the area where US and ROK military were stationed to monitor the armistice agreement, but is now where 'security escorts' (the soldiers) conduct the United Nations Command DMZ Orientation Program tours of the JSA and surrounding areas. We are greeted by a US solider who comes on board and checks all of our passports before we are allowed off and directed to the main building for a 20 minute briefing. Look, I'm sure a lot of this is for show and the 'briefing' is just a 20 minute history lesson but it's damn exciting. You are also surrounded by armed soldiers whose guns are not just for show. It's exhilarating whether it's aimed at us or at the North. Before we can leave, we are made to sign a document which includes lines like: "The visit to the Joint Security Area at Panmunjom will entail entry into a hostile area and possibility of injury or death as a direct result of enemy action". Makes you feel all warm and fuzzy doesn't it?<br />
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From there we have to get onto a special blue bus, driven by another soldier, and are taken around the JSA. Our first stop is the the New Freedom House. We're instructed to form two single file lines, and to make sure we have our badges on display so the "North can't catch us and keep us" (nervous giggle). We are then led to the front of the building where we are literally right across from North Korea. My heart kinda stopped and I was too scared to look anywhere. There are cameras on the North side recording our every move and we were told not to gesture in any way towards the North. I was too nervous to even look there never mind gesture. We walk down onto conference row and into the little blue houses that stand there. The atmosphere is tense and we all feel a bit nervous. Jeanette and I along with half of our group walk to the back end of the room while the others file in. We are now divided by a big conference table in the middle. We are told that in fact those of us at the back are standing in North Korea - whoa! We are perfectly safe though (it's all in our heads) and are free to take pictures as long as we face the North. There are 2 ROK soldiers inside, both standing at attention in a modified taekwondo stance, looking very intimidating with their aviator sunglasses (this is done on purpose, to intimidate the North. ROK soldiers actually have to be a certain height to be given these stations). When North and South come together here, they are split even within - each sitting on their own side. There are microphones running along the table which record everything at all times. Once we've taken our nervous photos with the soldiers, we are led back out and stand on the top steps outside Freedom House, facing the North. It's really quiet and we can see the North Korean soldier on the other side get out his binoculars to watch us. I felt really exposed, I didn't enjoy the feeling but was an amazing thing to do. We were given some history on the place and the US soldiers joke that because the North monitor us so closely and take pictures of us, we should return the favour. There are ROK soldiers on the outside too, in the same intimidating position, facing the North only partially exposed in order to minimize themselves as targets. We did learn that they only stand like that when people are coming in, and when we leave they are able to walk around more freely. If you do a tour, make sure it includes the JSA as it made the experience for me.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking nervous with the ROK soldier </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The main North Korean building in the background - the Panmungak</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing in North Korea</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">North Korean soldier</td></tr>
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After that we are taken to more places, and are able to get clear views of North Korea and their propaganda village. This is basically a village created by the North to make themselves look prosperous. What it actually is, is a fake village made up of empty shell buildings, with windows and doors painted on and only the side that faces the South kept looking good. A massive North Korea flag pole waves in the distance and we are told that there used to be speakers spewing North Korean propaganda directed at the South but that has stopped. It's just such a fascinating thing to know about and makes you understand just how bad the North are at telling lies. We are also taken to the Bridge of No Return where after the Korean War, Prisoners of War from each side were brought and told to 'pick a side'. Once they crossed into their country of choice, they could never return. So many families are split between these 2 sides; it's really heart-breaking. Found there is also the site of the Ax Murder Incident - in 1976, a group of United Nations Command workers who were pruning a tree by the bridge were attacked by North Korea soldiers. 2 of the soliders were killed and most injured. It is because of that incident that security is so tight at the JSA. Prior to that, guards from both sides were allowed to move much more freely within it. All of this is seen from the bus and we are only allowed to take pictures in specific spots.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3sHg6Jet97ehqAzQsccYcbtqel9PeD5sqCE9Tk__Q-AAyRnuGUFeDJV6VDBzCBZIKn4WrVsMbpVtLmR3dhEPXAYUl3gqytpwC9csnajBEx6D1IPnE9wu7XmG4zZIBt42F3bR2maHCSOJG/s1600/544472_10151216421631836_937354402_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3sHg6Jet97ehqAzQsccYcbtqel9PeD5sqCE9Tk__Q-AAyRnuGUFeDJV6VDBzCBZIKn4WrVsMbpVtLmR3dhEPXAYUl3gqytpwC9csnajBEx6D1IPnE9wu7XmG4zZIBt42F3bR2maHCSOJG/s320/544472_10151216421631836_937354402_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bridge of no return and location of the Ax Murder incident </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Propaganda Village with their impractical massive flag</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVkMFZKWIgzj9HU-xduqEAesKLx2hvUgVi5LsG7FgwIIc4XEp6CQtrr8tfb26nirEAzfRubtN4dgVF-hHF64ZQ1F4-5E58MqdrdtOe8ldpqP9y4M99wtzXpavR5zdCNLMXqj2W2H4AoDR/s1600/487457_10151216413071836_889458484_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVkMFZKWIgzj9HU-xduqEAesKLx2hvUgVi5LsG7FgwIIc4XEp6CQtrr8tfb26nirEAzfRubtN4dgVF-hHF64ZQ1F4-5E58MqdrdtOe8ldpqP9y4M99wtzXpavR5zdCNLMXqj2W2H4AoDR/s320/487457_10151216413071836_889458484_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our US guide</td></tr>
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And that was the tour. It was such a great experience The guides were clued up, there was a sense of danger that, although maybe in my head, made it that much more exciting. The soldiers say that things at the JSA rarely get tense and the media often hypes up the actions of the North - they don't feel threatened by them at all. It was just something so different for me; being in a militarized zone with real soldiers and weapons. It was very eye-opening to hear the stories about the war and how North Korea operates (I knew a bit already but the tour is very informative). Do it guys. Forget about whether all of this is aimed at tourists or not and allow yourself to just go and feel the atmosphere of this place. That's really what it was about for me. I think it was a great way to end my time here.<br />
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I do not claim to know much about the relationship between these two countries but for the sake of the North Korean innocent population, I hope something can be done about this division soon. It's mind-blowing to me that in a modern world, the atrocities that happen in the North are allowed to continue. I know there are politics involved that go way above my head but if the South are as serious about reunification as they seem, then there is maybe some hope.<br />
<br />Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-32239260671883470812013-01-29T18:08:00.000-08:002013-01-29T18:08:03.826-08:00It's a cultural thingComing to Korea has been eye opening in so many ways. I have been exposed to people from all backgrounds, from all over the world, as well as being immersed in Korean culture. It has been so amazing learning about cultures and traditions from different parts of the world - not just Korea but England, Ireland, America, Australia, New Zealand and the subcultures that exist within those countries, like Mexican traditions for example. Hours have been spent this year discussing culture, traditions, politics and things unique to our home countries and Korea. Often when faced with problems in Korea, the words "it's a cultural thing" slip out. Because how else can we explain most of what goes on here?<br />
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Coming from South Africa has been really cool for me (not just because I love my country) because of the reactions I get when I tell people where I'm from. Koreans will always assume you are American first - "migook saram?" they'll say. When saying I'm from Africa, they immediately act surprised and will either say "Mandela, good man", "Word Cup" or "Why you white?". I've had foreigners and Koreans alike ask why I'm white...<br />
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...what we eat, if there really are animals in the streets, what we drink, what our currency is, how the African language 'clicks' sound, and again - are there really white people there? It's provided me with many a laugh but also an awesome opportunity to tell people about South Africa and try to rectify some wrongs. We joke that I have to kill a deer from my window for dinner, and I know I freak people out sometimes when talking about the safety (let's be real, they don't need me to freak them out, they just need to Google South Africa). But it's been really great talking about my home; people are genuinely interested. I might even have convinced a few to come visit. And in turn, I've loved learning more about their worlds. Like how chav culture affects people in England, the dynamics within the United Kingdom and just how MASSIVE the US is (seriously though, it's huge). It's been a learning experience for all. It's also really made me think about myself as a South African, and what that means to me. This post might be a bit all over the place as I try to explain the thoughts in my head about this all, so please bear with me :)<br />
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As mentioned, I get a lot of questions about where I'm from. One of the first questions to strike me as a difficult one to answer was something really simple - what is a traditional South African food? Now in Korea, there are very specific foods that EVERYONE will eat. Korea is a mono-cultural country in many ways (let's not get too deep into this, it's a sweeping generalization I know, but allow it). Kimchi for one is famous for being a Korean food. In fact most things I eat in Korea, unless it's 'Western', are very Korean. So it should be an easy question to answer: the Koreans have their Kimchi, the English have tea and scones and the Mexicans have their delicious foods (more generalizations). What do I have? Now let me try and explain my thoughts here. South Africa is so diverse and has so many subcultures, religions, languages and traditions that there are a number of 'South African' foods. So do I say borewors? Do I say pap, chicken, potjiekos, koeksusters, bunny chow or fish and chips? What is symbolic of South Africa? I tend to say a braai then, because it's simple. But the truth is a braai does not mean the same to everyone in SA. What one person sees as authentic SA food, another may never have tried. I know this is the case for many countries as we live in a world where people are able to relocate to wherever they want, causing many cultures to live under one flag. For me this isn't the issue. The issue I'm struggling with is what about me? My roots?<br />
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I'm a White South African. My ancestors came from Europe most likely, and I know I have some Dutch, Scottish and probably English blood in me. But all I've ever known is South Africa. I consider myself to be African, and I'm passionate about this. So what is my culture? The traditions I celebrate because they are important to ME? This is what has been playing on my mind a lot as I struggle to answer basic questions like what is my traditional food. I feel a bit cultureless. And it's hard. Am I thinking about things the wrong way? I'd really love to hear some feedback from people. When it comes to traditions, I feel like I celebrate religious traditions, such as Christmas and Easter more than <i>cultural </i>ones. What do we do on big holidays? Things like Freedom Day and Youth Day? Days unique to South Africa, not ones like St Paddy's or New Years Eve. Well, I don't know. Is it enough to say I live in a multi-cultural country and so do a number of different things, I don't have any one cultural identification? That's good, and I'm so lucky to live around such diversity - I miss it, I thrive off of it. But it makes me sad that I feel a little lost within my own country. The Afrikaans population have their specific cultural practices within the scope of being 'South African', as do the Zulu, the Xhosa, the Ndebele etc. Their histories are rich in culture and tradition which are carried through to this day. Granted it wasn't always pretty and there is a lot of hurt and destruction in their history but they seem so sure of who they are culturally. I hope I'm making sense here. Traditions are different; they can be created within families, friendship groups, cultures, religions, or countries. They may stem from some kind of background or for a specific reason but let me separate that from culture, as it is culture that I'm struggling with.<br />
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I think that until this year, even though I'm a Sociology Major with an interest in everything social, me as having a culture was not something I really ever questioned. But being in Korea has made me ask a lot of questions, and really think about things. I'm not Afrikaans, I'm not Zulu, I connect to no other language rich in African history. I am English, and it feels like it means nothing. I know that often people who relocate to other countries, say the Chinese moving to South Africa, keep identifying with their culture even though they are living in a different place. They can tell you what their cultures is like, what they eat and do for special occasions. I have realised that a lot of the food I eat and things I do come from places spread all over the world. So where does that leave me? I feel a bit like a mixed-breed, like the pavement special dog with a bit of everything mixed in who is really cute but a few seeds short of a watermelon. I really do love my country, its people, the richness of the cultures that surround me. I just want to find my own place within it, where I fit in.<br />
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I could keep talking in circles but I think I should try wrap this up. This post was just about trying to voice my feelings about this matter in the hope that someone wants to discuss it with me. Maybe I'm missing the bigger picture, or have completely misinterpreted the meaning of culture. This is what living abroad does I guess...makes you change your way of thinking and forces you to see things differently. Maybe I should do a genealogy exercise and try to trace my roots, find out where I come from. I will always see myself as African but I'd like to know where my ancestors came from and what was important to them.<br />
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Eish but this post has been a bit odd. But this is part of my journey here, share it with me. Feel free to leave comments and start a discussion, I'd love to know if other people feel the same or if I'm just crazy ;)Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-46812047420750539662013-01-27T18:16:00.000-08:002013-01-27T18:16:00.493-08:00Oh my Seoul It feels good to be blogging again :) Was meant to write this post last week but time got away from me. I sit here with 2 and half weeks of school left and am not quite sure where the time has gone - feels really surreal that this is all coming to an end. Part of the 'lasts' was my trip to Seoul with Nicola which was my time to say goodbye to the vibrant city. Technically I'm going back this upcoming weekend to visit the DMZ but that's going to be very different. Seoul trips have definitely been a highlight for me this year; the city has so much to offer and is just so completely different to anything I have ever experienced. I never leave Seoul feeling refreshed and rested - weekends there are busy and packed with trips on the stuffy subways, but I love it. I say that after a weekend there I suffer from a Seoul hangover on the Monday, and need another rest day! But I'm really going to miss this crazy city. Anyway, let me tell you about my last weekend there.<br />
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Nic and I left Jecheon early, to make sure we could try and fit everything in. We had planned the weekend out completely which in hindsight was the best idea; we had goals to reach and that helped fit everything in! We started off in Insadong, one of my favourite places to visit. It's pretty and calm, filled with loads of little curio shops which abound in Korean trinkets, and I managed to get some last minute gifts for friends (and me). Insadong is a must see if you're looking for gifts or showing guests from home around. From there we made our way to the Gangnam area. Initially we were meant to have lunch there but I had an appointment we needed to make - my tattoo!!<br />
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I have one tattoo already and what they say is true - after your first one, you just want more. I love tattoo culture; the idea of your body telling a story. I've always been attracted to it and although I never thought I would get one, I knew coming to Korea that I wanted something done to represent my year here. So after almost a year of thinking and planning, I went ahead and booked with <a href="http://www.tattoo-korea.asia/">Tattoo Korea</a> in Seoul, and arrived at their offices excited but a little nervous. I had a vague picture of what I wanted in my mind: I had spoken to a friend back home about designing something but I kept changing my mind and so thought it was better to take some ideas to the artist and let them draw it up. I had emailed the main guy, Aerok, to make the booking and had specifically asked for San Lee, who I had heard great things about. After re-confirming the booking, I thought I was sorted. When we arrived though, it wasn't quite what I was expecting. Aerok speaks fluent English but my impression of him wasn't all that amazing...he seemed a bit impatient and not all that involved. Which would be fine, except he hadn't booked me with San Lee, but deposited me with a young Korean guy named Memo, who spoke little/no English. At this point I started freaking out as he was told I wanted a feather, which I didn't, and started searching for feather images. I managed to put a stop to that and awkwardly got the pictures up that I wanted but the whole process could have been better facilitated had Aerok actually stayed to help. I understand I'm in Korea but I just expected to be put with someone I could talk with (from what I had read on the internet). I had to quickly accept that the whole design process I was hoping for needed to be thrown out the window. I was able to type the wording out, and he helped me choose a font etc, and we then sat at the computer playing around with an image until I was happy. As with everything, looking back on it I know this was the right thing to do...my idea was a little complicated and I might have ended up feeling pressured to get something I would later regret. And then it was go time - I was quoted a price (heads up, you will pay a LOT more in Korea than back home because they import their instruments) and we had decided on a position (Nic was very helpful here, I couldn't have done it without her), so I sat in the chair, ready to end my year in a symbolic way. The pain, as with the first one, was minimal; people have different experiences but for me, tattoos are not all that painful (keep in mind I got simple things done). Memo was such a cute guy, very helpful and professional - I'm glad I got him. The whole place was clean and warm - I really would recommend their studio, as long as you have realistic expectations. Their work is top notch as are their facilities ..it's just the design process that was a bit disappointing for me. Here are some pictures of the process (Nic was in control of the camera and got a little trigger happy haha).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feeling nervous as I wait</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The room where I was inked</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_53zSz85X2-ML3j9b6t7vX96PS3s23kNzUgUrVhkO4YUoaTqyuAbtjXpDLTiq0H62aj0kPBb0-dF8CzZRozZX1wmVTa1BMQsjXvbVdjwpHuir_gGOOSABuDml_llYaSBYkv9moRLwZy9N/s1600/530821_10151178452551836_1606730783_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_53zSz85X2-ML3j9b6t7vX96PS3s23kNzUgUrVhkO4YUoaTqyuAbtjXpDLTiq0H62aj0kPBb0-dF8CzZRozZX1wmVTa1BMQsjXvbVdjwpHuir_gGOOSABuDml_llYaSBYkv9moRLwZy9N/s320/530821_10151178452551836_1606730783_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Focus on both our faces haha</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUy6bD6pP0NCPYAZR1JG8JU2_NaUv19cTm3-vFQHmKqJlu1k8wrCrZhC9e-SYYdvWrx29hH0wvgTzOesp6I4w98xTpaohu60IBFWbfLVXUairiSE-6K-QlQ6lyCaLgYxRJfgkSnJUKd-4/s1600/319869_10151178468226836_579955309_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfUy6bD6pP0NCPYAZR1JG8JU2_NaUv19cTm3-vFQHmKqJlu1k8wrCrZhC9e-SYYdvWrx29hH0wvgTzOesp6I4w98xTpaohu60IBFWbfLVXUairiSE-6K-QlQ6lyCaLgYxRJfgkSnJUKd-4/s320/319869_10151178468226836_579955309_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished product - the next day</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mOrvUNNNpRIf3uDqo8gOJ4to2kCDOM0e_V_6hVFQVcekRuPIa1my__HcDQJNMeu9ZAwmUW5MnkEjvkS78HEtFx-A64NAZA3mGvaU88cKbALgsQFnt2VIqgtrZo9JG3c8e18CVPbch7Bf/s1600/537269_10151178449786836_16555731_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mOrvUNNNpRIf3uDqo8gOJ4to2kCDOM0e_V_6hVFQVcekRuPIa1my__HcDQJNMeu9ZAwmUW5MnkEjvkS78HEtFx-A64NAZA3mGvaU88cKbALgsQFnt2VIqgtrZo9JG3c8e18CVPbch7Bf/s320/537269_10151178449786836_16555731_n.jpg" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Memo the cutie </td></tr>
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I am thrilled with my new ink - it represents my time in Korea and life in general. I feel like I've really learned to spread my wings over the past 2 years and the birds are symbolic of that. I would highly recommend Tattoo Korea, and I'm happy I went with them. It was all part of the experience for me :)<br />
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After that was done, we had some time to venture into Gangnam. We had hoped to take a picture with the Gangnam subway sign, but we came out at the wrong stop. No worries, we found the Rodeo Drive of Korea (in Cheongdam-dong) and stood gawking at all the branded stores. There is a definite swanky feel to the area - shops offer valet parking, there is very little trash around and all the cars seem bigger and more expensive. We had a funny experience outside Louis Vuitton where we saw a Rolls Royce parked and went up to it to try take some pictures, all the time exclaiming how we can't believe it's a Rolls etc etc...the shop assistants were looking at us like we were homeless people though and one came out to keep an eye while the other one walked up to the car, to hand a women's jacket to the man SITTING INSIDE THE CAR. The whole time we were messing around, there was someone inside the car. Typical. We had a good chuckle :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTncNqVl7mls1DklUC2QevvH6m23BGXq5b2dCO5zOvy1t4QC7wyx7PTEhTxhyphenhyphenXrbpBCs7xenIvwA7NMUD_CeyLBQ4fetmutTlRzbVp0YtbOTllnuBwfJNkfJl0exmtWUwmrbPfY8QJh1Tf/s1600/29557_10151178453666836_504938716_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTncNqVl7mls1DklUC2QevvH6m23BGXq5b2dCO5zOvy1t4QC7wyx7PTEhTxhyphenhyphenXrbpBCs7xenIvwA7NMUD_CeyLBQ4fetmutTlRzbVp0YtbOTllnuBwfJNkfJl0exmtWUwmrbPfY8QJh1Tf/s320/29557_10151178453666836_504938716_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gangnam!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWCq3JlCxiDkw2sjnQLWRJ9LKE_Vuv4X4O_lJAsAON4lhTNf_Wz2GN1-TlxBH5NamtNvAR4cTRibqTQHb5iBbXHrQIeyZ5EhNOK6_Lpcwqsf-niMkGlB2qgz6vuhd8RyjwrnN2wZ1RNoMR/s1600/480109_10151178453006836_1121594003_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWCq3JlCxiDkw2sjnQLWRJ9LKE_Vuv4X4O_lJAsAON4lhTNf_Wz2GN1-TlxBH5NamtNvAR4cTRibqTQHb5iBbXHrQIeyZ5EhNOK6_Lpcwqsf-niMkGlB2qgz6vuhd8RyjwrnN2wZ1RNoMR/s320/480109_10151178453006836_1121594003_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing on Rodeo Drive, with Gucci in the background and awesome balloon lights in the trees.</td></tr>
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It was cold and I was tired, so off we went to Myeongdong for a final shopping spree! We met up with some friends for dinner and took advantage of all the big sales going on. Myeongdong is my favourite place to shop here and I will miss all the clothing stores like Forever 21 and UniQlo. It was nice to be there at night, with all the lights. I managed to not blow all my money, something which is way too easy to do in Seoul! After that we had decided to go and try find somewhere to sleep in Hongdae, as we wanted to visit the Hello Kitty Cafe in the morning. We were banking on finding a love motel but what no one told us is that there are no love motels in Hongdae. Fail. By this time we were both really tired from a long day, so hopped in a taxi to the neighboring area, Sinchon, where we found a beautiful motel to stay in. It had a big flat screen TV, was so clean, a nice big bed (there is nothing worse than walking into your hotel/hostel/motel/pension at the end of a long day and seeing you have mats to sleep on, no bed) and a BATH! A hot bubble bath to rest my aching body was the perfect way to end my day :) We didn't rush the next day, so took our time waking up and watching some weird Kpop concert before trekking back to Hongdae to find the Hello Kitty Cafe. The internet lied to us, and so after walking around aimlessly for too long, we tried to find the cafe on our own. It's really easy to find: it's close to TGI Fridays in Hongdae - just up the road and right at Tony Moly and you can ask someone to direct you (sorry, I should be better at giving directions). I had read on a blog that it was quite disappointing so we didn't know what to expect...I was so pleasantly surprised! It's an overwhelmingly cute pink building, and the whole place is pink enough to make you sick. We got there close to 12, so it was open but not too busy...we ordered our coffees and went upstairs to take a bazillions photos. The coffee was god enough and came with Hello Kitty faces. The chairs had pink bows on them, Hello Kitty pictures and paintings were everywhere, it was all sweet enough to give you diabetes. If you are a Kitty fan - go there. It is TOTALLY worth it, and we spent a really nice hour or so soaking up the kittyness.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Jf4pjk6DT1fmLJWcm4oUcIkKSN8neYZXa8gWnOd0tJ1ypJhhew6caReb1nwRy-eTzS4PqheX0rYrQSpOb3dRc_TL5yquOqktt0uX4zKHkyRMNrafJHq8WRRSVcYmBiRb3sYlZl4CUFTo/s1600/555453_10151178453831836_926513706_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Jf4pjk6DT1fmLJWcm4oUcIkKSN8neYZXa8gWnOd0tJ1ypJhhew6caReb1nwRy-eTzS4PqheX0rYrQSpOb3dRc_TL5yquOqktt0uX4zKHkyRMNrafJHq8WRRSVcYmBiRb3sYlZl4CUFTo/s320/555453_10151178453831836_926513706_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The outside</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_q5c5w7YqZ6xua-IyXi0zrJQvNAMGUOxE_JJWACX04opfGX4g_ZX0vCjozH7WBKkyBu4uKiRWuVTc4R4jzrcdZQE72N9uLbyyfJ0fa1dsp9b3qzCQcL5v4ia_KvQYb2w34LkI9RajvXk/s1600/550016_10151185560041836_1260888242_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_q5c5w7YqZ6xua-IyXi0zrJQvNAMGUOxE_JJWACX04opfGX4g_ZX0vCjozH7WBKkyBu4uKiRWuVTc4R4jzrcdZQE72N9uLbyyfJ0fa1dsp9b3qzCQcL5v4ia_KvQYb2w34LkI9RajvXk/s320/550016_10151185560041836_1260888242_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The coffee</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOfonYSv1AXzCuEl2o6C07KOZ4lDlnQqScqU3BohItIhaCkdFmzIXRkHiqBug9EF6ToGtf1Anyzqln0S_IGb-_G-gI_Y8zZZjcjPOq6Nu3uivlhXeepPuUIx57MXZkSsiFBB9ACInpBP8L/s1600/530638_10151185560121836_1952083496_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOfonYSv1AXzCuEl2o6C07KOZ4lDlnQqScqU3BohItIhaCkdFmzIXRkHiqBug9EF6ToGtf1Anyzqln0S_IGb-_G-gI_Y8zZZjcjPOq6Nu3uivlhXeepPuUIx57MXZkSsiFBB9ACInpBP8L/s320/530638_10151185560121836_1952083496_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink, pink everywhere! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFylqiE-hfoe_GC9h_zRTG2usWJqiOfaP8nmHjTHHMWmgJBUhct0I6I1n25Gdz2thFtUzXYRiaipQE_gzgCDCwOpAyyk1Y5iFn-rHYqN-_1p7QJe8zbxJCbBChT0pG5IRmIBl39LLd4icm/s1600/483081_10151185560196836_841191777_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFylqiE-hfoe_GC9h_zRTG2usWJqiOfaP8nmHjTHHMWmgJBUhct0I6I1n25Gdz2thFtUzXYRiaipQE_gzgCDCwOpAyyk1Y5iFn-rHYqN-_1p7QJe8zbxJCbBChT0pG5IRmIBl39LLd4icm/s320/483081_10151185560196836_841191777_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuteness</td></tr>
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We grabbed a burrito from a little Mexican place before going to do some admin stuff for Nic, and that was our weekend. It was probably one of the best weekends I've had in Seoul. Although exhausted, we managed to fit everything in, we had some amazing experiences and I felt like I left Seoul on a high note.<br />
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On this note, it's time to say goodbye to my crazy China, Nicola. She is renewing and staying in Korea so leaves to go home this week for a months vacation, meaning I won't see her again before I leave. I know blogs aren't the place for too much mush but she has been a supporter of my blog the whole year so I think it's appropriate. I never expected to find someone here who would be as silly and crazy as me, and have really had the most amazing year getting to know Nic. I will miss her dearly, but she promises to come and visit SA next year where I can hopefully put to rest a lot of her totally absurd ideas of my home country ;)<br />
This year would NEVER have been the same without you Nic, for reals. Thank you for everything.<br />
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And I'm out amigos - have a great week!<br />
<br />Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-26702043767830063722013-01-16T21:59:00.000-08:002013-01-16T21:59:34.145-08:00The awkwardness of KoreaI've been quiet lately, and I've missed having something to write about. As of late, the cold weather and need to save every penny for home has meant fairly uneventful days here in Jecheon. We did go to the local Winter festival at Uirimji to walk on the frozen lake which was AWESOME! I felt a little uneasy at first but soon got caught up in the magic of sledding and 'chair skiing' around the ice, watching the ice-fishing and taking lots of pictures :) I'm off to Seoul this weekend with Nicola, and we have a jam packed weekend planned as it's probably the last time I'll be there and want to soak up as much as I can. I also have an appointment with one of Asia's best tattoo artists, San Lee at Tattoo Korea to get some ink to commemorate my year here. I'm excited!<br />
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My 2 weeks of Winter Camp are coming to an end tomorrow, and it's also the last day I'll be spending at Baegun. This makes me sad as I've grown to love a lot of these kids, and hope I can pop back in to say goodbye before I leave. Both camps have gone relatively well and although I'm relieved they're over, the prospect of about a month of desk warming here on out is doing nothing to help my Winter blues. I doubt I'll teach again until I leave, and with nothing productive to do for the hours on end I spend at my desk, I can literally feel myself losing my mind. Don't get me wrong - a day or 2 of desk warming during term time is much appreciated and anticipated. But days on end spent trying to look busy get old very quickly. And if like me you have some friends who get to finish early or don't have to go in to school at all, it's hard to keep the optimism up as they nap away their afternoons at home and you're stuck trying to digest the river snails you had for lunch and reminding yourself that you're getting paid for this ;) Thank goodness for sites like Imgur, BuzzFeed, Thought Catelog, Stumble Upon and Pinterest - they are awesome time wasters.<br />
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I plan on writing a few reflective posts during the up coming weeks, and thought I'd kick that off on a light - hearted note with a list of awkward experiences I have either had personally or have heard about from friends in Korea. We all have to deal with a certain amount of awkwardness in everyday life but there is something about being in a foreign country, especially one like Korea with all its quirks, that makes some mundane experiences that much more cringe-worthy. I'm going to keep all the stories anonymous and will try my hardest to give these stories the awkwardness they deserve. If you have any stories of your own, I'd love to hear about them in the comments section :)<br />
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1. No matter how many times you say "I don't speak Korean" IN Korean, the person confronting you wont stop talking to you like you know what's going on.<br />
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2. Getting into a taxi which starts driving before the driver knows where to go, and trying to explain as best you can where exactly you need to be. This sometimes results in a Korean lesson from the driver or Vice Principal.<br />
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3. The "I love you"s and "wow, beautiful"s you get from inappropriate people. Like the school bus driver.<br />
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4. Forgetting that you're in Korea and flushing your toilet paper down, only to have the toilet overflow, causing you to flee school and call your friend once home for advice before going back to try and explain the situation.<br />
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5. When anyone tries to feed you.<br />
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6. Using squatter toilets.<br />
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7. This story I heard about from Waygook: a male teacher was called aside by his co-worker who told him he has a "handsome bulge" (groin area) and it's "very good" but it makes some teachers and students uncomfortable. This story is my best.<br />
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8. When a woman on the bus LICKS your hair.<br />
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9. Being around when an ajjoshi decides to let rip in a BIG way.<br />
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10. Being burped in the face by an ajjuma while getting change for your cola.<br />
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11. Wondering aloud to your friends about whether or not the shop teller is a girl or a boy, only to have them say "me? I am girl" while you try remove the foot from your mouth.<br />
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12. Having students give you a massage.<br />
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13. When your co-teacher stares at the hair on your arm for a while, before rubbing it and saying "beautiful woman".<br />
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14. Trying to find cream for your heat rash only to be asked if you are Russian by the Pharmacist (as a girl, being Russian is usually related to being a prostitute). In fact, add to this anytime you're asked if you're Russian.<br />
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15. Having people stop what they're doing, turn around in their chairs, stop their cars or pull out their cameras because you are a foreigner. Often followed by many exclamations of surprise and disbelief.<br />
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16. School dinners where you're like the white elephant in the room (like, literally) that everyone is trying to avoid while you watch the Principal get so drunk he needs to be carried out.<br />
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17. Having to address staff or parents when you know they don't understand you or getting long speeches from the Principal in Korean.<br />
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18. Using a YouTube video to explain a concept to your 5th graders, only to have an incredibly inappropriate advert for women's underwear pop up when you close it. This happened twice. My kids nearly died, and so did I.<br />
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19. Trying to play Volleyball in front of ALL of your staff when you suck.<br />
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20. When students dance and gyrate inappropriately because that's supposed to be 'cute' and it's what their k-pop idols do.<br />
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21. Having to eat anything gross in front of people while trying to keep a straight face and not offend anyone. Cue pork stomach and seaweed soup experiences.<br />
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22. Buying the things that women need only to see a coworker at the till in front of you which of course causes you to flee in the opposite direction.<br />
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23. When Koreans do what they do best: talk about you in front of your face but you have no idea what they're saying. It's worse when there's laughter.<br />
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24. Having the bus driver at school tell you constantly he loves you and you must take him home with you (to South Africa, not bed. I think). He has a weird finger thing which makes this more awkward, and more creepy.<br />
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25. When you drop your chopsticks at school. Don't let them see your weakness. For heaven's sake don't drop the chopsticks!<br />
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26. When girls are asked if they are 'cold', usually in Summer, implying that your neck line is too low. Or any comments on your body parts/clothing/love life/blood type deemed appropriate by the the offending (emphasis on the <i>offending</i>) individual.<br />
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For the OCD in all of you, I know there should be an even number of points and that would be great but alas I cannot think of anymore now. There are plenty other moments, like trying to order anything at a new restaurant, but these were my top awkward moments experienced or heard about in Korea.<br />
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If there's one thing this wonderful place has definitely given me, it's an endless supply of stories.<br />
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<br />Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-12096624683831774042013-01-02T18:47:00.000-08:002013-01-02T18:47:48.563-08:00In other newsI realise that I don't often do general posts about what's been up lately - I usually only post when something I think is interesting happens. But today I've decided to let my fingers do the talking and type whatever comes to mind. This could get messy :)<br />
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So school officially ended on Friday. The kids went off on vacation, the teachers took a deep breath of relief and looked at me with pity as they said "you no vacation, aw" and left for their time away. Things aren't as clean cut as they are back home though. During vacation time, certain teachers still come in every few days to be in the office. My Vice-Principal hangs around too as do the teachers who run the Edu-Care classes. The kids will also come in for certain programs like my English Camp, or a ski trip, or by the looks of our office - badminton?! So it's not a months solid vacation for everyone. I get brought to school by whoever is the unlucky teacher on duty for the day. A lot of other foreign teachers will get to leave early, or leave after their camps etc during the vacation. But as expected, not with me. I am at school from 8.30 till 4.30 and all the snow we've had means I only end up getting home after 5. So it's fairly tedious but I plan on watching a bunch of series and movies once my camps are done. I'm running a 5 senses English camp at both my schools for a week each. That will help pass the time but no one could tell me how many students are coming so I hope I end up with enough to run the damn thing. It's quite sad to have my real classes all finished - I doubt I'll teach my kids properly again before I leave, and just hope I'll get to say goodbye to them all. They really have found a special place in my heart and are often the reason I have made it through the day (although they are also responsible for any gray hairs I may have picked up). It's just testament to how quickly this year has actually gone: when I first arrived I remember thinking that January was going to be the worst because you're stuck desk-warming and are really just waiting to come home. But now I'm here, and am not all that sure how it came so quickly.<br />
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A lot of people mistake my excitement for going home as a sign that I haven't enjoyed my year here. There is sympathy in some messages/comments I get that I don't always understand. Let me set the record straight - although I am beyond excited to be going home, I have had the most incredible year of my life here and it's not easy to give this up. There are many things I'll miss (a post to come later) and many things I'm not looking forward to about going home (being broke is one of them, although my parents say they will happily embrace unemployed Bron...for now anyway haha). I know my situations are often used as examples of how tough things in Korea can be and we laugh at my misfortunes but I think that's what has made this experience for me. If I was unhappy I would have left Korea long ago. I don't know why but I really felt the need to clear that up.<br />
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I've learned a lot about my co-teacher over the past few weeks. I have bitched and ranted about her, she has made me cry tears of frustration and has pushed me to breaking point on a number of occasions. But I think this is where my biggest lesson this year has been hidden, and is something I need to try and communicate to the next GET should they have her too. Yes, she can be useless. I cannot always make excuses for her. But the number of times something has happened that has made me flip my lid, only to discover later that there was a miscommunication and all is well, outnumber the times she has genuinely just screwed me over. A lot of times, she tries to tell me things (like should there be a snowfall, I need to find my own way to school which is a MISSION because the other teachers think it's dangerous and all I can think is 'oh so you'll sacrifice the foreign teacher but not you') but because of her low English ability, it comes out a lot worse than maybe intended. Also, sometimes the news doesn't come from her. I had to fight to take my leave early and my school was being totally unreasonable but once I sat down and played some pictionary with her to explain the situation, I saw she was in my corner. I have been a huge source of stress for her I'm sure and although I'd be lying if I said I didn't resent her in some ways, I have also accepted that she isn't always the bad person trying to make my life difficult. I know I've said it before but I really think many GETs come here expecting some kind of special treatment due to their foreigner card and in many ways we do get that. But we also need to step down from our pedestal to realise that these teachers don't always ask to be our babysitters. It is SO difficult not to compare experiences in Korea...the friend who I came over with was placed in Daejeon and we might as well have spent the year in different countries - that's how different our experiences have been. And it took me sucking it up to embrace my situation instead of coveting every other teachers position. I guess I just want other teachers coming to remember that you never know what you're going to get - you need to be ready for it but also give your co-teacher a chance - there's often a lot more going on than we can ever imagine. I can't say that I think my co-teacher is going to be particularly sad when I leave but then she tends to surprise me so who knows. I'm just grateful for her in a weird way as she has taught me to stand on my own two feet and get on with it.<br />
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The weather here is frightfully cold. You know you're in the middle of a Korean Winter when you see the low for the day is -18 and you think that's normal. We've had a lot of snow over the past few days, and the roads can be a nightmare to try and walk on, let alone drive on. But it doesn't stop the Korean women from wearing them heels - they really are something else. I take my hat off to the super powers they must possess to keep up their appearances through rain and snow. I seem to be getting more and more like the Michelin man with all my layers as it gets colder but my coworkers look no puffier. I'm hoping to do some sledding and experience a snow festival in the next few weeks. When in Rome and all that. But really the cold is making me want to retreat deep into the depths of my bed and never have to leave. I still prefer it to the extreme Summer heat though.<br />
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So I can say I'm going home next month. I have 5 odd weeks left, and I know they are going to fly by. It's all pretty surreal and I'm just trying to soak up as much of Korea as I can before I have to leave. It's not somewhere I ever see myself coming back to for vacation so need to make the most of it. As for what lies ahead of me this year - who knows. I'd love to travel some more, and really want to do some NGO volunteering/interning in South Africa and maybe Kenya but at this point I'm content with a nice long holiday when I get home, and seeing where the wind takes me from there. If I sound blase it's because I'm trying to...inside I'm freaking out a tad ;) It's exciting though, knowing that anything can happen. I doubt I'll keep posting on this blog when I leave but maybe I'll start a new one for my new adventures :)<br />
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I think that's all really...hope you didn't suffer any whiplash from my subject changes. I'm really just procrastinating but should start finalising my plans for my camp next week. Seems no matter what I do or how much I grow up, procrastination will forever be my downfall.<br />
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Until next time... :)Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-19920832423497303852013-01-01T17:15:00.001-08:002013-01-01T17:15:29.407-08:003...2...1... disappointment Happy New Year everybody!!!!<br />
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I hope you all had an awesome time celebrating and that 2013 will be a year filled with only the happiest things. I'm sitting here at school desk warming and trying to get feeling in my fingers again, reflecting on the year past and the year that lies ahead. So what better than to blog about it :) *WARNING* It could get soppy up in here...<br />
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So let me tell you about my New Years Eve (NYE from now because aint nobody got time to type that out). As per everything this season in Korea, NYE doesn't appear to be that big of a deal. So Monday saw me at school, sitting through my first day of desk warming and thinking "oh ya, it's NYE tonight - who knew". We had decided to go to Seoul for the celebration...I had to work all day but some of the others set off early, and thankfully Nic waited for me, so we caught the 6pm bus outta here. Now I have to admit that I was less than enthusiastic about spending NYE in Seoul. I don't know why but that city can either be a brilliant success or an absolute disaster and in general, when it comes to nights out, it leans towards the latter. But I had begun to get excited and was looking forward to spending NYE in one of the most electric, vibrant cities in the world. We got in quite late as the traffic was mayhem and delayed our bus, and we still needed to catch a subway to Hongdae where out hostel was. We followed the internet directions which LIED to us and made us walk around the cold and icy roads (it's a skill not to fall) for too long before we got directions from our friends already there. I was starving and freezing and couldn't help thinking that this was exactly why I didn't want to come to Seoul - my sense of humor had totally disappeared. Once we got to the hostel though and I got some food in me I was feeling better and ready to face NYE!! Excitement was rising as we set out to go experience the famous 'bell ringing'. You can read about it <a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/FU/FU_EN_15.jsp?cid=1773433">here</a>. After getting a bit lost and finding our way by luck, we saw the crowds and rejoiced at making it literally 10 minutes before midnight. They were tight on security and we had to speak nicely to some of the policemen to stay together (and by we I mean Jeanette who has a way of convincing people). There were some foreigners around and a really funny Korean man who kept trying to photo-bomb us, and although there were a ton of people there was none of the pushing and crushing that I would expect from home.<br />
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So the countdown started, in Korean, and we tried to keep up but got a bit lost and got to 1 when they were only on 2...but at the stoke of midnight, as the countdown ended there was a great burst of......nothing. We were the only excited ones it seemed, other than a couple of other foreigners who opened a bottle of champagne. No big hoo-ha, no fireworks, no confetti. Just a big fat sack of disappointment. Our Korean photo-bombing friend was the funniest thing - he turned to us after hearing us complain about the lack of fireworks and shouted "No fireworks? I know! What a *%#@ing disappointment!! Mother *%#@aaaaaaaaaa!" He was hilarious. And was expressing our thoughts exactly. After a bit of waiting around (we only heard the actual bell ring once or twice) we decided to try find the fun, and saw that behind us there were some Roman Candles (hand held mini fireworks/sparklers that Koreans love) going off, so those were our fireworks. The more people who bought them though, the prettier it looked (and scarier it became; I pictured myself being hit in the face with a stray shot) and I actually enjoyed seeing the small explosions. So I guess it wasn't SO bad. Afterwards, we had to catch the over crowded subway before it closed to get back to Hongdae where we had decided to party the night away. Cara wasn't feeling well so she went back and once we got to the hustle and bustle of the craziness that is Hongdae, Nic and I decided to rather take a slow walk back and leave club "Naked" to the others ;) The next day we heard the stories from the night before (highly entertaining , trekked through one of the biggest snowfalls I've experienced and celebrated the new year with a meal at T.G.I Friday (the best ribs I've had in Korea) before heading back to Jecheon.<br />
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I know I make it sound like a disaster, and it was written a little tongue in cheek, but really it was a fun night thanks to the company we had and the way we made the most of the situation. We laughed a lot cos what else is there to do when your big NYE plans turn out to be a few random Koreans with Roman Candles :)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nic and I</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All of us awaiting the bell ringing </td></tr>
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2012 has been one of the most challenging but rewarding years of my life. I cannot believe that I made it this far: I have made a life for myself in a foreign country, worked my first 9-5 job in this country and made it work in a place where I have never ceased to feel completely out of place. This year has opened my eyes to what this world has to offer and just what I am capable of. It's allowed me to start this blog which I have loved doing and which has awoken my passion for writing which could lead to bigger things in the future. I feel like it has prepared me for anything that life might throw my way. I've learned how to cope with a completely different culture, to suck it up when times get tough and have realised just how much home and everything there means to me. 2012 has changed me forever - I will never be content to live an uninteresting life where I remain stagnant. I want to see more, do more, live more. I don't believe in New Years resolutions but hope that I will make the most of every opportunity given to me this year, and will remember to enjoy the simple things in life and stop taking things for granted. 2013 is the first year that I can honestly say I have no idea what is coming my way. And this is scary but exciting too. One of the biggest adventures of my life comes to an end next month but I know it's just one of many. Korea has given me so much, for which I will always be grateful.<br />
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The fact is though, I would never have made it through 2012 without the people around me. The friends I've made here are the kind I will miss dearly. I never expected to find people I'd get on so well with on the other side of the world. But I did and it's thanks to them that this year was what it was. I could not have done it without you - thank you for being my family away from home and for helping me make some of the most beautiful memories. And to my family and friends back home who have never ceased to support me from afar - your Skype calls, your messages of encouragement, the letters and emails are things that I appreciate more than you could ever know. It's difficult to keep in touch across time differences, but that never stopped you and I am so grateful. Needless to say I cannot wait to come home and catch up on all I've missed out.<br />
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So 2012 was real; it was growth and difficulty, adventure and learning. 2013 - I have no idea what you have in store for me - please be kind. But regardless of what comes my way, I'm ready for you and plan on making this year count. We're getting older kids, let's not waste what we have.<br />
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Peace and love.Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-54588951304307432252012-12-25T21:11:00.002-08:002012-12-25T21:12:28.693-08:00'Tis the Season Merry Christmas everyone :)<br />
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For those who spent it at home with family and friends - I hope it was a very special and beautiful holiday.<br />
For those of you who like me, were away from home for whatever reason, I hope you got to spend it with good company and made some awesome memories!<br />
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I cannot really believe I'm writing a Christmas post. This year has flown by somehow, and it feels like yesterday that I was concerned about being away from home for the first time but was reassuringly telling myself not to think about it. Now it's come and gone and it really wasn't all that bad :) Let me start at the beginning...<br />
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We went to Seoul a few weeks ago for Nicola's birthday, to go and see Phantom of the Opera. It was the first time (other than Lotte World I guess) that I really felt like maybe it was Christmas. Seoul had many decorations up, Starbucks had their Christmas cups out...it was cold and festive. Now I've had this chat with Su, who is from England, and we were saying that there's nothing quite like a cold Christmas. Last year I was in Europe for the time leading up to Christmas and it was magical; I loved having hot chocolate and crepes and all the nice things to warm you up while exploring the Winter Christmas fetes and markets. Coming from SA, the weather at this time is always warm and time is spent by the pool, relaxing and being outside. So that's what I'm used to. But I really love the atmosphere of a Winter Festive Season and being in Korea has been no different.<br />
(Phantom of the Opera was mind-blowingly awesome, by the way).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is us in a subway in Seoul</td></tr>
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So after that weekend, it became apparent that Christmas was coming. I received a box from home from my family packed with presents which helped me get excited! The first real celebration started with girls day last week Wednesday. We had the day off for 'election day' here, so a bunch of us got together at a friends place, brought crafts to make decorations, a ton of junk food and took amazing awkward, awful sweater pictures (an idea Esti got off Imgur). They proved to be a huge success, here is the one of Nic and me:<br />
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After that came the Christmas party on Saturday, hosted once again by Adina (the hostess with the mostest) and this was a lot of fun. We had a 'white elephant' present exchange where my penguin hat got stolen but I was rewarded with an awesome wrist warmer, used for napping at your desk! Everyone brought an array of yummy foods, we drank egg nog and were merry. Afterwards we went into town for dinner and some drinks, then went to Jecheon's new "club", King Kong, where one of the Jecheonians was DJ-ing and we danced the night away.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tree</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hostess</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMn6HqKexVvATB5Rs0qkyAf1TdjaE8zk6e4cVGZq-E8uQNsYE3P_klwEqNcNKuwIVIeOQBQvmz_MwJolApobByKdJsmAOY1F5GDgqsNEtpSJng25ENgFLx7Wzn7JqifJy2o3rdNOmFMcs/s1600/399277_10151137677791836_1448002540_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMn6HqKexVvATB5Rs0qkyAf1TdjaE8zk6e4cVGZq-E8uQNsYE3P_klwEqNcNKuwIVIeOQBQvmz_MwJolApobByKdJsmAOY1F5GDgqsNEtpSJng25ENgFLx7Wzn7JqifJy2o3rdNOmFMcs/s320/399277_10151137677791836_1448002540_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hat</td></tr>
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Now Korea isn't big on Christmas. Yes the decorations go up and sometimes you catch a Korean carol here and there but the spirit of the season definitely never reaches the rice lands as much as it does back home. As such, we only got the 25th off from school. This in itself was really weird for me, and I found myself sitting at my desk on Monday, wondering what I was doing here and wishing for the excitement of home. But my computer has finally been given the power of sound so I sat at my desk, listening to carols on YouTube and doing the best I could to feel like it was Christmas eve. I had worn a red scarf and bow to school which received many an exclamation of "Santa style" and "wow, fantastic" from kids and teachers alike. I also handed out mini candy canes to my students which they seemed to love. So working on Christmas eve wasn't the end of the world.<br />
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Once we were done with school, it was off to Emart to buy all the food stuffs for our big dinner the next day. Afterwards, we went to my place to decorate cookies, listen to carols, and watch a Christmas movie. It was really nice to chill before the storm...we were also treated to some authentic Mexican Hot Chocolate thanks to Jeanette which was delish! I thought it was an excuse to wear my onesie again too, and although I still wasn't feeling all that festive, it was a lovely evening spent in the company of great friends. It had started to lightly snow, which made me super excited as my only wish was for a white Christmas!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4c90_UOS1qvLDt8KLd576DDYqMoG0FN7mX4i4Y1omarEaLP9UdYNlAKhbipMB7t16gvpblVabkkQvqbtbwL0ccoSkEXceWc_7BdqqZcDPIlJj0zL40YZyKbA5-Q7VLSGwxw2MfDvFPBE/s1600/218033_10151140588461836_2013066167_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4c90_UOS1qvLDt8KLd576DDYqMoG0FN7mX4i4Y1omarEaLP9UdYNlAKhbipMB7t16gvpblVabkkQvqbtbwL0ccoSkEXceWc_7BdqqZcDPIlJj0zL40YZyKbA5-Q7VLSGwxw2MfDvFPBE/s320/218033_10151140588461836_2013066167_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decorating cookies. Esti got really creative...*clears throat*</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESYyeicKFOj_sz0rVqM-I2CSMNEhrrD_-NtmrYJ6vl2lLH1q9pG23bTc5ZMyxHoibpsHo5itTSzXTW5mNPFpfEOW3CvwBGgAFJMFXPmzlo2uTlpSFBAFuWFD90VKwtpH8FEuHvSD3_4bm/s1600/602682_10151140588566836_17214606_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESYyeicKFOj_sz0rVqM-I2CSMNEhrrD_-NtmrYJ6vl2lLH1q9pG23bTc5ZMyxHoibpsHo5itTSzXTW5mNPFpfEOW3CvwBGgAFJMFXPmzlo2uTlpSFBAFuWFD90VKwtpH8FEuHvSD3_4bm/s320/602682_10151140588566836_17214606_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Onesie cuteness </td></tr>
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I woke up on Christmas morning, looked out the window and saw snowflakes falling - I was done! That was all I wanted, and although the snow was over early and didn't last (it was really just a fresh dusting) I felt like my little wish came true. From then on it was full swing into dinner prep. There were 9 of us coming to dinner and each had a certain task. Our kitchens are small so we prepped in little groups and I was Su's assistant for the day. Really I was assistant tea drinker (wine later on). I was very grateful to spend the day in her company, and watch the pro at work ;) Everything went really smoothly. We spent most afternoon just getting things ready, putting the roast pork in, all the little things. Only once everyone else arrived and we had to put the meal together and do all the last minute things like gravy did it get a bit crazy.<br />
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I must take my hat off to everyone involved. They did the most outstanding job. We had roast chicken and pork, mashed potatoes and sweet potato mash, peas, roast veg, 2 kinds of stuffing, cauliflower and brocolli with cheese sauce, sausage rolls, gravy and yorkshire puddings. For dessert we had pavlova, apple crumble with custard and spiced cream, mince pies and cookies. Angela made egg nog and Esti made mulled wine. It was a feast. I know it sounds like an average Christmas meal to some but everything was done from scratch - pastry, alles. Nothing was pre-made and store bought. The amount of effort that went into this meal is actually making me feel a little emotional typing this out. Su and Esti did a wonderful job of hosting, thank you. And thank you to everyone involved - we pulled off the best Christmas away from our homes that I think any of us could have hoped for. The night was spent chatting, sharing stories, taking a rest after all the food we ate and ended with a Home Alone screening at Tom and Anna's (they have a projector, it is awesome). I got to skype with my family, including my grandparents, which was amazing and the box of presents to open really helped the day seem that much more special.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6G4Puv5ML2ecrTEQybb66HjVNx3jQO5Ed18H1gZmBLpsJFKpeCTtTRwebdIj2bQn-BbNHeTY8Xst-gjnFbe4pby02OIbGvhoEH4NFpu27mijkwYDsWWI-DvdAzddiFpGr24ZUp4DFtq8u/s1600/301764_10152335961805147_32794023_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6G4Puv5ML2ecrTEQybb66HjVNx3jQO5Ed18H1gZmBLpsJFKpeCTtTRwebdIj2bQn-BbNHeTY8Xst-gjnFbe4pby02OIbGvhoEH4NFpu27mijkwYDsWWI-DvdAzddiFpGr24ZUp4DFtq8u/s320/301764_10152335961805147_32794023_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The meal - minus the yorkshires. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZW8tnWvCeEKCfw08DcOECJL18gjbPjiaK1z5qZ-d2-KlKZ4GGSGydJSM1R6t5XDlNWfRIzEIzGwmRIWp1tq2FQaVk5ROXt1M6q4TQOuSRYxcFJGeAKCa1RsyOHDDYZgLPXjblp40jhNo6/s1600/386755_10151140590226836_487466950_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZW8tnWvCeEKCfw08DcOECJL18gjbPjiaK1z5qZ-d2-KlKZ4GGSGydJSM1R6t5XDlNWfRIzEIzGwmRIWp1tq2FQaVk5ROXt1M6q4TQOuSRYxcFJGeAKCa1RsyOHDDYZgLPXjblp40jhNo6/s320/386755_10151140590226836_487466950_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Su, me and Esti <3 </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_2hRuPFAgLiXJZxWMxRvjPypcjkkSIkUbbkyde1bsKe7Koh9tXOnzeiDLEivhSSDCotzy5rwoFJG8oG3wtWu_pKPSeVVpk5DnW35kxmcx7zk186PcdQf2EF1wFR-H9rKf0gpVdJGp3w2/s1600/406011_10151140590716836_1012558715_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_2hRuPFAgLiXJZxWMxRvjPypcjkkSIkUbbkyde1bsKe7Koh9tXOnzeiDLEivhSSDCotzy5rwoFJG8oG3wtWu_pKPSeVVpk5DnW35kxmcx7zk186PcdQf2EF1wFR-H9rKf0gpVdJGp3w2/s1600/406011_10151140590716836_1012558715_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful Angela and Estelle </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJx-lw3QRC7kT1iKD4inBj5SwbW3tsDeYucKd7BE3ZkQyxTarF8hsJNvWxFtRjRhwcUAqb0R3aaajDJRElEZpohqhQjOdQu3xHsib67YANlEG38n0-Yuk0ghbgZOiLl4SPNuK_zWJk1Be/s1600/564671_10151140591526836_805052758_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJx-lw3QRC7kT1iKD4inBj5SwbW3tsDeYucKd7BE3ZkQyxTarF8hsJNvWxFtRjRhwcUAqb0R3aaajDJRElEZpohqhQjOdQu3xHsib67YANlEG38n0-Yuk0ghbgZOiLl4SPNuK_zWJk1Be/s320/564671_10151140591526836_805052758_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angela and Nicola's amazing pavlova </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZFSFdvh4-Mi26wZEI5o8OziqaCQi_C53NIModVMmw6O8R7bS_3w5K8FBNMnHr5LeuSffEGXsZdMuHTOhFqNKzHOP_F_XFC5Oyu1zulX3IKFZZkNbQxAW4mfkbC0igUQDM8ztUtL7AsbS/s1600/15637_10151137676471836_1862385336_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZFSFdvh4-Mi26wZEI5o8OziqaCQi_C53NIModVMmw6O8R7bS_3w5K8FBNMnHr5LeuSffEGXsZdMuHTOhFqNKzHOP_F_XFC5Oyu1zulX3IKFZZkNbQxAW4mfkbC0igUQDM8ztUtL7AsbS/s320/15637_10151137676471836_1862385336_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the cookies: made by Su and decorated by Nic and me</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrL8kQOctlhtiPptYxBoQlh7niuZNClMSM5hb-6Zzg-m43cdNhr2cAPUv-QMphO39A0zSkfxLA7pJ9Eu32gJwV_eCb3Xyems_218X68w9-PjSAg3pfOGVqwJn2QMtF0eIVeoQsq_alWNv/s1600/564725_10151383258911217_1845752964_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrL8kQOctlhtiPptYxBoQlh7niuZNClMSM5hb-6Zzg-m43cdNhr2cAPUv-QMphO39A0zSkfxLA7pJ9Eu32gJwV_eCb3Xyems_218X68w9-PjSAg3pfOGVqwJn2QMtF0eIVeoQsq_alWNv/s320/564725_10151383258911217_1845752964_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All of us. Merry Christmas </td></tr>
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Being away for Christmas wasn't easy. I felt like I was pushing thoughts of home aside, and focusing more on the fact that I was getting a day off from school rather than the holiday itself. But in the end it was such a beautiful day, spent with my Jecheon family. And who could ask for better? When you live abroad, your friends become so much more than that - they become the family you rely on to make days like these feel special. I am incredibly lucky to be surrounded by such awesome friends.<br />
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If I'm sounding sentimental and emotional it's because I am - boxing day blues have hit, feeling exhausted from all the festivities lately and I realise I have a limited time left with these beautiful people. How lucky I am.<br />
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To everyone back home who sent messages and wishes, thank you. I appreciated it immensely. I hope you all had a wonderful day.<br />
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As we prepare to see the new year in, I am grateful for everything Korea has given me, most of all my little family away from home.Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-70619077828639366252012-12-12T17:14:00.001-08:002012-12-12T17:14:27.408-08:004 Seasons of KoreaYou get a lot of odd questions in Korea. Sometimes you can justify them, sometimes they are just random no matter how you look at it. Being from Africa, I get the "why aren't you black?" question (cue Mean Girls <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXovJSCc6M0">quote</a>). I've been asked if we have rice in South Africa and if our sky is the same (?!?!). But one thing that has been consistently asked of me is if South Africa also has 4 seasons? This usually follows an explanation of how Korea has 4 seasons, like it's something very unusual. At first I really thought this was strange...duh, of course we do. We are 'same same'. But it's taken living here and experiencing all of the seasons to actually understand what they're on about.<br />
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Korean seasons are VASTLY different. Like chalk and cheese. Maybe it's because back home we don't get snow in Winter and we have a lot of evergreen vegetation so things never really lose their lushness completely during the colder months, but I never expected to see such noticeable differences throughout the year.<br />
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<b>Spring </b>is beautiful...the cherry blossoms bloom and there are new shoots and green buds everywhere. The sky is blue and the air retains a chill, cooling the nights down nicely. Rice paddies begin being prepped for planting, bringing new life to the dull brown fields. As with everywhere, Spring hints at new life and beauty and combined with the cherry blossoms, it was a really pretty time of the year. Temperatures are mild and life is good. (I seem to not have taken many pictures of nature during this time though)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGQPBx3qyNOkA1KPRJLPUI8AAN9epP0qu8nRYaOpGxlMCCL3U9BpdnZ4Nf3J7fCDlwq1_kj66NY4byFPX2Z71mM2ehpSE5DQLa0ooiFKj9P4XFo8lxt0gAUzEu8sdud_sO4-uLerbphkQl/s1600/562206_10150661393596836_839382333_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGQPBx3qyNOkA1KPRJLPUI8AAN9epP0qu8nRYaOpGxlMCCL3U9BpdnZ4Nf3J7fCDlwq1_kj66NY4byFPX2Z71mM2ehpSE5DQLa0ooiFKj9P4XFo8lxt0gAUzEu8sdud_sO4-uLerbphkQl/s320/562206_10150661393596836_839382333_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My pictures don't do the blossoms justice</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfnEzO3ZV_o3Mr2tYa64fTVq2Zh0ydWLN11gWNsR5DLpqcanbmmTA7ehByr6bKLLOSwn3lNsLl-Vq08VKY2iJBFybLHlGQVZ2RYw4k4-pCggw4_RhKsg8Bu_aJgLulERjo0dxF6HxxjMN/s1600/530467_10150661392961836_127986442_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfnEzO3ZV_o3Mr2tYa64fTVq2Zh0ydWLN11gWNsR5DLpqcanbmmTA7ehByr6bKLLOSwn3lNsLl-Vq08VKY2iJBFybLHlGQVZ2RYw4k4-pCggw4_RhKsg8Bu_aJgLulERjo0dxF6HxxjMN/s320/530467_10150661392961836_127986442_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favourite tree, with blossoms as big as your hand with thick pale leaves </td></tr>
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<b>Summer </b>hits you with a hot and humid slap in the face. I have never been so hot and uncomfortable in my life. I'm used to a dry heat back home, but this was the kind of suffocating heat that made you feel wet all day and never clean. I complained about the heat, a lot. However the landscape during summer is beautiful. I work out in the countryside surrounded my mountains and rice paddies...the drive to and from school each day were stunning. The mountains were vivid colours of lushness, the rice paddies growing green. Later on in the season the apple trees would dot the scenery with rich red patches. Everything was just brightly alive. The summer meant lazy evenings outside 7/11 drinking beer, and not wanting to leave the beauty of my air conditioned room if I didn't need to. School was ghastly when all you do is sweat and want to sleep, but days in the strawberry fields and the beautiful scenery made up for it. Although I expected a ton of rain, I really don't think it rained all that much. We had the odd monsoon type major rainfalls but in general the rain was quite spread out among the seasons and didn't really dampen (pun intended) the Summer fun.<br />
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I think it's interesting to note how the rice paddies changed over the year...starting off dead when I arrived, they were being turned and prepped and planted in Spring and really looked like big ponds, and throughout the Summer, as they grew, the water got less, the shoots got bigger and they looked like real plants!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-_rKqUzcZvhwemINbW2llTEmSD3jpePsi61JjiiukS-Ofl0eSju9uh-psGDGMiYLIq_8SQqtec6BXXpilMy11kmytd_v7im9nInXKl-ZkxgvwhFjKtfpPcnpI4BOnqLQduXTCUxoezRSk/s1600/292592_10150852120421836_1410624383_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-_rKqUzcZvhwemINbW2llTEmSD3jpePsi61JjiiukS-Ofl0eSju9uh-psGDGMiYLIq_8SQqtec6BXXpilMy11kmytd_v7im9nInXKl-ZkxgvwhFjKtfpPcnpI4BOnqLQduXTCUxoezRSk/s1600/292592_10150852120421836_1410624383_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strawberries and beer to keep the Summer heat at bay</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM40uoxGFQMgM9i8F7qjoqtkFfKlGnVGdoVdXVZ1_EPc3pq7a5EEm5bbdEr26dfY6BLM3vgisUvbjqXyRa9F4cbktJTjc97mrm1p_Gk-Z0Hj9ICMtk9HmmCTu9s7U86xgBmmeWjFMnH2ux/s1600/545998_10150749901641836_228387174_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM40uoxGFQMgM9i8F7qjoqtkFfKlGnVGdoVdXVZ1_EPc3pq7a5EEm5bbdEr26dfY6BLM3vgisUvbjqXyRa9F4cbktJTjc97mrm1p_Gk-Z0Hj9ICMtk9HmmCTu9s7U86xgBmmeWjFMnH2ux/s320/545998_10150749901641836_228387174_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiking in Summer was hot as hell but very rewarding too</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jecheon rice paddies from up high</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watery rice paddies</td></tr>
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<b>Autumn </b>came and took my breath away. The days finally got a bit cooler and slowly the leaves began to change, setting Korea ablaze in reds, oranges and yellows. Koreans say that Spring and Autumn are the best seasons as they carry the mildest temperatures but that they don't last long. They don't lie. It didn't felt like we had much of an Autumn...it got pretty chilly pretty quickly, and by chilly I mean South African Winter temperatures. My teachers laughed at me as I brought my coats out pretty early but I was cold dammit! But back to the colours...I got really carried away with taking pictures of the leaves as I really wanted to try and capture what this looked like. I failed. You have to be here. It literally looked as though the mountains were on fire...reds richer than I've ever seen in nature, yellows so golden they glow. I tried to get some pictures of the mountains but my camera wasn't giving it justice. The rice paddies were now ready for harvest and held bright, golden yellow plants that seemed to reflect the light. The apple orchards were ripe and big red apples were being picked daily. Everywhere you looked there were changes in colour that I've never seen before and I was captivated by it all. The changes seemed to begin slowly but it got to a point just before the temperatures really turned cold where everything was changing. It was around this time that I went on a hike with my main school teachers, and spent ages taking pictures of the leaves. It was beautiful (have I made my point yet? haha). Autumn in Korea is something I will never forget.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rice paddy colurs - pic courtesy of a fellow Jecheonian, Jamie</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rice paddy colurs - pic courtesy of a fellow Jecheonian, Jamie<br /></td></tr>
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And now we have <b>Winter</b>...it's only the beginning and already I can tell it's going to be rough. Korea is expecting its coldest Winter in something like 15 years...trust me to be here when this happens. We've had a number of snowfalls already, which is very unusual, and my teachers love reminding me that Jecheon is the coldest city in Korea. Eish. But it's magical! I've always considered myself more of a Winter than Summer person as I hate being hot, and although I might eat my words come January (the coldest month), right now I'm coping with the cold and in love with the snow! I've done a post on the <a href="http://bronsblog22.blogspot.kr/2012/12/snow.html">snow</a> so not going to repeat my self, but Winter in Korea is apparently not something to joke about. Going anywhere in this weather is a mission and it's really just making me want to become a recluse. But I'm grateful for the snow as Winter in Korea can be really ugly. When I arrived in Feb, we hit the tail end of the cold and everything just looked dead and dreary. I wont lie, I was rather disappointed, and wasn't all that enthralled with what I saw. The same happened before our first proper snow: the rice paddies were now dead and brown, laying bare until the next season of planting; the leaves have fallen and the colours have been drained from the landscape. But then the snow came and covered it all in a blanket of powdery whiteness and my faith in Winter was renewed. The rice paddies are now pockets of what I call 'virgin snow', untouched beauty that I just want to roll around in, and it sounds as though one will be turned into an ice-rink of sorts in Jecheon!! We'll see if I actually survive my first 'real' Winter without losing a limb to the elements, but for now, Winter aint that bad.<br />
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So okay Korea...maybe South Africa does have 4 seasons but they are nowhere near as diverse as yours..I'll give you that. South Africa may change its coat or put on some fancy jewelry to dress up, but Korea goes all out with 4 different outfits each time the seasons change. I dunno why I used that imagery, let's just go with it.<br />
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<br />Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-5013263857914939822012-12-06T21:49:00.001-08:002012-12-06T21:49:08.436-08:00Q&A*Note: I started writing this a week ago but only finished today :P *<br />
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I'm sure I'm not the only one currently suffering from year end blues. I've seen some posts on Facebook and it sounds as though there are a few of us who are over work and just want some time to put our feet up. It hit me the other day that this is the first time in my life that I have not had a December/Summer holiday to look forward to. And it's the first time in 4 years that I've worked so late into the year (tough life I led I tell you). So maybe it's my body telling me that it should be time to shut down, but I'm finding myself exhausted and demotivated a lot these days. As they say here though, FIGHTING! We can do it teachers, the end is in sight :)<br />
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I started this blog with the idea that it might be helpful to others, but those who know me know I'm a thinker and so the blog has taken a more 'diary' type style, consisting of me voicing my opinions and frustrations more than practical information. I like this though, and am happy to see many of you taking this journey with me. But I've been stuck for ideas lately and got some inspiration from a close friend back home who is in the process of applying to teach here next year. Bianca had a few questions for me which I thought I would try to answer as best I could :) If anyone else reading has any questions for me I would love to answer them in the comments section!<br />
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<b><u>Concerns about coming over, where you will be placed and who you will meet</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
B expressed concerns about moving here alone, and I can completely understand. The new EPIK application requirements do not let you apply with a friend or significant other, unless you are married, like they did before. I applied with 2 friends from home and if I'm completely honest, this was the main reason why I considered coming in the first place. It was my security blanket, and I felt safe under the assurances by my recruiter that I would be so close to Jodie I could see her weekly. What I got though, was left alone in a foreign country, something I had not prepared for. I freaked out, I was resentful...I was supposed to have my friend with me, why did it work out like this? But really, it's all been part of the adventure.<br />
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You are lucky that you get an orientation, where you will be grouped with people in the same area as you and although you may not be in the exact same city, it means that from the minute you land, you are surrounded by people just like you...anxious, excited and eager to make friends. It's like Uni, day 1, all over again. Take advantage of that time - get to know the people around you, try avoid connecting with one person and ignoring the rest. And don't be afraid that you wont like people, or make friends. Everyone is in the same boat here; it will be no time before you've made friends. Once you arrive in your city, try making connections, joining Facebook groups and get involved - that's how I did it. Sure there will be people you don't like, that's normal. But you will find yourself making connections with the most unlikely people because that's how it is here. Really, making friends will not be a problem.<br />
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With regards to where you are placed: that's the big question isn't it? It's all we worry about until we find out. The best piece of advice I can give you is be prepared for the unexpected. Remember that no matter where you are, travel is cheap, reliable and easy here. If you are put in a little town in the middle of nowhere, don't panic. You can travel out on the weekends. Chances are the foreigner population will be smaller but that's not always a bad thing. There are pros and cons to everything and you really just need to make your situation work. I've heard good and bad things about small and big cities alike and I'm a firm believer in making the most of what you are given. Do I miss the big city? Sometimes, yes. But I've grown to love and appreciate my little town of Jecheon. Unfortunately, with an adventure like this, you need to be prepared to make anything work. Accept now that you cannot prepare for everything, there will be curve-balls thrown at you but you will make it work.<br />
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<b><u>What is the food like?</u></b><br />
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This is a tough one to try and answer but will try my best. It's spicy...if you don't like spice, chances are you're not going to enjoy the food much. There is kimchi with everything. You will eat a lot of rice, and a lot of vegetables you've never heard of. There are a lot of soups with interesting smells and flavours and plenty of leaves floating around in them. When they do salty it tends to be over-salted. Eating out consists of a lot of sharing...usually you order a dish or 2, and that will come with a variety of side dishes (kimchi, veggies, sometimes pajeon or salads) and everyone shares. Depending on where you are placed, you might find you have access to Western-type restaurants - great, but remember you are here to try out this new culture and that includes its food. I stay away from seafood as a choice but you can get great seafood dishes here. We eat a lot of chicken, often fried but its good. I love Korean barbecue, which can be pork or beef and you cook it over coals in the middle of the table. I don't know what to tell you other than try, try, try. It might look weird or end up tasting disgusting, but I have eaten some things here that have really surprised me, in a good way. It's a bit of an adjustment in the beginning, and ordering out can be overwhelming but you will come to know very quickly what you like and don't like and how to order it.<br />
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Let me show you my top 3 meals here:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8cnbwOsSztzVt9jNLPizfSpLCXCHiLxi6kpYJjD4Vb3MnrL85DebSeosup2VqOEm37wRC7mkMh9yT7iCBEfmJs040htcGtosMaHon6_VY78tgGGs1zKGQYUiW_71cau7PzxFZjKeoPBoe/s1600/dak+galbi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8cnbwOsSztzVt9jNLPizfSpLCXCHiLxi6kpYJjD4Vb3MnrL85DebSeosup2VqOEm37wRC7mkMh9yT7iCBEfmJs040htcGtosMaHon6_VY78tgGGs1zKGQYUiW_71cau7PzxFZjKeoPBoe/s1600/dak+galbi.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dak galbi</td></tr>
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<b>Dak-galbi: </b>this is a chicken stir-fry type dish and is one of the meals I crave here. It's spicy, can be served with rice or sometimes noodles and has a mixture of cabbage, onions, peppers, sweet potato and tteok (Korean rice cake) all mixed in a chili pepper sauce. It is amazing on cold nights and if I could box it up and take it home with me, I would.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWkq9pHA6h9jFrppnDEXzogyPKYeftWVP703NeiB2kf0hb90WeuOpoNqTEgaIVR5DplN-GruiLnw-E4hBEGwFm2aXSxxr_6sb2uRlT7a2sWlRObaacNSq4F_NCnL7DxHGALaN3jIuv87D/s1600/jimdak2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWWkq9pHA6h9jFrppnDEXzogyPKYeftWVP703NeiB2kf0hb90WeuOpoNqTEgaIVR5DplN-GruiLnw-E4hBEGwFm2aXSxxr_6sb2uRlT7a2sWlRObaacNSq4F_NCnL7DxHGALaN3jIuv87D/s320/jimdak2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jjimdak from our favourite place in Jecheon </td></tr>
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<b>Jjimdak: </b>another favourite. Damn but this dish is T.A.S.T.E.Y. It's another chicken dish, served with noodles, carrots, onions etc along with a variety of add ins like cheesy tteok (these are my favourite things ever), tteok, mandu, potato and cheese and marinated in a Korean soy sauce. This dish is the business, that's all there is to it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkN9YuLCGoe1zW_An-Qc_3TncOghiChhcPrpOywh_6OCbe0MCns5ybkpuW4-OrFLnD9X64AhPLb9IaBSJCHKqZPeqPBi26dS4QaaYfsJlhA-zM5XMCWjJmxc1iGfa5jQVpXAmymX0YzGgP/s1600/galbi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkN9YuLCGoe1zW_An-Qc_3TncOghiChhcPrpOywh_6OCbe0MCns5ybkpuW4-OrFLnD9X64AhPLb9IaBSJCHKqZPeqPBi26dS4QaaYfsJlhA-zM5XMCWjJmxc1iGfa5jQVpXAmymX0YzGgP/s1600/galbi.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical galbi meal</td></tr>
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<b>Galbi: </b>aka Korean barbecue, this is a really popular way to eat out here. You order some meat, pork or beef in different cuts/sauces and grill it yourself at your table. As you can see, it's served with a number of side dishes and is a simple, easy way to eat that also works out super cheap. For me, the sides are what make me keep going back to a restaurant (like Sweetcorn in Jecheon, nicknamed that because they serve you sweetcorn along with everything else!).<br />
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So yeah...some people love it, some people hate it but I think you need to keep trying until you find the things you like. Unfortunately you don't really have much of a choice at school, you eat what you're given but give it time!<br />
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<b><u>What would make me stay?</u></b><br />
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This is also a tough question. I made my mind up pretty early on that this was a 1 year stint for me. A lot of it has to do with the language barrier. I know it's obvious but I was completely unprepared for how difficult it would be to live in a place where you don't speak the language. However I really grew attached to my schools, students, friends and city while I was here and so in the end, it's very bittersweet to be leaving. Other than the money though, what would make me stay?<br />
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Maybe if I had a proper coteacher, who supported me and communicated with me and I didn't feel so completely alone at school. If I could speak Korean. I think a lot would need to change at school, from a teaching point of view. I want more control of my classes, I want to be spoken to about things, to be informed and treated like a teacher and not a babysitter. I have quite a few issues with my school situation and I think that's what convinced me I need to go. I don't feel like I have any support here, at my school and from my coteacher and that makes things a lot harder. I don't feel like I'm being used in the best way to really help these kids and it's really frustrating. There are also many cultural things here I struggle with, and things like the spitting and lack of personal space etc, but I think I really just felt that I got the most out of this experience that I could and that it's time to move on. No hard feelings, I'm just ready.<br />
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<b><u>Money money money</u></b><br />
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When you first get here, you feel odd paying in thousands. And when the first paycheck comes and you feel like a millionaire, it's awesome. But you really do get the hang of spending really quickly. For the Rand, I usually knock off 2 zeros and that's my estimated price, minus a bit more. You eventually stop converting every little thing though, as soon as you figure out how far the money goes. You begin to recognise that \2000 is cheap and maybe \7000 isn't so bad for meat. It's really no time before you're navigating yourself around the currency like a pro. I still convert big items though, and things like trips etc just for interests sake and to keep me in check, as sometimes it's easy to blow money on unnecessary things.<br />
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For me, fruit here is much more expensive than back home. Like R150 for a watermelon expensive. I could be a real cheapskate when it came to buying groceries as I just saw everything as expensive but that's changed now and I cook a lot more at home. Eating out can be cheap, if you consider all you're getting. Clothes vary, just like at home, but in general they are slightly more expensive (because there isn't always the Mr Price option haha). Travel and accommodation is really cheap. You learn what you're willing to spend on certain things. I think in general, things aren't as cheap as I was expecting; eve the technology isn't all that much cheaper. Don't worry. Your paycheck goes REALLY far, and even after all my deductions I am able to live comfortably through the month. I love the won...am not looking forward to going back to my Rands (although that's probably more because my income will come to a halt for a while when I come home haha).<br />
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I don't know if this has helped at all. It's so hard to tell people how things are because these are just my experiences, opinions, likes and dislikes. It changes for every person, depending on context and preferences. My biggest piece of advice and the biggest lesson I've learned from being here is just come prepared to make the most of it. Try limit your expectations (although I know this is hard). Know that what you are walking into is the adventure of a life time, but that it wont always be smooth sailing. Expect the unexpected, be willing to adapt and you will be okay.<br />
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Korea has so much to offer you, you just have to be willing to embrace it...quirks and all.Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-744254679608429322012-12-06T20:55:00.002-08:002012-12-06T20:55:16.666-08:00Nic and Norb go to Lotte World<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoIg3FEnMgosATIjAdgu_rz20Pvkoa98zq7rw9PpsWtPZrg8ukxo4FZ6W-lKul973MI0KSRGT0lZOX4FuaAWCkR1dNcl85MjxaTB6v2kNlns2OXF7P414RpcWlX4l4CshzGZ9wam2OZwgw/s1600/PC010243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoIg3FEnMgosATIjAdgu_rz20Pvkoa98zq7rw9PpsWtPZrg8ukxo4FZ6W-lKul973MI0KSRGT0lZOX4FuaAWCkR1dNcl85MjxaTB6v2kNlns2OXF7P414RpcWlX4l4CshzGZ9wam2OZwgw/s320/PC010243.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm on a roll with the posts so not going to stop now. I haven't had much time at school lately to blog so going to get a couple out now while I can :)<br />
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For those who are wondering...my nickname, Bron, backwards is Norb and Cola calls me that so hence the title. Moving on. Last weekend (01/12) Nic and I made the trip in the cold to Seoul, to go experience <a href="http://www.lotteworld.com/Global_eng/Main.asp">Lotte World</a>. Initially we had planned to go to Everland, but with the colder weather having set in I was worried that it would be unpleasant and that some of the main rides would be closed. So we caught the 07:30 bus from Jecheon, arriving in Seoul around 09:30 and catching the subway to Jamsil Station where Lotte is located. It's really easy to find and we were in the massive line waiting to get in by 10:00. Things really moved smoothly though and we were inside before we knew it, ready to get our rides on.<br />
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Now I'm a huge theme park lover. I love the rides and atmosphere and everything that goes along with them. I used to complain that the theme park in Joburg, Gold Reef City was expensive but never again. Lotte cost \34 000 (we got foreigner discount but is usually \40 000) to get in, and although not overly expensive by Korean standards, it was much more than I would be willing to pay at home. The park itself is huge. Multi-level, both indoor and outside, with rides hidden everywhere. The outside part, Magic Island, is definitely more exciting, rides wise. Most of the rides were really short, and some (Sindbad and the Wave) made very little sense. For me, the Gyro Swing, Flume ride and French Revolution roller-coaster were the best rides. The rest were very tame, but still fun. Overall, Lotte is directed towards families with young kids more than those of us looking for a thrill. I wouldn't say this was a bad thing, just don't go there expecting the best rides of your lives. It's an experience, there is plenty to see and do and keep you entertained and although the lines get long, it's all very well run.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The inside</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The classic boat ride, always a thrill</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magic Island, the outside part of LW</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gyro Swing - best!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magic Island </td></tr>
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One of the most awesome things about going now is all the Christmas spirit vibes! There were 'Happy Christmas' banners everywhere, Christmas parades and lights, beautiful Christmas trees...enough to make anyone feel festive. Here are some pictures (bitches love pictures)...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seeing the place light up at night is definitely beautiful and worth it! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Christmas tree!</td></tr>
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A highlight for us was the Christmas Show...I believe it was called Cinderella's Christmas? It began with some monkey/cat/animal costumed gymnastic performers doing some tricks from the roof for us. Then the coolest and thinnest looking Santa I have ever seen came on stage to wish everyone a Happy Christmas before the curtains lifted and there were a bunch of white people. At first I thought they had made the Korean actors look white but there were definite white people, with a few Koreans mixed in (this was the case with the parade too). It was funny because all the carols were in Korean (interesting) and the performers just mouthed the words pretty badly. Back to the point. The show was amazing. They had massive screens at the back depicting different Winter and Christmas scenes, the costumes were really great and it was quite something to watch. An interesting twist of course is that Santa was the fairy godmother in this story, flying from the roof on a reindeer broomstick that had LED glasses, and he proceeded to rock out on stage. Oh Korea. It was certainly the most original take I've ever seen on the Cinderella story and on Father Christmas. They had the Lotte mascots out which was really funny, and as I mentioned, they sang many Korean Christmas carols which we could at least recognize by the tune. All in all it was really great to see, and was worth fighting the ajjummas to get a good spot.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDgnR6WppHAWADNdsbyuHl4hGNQaaVscEXAxoWn4uLvhRE4GyhIP5B0xka0oZ5uyIbiROmzacVDXRhvYZau3YajwAWHLj07NII2vlffTTPB-cbNwnFej9dK4Pf4WOBuWpbntd0tTrNMnG/s1600/PC010204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDgnR6WppHAWADNdsbyuHl4hGNQaaVscEXAxoWn4uLvhRE4GyhIP5B0xka0oZ5uyIbiROmzacVDXRhvYZau3YajwAWHLj07NII2vlffTTPB-cbNwnFej9dK4Pf4WOBuWpbntd0tTrNMnG/s320/PC010204.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Acrobats</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_UHnVPQmUw_-flfRzrEIqeDmkkqzyPX2eCpFeBq8DVKnznzJ-VsP85-OdHgQh5YimzFWj43M7V2AF4HvsReOUJGSIcDXymDPJ22hckTwyX5ZRyjF-msrbSxy2Kr8jxEky3k_26SxMZl1z/s1600/PC010205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_UHnVPQmUw_-flfRzrEIqeDmkkqzyPX2eCpFeBq8DVKnznzJ-VsP85-OdHgQh5YimzFWj43M7V2AF4HvsReOUJGSIcDXymDPJ22hckTwyX5ZRyjF-msrbSxy2Kr8jxEky3k_26SxMZl1z/s320/PC010205.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool Santa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUH4VLh3Oge8SC-GWwRSicc6nDFMJCYZ5qiJ8hod0RTAT_qowC1zVrCBHiAO4vKBrJnQ9Z4XFfhu3alHe3nuBPp8TXUFimkNDQDoSQdIe4puIqmGno7KyiLtc8-1TGncB6o3EsefQE5n1i/s1600/PC010206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUH4VLh3Oge8SC-GWwRSicc6nDFMJCYZ5qiJ8hod0RTAT_qowC1zVrCBHiAO4vKBrJnQ9Z4XFfhu3alHe3nuBPp8TXUFimkNDQDoSQdIe4puIqmGno7KyiLtc8-1TGncB6o3EsefQE5n1i/s320/PC010206.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awesome props and backdrop </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9R8Ts1xOw6ddGLsesyxGAmkL77hZDUdl8i_CFTpso82nJ0aw95HS8Bi8VjEWxiavtrQJx2NS43ln1mIOHTrHKW7dDAYoB0bIjb2bCkOvdgfgXItpwr8V1d11vmJzIlUL39HuUlEt9mjOO/s1600/PC010213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9R8Ts1xOw6ddGLsesyxGAmkL77hZDUdl8i_CFTpso82nJ0aw95HS8Bi8VjEWxiavtrQJx2NS43ln1mIOHTrHKW7dDAYoB0bIjb2bCkOvdgfgXItpwr8V1d11vmJzIlUL39HuUlEt9mjOO/s320/PC010213.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Santa on a broomstick </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nzWYWUfSRmn9oRN3JK5Cb-np0hZrWQJtiDCr4Z5HCY6PwgKnUnLx7aIdXQNxL8oIp3aFLaixtAGjSgDGhpxRMfvOEZMA0lcXoRvQjzlbutgrTkTnBE33zPOkK65nIQSpUK86TUK7tMGQ/s1600/PC010215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nzWYWUfSRmn9oRN3JK5Cb-np0hZrWQJtiDCr4Z5HCY6PwgKnUnLx7aIdXQNxL8oIp3aFLaixtAGjSgDGhpxRMfvOEZMA0lcXoRvQjzlbutgrTkTnBE33zPOkK65nIQSpUK86TUK7tMGQ/s320/PC010215.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rocking out </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-yUtvQ_-jMWEZ_B6AoKaFaJKS7I4BZzii7Hr5O2p3Q7ItmzT-apo2besuIxwPQ7mKUNzWbI_7AWDdwaZvrEDShBfgovnUNUihiaUvUhPJwrP-ryQRSDhQgqLIVI1csoX5RcSl47TAalj/s1600/PC010220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM-yUtvQ_-jMWEZ_B6AoKaFaJKS7I4BZzii7Hr5O2p3Q7ItmzT-apo2besuIxwPQ7mKUNzWbI_7AWDdwaZvrEDShBfgovnUNUihiaUvUhPJwrP-ryQRSDhQgqLIVI1csoX5RcSl47TAalj/s320/PC010220.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carols</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So much of pictures on this one. But really there isn't much to say, only that we had a blast, made the most of our day and Lotte is worth a visit. I would love to compare it to Everland but I don't think I'm going to get there before I leave. I'm glad we did Lotte though - it was a Nic and Norb adventure for the books ^^<br />
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<br />Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-86249168721776014092012-12-06T20:04:00.000-08:002012-12-06T20:04:55.148-08:00SNOW!!!!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTw9rBlSu9IgxkdZkR8sIlibUkmGfByPQYSsAGpibGejoKMC2vNW3wy8UIev_FSVloJpX5_jEdI_Yer6xxnQLmh4_XJ9RLl371y9N2gqEjk8ZSkUZ7uP3mZXx2hLr9dbyIHon4C2ejN4Qq/s1600/380950_10151114724806836_1194238795_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTw9rBlSu9IgxkdZkR8sIlibUkmGfByPQYSsAGpibGejoKMC2vNW3wy8UIev_FSVloJpX5_jEdI_Yer6xxnQLmh4_XJ9RLl371y9N2gqEjk8ZSkUZ7uP3mZXx2hLr9dbyIHon4C2ejN4Qq/s320/380950_10151114724806836_1194238795_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making snow angels after dinner! </td></tr>
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It's been a tough few weeks. I feel like I've been in a bit of a funk and haven't been able to pull myself out. But then the most magical thing happened...it started snowing. We've had a few snowfalls in Jecheon up to now, but it's been pretty light and hasn't stuck around for long. But Wednesday came and brought with it the mother-load of snow (at least for me it looked that way - I'm from Africa). </div>
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I was teaching when it happened, and looked outside to see some snow falling but thought nothing of it. 30 minutes later and my school was white! The kids were outside making snowballs and the teachers were freaking out about getting home. My coteacher and I left an hour early (score!) and took a very slow drive back. I was mesmerized. I've seen snow before but not enough to act like I'm not impressed. Cos I am. It's just so prrrrreeeetttyyyy!! I know all the people from snowy nations are like, "Get a life kids" but I can't help being excited that right now, there is blankety white goodness EVERYWHERE!! I know I know, it's ugly when it gets slushy, it turns to ice and then it's all 'falling on your ass' and no fun but right now I am completely in the Winter spirit of things and feel like a kid on Christmas. As I type it's started snowing like a beast again and if I correctly understood the jumbled school message that was translated, it means we get to leave early again today. It's no joke...the roads are dangerous and I know I'm going to fall a few times but I. Don't. Care.<br />
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We had a huge snowball fight after dinner on Wednesday (it was Cola's birthday but it didn't mean we went easy on her) and made snow angels and it was SO MUCH FUN! I think the locals must have thought we were crazy, but then they think that anyway! I couldn't stop smiling...but maybe my face really did freeze like that. I asked if I could take my kids outside yesterday instead of having my after-school English class and I got the "are you crazy" look but they agreed and I had a blast with my kids in the snow. Some enjoyed attacking me a little too much I think. Nicola, Jeanette (she's from the very warm Texas so we both never see snow) and I are partners in snow excitement and ventured out to make a snowman last night but it was a bit of a fail. I did however get to experience JJ's moonwalk which was pretty epic ;)<br />
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I don't know...for now the snow has pulled me out of my rut, it's made Korea beautiful again and I am happy. So thought I would share that and some pictures!<br />
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To my fellow Saffas and Texans and everyone else who is as excited about this as me...<br />
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LET IT SNOW LET IT SNOW LET IT SNOOOOOW!!!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM0Yb2kFeqTtPQ4SpE8tZ-oBGWg3Y2ZwHPcSObjBPpnijsjAtuffqf7DqKZmymB-2t-iIuG9JhF_GBKxClp5hwz9e8yi2sjGwf-_aMwi4GllnXydLXW9fh1BTQs9XR95D_VtB2ZtBq7WvY/s1600/29600_10151114723671836_1465153783_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM0Yb2kFeqTtPQ4SpE8tZ-oBGWg3Y2ZwHPcSObjBPpnijsjAtuffqf7DqKZmymB-2t-iIuG9JhF_GBKxClp5hwz9e8yi2sjGwf-_aMwi4GllnXydLXW9fh1BTQs9XR95D_VtB2ZtBq7WvY/s320/29600_10151114723671836_1465153783_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the way back from school on Wednesday. This was clear on the way to school! </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSff_NSKpKx6OKg2wwwXaZGWfV59uaQ6Ad1gy-xD8gkJzT_JaVPzH28hHz8SzMbMz9LHXkwssLHQ57LspUa6ssC1RsVVm39R43GYiH4aYe4weL_veNpGFSEN07_p8cJY1_IBgEYbp9gXe/s1600/31580_10151114732941836_1052081209_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSff_NSKpKx6OKg2wwwXaZGWfV59uaQ6Ad1gy-xD8gkJzT_JaVPzH28hHz8SzMbMz9LHXkwssLHQ57LspUa6ssC1RsVVm39R43GYiH4aYe4weL_veNpGFSEN07_p8cJY1_IBgEYbp9gXe/s320/31580_10151114732941836_1052081209_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outside my apartment window on Thursday morning</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmhynGKfmmF0j5VZJ7N37AyV9JJQG-3r5hJ-WOPQs6dNX62kaBs0ojCu87ubUeihzbskh2zrmrvKKE2PZqDLsLyNHLWMcQ-63m8357Ztafm92vGDM424ifjXCN7O92ipOsc40uZ8VGU7tq/s1600/47330_10151114724746836_1124370439_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmhynGKfmmF0j5VZJ7N37AyV9JJQG-3r5hJ-WOPQs6dNX62kaBs0ojCu87ubUeihzbskh2zrmrvKKE2PZqDLsLyNHLWMcQ-63m8357Ztafm92vGDM424ifjXCN7O92ipOsc40uZ8VGU7tq/s320/47330_10151114724746836_1124370439_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Texan and the South African...happy in the snow!! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7Aca-czwDeTlCRA5ENKk_9M9m0GoSRlOPCTO1k7knKdp_wn6j_2gSWRsv_GJzwEGVl5CqR555i7vVQSHkcHUR_fuWT8h_fYvVzc_rc3SeU135QEl8ZNN8seTPtxA0qYcIzJNdIGeHpD9/s1600/537558_10151114724571836_2026839905_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7Aca-czwDeTlCRA5ENKk_9M9m0GoSRlOPCTO1k7knKdp_wn6j_2gSWRsv_GJzwEGVl5CqR555i7vVQSHkcHUR_fuWT8h_fYvVzc_rc3SeU135QEl8ZNN8seTPtxA0qYcIzJNdIGeHpD9/s320/537558_10151114724571836_2026839905_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jecheon snowball fight #1. I feel there will be many more. Assah! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixY0T41Ul5LEMeDs02bZ1eLbI002VRvqATapX0hpzflS8OdT7K2P0lXDJGhgVkdc1XjrVdD9Qj2O77DY9Gihhhhzb2k4BZq3hvEP95UkbfeZjhJhyp1BPNkiZGE-TZ8oL9YPb-i4pfeNGe/s1600/549471_10152284607440147_696203596_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixY0T41Ul5LEMeDs02bZ1eLbI002VRvqATapX0hpzflS8OdT7K2P0lXDJGhgVkdc1XjrVdD9Qj2O77DY9Gihhhhzb2k4BZq3hvEP95UkbfeZjhJhyp1BPNkiZGE-TZ8oL9YPb-i4pfeNGe/s320/549471_10152284607440147_696203596_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post Snowball fight...I think our excitement is tangible.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSluYbAsiuqlHltfK7W3eJjDD9zxyALjQ6PbH9f7jULbpGNtXegf41USPmy4QGJGGwAUDFSlIwPGly9buFcihK4rS74iJg7lzi_hUY3GUUFiH4dsW9jwSK6GuzXPgiMehvuk2snH9GdLPn/s1600/559805_10151114724871836_924555785_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSluYbAsiuqlHltfK7W3eJjDD9zxyALjQ6PbH9f7jULbpGNtXegf41USPmy4QGJGGwAUDFSlIwPGly9buFcihK4rS74iJg7lzi_hUY3GUUFiH4dsW9jwSK6GuzXPgiMehvuk2snH9GdLPn/s320/559805_10151114724871836_924555785_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My area (my apartment building is the red on you can see on the left)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh52Tc7ey5vtB9ZeR8uoRfvTACXJunaxlkX9YeMMruxfTFsrsEjlppp_JqgfJ3nAKPjHhrCYpGq5miLmmWkCuAjcQPkhG6GfdQfdFiCRjSj5lUQLT6dhvx3tEmqcWVlsRdVX5ayJlPxBMyb/s1600/14692_10151116049891836_373347310_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh52Tc7ey5vtB9ZeR8uoRfvTACXJunaxlkX9YeMMruxfTFsrsEjlppp_JqgfJ3nAKPjHhrCYpGq5miLmmWkCuAjcQPkhG6GfdQfdFiCRjSj5lUQLT6dhvx3tEmqcWVlsRdVX5ayJlPxBMyb/s320/14692_10151116049891836_373347310_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snowball fights at Baegun with my kids on Thursday</td></tr>
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<br /><br /><br />Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-91228458831786447482012-11-25T22:54:00.002-08:002012-11-25T22:54:34.037-08:00What it means to live abroadMaking the decision to go abroad means trusting yourself completely; having faith that you will be okay, that you will make new friends and form new networks and that it's a personal promise that no matter how hard it might be, you will make it work. It's taking a leap into the big unknown and hoping you were right in wanting this. It's rolling with the punches and riding the highs, knowing that for once in your life you are completely alone in this decision and the experience is what YOU will make of it.<br />
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It's accepting that maybe it is a little selfish, to up and leave, but that it's okay. People will have their opinions but you're doing this for you. It means missing birthdays, Christmases, anniversary's, weddings and new babies...it's missing the smaller things like weekly catch ups with friends and Sunday braais with the family. It's missing the little things that become big things and accepting that it's just the way it has to be now. It's boxing up the jealousy at not being around or the homesickness that hits you hard enough to take the wind from your lungs and realising that this was a choice and you move past it. But it also means accepting that all and being thankful that you have so much to miss back home. It's moving past the wishes for home, and fully embracing where you are at this very moment. It means finally seeing that sometimes we need to get over ourselves and just enjoy what we have now.<br />
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It means ever longer spaces between the odd Skype call or text between home...it means losing some friends, but realising that maybe they were never true friends to begin with. It means learning who you can trust and rely on and who will always be there to support you, no matter the distance. It's meeting new people, making new friends who come from all backgrounds and who you can learn so much from. It means friends becoming family away from home. It means sad goodbyes... accepting that you meet people who are sometimes only around for a few months, but who you grow so close to and share the kind of bond with that spans time and distance. It's learning to let go of the small things and enjoy the kind of maturity that being away can bring to a relationship.<br />
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It means growing and stretching as a person, and sometimes it hurts but mostly you feel more alive than ever before. It's new experiences new faces, new cultures...it is having your eyes forced open to points of view you may never have looked at before. It means learning to accept and embrace the differences between you and others; the realisation that a whole other world exists outside of what you imagine and to get the opportunity to experience this is life changing. It's the risk that you can never go back to your old life. It's feeling alone and foreign, making you sympathetic to those back home who feel that every day. It means accepting that maybe you can never go back...maybe home is not where you've always thought it was but is actually exactly where you are, right now. It's dealing with the internal struggle between staying and going. It's being bitten by the travel bug, hard.<br />
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It means being thankful for everything you have back home, and seeing how much you took for granted. It's making the decision to try and never take that all for granted again. It's coming to value your country, its people, as distance makes you see things clearer. Or maybe it means seeing the bigger picture, seeing how appealing the rest of the world is. It means getting excited when you meet a fellow countryman and going home with a greater appreciation for what the world holds. Maybe you choose to never leave home again or maybe you choose to never stop exploring...coming abroad means you want to make that kind of decision. It's the sense of accomplishment that comes with knowing you did it - you went against the odds and have made a life for yourself in a completely foreign land. You survived, you kept your promise to yourself and you're a better person for it.<br />
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It means anticipation - of what adventure lies next, of seeing your loved ones again, of growing and having a bag full of memories to show anyone willing to listen. I know that things are different for everyone, depending on where you are and what you're doing. But this is what living abroad means to me...what does it mean to you?Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-86916905113039897022012-11-22T20:07:00.000-08:002012-11-22T20:07:04.256-08:00Oh, Korea.Oh, Korea. It's something I say almost daily, in the same way you sigh at things that amuse or frustrate you. It's a common saying here and sometimes the only thing you <i>can</i> say as explanation escapes some of what we see in this land of contradictions. I asked some friends to help contribute to this one, so thank you for the input. Initially I was just going to put a list of material things down but decided to do away with borders and just write down everything that I find uniquely Korean. Some good, some bad, some weird. In no order...<br />
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1. Ribbons on pizza boxes<br />
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2. White gloves for driving. I don't know what they are used for - to keep the car/hands clean or to prevent your hands tanning?<br />
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3. Hello Kitty toilet seats<br />
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4. Kimchi. Kimchi everywhere.<br />
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5. Amazing stationery. At low prices. It's cheap, it's cheerful and there's a ton of it! The craze at school seems to be these really little food erasers, which come apart and do everything except seem practical for erasing stuff.<br />
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6. Extensions for your t-shirts in Summer (arm socks). You roll them up your arms, presumably to avoid the sun.<br />
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7. BB Cream. It's make-up/cream, like foundation, that Koreans use to lighten their skin. It stands for 'blemish balm' and is used as cream, sun screen, foundation or primer depending on how much coverage a person needs. Some women take it too far and end up with pale faces that look out of place against their darker skin. I don't use it but some people now swear by it!<br />
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8. Ondol heating. It's underfloor type heating that is the BOMB in Winter and almost everywhere has it. No need for heaters - just use the ondol to keep the frost at bay.<br />
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9. Phones. No matter where you are, you will be surrounded by people with phones attached to their hands. Even at the gym. It's a huge part of the culture here with every tom dick and harry having their preference: iPhone, Samsung, LG...all the big players are here.<br />
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10. Key pads. I really wish my apartment had a keypad instead of a regular lock. It makes getting in so much easier as you pop in your code and bam, you're in. Locks automatically and looks really cool too.<br />
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11. Fast, cheap internet and wifi, for everyone.<br />
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12. Korean socks are the shizz. They are cute, fluffy, and really like nothing else I've ever seen. Because socks are worn with pretty much every shoe, even in Summer, Koreans really love their socks and for me - the cuter the better.<br />
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13. Spitting. Can't get used to it; there is nothing worse than walking anywhere near a man who decides to bring up a spit ball and release it on the floor in front of you. Or a woman at a coffee shop spiting into her empty cup. It's disgusting.<br />
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14. Taking off your shoes. Most traditional restaurants will expect you to take your shoes off when coming in, and no one wears shoes indoors (houses, businesses, schools etc) unless they are 'inside' shoes. I used to think it's strange but now I think it's totally logical...read point 14 again and think about what you'd be walking into your house.<br />
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15. Ties in with #5: these super awesome magic machines that you put sticky tape into and it cuts your tape into neat little pieces whenever you need them. Also, doughnut shaped sticky tape holders (is that a thing?!).<br />
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16. Call buttons in restaurants Most of us agree that these are the best things ever. In a restaurant, the staff don't hang around you like flies but disappear and can be called with one push of a button. Literally.<br />
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17. Related, no tipping at restaurants. Like ever. If you do, they'll give it back.<br />
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18. In a restaurant the staff might leave you be but walk into a shop, the beauty shops especially, and don't expect to get a minute alone as the attendants will follow you and stand right by you as you try to decide which BB cream suits you best.<br />
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19. Foot peels. Apparently that's a thing here.<br />
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20. Gmarket. Internet shopping. Need I say more?<br />
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21. Family Mart aka CU: convenience stores are EVERYWHERE, making them very... convenient.<br />
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22. Outdoor gym stations. These random things can be found on mountains outside schools, in parks or in the middle of nowhere. Just little stations of 3 or 4 simple exercise machines in case you're coming home from Family Mart and decide you need a public workout.<br />
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23. Jimjilbangs: public bathhouses. These are super popular in Korea; I know that at gyms back home you would often be exposed to other naked bodies while changing and showering but a jimjilbang is much more than that. Men and women come to these to unwind, bath, and get scrubbed down by each other or someone else if you so desire. Obviously the men and women are separated in the actual baths (where nudity is mandatory) but can come together again (clothed) inside to enjoy some food, a sauna or two, even gym (most gyms have a jimjilbang as part of the package). Often they include sleeping areas, as a lot of people use these as accommodation when away. I've done it twice and just cannot enjoy it, but I know a lot of people swear by it. I will say they are very clean and professional, I just don't fancy being naked in front of a whole bunch of ajjumas as they clean every inch of themselves.<br />
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24. Soju and the miracle drink. Soju is cheap and deadly...trust me on this one. But you can save yourself from the dreaded hangover the next day by knocking back a special miracle drink "Dawn something something" or "Morning Care" which is supposed to help. I don't know how it does it and have never had it myself but apparently it's the stuff of rainbows.<br />
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25. It gets cold here, seriously cold. So the availability of USB heated cushions and slippers is not just quirky, it's lifesaving.<br />
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26. Service-e. I don't mean "Telkom coming to fix my phone line(like that'll ever happen, amIright?)" service but going to a shop, buying something, even if it's \3000 and getting something for free. Sometimes it's awesome like all the beauty samples and cotton wool you'll get at cosmetic shops or an extra cookie at the coffee shop but sometimes it's random but still useful...like paper towel with your shampoo. They like their free stuff and packages of things (see #40).<br />
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27. Hooks with adhesive that you need to heat up in order to stick to the wall - they work amazingly!<br />
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28. Pickles with everything.<br />
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29. Constant top ups when eating out: if the water, kimchi, salad, radish etc runs out...just ask for more and it will keep coming. Also, just the vast amount of food you get for relatively cheap!<br />
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30. Sweet bread. Sweet crisps. Sweet dressing on sweet bread for sweet sandwiches. Why Korea?<br />
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31. Awkward bathroom situations: shower/sinks in one, washing machines in bathrooms, squatter toilets and my WORST - how the doors to men's toilets are often open and you can see straight in!<br />
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32. Couples clothing. Down to the underwear.<br />
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33. No trash cans anywhere. Ever.<br />
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34. Coming from South Africa, it's really nice to see no burglar bars, no barbed wire or huge gated communities. I feel safe living on my own here.<br />
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35. Toilet paper on the outside of the stalls...you need to estimate how much to take in with you and if you forget, better hope you have tissues handy.<br />
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36. Very efficient bus and train systems and taxi drivers who show you how real multi-tasking is done - watching a drama, checking their phone and driving you around!<br />
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37. Coffee shop culture: coffee shops are everywhere, they are cute and warm in winter, offer free wifi most of the time and I love it.<br />
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38. The independence of children...I've mentioned it before but I am constantly amazed by how these students just get stuff done. They get to school, to after school activities hagwons and home, having fed themselves and been on time. They just do it, no adult supervision needed.<br />
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39. The stubborn use of Internet Explorer.<br />
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40. Bulk buying. I know it has to do with families often living all together but I don't need 12 toilet rolls right now or 15 toothbrushes...I just want one!!!<br />
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Okay I'm going to make the cut off there because I could probably keep going and will maybe do another post on this before I leave. Not all of these are good vs bad, they're just things I've only noticed or come to use in Korea. I love this crazy place and a lot of what I've mentioned above I'm going to miss terribly. I know a lot of you reading might have things to add so please don't hesitate to comment :)<br />
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I love writing this blog, but am running out ideas. Any feedback with suggestions of topics or things you'd like to know would be great.<br />
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As always, thanks for reading and happy weekend everyone ^^<br />
<br />Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-88397830169021791392012-11-08T18:59:00.000-08:002012-11-08T18:59:59.994-08:00Time's UpMy morning trips to school are usually filled with the rambling thoughts inside my head, but today was a little more serious. "Bronin, we need to do survey. Will you teach next year or no teach". The time has come: no more dodging questions - I have to tell my school/s I'm not renewing and it feels a lot harder than I ever expected.<br />
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I feel insecure about going home, with no plan. I still have big dreams, still want to travel and I'm not ready to give any of that up just yet. So why I am leaving? I would stay for my kids - I have grown so fond of them. My schools, although maybe a little uninformed when it comes to what GET's need, have always treated me well. I've made awesome friends here, I can travel whenever I want and never have to be bored. I get paid A LOT to do fairly little. I love Korean food. My apartment feels like home now. Did I mention I get paid A LOT. I'm terrified of what waits for me at home: not just the typical "South African is in a shambles" worries but what will reality feel like? I have to find a job - what if no one wants me? I want to travel - what if I can't afford it? What if friends have forgotten about me and things have changed? What if I regret not staying...that's the real issue isn't it?<br />
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But after all of that, my gut still says going home is best. I know everyone says 'now is the time' and 'we'll never do this again'. Last time I checked, I was only 23 with the world at my feet. Yes, I totally get where these people are coming from and know that maybe once I go home I will (braces self) <i>settle</i>...but I still feel like this doesn't have to be the end. We're in charge of the paths we choose to take and naive as it may sound, I DO believe that I can have my way. And isn't this the time when we are allowed to have our heads in clouds of idealist dreams and fantasies, believing there is a place in this world for us that we just need to find? I'd like to think this is EXACTLY what I'm supposed to be thinking. And I really, truly, dearly miss home. I push it aside and honestly, the homesickness as such hasn't been as bad as I expected. But I miss my family, my friends, my home. I miss my fat cat who likes to block my view of the television (I miss my TV), I miss home cooked meals and a cup of tea on the porch, speaking to my folks about my day. I miss sharing in the birthdays, the girls nights out. I miss walking into a restaurant and not worrying about whether or not I'll have to sit on the floor, and be able to look at a menu and think, 'I know what this says!!'. Maybe it's time I stop reading about all the problems in SA, all that needs to be done there and actually go and see what I can do - stop running away from the responsibility I have to get really involved. When it comes down to it though, this is what makes me confident(ish) in my decision: the money I would make, the biggest benefit for staying, is not worth more to me than being back in a position of communication. That's been my biggest issue here and is the biggest pull home (factoring out friends and family of course).<br />
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So there it is. My decision in black and white. Will I look at the pictures of my friends who are still here next year and regret leaving? Honestly, I don't know. But right now, I need to be home, I need to see what else is out there. Korea has given me so much and it breaks my heart to say goodbye. But my time is up, I need to move on. Well, let's not be melodramatic (it's hard for me not to be) I still have 3+ months. But I really didn't think that actually going through with this decision would feel so unsettling, hence the sharing of feelings on here.<br />
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I know a lot of people are going through the same thing, some haven't even been able to come to a final decision yet. I wish you the best decision, as my coteacher told me, and remember that whether you stay or go, you'll make it work. How's that for a little bit of Friday motivational speaking hey?<br />
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To my friends and family reading back home - I am SO looking forward to seeing you all in February.<br />
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Happy Friday lovely people of the internet.Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-80262475242812981032012-11-07T19:55:00.001-08:002012-11-07T19:55:09.030-08:00When you're big in Korea When I started thinking about writing this blog, all I could hear in my head was the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTRcRpHfAos">Big in Japan song</a> by Alphaville. Now it's stuck in my head so maybe it can get stuck in yours too. Take it or leave it :)<br />
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It's coming up to 9 months here and if there's still one thing that surprises me, it's the level of 'vanity' in Korea. I hesitate to use the word vanity due to its largely negative connotations, which I'm trying to avoid, but the word still seems to fit best. Before coming to Korea, all the groups I was involved in on Facebook that dealt with new teachers coming to Korea contained threads discussing fears, of mostly women, that us Westerners would not be able to find clothes to fit. I know it was a concern for me; people saying we need to bring clothes and not rely on stores here, freaking me out. Quite honestly most of the threads freaked me out: bring toothpaste, deodorant shampoo, sheets, etc etc all to last a year. I felt like I was moving to a barren waste land!! Luckily I decided to take my chances and come with the minimum...yes I do get some stuff sent over but it is more than possible to find everything you need here or on the internet. But I digress. It seemed impossible to a lot of people that us Western body shapes could ever fit into the tiny doll clothes that South Korean women wear. And throughout my time here, this issue and other issues of beauty have played on my mind a lot, and I felt like blogging about it. Partly because I think it's interesting and partly because I don't have much exciting news to blog about and feel like writing ;)<br />
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Working in an Elementary School, I did not expect my students to be overly concerned about appearance. When I was 10, all I cared about was playing marbles, honing in on my yo-yo skills and hoping my parents had packed great snacks in my lunch box. Looks were not something that overly concerned me yet at that age. And so I was surprised to see my young students checking themselves out in the mirror at every opportunity. There is at least 1 mirror in every classroom, and it's not uncommon to find students, boys and girls, just staring at themselves. Of course my teachers do the same, often reapplying make-up or fixing hair, but I didn't think my students would care all that much. Often on the streets I see Middle or High School students walking around with mirrors, checking themselves out. And I don't mean the inconspicuous tiny mirrors we may have used in High School back home. No these are full size vanity mirrors, and they often spend ages looking at themselves, not just a quick glance to make sure they're not carrying around their lunch in their teeth. If a mirror is unavailable for some reason, then a phone is a great substitute. There is no, for lack of a better word, skaam here - it is perfectly normal to spend your time looking at yourself. It's something that struck my family when they were here too - how South Korean men and women love looking at themselves. Now I must point out that I'm not trying to condemn their actions - I'm just sharing my observations and opinions.<br />
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South Korea is known for it's plastic surgery, with people from all over Asia and the rest of the world flocking to see the best doctors. Interesting articles on this can be seen <a href="http://www.cnngo.com/seoul/visit/ideals-beauty-plastic-surgery-capital-world-389581">here</a> and <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/04/world/asia/in-south-korea-plastic-surgery-comes-out-of-the-closet.html?pagewanted=all">here</a>. A trend that is particularly popular is 'double eye-lid' surgery. I'm not going to try and explain it but the aim of this procedure is bigger, more open looking eyes, and since being here, I can definitely tell the difference between single and double eye-lids. Now let me address something that irks me a little bit. We've spoken about it briefly here among my friends and I've read a bit about it too - the myth that all South Koreans (Asians?) want to look Western (white?), and that's why they have things like double eye-lid surgery and skin whitening I disagree. What makes us think we are so desirable? I think sometimes it's easy to fall into the 'rock star' trap here, where you think that just because you're Western and the Koreans make a fuss of you, it means you rock. Maybe you do, and often they really do think we're attractive...but we're all <u>different</u> and that's where a lot of the attention comes from. Just my opinion. So things like bigger eye-lids are probably more sought after because all over the world, big eyes are seen as beautiful, not matter where you're from. Also, the skin whitening in Korea isn't necessarily about looking 'white' but rather it stems from long held beliefs that dark skin means you are poor: historically, poorer Koreans would spend their days in the fields, working to make a living and therefore getting darker in the sun, whereas more well off Koreans avoided the sun, therefore looking light. That is maybe why light skin is popular, not because they are actually trying to look white. I just think that as foreigners, we need to be careful not to assume we are in fact the bees knees. Rant over, for now. I don't want this blog to be about plastic surgery - it's common, it's spoken about openly, and it's just a part of the bigger beauty picture.<br />
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The thing I've been wrestling around with and thinking about a lot here is as a Western woman in Korea, how has their focus on the ideal beauty affected me, if at all? I've noticed time and again how anything slightly different is pointed out. I dye my hair and my kids faint. My skin breaks out and they are very quick to point it out, saying I look tired. In fact in general, Koreans do not mince their words - they will tell it like it is and ask what is wrong with your face if you have a spot. Thanks, like I wasn't already conscious about it Korea. A student is a little chubby and they get poked at (literally). I know a few very thin English teachers who have been asked if they are pregnant. You go shopping in the smaller towns like Jecheon and the majority of the clothes are too small or just don't fit right. Myeong-dong is one of many Western shopping havens, where we end up spending too much money in shops like Forever 21 and H&M because we can't find things easily elsewhere. We resort to shopping online at amazing stores like <a href="http://www.asos.com/?r=2">ASOS</a> to find things that might fit. I know this might be sounding like another blog to freak the newbies out, sorry. It is possible to find things here and I've even bought things in Jecheon but it can be disheartening when you see all these amazing clothes and know they won't fit. And there are plenty of foreigners who don't suffer shopping at all - go you! So it depends. We are surrounded by stick thin, beautiful Korean men and women daily - standing next to my coteacher makes me feel like a troll. I have a friend who says she never really thought about her skin tone but since coming here, it's discussed often and she's much more aware of it. Among foreigners, I often see adverts for Herbalife and such, emphasising the need to keep slim - and I won't lie, I cannot understand how Koreans can stay so thin and eat so much rice!! And so it's not just pressure from Korea that filters through, but from foreigners too. We're different, we get stared at, poked and prodded and I often feel like I'm under a microscope here, with every little thing being noticed.<br />
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Sometimes this feels great, as I mentioned in my rant above. My teachers all compliment me on the way I dress, on my hair, they told me I am beautiful when I arrived and have beautiful eyes. Sometimes you feel on top of the world (even when your coteacher tells you your hairy arms make you a 'beautiful woman' while stoking your said hairy arm). But other times I really wish they'd look away. I don't know if being in Korea has made me more, or less, self-conscious about my looks. On one hand, I feel more 'vain' than ever before; yes, I have caught myself checking out my hair in my phone and I can't help but check myself out in the hundreds of mirrors at school. I am excited by the massive beauty store culture here and love browsing for new make-up and nail polishes (the beauty store phenomenon is another issue entirely - beauty value back home is really going to struggle to entertain me now). I'm much more aware of how I present myself but am also much more aware of my flaws...they stand out more here. On the other hand, I feel like I'm so different anyway that I really don't care. I'm not stupid (generally). I know that my body structure is not that of a South Korean woman, and I'm never going to look like them no matter what I do. So why care? Why not just accept that I'm me, I look like I do, I break out and I spend too much money in Myeong-dong. I'm really okay with that. I like that my kids 'ooh and ahh' when I dye my hair, put on some lipstick or just wear a bow to tame my curls - it makes me feel appreciated. But I've also learned to let go of the "you look tired" comments and pokes and prods. It's not worth it.<br />
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I don't know if this post has been helpful for anyone, and I know it's made me vulnerable but I really think it's something a lot of foreigners here deal with, no matter what dress/pants size you are. Being in Korea and being flooded with the "be better" attitude and expectations can be rough on the ego. But I think I've leaned to accept myself better here than anywhere else. I've grown so much over my time here and this is part of it. Do I think that it's healthy for Koreans, especially Korean children to be so image obsessed? No. I feel sorry my students who are a little bit bigger and are already being picked on. I wish there was more room for diversity in Korea, in general. Do I think plastic surgery is wrong? Not necessarily - I'm not one to pass judgement but I think it needs to be done for the right reasons. I don't think Korea is necessarily any different to the rest of the world when it comes to it's beauty ideals: all over the world there is pressure to look a certain way and go the 'extra' mile to achieve it. But I think because it's so openly discussed in Korea and because us being different stands out, it's easy to feel it more here. I'm all for being healthy and being careful not to overdo it on the carbs, but I think that my issue is when all this beauty focus causes kids to feel like they aren't good enough, Koreans to go to unhealthy lengths to attain an ideal (which is called an 'ideal' for a reason) and for some of us foreigners to feel like there's some standard we just cannot achieve, causing feelings of inferiority next to our Korean friends.<br />
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I don't know if I've made a point here. But this is part of my journey I thought I would share and would love to hear any of your opinions. I know that maybe what I've said was a little bit off, I'm not claiming to be factual, it's just as I see it :) I also feel like I've said "here" a lot. I apologise.<br />
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For the noobs: don't panic. The one thing you may hear which IS true is that if your feet are slightly bigger, you probably will struggle to find shoes. But regardless of what you read above, shopping for clothes in Korea all depends on you, your town and what you like. Some people fit right in, others struggle more and prefer the online stores, some just don't like Korean styles. So don't worry - a world of shopping fulfillment still waits for you here ;)<br />
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Maybe I am 'big in Korea'. That's okay, and that's how I see it today. I can't feel my toes and it's lunch time so I'm out.<br />
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Loves<br />
<br />Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-33839709129224399142012-10-29T20:01:00.002-07:002012-10-29T20:01:31.232-07:00Mr Jo and Mrs LeeHi everyone!<br />
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I hope my friends in Korea are keeping warm...I swear my teachers think I'm crazy, wearing scarves and jackets already but damn, it's cold. This feels like South African Winter and it's only 'Autumn'. Needless to say I am actually beginning to really worry about Winter proper here. Blankets, tea, hot water bottles and anything warm and fluffy being sent my way would be much appreciated (this is not a hint, it's a cry for help).<br />
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I've been meaning to write this post for ages, so now that I have absolutely nothing to do at school, let's get to it! Coteachers in Korea are a huge part of your life here. Whether you like it or not, unless you come here speaking fluent Korean and know everything there is to know about your school etc etc, your coteacher is your life-line. Having said this, you never really know who you're going to get. There are young ones who will want to be friends and take you drinking on the weekends, calling you the next day to see if your hangover has killed you. There are older ones who will mother you and make sure you never want for anything. There are ones who speak fluent English and ones that speak none; ones who want to be your friend and ones who barely acknowledge you at school. There are certain things your coteachers HAVE to do for you - most of these are admin, school and apartment related tasks. There are other things, such as helping you find your way around, translating bus times or helping with things that are difficult to do without knowing Korean, that some coteachers will willingly do. You just don't know. I think it's important to be prepared for anything and accept the fact that you may possibly end up with a grumpy non-English speaking 50-something who resents having to 'baby' you. It happens. As we've learned time and time again here - be ready for anything.<br />
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I have two very different coteachers - Mrs Lee and Mr Jo. Mrs Lee is my 'real' coteacher in that she is at Hwadang, my main school, and she is in 'charge' of me. She does all the paperwork, clears all my leave, and is the person I go to if I need to know anything. She really is the one who people go through if they need to know anything about me. I teach my favourite and easiest class with her, my precious 4th graders, and she has a way of being stern and loving with them all in one. Her kids really respond to her. We've had a bit of an up-and-down year together: she can be incredibly kind and warm, and borders on 'coddling' me and underestimating me at times but she can be very uptight and controlling in other ways. At the moment, things are very good between us. She speaks very little English and the conversations we share are very limited - how was your weekend, what will you do this weekend, and anything school related (usually told to me 10 minutes after I need to know it). I find her to be a little insensitive to my position as a foreigner here and a bit reluctant to include me in things at school. My first encounter with her was when I was told to go and organise my ARC by myself. Having just arrived in a new country, with no idea how anything worked and knowing full well this was something coteachers were there to help with, it was a slap in the face. But she really pulled through for me when I complained about my internet. I just don't think she has any idea how hard it is to be here and not be able to communicate. She's never traveled and I find those teachers who have, can better understand how difficult it is to get around a place when you don't speak the language. I asked her once if she could help me at the post-office as I wanted to try and send a package home - she dropped me outside. When she's angry, she lets me know by ignoring me and dropping me further away from home than necessary.<br />
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There are times this year when I have been at my wits end and actually shed tears over the situation. However, I decided to get over myself and put myself in her position. She is really busy at school, it is intimidating to be put in charge of the English teacher when you speak very little English and bottom line - she didn't ask for this. One thing I hope other teachers in frustrating situations at least consider, is the fact that very often we do not know half of what our coteachers deal with and go through for us. It does not always justify everything but I've found that by being a little more understanding, we have a better relationship and I am a lot more independent for it (at least I'd like to think so). Now, we laugh together often, she is warm towards me and things are just happier. There really is nothing quite like a scorned or sulky coteacher (avoid avoid avoid). We had a good giggle in the car on Friday, as after telling her that Christmas in SA is hot and therefore we often swim on Christmas day, she suggested wearing a 'santa swimsuit'. Only a Korean woman could think of something like that :) I really do like Mrs Lee when she is on my side and hope things continue this way for the rest of the year.<br />
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Then there's Mr Jo. He isn't really even a coteacher. He's the guy who gives me a lift to and from school, so is the teacher at Baegun I spend the most time with. I don't actually know all that much about him...I would guess he's in his 40s and it doesn't sound like he's married or has kids - I've always been too embarrassed to ask. He's quite an intimidating teacher to the students although very warm and caring too (showing affection in the standard Korean way - patting the boys on the bum and playing with cheeks - sometimes still weird for me). He's also the manliest of all the male teachers I'm surrounded by. Mr Jo has just gotten a fancy new car (so happy, the seats now have heating - just in time for Winter!!) but before that, he'd pick me up and stick in a cassette for us to listen to. Often it was Dire Straits which I LOVED as it reminds me of my Dad. He makes a real effort to talk to me. He's asked countless questions about my family, my home, why I'm not black (true story kids) and about my experiences here. Although his English is basic, he isn't shy to pull out his phone and Google translate some words so he can get his point across (although lovely of him, this is often done while driving, which scares me a bit haha). We've spoken about music we like, and his taste is very similar to my Dad, enjoying Bryan Adams, Dire Straits, Eric Clapton and Metallica to name a few.<br />
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We get on really well and have never had any problems - he may or may not have traveled but I feel he is sensitive to my role as a foreigner here and has asked questions about what I find difficult here and as a foreign teacher etc. He is very quick to back me up at school - if my kids are giving me grief, I can tell him and he will "kill them"...his words, not mine. This is something I feel Mrs Lee lacks - I never really feel supported or included by her. Mr Jo seems to worry about me a lot; he never leaves school on time and I often have to sit around for up to 40 minutes for us to leave which stresses him out and he's taken to stopping on the way home to get us coffee. He always apologises if he's early/late/hasn't cleaned his desk when I come in to teach or if I have a desk warming or 'dull' day as he calls it. He refuses to take money for petrol and drops me off at my doorstep, even though it means negotiating very narrow and awkward roads. Speaking of his driving - this guy is a pro. He actually asked me the other day if his driving "gives me fear" but I really feel safe with him even when he's whipping around town and trying to take all the short cuts (it means we leave later in the mornings so I aint complaining). I just think Mr Jo is a cool kid.<br />
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Both of these teachers are very different but I have grown so fond of them. I really hope to be able to command a classroom like either of them someday. I feel it's important to blog about them not just for me to share but also to try and encourage an open mind when it comes to your coteachers. I of all people understand being frustrated and fed up and wishing for a 'young, fun' coteacher but we need to give them a break, accept that they were lumped with us as much as we were stuck with them and try to understand where they come from. It isn't always easy and sometimes there's no silver lining ..but if you've got to be interacting with this person (people) all year - you might as well make the most of it I say. Treat them well and generally they'll return the favour.Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-13796642303803950062012-10-15T22:33:00.000-07:002012-10-15T22:33:37.601-07:00Finding our zen <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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Sometimes, it's good to get away and clear your mind. And what better way to do that than a temple stay! The Provincial Office of Education (POE) in Chungbuk sent out emails a few weeks ago asking if anyone would want to join on a sponsored temple stay trip. I singed up immediately as it's been something I wanted to do before I leave - and this trip would be free! I won't lie...once I knew I was definitely going and looked at the schedule, I started to regret deciding to go. Who wants to spend their much needed weekend waking up at 3am and doing 108 bows? I did apparently. So with a bit of foot dragging, I woke up on Saturday morning, not really knowing what was lying ahead of me. Awesomeness is what was.<br />
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We all (80 odd EPIK teachers) had to meet at the Office of Education by 9:40 on Saturday morning to load onto buses to Songnisan National Park - Boeun. I had been before (read that post <a href="http://bronsblog22.blogspot.kr/2012/04/songisan-mountain-weekend.html">here</a>) but this time was different, given we were actually staying at the temple. Jecheon is 2 hours from Cheongju, so we caught the 7:00 (on a SATURDAY) bus and made it to Cheonju in time. It was another 1 hour bus ride to Songnisan, and then a 20 minute walk to the temple. Was great to see people from Orientation and catch up a bit, as we hardly ever get a chance to see everyone! Songnisan at this time of the year is beautiful. Well actually all of Korea in Autumn is beautiful. The leaves are changing, making the landscape full of vibrant reds, oranges, yellows and greens. We were greeted at the temple by our lovely host - this woman was just amazing So happy, kind, gentle. Guess everything you expect a monk/nun to be like. Her English was great and she had a Korean Military guy there to help translate too, making it easy to communicate. We dropped our bags off at the main hall and were taken for lunch - buffet style, where we had to be careful what we dished up as there was a no-waste policy (completely understandable). I liked it this way because it meant we could eat what and how much we wanted. The food over the weekend was actually pretty good. Vegetarian, rice with different toppings which made a bimimbap vibe, soups...there was pajeon and watermelon one meal. All in all, quite delicious. We were also expected to clean our bowls and utensils till spotless, which made me think of school camps!<br />
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After lunch we changed into our gray 'Aladdin' pants and waist coats, or as we were told - our fake monk clothes. They may have looked ridiculous but were actually pretty comfortable.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cos this looks so zen *eye roll*</td></tr>
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We then were taken on a tour of the grounds, having the different buildings, shrines and 'national treasures' explained to us which was quite interesting. I forget when exactly, but we were also taught the proper way to bow, explaining how 2 hands held together in front of you signals you come in peace. There is so much that I learned this weekend, but I can't remember it all right now. One of the most interesting things for me, which I already knew a bit about, was the fact that Buddhists do not worship, or bow down, to Buddha. They see him as a great teacher who reached Enlightenment, the 'goal' I guess of Buddhism but they do not see him as a god and therefore are not worshiping him. The bowing is to your true self, in order to clear your mind and focus on the ills of this world and our role in it all. This is really oversimplified and maybe wrong, but it's how I understood it.<br />
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We were then taken on a hike up to a peak over looking the whole temple and surrounding areas. It was beautiful up there!!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the top</td></tr>
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We sat for a while, chatting and taking in the views. Eventually, we were asked to be quiet for meditation...this was one of the highlights for me. We sat in silence, for around 15 minutes I think, and I was able to completely relax. We heard some Buddhist chanting in the background, the sounds from the temple below and just nature all around us. It sounds silly but really, it's the most 'zen' I've ever felt. From there it was back down for room placements and dinner. We were told to meet at the big drum for the evening chanting ceremony around 6. This was awesome - we stood and watched the monks beat the drum, the big bell, and go through all the rituals of evening meditation and chanting. We were taken to the main temple after this, where 3 huge golden Buddhas stood and where the monks go for chanting and meditation. None of us really knew what we were doing, so was a tad bit awkward, but we followed the lead of the monks, bowing when we had to and looking around nervously when we didn't. The inside of the temple is so pretty, with very intricate designs all over the wood. I spent most of the time just taking it all in.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beating the drum</td></tr>
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After that we went back to the main hall for lotus flower making - this was fun and carefree, with jokes made about how 'original' our different creations were.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nolo, Cola and me with our finished lanterns </td></tr>
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We then took candles and our flowers and walked around the temple in silence, before being led into the main hall for evening meditation. Here we sat in the dark, and tried to clear our minds. We were told to tell ourselves "I love you", "I'm sorry" and "Thank you" - the same with our loved ones. We then lay down and were taken through a relaxation ritual, before bed. It was only 8.30pm and most of us were a little concerned about how we could ever fall asleep so early. But the meditation helped, as well as the fact that we had to remain in silence until the next morning. Sleep was achieved, at least a little bit was, before our VERY early 3am start.<br />
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With sleep still on our faces, it was up and to the temple at 3.30, for morning chanting and meditation. Cue bowing, meditation/sleeping, and early morning grumpiness. We didn't stay in the temple long, but were taken back to the main hall for our own zen meditation. I found this hard. Not only was I tired, sleepy, and therefore restless, but my posture is apparently atrocious, and sitting with a straight back and crossed legs felt like torture. I couldn't believe how calm and very 'zen' our guides looked...I just couldn't keep still! Funniest moment was hearing a faint snore from somewhere/someone - whoever it was, I don't blame you!!! Once we came to, it was time for the 108 bows. I was dreading this part as it sounds very difficult but actually, it was great. Let me try, as simply as I can, explain the reason for the 108 bows.<br />
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The bowing is all about prostration - you prostrate yourself in order to purify that which we do wrong in this world, to recommit yourself to the principles of Buddhism and for me it was really just about trying to focus on our role in this world, apologizing for what we do wrong and being thankful for all that we have. Buddhists believe that this act of prostration cleanses you. What I really enjoyed or found helpful, was that we listened to a CD of an American Monk while doing it, and every time we bowed, he explained why we were doing it. He took us through the '108 Delusions' of the mind...things like being sorry for thinking we are right, sorry for taking our parents for granted, praying for world peace and the end of all disease etc. For me, this whole process really just helped me focus on what I can improve on as a person living in a very connected world. A lot of what was said really spoke to me, and I think it's important to acknowledge what we do wrong each day, but not dwell on it either, which I think is the point here. Say sorry, prostrate yourself, and be free of it. Like I said, this is really oversimplified and maybe I misinterpreted it all but this is what I took from it. 108 bows went much quicker than I was expecting but was happy to be done with it. I know we went on a walk through the forest too - but cannot remember when exactly this was (it was early, okay).<br />
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We then ate breakfast, and given the choice between taking a rest or going on another walk, I took rest ;) Was honestly the most life changing nap ever, and felt much more alive after that. It was back to the main hall where we chilled a lot and had the head monk at the temple come and briefly address us (this is all before 8am). They really have a very calming way about them. We had Q&A time with him and our nun, which was very interesting, allowing us to try and understand Buddhism better. I love that it is a religion that is all inclusive; with no one god, it allows for all beliefs to come together and take from it what we can. I can understand why Buddhists choose to live the life they do...the best way to describe it in my eyes is with what Gandhi said: Live simply so that others may simply live. There is nothing I really agree with more than that.<br />
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We sat down to a traditional tea ceremony, where we were taught how to pour and drink the tea, and it was all just very relaxed. When asked about heaven, the nun (I really wish I could remember her name) said something along the lines of 'look at us here, laughing, enjoying each others company - this is heaven on earth'. A beautiful way to think of it.<br />
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Cue lunch, and the trek back to the buses, and we were on our way home. Honestly, I took way more out of the weekend than I ever expected to, and thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. I came home feeling relaxed despite the early morning, and am really happy I was given the opportunity to learn more about such a fascinating religion. It should be noted here, as I know a lot of people back home are probably wondering, that just because I went on this experience does not mean I'm becoming a Buddhist. That's not what it's about. I feel I can take a lot from their teachings, and in today's world, we need to be teaching openness and tolerance, and emphasising our roles as consumers and this is where I think some Buddhist principles can be really helpful. You don't need to be put in a box and defined as 'either this' 'or that' - at least I don't. And this weekend was about learning more and having a truly Korean experience, which is what I'm here for!<br />
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There were plenty cameramen around us, and lots of pictures were taken. Shame, I don't think the small town knew what had hit them with all 80 of us walking down the street.<br />
There was a clip about the weekend on the Korean news, which you can see <a href="http://news.kbs.co.kr/society/2012/10/15/2551398.html">here</a>.<br />
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So all in all, I had a wonderful weekend temple experience, and would really recommend you try it. The one in Boeun is especially beautiful but they are all over Korea! I'm glad I went, and learned above all that sometimes, our assumptions and expectations need to be ignored.<br />
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Happy Tuesday everyone!<br />
Peace and love<br />
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<br />Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-66728901171045693602012-10-11T21:24:00.001-07:002012-10-11T21:24:03.595-07:00It is what it isI was trying to come up with a catchy title but was having no inspiration so really, it is what it is.<br />
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This blog has become something I look forward to writing each week, and although I'm not 100% sure if I'm doing what I set out to do in the beginning, it's nice to share my stories and therapeutic to vent sometimes. This is a venting post. It's been a bit of an up and down week. Monday was a wonderful school picnic day with my students, but the rest of the week has been, for lack of a better word and because I've been in Korea too long, so-so. I've been thinking of my role as a teacher here quite a bit this week and it's lead me to become quite frustrated.<br />
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In the beginning of the year, at orientation, we were told about desk-warming. Oh it sounded so amazing...all the time you want to sit and watch movies and serf the internet. Bliss. But as we were warned, I soon discovered that in fact, desk warming can be mind numbing. I don't have sound at my main school so series watching is not an option for me. I try as hard as I can to be productive while I'm here but really, there is only so much you can do when you spend at least half your school week in front of a computer. It didn't seem so bad in the beginning...I had just enough down time to make it enjoyable. But this second semester has felt different. To be completely honest, I feel totally useless. My students have just left for the English Contest being held in Jecheon today, and although I asked to please go with, I wasn't invited to go along. Other teachers are able to negotiate these kinds of situations and maybe I could have juggled my class around. Instead, I sit at my desk, doing nothing but thinking. The fact that I was hardly involved in the preparations for the contest seemed odd to me too - why am I being paid all this money to sit at my desk?<br />
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I guess I'm just trying to decide what kind of role I have here. All the GET's have different experiences but I'm sure I'm not the only who feels this way. I really just wish I had a teacher who I could sit down and talk about all these things with but unfortunately, my coteacher is sweet but not very interested in discussing anything with me. She can't understand what I say half the time. It's hard to be in a situation where for 95% of any weekday, I have little idea what is going on around me. I'm talked about, in front of my face. I'm pointed at, I hear bits of conversations that I know have to do with my classes but I'm rarely filled in on what's going on. I prepare for classes that are cancelled; I have a 5th grade class that gets cancelled at least once a week but then have to answer to the teacher who wants me to "hurry up" because the students are behind. I feel like I'm in the wrong because I don't know whether anyone has been informed that it is in fact the 5th grade teacher who cancels, not me. I have gotten used to this and in general it doesn't affect me...guess it's just been one of those weeks.<br />
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The other thing I've been struggling with is how I'm treated here. My schools are very kind to me; they accept me and include me where they can (this is a different point to my above mentioned lack of information regarding actual class time) but I don't know if I feel like an adult. How can I explain this...Sometimes I feel like I am babied. I'm dropped off here and picked up there, with teachers always worrying about how "Bronin" is getting home if my usual lifts are busy. They make me stand in the lines with the kids and sometimes I feel like a student, not a teacher. There are times I really appreciate it and feel really cared for, but sometimes I just feel like I've been given all this independence by moving to a foreign country...but I actually have little real independence with anything school related. I am young, this is their culture, I accept and embrace it. But it does make me wonder how well I'm finding my feet in this world as an 'adult'.<br />
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I guess you can tell from my schizo sounding post that it's just been 'one of those weeks' where the language barrier gets me down and I feel really isolated. It's not always like this and there will be a time when I am SO thankful for no classes. But today, I want a glass of wine with my parents and want to be able to hear them tell me I'm capable and doing a good job, even though I feel completely out of place. But I can't do that - so I will blog. It's therapeutic, so bear with me ;)<br />
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What do you do in a situation where you feel helpless to change anything? You deal with it. I love my kids (even the naughty ones, when I'm not the one trying to control them) and love teaching. I'm trying to decide what to do next year when I get home, and a PGCE is on the cards but I have no idea what actual teaching will feel like. Here I may have control over my classes, but everything else is in everyone else's hands. I'm anticipating the moment when all the teachers wake up to the fact that my classes are behind, because maybe cancelling English for soccer practice is NOT the most productive decision. But that's somehow my problem. The communication barrier here is my biggest struggle and most weeks it's easy to shrug it off with a simple 'oh Korea'. But lately I just wish I had a true voice here and was more than the young white South African girl who teaches English.<br />
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Is it my fault? Am I doing something wrong? Well that's what I'm trying to figure out really. Maybe writing it down and getting feedback will help me figure this all out.<br />
Until then, we keep on keeping on because that's what we do best! ^^Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-26537144433601691572012-10-08T21:05:00.002-07:002012-10-09T19:43:31.811-07:00주섴<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For those who are not familiar with Korean, this post is about Chuseok - Korean thanksgiving! I went with 6 friends to the island paradise of Jeju for 5 blissful days and thought I would share!</div>
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It really was an awesome little break and I was happy to get to see more of Jeju. I would recommend going there to everyone - make the trip. The beaches are beautiful, the people are friendly and there is SO much to do. Jeju-do, I love you!!<br />
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<u>Day 1</u><br />
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We only arrived on Jeju at around 20:00 Saturday evening. It was easy to catch a cab to our hostel for the night - Greenday. It's one of the nicest hostels I've stayed at in Korea and home to the cutest, fattest, big-eyed cat ever. We dropped our bags and went straight out to find food. We ended up at a little place selling bulgogi and sweet and sour pork (which we decided on). Was an average meal, the highlight being me (of all people, come now :P) being told to shut up by the staff. Well, her words were more like...*points at me* "you, go down". At least I think she said something like that. We left in search of beer and back at the hostel sat down to a game of mafia, a group favourite. The hostel has a no-noise policy after 11 so we packed it up and got an early-ish night.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWdRHuGbsSI1v6IK6hAUlN2ZIYmloGlAcrR-0Hzn9Jia6kwarPLW6VpAbRH6JN1nCVVSUJsrL_T_N2JReRnZXyb3t9eBte8jrVvu4VbhIKS_nqsvWcRvKjNInlHyl9RzfPcqTe8vhFbBRS/s1600/47498_10151038210236836_453911136_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWdRHuGbsSI1v6IK6hAUlN2ZIYmloGlAcrR-0Hzn9Jia6kwarPLW6VpAbRH6JN1nCVVSUJsrL_T_N2JReRnZXyb3t9eBte8jrVvu4VbhIKS_nqsvWcRvKjNInlHyl9RzfPcqTe8vhFbBRS/s320/47498_10151038210236836_453911136_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner</td></tr>
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<u>Day 2</u><br />
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On the Sunday we woke up and made a nice breakfast of eggs on toast - a little treat for someone who hasn't had a normal breakfast in a while (too lazy to cook in the mornings haha). Esti and Kevin went to pick up our rental car for the weekend (I believe it took Esti's alter-ego, Svetlana, to finally get that right) and by the time they got back we were packed back up and ready to explore. Having our own car gave us the freedom to travel where ever we liked and not worry about luggage, and between you and me, I think Kevin orchestrated this all just so he could drive again ;) Hey, we weren't complaining! We put some road trip tunes in (trying to decide on a play list proved difficult...Will's exclamations of "I'm putting my foot down now" went unanswered :P) and went in search of Love Land. Although I had been before, I went again for pure amusement. It took longer than expected to get there, and after wondering through the world of penises and awkward statues, we were all ready for lunch.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The African Love statue. Cos you know, that's how we roll in the Ap-ri-ca.</td></tr>
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Cue another long and windy journey (the motion sickness reached sky high levels for some) and after a bit of a search we decided to eat at a little place overlooking the ocean. We had pork noodles and pajeon, coffee and ice cream and then went off to find out hostel. We were spending 2 nights in Seogwipo which is where Mt Hallasan is located and one of the bigger cities. We found the Hiking Inn with relative ease and were happy to be able to walk around a bit. Hiking Inn was a bit of a dive...out of all the hostels I've stayed in, this one was one of the least impressive but we had our own bathroom which was nice and the roof top was amazing! Stunning views, a really cool place to hang out.<br />
Some of us wanted to check out the Cheonjiyeon Waterfall before it got dark so set off there and took in the natural beauty all around us. We relaxed and had some coffee before stocking up on supplies for day 3 - Hallasan. That night we ordered some chicken and ate up on the roof, keen for an early night ahead of the big hike the next day. It's funny how entertaining 'eye spy with my little eye' can be.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from Hiking Inn roof</td></tr>
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<br />
<u>Day 3</u><br />
<u><br /></u>
I have decided to throw away my hiking boots so as to never be temped to hike again. Okay no I'm joking and being totally over dramatic.<br />
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Day 3 saw us waking up early to make the journey to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hallasan">Mt Hallasan</a>, Korea's highest peak and Jeju's famous volcano. I was apprehensive to say the least. Those of you following my journey here and those who know me understand that hiking in Korea has been a bit of a love/hate thing for me. Love the feeling of being at the top, love coming down, love the feeling of accomplishment and stiff limbs after but hate the process of getting up. Halla was no different. I am beyond chuffed to say I made it all 9.6 km up and 9.6km back down. Can I get a hells yeah. The hike itself wasn't all that difficult; the worst for me were the steps to the top...they seemed to go on forever. I think it was just the length of the hike that made it seem so tough. I struggle to keep myself motivated, and because I'm so slow and fall behind so quickly, I go through a pretty weird thought process whereby I argue with myself the whole way up. "what are you doing? why did you think you could do this? you should turn around now while there is still hope. you'll never make it. yes you will, you can do it. kill me now. nearly there" - these are some of them. As you can see, most are negative, no matter how hard I try to stay positive. And so the way up is not a fun time for me. But we made it, and it was worth it. We sat at the top, drinking in the views, watching some deer on the mountain and having 'snicker sandwiches' made by Cola: bread with peanut butter and nutella. The best has to be the guy who silently came to sit just up from us, and either he didn't see us or didn't realise his own strength but he proceeded to let out the biggest fart ever. We were all so surprised we just burst out laughing and when he noticed, he laughed and apologised before quietly making his exit. Oh Korea.<br />
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The way down was much easier and quicker and on jelly legs, we all made it down. It was back into the car and off to get wine and breakfast supplies before we could get home and enjoy hot showers. We went and had dinner at a quaint little place by the sea, but I think we were all too tired to really be enthusiastic. We went back to the hostel to eat a tub of ice cream (don't give us judgey eyes - we deserved it ;) ) before crashing into bed. It was a good day and the aching muscles were worth the experience and sense of achievement. Mt Halla - dominated.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the summit! FIGHTING!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZPYRFYH5296YOaKgkMLSh7iR2EBAf8ZR9uNbK8QQqNkibDbdM-LyhZ6c3xg8w3Hd8u477LnmeAoC_RQaDIYpBskBtYI4sAawhWEawIFXKnCUlnYM7FM5NIyY2uXAZMYqT0ZHsbHK9hYEo/s1600/576474_10151038213326836_366893462_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZPYRFYH5296YOaKgkMLSh7iR2EBAf8ZR9uNbK8QQqNkibDbdM-LyhZ6c3xg8w3Hd8u477LnmeAoC_RQaDIYpBskBtYI4sAawhWEawIFXKnCUlnYM7FM5NIyY2uXAZMYqT0ZHsbHK9hYEo/s320/576474_10151038213326836_366893462_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the top</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLEHfjJHqZPb33_3bfTm5q14sQn4WXgPVwFSpyInr_ucI_v704EoBT5A0AZvowb15w-2GVUj8D-E_46AVti76X44OR36djPzqaQKfB2hSHsykrHhcrEkyjwuNkdz744uwnVJRgON3TnFee/s1600/68367_10152119809070147_1331071433_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLEHfjJHqZPb33_3bfTm5q14sQn4WXgPVwFSpyInr_ucI_v704EoBT5A0AZvowb15w-2GVUj8D-E_46AVti76X44OR36djPzqaQKfB2hSHsykrHhcrEkyjwuNkdz744uwnVJRgON3TnFee/s320/68367_10152119809070147_1331071433_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crater lake at the summit. Photo credit to Su ^^</td></tr>
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<u>Day 4</u><br />
<u><br /></u>
A bit of a late start this morning to give our limbs time to stretch. We cooked bacon and eggs at the hostel before leaving on a mission to U-do Island. Our plan was to rent ATVs and explore the island. Oh haha, but Korea can laugh at out plans. It was easy to catch the 15min ferry to U-do, and the round trip only cost around \5000. Once we got there, we realised, too late, that EVERYONE had the same idea as us and rushed to the ATV places to find that no, we weren't going to do that. First off, it was so busy that there were no quads left to even hire. Secondly, the staff were all incredibly rude to us and uninterested in even acknowledging us. Thirdly, you need an international drivers licence to drive one - that was news. A note to anyone attempting this: we think that if you were to be there on a quiet day they might be a little more lax on the licence thing, but there were so many people there that they certainly did not need our business. Disappointment was on all of our faces and despite our best efforts, nothing was working. But we were there and decided to make the most of it. The energetic Esti, Kevin and Nicola hired bikes and set off exploring, while Su, Will, Meabh and myself went for a walk looking for coffee. Instead, we found an amazing beach and delicious burgers. Like these burgers were the best I've had in Korea and pretty high up there with best ever. So that was a win! After our burgers we walked onto the only white beach in Korea - made entirely of shells and choral. It was one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen, with crystal clear water that made you really feel like you were in paradise.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love love</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORsZpnFH0o-l16aZE4P6EOBqBiaA7-7hKEfDm4Md0bb8ohHAZ976WVp5F4J6FyuxVmBnK92iujJpQjSybbVq03VmAQK02YQPgEuTcWuA0Y-_fe0WZtx9jeUyv97j8F7iWnynljKiPxm0K/s1600/527491_10152123704120147_1852861565_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORsZpnFH0o-l16aZE4P6EOBqBiaA7-7hKEfDm4Md0bb8ohHAZ976WVp5F4J6FyuxVmBnK92iujJpQjSybbVq03VmAQK02YQPgEuTcWuA0Y-_fe0WZtx9jeUyv97j8F7iWnynljKiPxm0K/s320/527491_10152123704120147_1852861565_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me with the 'sand' - Su's photo</td></tr>
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We spent way too short lapping up the sun and sea before we had to catch our ferry back. I could have sat on that beach for ages. But we wanted to make it to another beach for sunset so off we went, a bit disappointed that we didn't get to ATV but happy we went nonetheless. It really is a lovely island to visit.<br />
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One of the highlights of the ferry was when a Korean man sauntered up to us and looked at Kevin, saying something along the lines of "You, you look like Korean, but you speak English. How about that?". It was just unexpected and funny and is one of the main reasons I love Korea so much.<br />
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We made it to Hamdeok beach, about 20 minutes outside of Jeju-si, in time to get some snacks and wine ready for the sunset. It was a great way to end the weekend. We watched a couple doing some kind of yoga/who-knows-what in the ocean and it was just an awesome island vibe.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ZlWATWst8Ga8f9PE8rYVx5aTqj9n4O3qZEsmN2I7U1Tg2kXYXupoNhB4W41hjTN0yMKQ1AgQ_n0QUs2KYf-ktBRwP-MUkoyfpuwUeATJOXGnbQCRpgHR0oUXlxdp2FkePahtdyI6g0sy/s1600/552538_10151038216471836_271532919_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ZlWATWst8Ga8f9PE8rYVx5aTqj9n4O3qZEsmN2I7U1Tg2kXYXupoNhB4W41hjTN0yMKQ1AgQ_n0QUs2KYf-ktBRwP-MUkoyfpuwUeATJOXGnbQCRpgHR0oUXlxdp2FkePahtdyI6g0sy/s320/552538_10151038216471836_271532919_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the yoga pose</td></tr>
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After that we went in search of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeju_Black_Pig">Black Pork</a>, which Jeju is very famous for and we were not let down. It was a delicious meal over Hallasan soju with awesome company. It was a race to get the car back to the rental place, and after some tipsy shenanigans by Cola and Meabh, it was back to Greenday Hostel and straight into another game of Mafia. This time we had some people who were also staying at the hostel join us, making it much more entertaining. Only a Korean guy can suggest playing rock, paper, scissors to decide on who the mafia is. What a way to end the holiday!<br />
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<u>Day 5</u><br />
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After having to wrestle the fat cat for my pillow half the night, we all woke up a little groggy and sad to be leaving :( The weekends always go so quickly and this one had been planned for and anticipated since April, making it fly by that much quicker. We were up and at the airport for our 9.50 flight home. Once back in Seoul, we had a 4 hour wait for our train, and made the most of it by having a delicious meal at Wolfhound - the fish n chips and soup were a welcome distraction from the thought that Jeju was over and done. Will and I also decided that the amount we say 'oh, Korea' pretty much gives those words profanity-status (does that even make sense?). Eg: Oh for Korea's sake!!! Or, alternatively, oh Korea off you twat ;) ㅋㅋㅋ<br />
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All in all, we had an amazing few days away. I would jump at the chance to go to Jeju again as I still don't feel like I've seen everything. A HUGE thank you to Kevin for driving us around - I would not like to be responsible for having to negotiate the Korean drivers and roads!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PFdsHpXELJryQa9fIpB1uVSKh2JVr5gxiiz3cm-gjw8q_qtFY2HU0YbX0-kkglTRMTdYJBt4_0Mm3ky0io_vz7RdTd0dx7q_8XCxHQVSHoC0o1sRB6BBdbgbNQEnnztnebmfN3swL5xQ/s1600/554165_10151038216191836_1074497897_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PFdsHpXELJryQa9fIpB1uVSKh2JVr5gxiiz3cm-gjw8q_qtFY2HU0YbX0-kkglTRMTdYJBt4_0Mm3ky0io_vz7RdTd0dx7q_8XCxHQVSHoC0o1sRB6BBdbgbNQEnnztnebmfN3swL5xQ/s1600/554165_10151038216191836_1074497897_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kevin Driver</td></tr>
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Sadly, it was the last weekend away we'll get to spend with the awesome couple known as Weabh, before they head out on their next adventure. Wishing you both the very best for when you leave. Thanks for the memories guys!Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-39188221932717968732012-09-25T23:46:00.001-07:002012-09-26T01:53:32.170-07:00That time I tried to fly...Run, he tells me. Just keep running till you can't anymore. Okay, sounds straightforward enough. We run; it's hard. I can feel the pull of the wing (parachute) but do as told...we reach the end...my feet leave the ground and I wait to feel the wind through my hair and the rush of flying. We lift a bit, then I'm running down the mountain. Through bushes and trees...this cannot be right?!? It wasn't. We were crashing and went tumbling a couple of meters down the mountain before managing to stop ourselves. We're tangled and shaky and thankfully okay. We hang on for what feels like ages before some staff come down to help us back up. I have bits of trees and dead leaves all up my shirt, which is now ripped...I'm scared and embarrassed and cut and bruised but I still cannot wait to try again.<br />
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Forgive the dramatic introduction but I just couldn't resist ;) This past weekend a group of 9 Jecheonians and myself went off to Danyang to try our hands at paragliding before it gets too cold. We were really lucky and arrived on the most beautiful day! We were taken up to the top of the mountain via a van with open back, where 4 of us sat trying not to fall off. Once at the top, the view was amazing and there was little time to sit around and contemplate what we were actually doing. The guy taking our money tried to rip us off but thankfully we had Angela there to help us and we paid our \80 000 and were being hooked up before we could say "I'm scared of heights".<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the way up</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the top</td></tr>
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Estelle and I were the first to go; she made it look effortless and was in the air in no time. As the introduction suggests, mine did not go according to plan. It was a really scary feeling...falling and knowing that if we didn't stop, we would be at the bottom of the mountain with who knows what injuries in no time. It was kind of surreal and so many thoughts were going through my mind: what are the others thinking - they're probably laughing cos this is kinda funny...crap these are new pants and I hope I don't rip them...oh that hurt...we need to stop before we end up on that road...<br />
But we did stop and I wasn't badly hurt, just a black and blue leg and shoulder and some scratches on my arm. There was no contemplation of not going again - I really wanted to. Once back at the top, I had my friends there to help me and calm me and then they were sent flying. I was second last to go and this time around they had 2 men helping me run. I still don't know what actually happened; I think it was a combination of things. This type of thing apparently never happens. Hey, at least I gave my pilot some impromptu training!<br />
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The actual flight was incredible!! That feeling of flying is second to none and although it was only 5 minutes, I felt it was well worth everything I'd been through. My guide was so nice and he made a real effort to make sure I enjoyed myself. Landing was as easy as pie and I now have a video to record my flight. A smart person would try and edit it before I post it but I'm not that smart. So here it is. Forgive the shakiness and sound and everything. Only watch it if you're interested and stop watching after I land and give a peace sign with my pilot - it gets really motion sickness-y after that ;) But it's a cool record of the flight. Enjoy :) <span style="color: red;">(OK the video isn't loading so will need to try at home)</span><br />
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So that was paragliding - would totally do it again and don't let my experience stop you. It takes a 'special' person to crash if you know what I mean ;)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take off attempt #1</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking like a pack horse</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fighting! We made it. My good sport of a pilot and me</td></tr>
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After some lunch in Danyang, we were headed back to Jecheon to prepare for Will's 25th Masked Birthday Party! What a fun night that was! Estelle hosted us on her roof, and bar a rude so-and-so who at 20:15 (so late for a Saturday right?) came and told us to shut it all down, the party was a great success. Estelle and Meabh made the MOST delicious food, and we pigged out on that, dessert goodies and home made cocktails. Everyone had to wear a mask (and by everyone I mean the girls and a handful of guys) and it felt like a normal party back home. Except we were drinking soju. It was time for Rock and Roll, a local bar, after that where we spent the rest of the evening downing lemon drops and dancing to Gangnam Style. Was a super evening.<br />
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Some pics of the night...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty masked ladies</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the delicious food</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gangnam Style </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthday Boy!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Su and Myself</td></tr>
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A huge thank you to Estelle and Meabh for all their hard work that night!!<br />
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I think that's the last of the adventure sports I'll be doing in Korea. May try my hand at skiing and tobogganing during Winter but that's tame...right?<br />
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This upcoming weekend is a long one for us, thanks to 추석 (Chuseok - Korean thanksgiving) which gives us 5 days of beautiful weekend!! I'm going to Jeju island with some friends and cannot wait. Will be climbing some old volcanoes, seeing waterfalls and beaches and chilling out to the max. Yes - be jealous ;)<br />
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Life in Korea is pretty sweet at the moment. My kids are generally a ball and the weather has cooled down quite a bit which is heavenly. My landlord has actually decided to start putting my underfloor heating on at night which is less than ideal. But it shows - Winter is coming! Temperatures are currently ranging from around 18 degrees at night (sometimes colder out here by my schools) and reaching 23-26 degrees during the day. It's great.<br />
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So that is all folks. Just a follow up on my last post about Psy and Gangnam Style - I heard on the news the other morning that it has now made a Guinness Record for 'Most liked video on Youtube', which was previously held by LMFAO 'Party Rock'. So go Psy.<br />
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Have a happy Wednesday everyone!<br />
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<br />Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-3288904598799760592012-09-13T23:16:00.001-07:002012-09-16T18:44:56.269-07:00It's catchy 'cos it's Kpop<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My feelings about Kpop</td></tr>
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Over the past few weeks, I've been noticing countless posts from friends back home about South Korean 'Pop Sensation' Psy and his hit, "Gangnam Style". It had to make me smile because I really never expected my friends back home to be listening to the same songs on the radio that I am. So I decided I would do a little post about Kpop!<br />
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Kpop is ridiculously catchy. You may not understand a word of what is being said, but you cannot help bob your heard to the tune. And the music videos are something else. Kpop (an abbreviation of Korean Pop - duh) can be described as the sugary, over-the-top 'electropop' that is so popular with South Korean youth. It blasts from stores and high school cellphones and every child will know the corresponding dance moves to the current Kpop hit. I played <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afwK0Mv0IsY">Roly Poly</a> by T-ARA to my 3rd and 4th grade class in Summer Camp and had them all dancing along with video like they taught those girls the moves themselves. It's huge here. Kpop stars are the Justin Biebers of Korea and people are drawn to them.<br />
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The singers and groups themselves have tried to go mainstream as of late, with bands like Wonder Girls, 2PM, Beast, Kara and now Psy featuring in the US media and on international music charts. One way I think they try to appeal to a more 'Western' market is their use of English catch phrases. Almost every Kpop song has an English title or English word/phrase that features in the chorus. It may just be Psy's use of Gangnam "style" and "heeeeeeeey, sexy lady" or 2PMs use of "put your hands up" but no matter how little you understand of the rest of the song, you can sing along to that one line and therefore feel connected to it. I could spew a whole lot of facts about Kpop to you now (which I've read on the ever-reliable Wikipedia) but this post is really just to give a brief intro to the music and post a few of my favourite songs ;)<br />
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Before I post you some of my Kpop gems, let me explain Gangnam style to you briefly. Psy has been around for ages but this is the first song of his that's hit so big abroad and many Korean people do not understand why a guy who's line is "dress classy, dance cheesy" has made it so big when there are numerous other, more well put together bands that have not caught that wave yet. I think it's because the song is so dam cheesy and catchy, who doesn't love it! And that dance - come now. Gangnam is an area in Seoul, the capital of Korea, much like New York. It's a little more of an affluent and trendy place and the term 'Gangnam style' refers to the lavish lifestyle those in Gangnam lead. "Oppa" in Korean literally means "a male who is older than the female" but can also refer to a boyfriend - and so basically the song is about a boyfriend with lavish style. Maybe. Cos really that's all I understand. Thought I'd try help those less informed than even me to understand a bit more about what they're jamming to.<br />
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But enough about that - here are some of my favourite Kpop songs/videos.<br />
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This is Big Bang and their hit, "Wow, Fantastic Baby". One of my best - please notice the totally over-the-top make up, dancing and everything.<br />
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Next, here's 2PM with "Hands up", making it here purely because it was the first Kpop video I ever saw. And the boys are cute.<br />
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Now for some girls. Here's Girls Generation, one of the more popular girl bands, with "Twinkle". Cue typical Korean girl cuteness.<br />
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<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://1.gvt0.com/vi/JmM04_OgajU/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/JmM04_OgajU&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JmM04_OgajU&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
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And lastly, here's Kara with the incredibly catchy "Step".<br />
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If this interests you, try searching for other bands and artists such as Beast, f(x), B.A.P, GD & TOP (a particularly cool video - 'Knock Out') and Super Junior.<br />
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I cannot lie - the Kpop bug has bitten me. You've just gotta chill out and enjoy the craziness of it all. Maybe it'll get you hooked too.<br />
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Have a lovely weekend!Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7239424148799049664.post-1781510907119259812012-09-10T23:26:00.002-07:002012-09-10T23:26:45.403-07:00Playing Catch UpHi all<br />
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What a beautiful day it is in Jecheon today. Sun is shining but the force of the Summer heat has faded; there's a cool breeze and the surrounding areas are bright with the contrasting greens of trees, rice paddies and bursts of red apple orchards. Puts you in a good mood :)<br />
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I thought I would play catch up a bit and share some of what's been going on lately. Things in general are good. Something about getting half way just helps everything click into place. School this term has been going smoothly - other than trying to get back into a routine, I cannot really complain. The 6th graders are slowly getting to the point where they want nothing to do with Elementary School and are ready to move on, but sorry for them, they still need to sit through English. It's tough on both parties. But I really feel like I'm at the best point I've been at in my relationship with (most of) my students. We joke around and I make a fool of myself - much to their endless delight. And my little 1st and 2nd grade girls - bless their little souls - have taken to hugging me. It's the highlight of every day! Both schools are preparing for Sports Days so classes are a bit mixed up, and I'm pretty sure there's an Orchestra event coming up too.<br />
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We've had newbies come to Jecheon - yay! The August intake teachers from EPIK and TALK started arriving about a month ago and it's been really great getting to meet new people and hear all their stories. We have people from New Zealand, Australia, the States and South Africa. The foreigner population seems to have swelled a bit and it's been really nice seeing more Western faces around! We've also managed to meet some lovely Korean girls who are just the sweetest, and has finally made me feel more at home here. They pointed out that they find Koreans in Jecheon to be a little more closed off to foreigners and they decided to try and change that. It's interesting as I also felt that way but wasn't sure if it was just me. We're hopefully being taken to a cultural festival on Seoul on Sunday which should be amazing!<br />
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I went to my first Baseball game on Saturday! We've been meaning to go for ages but finally just booked a day, making sure we got a game in before the season ends.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQjCzj8SgNgs-Alz-LGBgIgvp3Z82aePvATENbr_21PUDE-q2tUJwt3A-02R6EInytyKXbJlbBs3Ze1Gx327ZFawsQuhScc8CoFqFQGnyXRKg962BfSRJnj1-I4PwkCq1HH7-6B7bMcnJ/s1600/421659_10151200505270519_604332117_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQjCzj8SgNgs-Alz-LGBgIgvp3Z82aePvATENbr_21PUDE-q2tUJwt3A-02R6EInytyKXbJlbBs3Ze1Gx327ZFawsQuhScc8CoFqFQGnyXRKg962BfSRJnj1-I4PwkCq1HH7-6B7bMcnJ/s320/421659_10151200505270519_604332117_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leanne, Nicola, Adam, myself and Jane at the Baseball</td></tr>
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We went to Daegu to see the game - it was the Samsung Lions (Daegu's home team) versus the Doosun Bears. Besides the most obnoxious American men you could hope to encounter not shutting up behind us and none of us really knowing what was going, it was a great time ;) The shopping in Daegu was great - we went to an underground market in Jungangno (red subway line) which had a lot of what we've seen before but in a concentrated area. I am now the proud owner of a Polaroid camera - think it will be perfect for documenting my travels and allowing me to take pictures of people and places and immediately writing the story down with the picture.<br />
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I also went Bungee jumping about 2 weeks ago. My goodness. I have always said I will never bungee...give me paragliding and sky diving any day but not a bungee. Well, I somehow got all big talk and before I knew it, we were headed to Cheongpung Lake to do the big swing and bungee. It was Will, Kevin, Nicola, Corey (one of the newbies) and myself. The big swing was scary but a lot of fun. The bungee was terrifying. I was second last to go, and when I got to the edge to jump I just couldn't move. So I asked the nice man if he would push me and he kindly obliged. It's a feeling I cannot describe. Truly breathtaking and such a rush, but not something I will jump at doing again (excuse the pun..ha..ha..).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKjBZE1mAR3BhcENeyktNUjfbEGV3paAMpxMHzxZHjcTS3SslQsPR-y2IT4PBx8vSnztG3t-4e6h0hDw5L98qdY0fJCBaPFjq3pdZZ3LPDZM6FL0H2iXhPPLA05jCL17QfM-wTY2ehOFLJ/s1600/196727_10150990637431836_128793328_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKjBZE1mAR3BhcENeyktNUjfbEGV3paAMpxMHzxZHjcTS3SslQsPR-y2IT4PBx8vSnztG3t-4e6h0hDw5L98qdY0fJCBaPFjq3pdZZ3LPDZM6FL0H2iXhPPLA05jCL17QfM-wTY2ehOFLJ/s320/196727_10150990637431836_128793328_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nics tried to film the jump but I took too long, so I got this picture instead :)</td></tr>
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Other things on the agenda in the next few weeks, before Winter starts to affect us, include: Paragliding on the 22nd, Jeju island for Chuseok, a trip to Busan with Nics, Everland and the DMZ. We also need to start stocking up on Winter survival clothes as I hear it can be brutal!<br />
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I've decided that I am definitely not renewing my contact next year. This is a really hard opportunity to give up, and I know I'm going to miss it immensely but I feel a year is enough to have given me what I needed from this experience, and I really want to be in Africa. I'm currently looking at volunteering in Kenya for around 3 months next year so watch this space!! (On that note: if anyone has any advice about good volunteer programs, do share).<br />
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I think I've said all there is to say for now. I'm glad I got to write a bit of a general update - it's been too long.<br />
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Happy Tuesday people of the interwebs - may it be quick and painless.Bron Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02342937349046896868noreply@blogger.com0