What you're looking at is apparently the newest addition to downtown's already overly crowded streets...a game in which you get three chances to hit the nail into the wood. Oh gosh!

Highlights of my Day... Thursday, August 31

1. While other kids were swimming, playing at the beach, and being a kid, turns out one of my students was getting eye surgery... cosmetic surgery! Yes, it true. Over the summer she got cosmetic eye surgery done so she could have a double eye-lid. Why some Koreans want to change their already gorgeous exotic eyes is beyond me! But it’s interesting to note where some people’s priorities are. Her parents don’t buy any of the school supplies she needs in class but they’ll fork over tons of money to encourage vanity.
2. My principle said his last good-byes to all the staff today and so we all raced outside to wave him good-bye as he walked down the school driveway one last time. It was quite sad actually.
3. My third level middle school students are learning about body language. I entertained them by showing them differences among cultures and body language. While discussing the fact that male friends in Canada don’t hands, someone at the back of the room yelled out “gay”… and boy did that start-up a discussion!
4. Word has it that I’ve got “gold” growing on my arms. Mind you, what these students meant to say is that the fine hair on my arms is blonde as oppose to being dark like theirs… ha, ha, ha.
5. As a result of my body language class, the new words of the day for my level 3 kid were gay, lesbian and lovers. It was quite amusing to over hear some of the boys totally misuse and abuse these words as the mingled in the halls.
6. Praying that this summer ends soon. The heat here is brutal and so I don’t even know why I bathe in the morning only to come home desperate for another shower.
7. Sad, sad, sad news. I went to the gym today for training and was shocked with some surprising news… River’s (Byung Hyuk) last day working at the gym is set for September 9th. I didn’t know what to say but I felt so sad. He knows he’s the only one who talks to me here and we’ve become good buddies. This really sucks! We pinky-swore we’d stay close friends though.
8. I left the gym feeling sad, we both were feeling awful, and so Byung Hyuk spent the rest of the evening sending me random text messages to make me smile.
9. Despite the fact that I just renewed my gym membership this past month, I’m thinking about starting fresh at a new gym and with this foreign girl, Monica, who wants to be my training partner.
10. After numerous phone calls from Je Min, I finally decided to go and see him tonight. I wasn’t in a good mood cause of Byunk Hyuk’s news and so I didn’t want to stay home alone. Je Min was all smiles at my surprise visit but it only served to cause him to call me more after I left.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
How come no one is really signing my guestbook?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
Bite me.
-- Me

Today was pretty eventful at school. Not only was the last day for the principle but it was the first day back for me at Wollang Elementary School.

Highlights of my Day... Wednesday, August 30

1. Arrived to Wollang Elementary School and was incredibly shocked to see that the school is now 1/3 bigger! I knew they were eventually going to expand the school but apparently they did it within the summer vacation. One word… WOW!!!
2. Holy high levels of energy today with my elementary kids! They were so excited to be back in school and so today’s class was awesome. I was bombarded with lots of smiles and hugs… even by the boys too. Ha, ha, ha!
3. New students! In attempt to give English names to the few new students I now have in my class, I allowed the class help me. I now have a Jessica, a Rob, and a Luke Skywalker in my class! Ha, ha, ha!
4. Ca-ching!!! What’s that sound you ask… it’s the sound of my bank account! The official English contest results revealed that not only did my student Vanessa score first place, but my other entry, Rachael, came in second place for the writing component of the contest!!! We were all overjoyed today and rumor has it I’m getting a cash bonus cause of it!!!
5. Today at school we had a goodbye ceremony for our Eumbung Middle School principle and it was quite incredible to see the high level of respect the staff, students and parents have for this man. I was particularly moved when one student read a letter to him and cried. She returned to her seat where she was joined with other teary-eyed students.
6. One of the things I really respect about my principle is his generosity and compassion for people. During the ceremony he awarded some of the not-so-well-off students (financially speaking) with scholarship money; money that came from the principle’s own pocket!
7. Parents flowed in and out of the school today as they paid their respect to the principle. They came with happy faces and lots of grapes…great!
8. Treated Ryan out to supper to celebrate Rachael’s second place standing. Ryan searched out a restaurant and his search led us to “Dono Marco” where our tummies were quite satisfied with the pasta fest we had!
9. Took a trip to LotteMart and discovered the whole line of Korean milk flavors…
a. white milk
b. soya milk
c. chocolate milk
d. strawberry milk
e. banana milk
f. berry milk
g. walnut milk
h. rice milk
i. black bean milk
j. coffee milk
k. apple milk
l. melon milk
10. My new piggy bank is dead! I won’t get into the details of it but his great death scene was shocking and emotional. Actually, it’s a long story and a silly one too, filled with immaturity, stubbornness and drama… but we’ll end the story here.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
What have you done lately?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
A life without cause is a life without effect.
-- Barbarella

Tonight we went bowling but I'm sure we definitely did more giggling and teasing each other than actual bowling....ha, ha, ha!

Highlights of my Day... Tuesday, August 29

1. Today the principle took all the students who had earned enough sticker points out for Chinese noodles, so you know what that meant… a cafeteria full of those who didn’t earn enough stickers… yup,… the difficult kids!
2. I have apparently started a piggy bank courtesy of my students. I’ve been giving birthday gifts to select students who have really inspired me, encouraged me, or touched my heart and one of those students was a boy named Bryden. I know this habit I’ve picked up could get me in trouble with the other students but I’ve only given out a few gifts and it was very subtle. Birthdays away from home flat-out suck and so it’s nice to brighten someone else’s birthday. SO.. the point of this story is, today Bryden gave me a piggy-bank and I almost cried cause of repetitive “I’m sorry for missing your birthday.”
3. Us teachers decided to cut school early and so at 2:30pm we sent all the students home. Us teachers headed out for an evening of bowling and sushi to celebrate our principle’s promotion to Asan Education supervisor. We’re all really sad to see him leave but are proud of him.
4. It’s funny how everyone at work seems to comment about me working out, as if I’m some kind of freak cause I’m a girl with muscle. However, when it came to picking people for the bowling teams, they ended up arguing as to who’d win me for their team.
5. In between laughing at my principle’s “victory jumping” whenever he got a strike or spare, laughing at Mrs. Chung’s gutter balls, giggling everything my Korean teacher whipped out on the lane, me yelling at the bowling ball in hopes it’s shimmy over a bit, and repeated team high-fives… bowling was WAY too much fun!
6. After an incrediably humorous time at bowling, we ventured over to a posh sushi restaurant where we were bombarded with loads and loads of fun. The sushi was awesome but I wasn’t daring enough to taste the octopus as it wiggles across the plate. I sat there in total curiousity. It was all chopped up but still alive. Wild.
7. Realized just how humble my principle is when he made me a meat wrap and literally fed it to me. I’m really going to miss him. I sat there so stumped with what to say. He doesn’t understand English and my Korean is choppy.
8. Turns out Mr. Social Science Teacher’s favorite saying for the night was “one shot” and so I spent a good part of the meal trying to dodge him. He’s hilarious and so everytime I said something in Korean he’d try hard to answer in English. He totally killed the English language though…ha, ha, ha.
9. Mrs. Chung taught me how to say “run away” in Korean and so that turned out to be pretty affective with dealing with Mr. Social Science Teacher, not too mention it greatly entertained the other staff.
10. As always, the men tend to get rowdy and loud during these kind of functions and so tonight was definitely no exception. Apparently after I left, one teacher and the vice principle ended up getting into a heated argument. Rumor has it one of them wanted to fight, but then again… this is only my struggling attempt to translate the message in Korea. Drama!

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
Where do you draw the line?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
Fish, to taste right, must swim three times - in water, in butter, and in wine.
-- Polish Proverb

Look Yaya G... it's your boy Pete (in blue jeans). Pete I could use a SKINNY guy like you to be my body guard here in Korea! Ha, ha, ha.

Highlights of my Day... Monday, August 28

1. Got invited to the American Air Force Ball… I didn’t even know people still went to balls. So I’m going… look out Cinderella, I’m about to bust out my secret dance moves! Ha, ha, ha!
2. On Fridays I have a huge chunk in the afternoon at work where I no classes and so today I had already planned the day’s lesson on Friday. So, out of boredom, I preoccupied my time with figuring out just how much extra prep time I have at work. It’s pretty shocking too! Last year I worked as a slave, I mean teacher, at a hagwan.... wow!

3. IN CONCLUSION… Freedom baby!!! My government teaching position at Eumbong kicks SLP’s sorry poor butt! Not only do I now teach half the classes and work less hours, I also get paid more, have less stress and have no one getting on my back to fill up the class seats!!! Slavery is over for me my friend!!!
4. Apparently Troy from one of my level 1 classes is my shadow, or so is the joke in the teacher’s room. Ever since I gave him a huge bonus with letting him redo his speaking test, it seems like he’s everywhere I turn! He has officially joined up with the group of kids who always visit me inbetween their classes. It’s quite cute too cause it’s gone from 1 or 2 students to now over 10 who flood into my classroom for breaktime. And now, Troy’s one of them.
5. Turns out my new student Conner doesn’t really speak a word of English, only responds to me when I speak Korean, and has somehow only retained the nasty English swear words he’s heard in American movies. I tried not to react when he yelled out “Oh shxx” cause I knew it’d only cause other students to want to learn that word. Instead, I told him that it was Konglish...ha, ha, ha... let's see how long I can use that excuse.
6. While the students had their cleaning time, a loud smash was heard in the hallway. Shortly there after, Isabelle returned to the teachers room with all the freshly cleaned teachers’ cups, minus one that is. She looked at me with horror on her face. I instantly knew it was my cup. I looked at her, giggled and then told her I thought it was ugly anyways. She bought was relieved. It was my favorite cup.
7. Turns out Isabelle rushed to my co-teacher for a quick prep talk. Isabelle and I have kind of just recently bonded (she’s the class outcast) and so she was worried I’d be upset with her.
8. Word got out that I gave Ryan a soccer ball for his birthday. I knew this would possibly cause complications. By then end of the day I had been bombarded with numerous students who insisted on telling me when their birthday is.
9. A simple trip to LotteMart never ends up simple. I went there in search of an exercise DVD for Ryan and us to do together and ended up leaving with about $40 worth of juice and milk, and a hair straightener… as if my hair isn’t straight enough either eh?!
10. Too many pee breaks tonight. Too much information?… oh if you only knew! Ha, ha, ha.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
What was I thinking?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
Once you choose hope, anything's possible.
-- Christopher Reeve

Korea is great but with it being summer, I sure do miss Toronto! Here's a picture of two of my friends from Bloor West Village, Toronto... Mark and Andrew. The picture definitely speaks for itself...ha, ha, ha

Highlights of my Day... Sunday, August 27

1. Today wasn’t as much as a write-off as Saturday but it was pretty unproductive. Not to mention, I didn’t even venture out of my apartment to get any fresh air.
2. Turns out my washing machine has quite the sucking power! Not only did it suck the life out of two of my new favorite shirts but it also left them tangled in their own threads! Oh my gosh!
3. A little while ago, on MySpace, I posted an “Amy’s Top Ten Dating Rules & Guidelines”

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=48677750&blogID=103522453&MyToken=00d59e23-09fb-42d8-bb7d-62c917516558

Well today Ryan and I watched “The Break-up” and I found myself trying to create some kind of list about relationship rules. We all talk about what to do and what not to do when dating, but what happens when you get the girl/guy? Afterall, getting the girl/guy is the easy part. It’s keeping them that’s the hard part.
4. For your amusement, here’s my rough attempt at creating some kind of relationship 101 list.

Amy’s Top Ten Relationship Rules & Guidelines for the Newcomer

1. Never let a girl walk away crying or cry alone, and if she does, always go get her. We girls have all watched the soap operas and we all were jealous when the main hottie ran after the girl and planted a big wet kiss on her. Every girl wants a knight in shinning armor to sweep her off her feet.
2. Despite your poor ability at mind reading, sometimes you just need to let her vent. Women are emotional creatures, men are rational thinkers… let her do what comes natural to her. Most of the time, all she really wants you to do is be an ear to vent to or a shoulder to cry on.
3. Men are simple creatures and so don’t try to confuse them with any confusing overly dramatic plot lines. Just be open, honest and make sure you know how to really talk to each other.
4. Never go to bed angry. It’s not healthy. This will only serve for one of you to forget the matter and allow it to simmer in the other person. Solve problems as they arise. Most of what goes wrong in relationships can be traced to hurt feelings.
5. Know your needs and speak up for them clearly. A relationship is not a guessing game, nor is it meant to mold and change people. You can’t change people, they must want to change and do it on their own.
6. A relationship is all about being a team. However, knowing how to negotiate within this team is what will make it run more smoothly.
7. Learn to listen. Empathy is crucial here. Look at things from your partner's perspective as well as your own. There is after all, two sides to a coin!
8. Maintain your energy, stay healthy, and never underestimate the power of good grooming! Now that you’ve got the girl/guy, now is definitely not the time to let it all hang loose and let go of your looks. Maintaining the initial physical attraction will not only send you to work Monday morning clicking your heels but it will also help to keep those butterflies in her stomach.
9. Stay open to spontaneity. Always keep things happening in your existing relationship!
10. Dating was a game but a relationship is work. Get to work!

5. Started writing in my “The Nothing Book”. That’s the actual printed title of the book too. It’s consists of about 200 blank pages and I bought it at my much loved Alpha Store. It’s now my book of silly poems.
6. Admitted that I still read Shel Silverstein poems and can recite a handful of them too despite the fact that they’re elementary level.
7. Looks like the curse of being a foreign cutie has caught up with me again as random and multiple phone calls from Je Min started up again. Ha, ha, ha.
8. Ryan has mastered a new dance move. I think it’s called “The bouncing bum thrust”. It’s a bit of Michael Jackson mixed with a dash of Elvis and Ricky Martin. Not only is it an interestingly dangerous move for him to perform but it’s also dangerous for onlookers! Ha, ha, ha.
9. Ryan took out the coffee table with his new dance move!
10. Ahhhhh…. tummy ache from all the laughing.

QUESTION OF THE DAY…
Do you do that in public?

QUOTE OF THE DAY…
Stop before you hurt yourself.
-- Me.

Okay... so I was alittle TOO bored today and so I decided to try to amuse myself. It didn't last too long though.

Highlights of my Day... Saturday, August 26

1. Note to ALL men… never give a woman a 10 minute warning and expect her to be ready or happy about it! That’s exactly what I woke up to today… a 10 minute warning from Ryan saying that he and his two buddies are coming over! So much for starting my Saturday on a relaxing note.
2. Well any possible plans with Ryan today were a bust. He was terribly sick today and I think he’s developed some kind of allergy. He spent the whole day sleeping.
3. After a three hour hair salon visit I ventured back to see how Ryan was doing and he was totally oblivious to the fact that I just got my hair dyed and highlighted. Guys never seem to notice these details.
4. With a map in hand and money in my pocket, I decided to head out on my own to find a Subway Sandwich restaurant. It turned out to be quite an adventure too, go figure. I guess my adventure was taking too long and so Ryan called all concerned. I was having too much fun chatting it up with the taxi driver.
5. Yesterday I sent out a mass email greeting card to a select group of people back in Canada whom I haven’t heard from for awhile. I was curious as to how many of them have actually dropped off the face of this planet. Here’s what I found out…

a. Out of 38 people emailed, only 21 people opened the email.
b. Out of the 21 who opened the email, 15 of them visited my blog.
c. Moreover, out of 21 people who opened the email, only 5 people wrote back. (Even my own mother didn’t respond!)
d. Out of those 5 people who wrote back, 2 of them added a comment on my blog.
e. Out of the 2 people who added a comment on my blog, only 1 person had actually signed the guest book!

6. Thinking of bribing people with candy to sign my guest book, just joking. But, between the lack of people signing something I so eagerly created and worked on (guest book), and the lack of people’s concern with keeping in touch (via the phone or email), I am really hesitant on whether life in Canada was really all I thought it was cracked up to be!
7. Realized that besides Andi and some other select individuals, what I miss most about Canada is not the people but instead is the places. Sure, we all have our reasons and excuses but it doesn’t mean that I have to like it.
8. Today I definitely had too much time on my hands and so yes, I admit, I allowed my mind get the best of me today. I sat around the house daydreaming and pondering too much.
9. Snapped out of it and attempted to watch a movie with Ryan. We were 20 minutes into the movie and then Ryan decided he couldn’t stay awake any longer and so he was out for the rest of the night.
10. Discovered how to add music to my blog’s background! Awesome… okay, so I’m a little bit too excited about this little event.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
I want to reach your mind - where is it currently located?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
A mental midget with the IQ of a fence post.
-- Tom Waits

Everyone loves a baby! Check out the awesome hair on this little guy... so cool!



And just when I thought my night was over, I decided to venture out and low and behold... I ran into lots of fun!

Highlights of my Day... Friday, August 25

1. First day back teaching at Eumbong Elementary School and apparently the little “Bad Boy” crew from my grade 5 class didn’t deal with their attitude in the summer. So, hey came to class today and their bad attitudes were just as strong as before. I approached their homeroom teacher about this ongoing problem and she basically ripped them another hole in front of everyone! Ouch!
2. My parents’ English class isn’t starting up till next week and so after I arrived back at the middle school from teaching the elementary, I had 3 ½ hours to kill.
3. Ryan ditched me tonight for two guys, Kwong Ho and Shin Woo, and so besides venting to Andi via email, I basically did nothing. Finally at 1am I figured I couldn’t fall asleep despite the great deal of boredom that had set in. Got up, got dressed and ventured out to go see Je Min. As I was crossing the street I heard someone call my name. No sooner did I turn around to look but then I saw Steve (from SLP) standing across the street. We literally stopped downtown traffic as we hugged in the middle of the intersection.
4. Turns out Patty (former co-worker of mine from SLP) is leaving in a week and so I joined up with them to help her celebrate her upcoming freedom. We went to Club Zizi where we got our own private room. Huge laughs by all as the DJ (super small Korean who just barely can be considered a man) revealed his mid-section and did free wieght lifts. I say, if that's what he does for a living than yes, he should have a ripped chest like that. Ha, ha, ha!!!
5. The place was packed with Koreans and so we fought hard to represent the Western countries! I think we were successful cause they loved us! Apparently Patty was woman-handled on the dancefloor while I was stuck with super skinny Korean BOYS who were trying to be all in my face.
6. Reminisced with the staff about good old times and chatted up a storm with the new staff about the kindergarten kids…. I miss those mini Koreans so much.
7. Oh please… can you make it any more obvious that you’re trying to get my attention. While sitting talking to Je Min, this dude (whom I’ve had the displeasure of meeting before.. Mr. Cook) tried 101 ways to make me look his way. I especially was annoyed when he felt the urge to translate every word I said to Je Min. Sorry dude but you did not get an invite into this conversation.
8. Mr. Cook tried to bedazzle me with bragging about all the Western food he can cook. He ranted and raved for about ten minutes before I started to laugh. He asked me why I was laughing and so I (being totally not impressed at this point) said, “I live in Korea. I eat Korean food. Do I look like a girl who eats cheeseburgers and tons of pasta?” He still didn’t get the hint.
9. Reached the low point of my patience with Mr. Cook when he tried so eagerly to force his cell phone in my face so that he could take my picture. I snapped. I took his cell phone, ripped off the battery and put it in my purse. I told him I’d give it back to him when I left.
10. Called it a night at 5:30am.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
Where'd you learn that move?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
There is a bit of insanity in dancing that does everybody a great deal of good.
-- Edwin Denby

Sue's pretty little mom. She's half my size and much sweeter than me but we enjoy each other's company so much.

Highlights of my Day... Thursday, August 24

1. Honestly, today wasn’t a very interesting day at school or after school for that matter.
2. I should have known that being back to school also meant back to student beatings. I’m still not cool with the way some of my co-workers deal with the more difficult students.
3. Three of my level one boys thought they’d smart mouth me and then interrupt the whole class to laugh at it. Jokes on them though. I kicked them out class but then they started slapping each other around. They thought being kicked out was fun until I made them kneel with their arms up in the air and then forgot about them. Didn’t mean to forget about them but it kind of served them right.
4. Apparently someone has come up with this “brilliant” idea to divide the level 2 students into two classes according their English level. So far it sounds great right?… wrong… turns out it means the lower level students will not be taught by me. Instead, they’ll be taught by a Korean teacher. Now I’ve got plenty to say on this argument but I’ll stop myself and say, isn’t the whole point of dishing out mad cash for a foreign teacher so that students can experience first hand another culture and language. I don’t think they’ll learn a lot from me if their interaction with me is limited to seeing me across the cafeteria at lunch.
5. Yesterday was my student Ryan’s birthday (class 2-2 boy) but I didn’t see him yesterday cause I was only at school for two hours. I had bought him a soccer ball (he’s obsessed with soccer) and so today I hid it and then gave him a note on how to find it.
6. Turns out I was the only one who gave him a birthday present and so I felt awful for him. He was so grateful for my present and so the rest of the evening I had to deal with his random numerous text messages.
7. Ryan came to pick me up from school and then was bombarded by my co-workers who were eager to meet him. Ha, ha, ha.
8. Had silly girl talk with my little Sue and had to laugh at some of the silly things she asked. Tonight she curiously asked me if Ryan was the only boy I have kissed. I didn’t know what to say and so I just giggled.
9. Stood waiting with Sue and her mom for the elevator door to open. When it opened, out walked this trendy-looking older man who I was sure had the wrong floor cause Sue is the only one on this floor. Turned out it was her father! I thought hot looking doctors were only on soap operas!
10. Proved I could be more stubborn than Ryan despite the thought that it was once impossible to do. At the restaurant I was venting to him about a certain issue and then was annoyed when he didn’t listen but snapped at me. I wasn’t impressed and so I made him eat the two orders of the meat. He left the restaurant stuffed and I left starving!

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
What's your point?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for everything.
-- Author Unknown

Although I love books, my love is limited and my love for reading dramas have shifted to watching drama movies!

Highlights of my Day... Wednesday, August 23

1. Ahhhh… it was an early morning, army-style wake-up. Woke up with 10 minutes to get up, get ready, and get out. Strolled into work desperate for coffee and they still haven’t fixed this machine!
2. Today I was SUPPOSE to go teach at Wollang but the principle didn’t come to pick me up. Turns out my English classes for the day have been canceled cause of an assembly.
3. Turns out the assembly was for Wollang’s principle. He’s retiring!!! Oh no… that’s two awesome principle’s I’m losing!
4. Word has it Eumbong’s principle isn’t retiring, instead, he’s been promoted to supervisor for the Asan Education Board… could he be replacing the “much-loved” Supervisor Lee?!
5. No sooner had I arrived to school than they were sending me home. Due to my canceled elementary classes, my vice principle saw no need to make me stick around till finish time. Finish time today for me was at 10am… sweet!
6. Went home and crashed for the rest of the afternoon.
7. Woke up and ventured over to my old neighborhood… Ssangyong-Dong where I was greeted by my friend Mr. Alpha Store Man and the kimboop lady. Both were so surprised to see me because they thought I had gone back to Canada.
8. In an effort to practice my Korean and show Mr. Alpha Store Man how I’ve improved, I ended up putting my foot in my mouth. He stumped me with the question, “Why did you leave the hagwan?” I ended up confusing my words and calling my old director a “smelly pervert”. It humored us both but I felt kind of foolish after. Better get back to studying!!!
9. Discovered raspberry milk!
10. Sensory overload at the English bookstore today… I am becoming my mother!!! Well, at least developing her love for books. My particular favorite books mind you are philisophical texts, ESL books (for teaching) and Korean language books.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
How come no one is signing my guestbook?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
The worth of a book is to be measured by what you can carry away from it.
-- James Bryce

This picture of my Principle was taken awhile ago but just look at him... how can you not like a man who willingly sings into flowers just to make you smile!!!

Highlights of my Day... Tuesday, August 22

Today was my first day back to school, well official day anyways and it was loaded with news, new things, and surprises.

THE NEWS…
a. My school principle, which is probably one of the most generous and kind-hearted people I know, is retiring at the end of August. Looks like my random free days off are about to end. Does that mean I actually will have to work?!
b. The new principle who is coming is notoriously known for being strict!
c. Class schedules have been switched again but this time I ended up with a brutal schedule that makes no sense.

NEW THINGS…
a. Three new students and only one of them speaks a word of English.
b. Level 2 will be divided into two classes according to their level and so I won’t be teaching the lower level 2 students.
c. Apparently my co-workers talked over the summer and have come up with this plan to teach me on some kind of volunteer rotational schedule… great!

SURPRISES…
a. Came into work today desperate for coffee. Inserted my coin into the machine and out came hot chocolate! What’s the deal with that?! Must…have…. caffeine!!!
b. One of my new students, Hellena, came up to me after school and told me that she is eager to study English with me. She hugged me and then ran away giggling. Ha, ha, ha. Always nice to have some encouraging comments come from my students. She made my day!
e. Was bombarded all day with super-tanned and hyper students that were eager to tell me about their summer. I do miss the summer vacation freetime but I enjoy having my students around and it was nice to see them again.
d. It’s not officially payday today but I got a double lump sum of money. I had been expecting some of it because I tutored Vanessa for the English speaking contest but the second lump of cash was a bonus! Great!
e. Mr. Science Guy still works here! While sitting at my desk I thought I heard his voice but ignored it. Then I saw him and I’m sure the look on my face made it obvious that I was shocked. Turns out the other teacher they hired won’t be working here… curious as to what’s the story behind that!
f. Ryan picked me up after work and that was a nice surprise.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
How was your summer vacation?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
Then followed that beautiful season... Summer....Filled was the air with a dreamy and magical light; and the landscapeLay as if new created in all the freshness of childhood.
-- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

When in Rome, you rome. But when in Seoul, you shop! You shop till you drop.

Highlights of my Day... Monday, August 21

1. Ventured out to Seoul to meet up with Ryan and got stuck sitting to the one loud talker on the bus who apparently everyone was ticked off with. It was rough sitting beside her while everyone gave her the evil eye. She was clueless.
2. Find it amusing that Ryan claims Seoul is THE place to be and yet was so hesitant as to what we should do today, so we shopped. When in Seoul, shop!
3. Found out that there’s a shopping mall in Seoul that’s open 24 HOURS… and just our luck, the one day it’s closed is Monday!
4. Our last shopping quest was successful (search for a watch) and so today we started a new search; a search for a trendy wallet I saw last time we were here. No luck though
5. Word has it my butt is too big for any of these cheap Calvin Klein reject bottoms that these street sellers were trying to pond off on me. I’m sorry but I’ve got news for you, I’d hate to burst your bubble but judging by the sizes of the women walking around here (me being the only foreigner), the average size is A LOT bigger than mine. One question… who are you trying to fool?
6. Got in trouble by some television crewmember who really didn’t think it too funny that I had taken a picture of their set. Totally didn’t know I wasn’t allowed though.
7. BRAIN FREEZE!!! Ate patbing-soo (ice cream on ice chips with various fruits) and got overly excited. Suffered numerous jolts of brain freeze… ha, ha, ha.
8. Totally shocked to see that homegirl Jenn FINALLY updated her blog! She’s gone and seems like cause we’re out of sight, we’re out of mind.
9. We shopped, we dropped, and so we bought our bus tickets and headed back to Cheonan where we were then greeted by the security officer of my building. Turns out two packages came in the mail for me! Awesome! Thanks to my mom and Bobby-B for the great birthday presents.
10. Sat back, relaxed, and ate Kraft dinner macaronni and cheese... courtesy of my mom! Thanks mom! Kraft dinner has never tasted so good as it did tonight!

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
Where will we be in a few years from now?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them.
-- Desmond Tutu

Hey everyone!

I just added a guestbook to my blog.

It's been so awesome getting feed back from all of you that have been checking out my blog. Thanks so much. But, it'd be nice to keep some kind of record of all those have stopped by.

Look for the guestbook link on the side right column, just above the tagboard.


Thanks,

Amy

Got to love the tight red 80's pants and the ultra shoulder-padded leather jacket to match. Say what you want about my buddy but he's a classic!

Highlights of my Day... Sunday, August 20

1. With Ryan off to Seoul today for a family function, I was left in Cheonan by myself and bored out of my skull. I tried to distract myself but was left sitting on the couch bored. And so started my creative thinking on how to waste away the day.
2. After showering and getting all ready, I then had to re-shower after the mini dance-athon. Ha, ha, ha.
3. Decided that I was going to take a mini field trip to Songtan to pick up some movies from one of the locals there that always gives me freebies.
4. Couldn’t decide on what movie to buy and so I bought five… the fifth being a freebie, cool.
5. Whined and dined with Trouble Boy… well, he did all the whining and I did the dining. Mark my words, this is the LAST time I extend my friendship to him. He whining about my boyfriend is just rude, selfish, inappropriate and nonsense. Not to mention, his whining really makes him look ugly!
6. Ate some awesome Philippino food. It was pork and it tasted so sweet. Turns out it’s marinated in sugar… ya, like that’s real healthy for me!
7. Came home and watched a movie with just me, myself and I. Mind ya, I found myself talking to the TV, which I’m told is the first sign of insanity. Turns out I’m not crazy, the taping on these video purchases isn’t so great and so the sound was off.
8. Picked-up some random German words that mistakenly found their way into the taping of these videos. Either they’re subliminal messages, a mistake, or Julia Roberts is a tranquiliquest. She spoke German but by the movement of her mouth, I was convinced she was also speaking English. Talk about talent! Ha, ha, ha.
9. Amused myself with text messaging Ryan thousand times… okay, maybe not that many times but I was so bored.
10. Entertained myself by pumping my house with the tunes of Michael Jackson and watching his “Thriller” video over and over. Say what you want to say about Michael, I dig him! Ha, ha, ha.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
What's wrong with Michael?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
Dance is the only art of which we ourselves are the stuff of which it is made.
-- Ted Shawn

I thought I'd shed some Korean culture on to those of you who don't actually live here. Although some may think break-dancing is old school, it's very much alive and thriving in Korea.

Here's some more Korean culture... a famous Korean show called "X-Men". Now, unlike this video, when I watch it there's no subtitles. The show is all about teasing and insulting the other team members. The one who makes the other team break down and laugh is the winner.

Highlights of my Day... Saturday, August 19

1. I’M TERRIBLE… I totally to forgot to add in yesterday’s entry that my student Vanessa got FIRST PLACE in the English speaking contest!!!! This past week alone I tutored for ten hours within only three days! She’s awesome and I couldn’t be more proud of her!
2. Took Ryan out for supper at one of my favorite restaurants in Cheonan… The Pumpkin Place!!! Their pumpkin in honey is almost right up there with Mama Bere’s (my mom of course) good old Polish cabbage rolls… almost!
3. Got goggly-eyed by the biggest Korean dude I’ve seen in Korea yet! I’m guessing he weighs in at about 270lbs and so that’s a lot of muscle! He was impressed by with my Korean language and called me a beauty. I thought it was cute and so as Ryan and I drove away on the scooter I waved to him. He stood there waving like a little boy and I had a good giggle. He reminded me so much of my ex, Pete. So big but so sweet.
4. Showed up at Louise’s going away party at Mbar and was totally shocked to see the place swarming with foreigners! I’ve never seen over 80% of these people but apparently they live in Cheonan. Just goes to show you how much I DON’T go out!
5. Ran into Darren. I like Darren but I’ve branded him “Ryan’s friend” and so I rarely see him. Always fun chats with him though and so I’m hoping he stays in Korea longer than he says he will.
6. Felt like a fool after hearing how I had jumped to conclusions the other night. Thanks but now can you help me Darren take my foot out of my mouth?!
7. Louise and I had a good laugh at just how “Koreanized” I’ve become…. the super girly lazy top, the earrings, heart diamond necklace, silver heeled shoes, hair in a ponytail, the fact that I rather associate myself with the Korean staff members than met new foreigners, and even the accent I’ve somehow have developed… it all screams “Korean”!
8. Apparently Louise is with me on the “I love Korean men” bandwagon! Ha, ha, ha. It’s all about the jet black hair and baby skin!
9. Mini reunion with the Mbar staff… well, the few original ones that are still there. Much love to the Koreans but Je Min was overly excited to see me and so much later, like a 5am, text messages from him began.
10. Late night movie night with Ryan. We went all out and watched two movies! The first one, “11:14” was a dark comedy and boy was it twisted! Both thumbs up on that one. As for the second one, “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind”… if I had more than two thumbs I’d face them down too! It had a lot of top notch names but the story really lost my interest after the first few minutes.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
Where did all these people come from?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
Freaks are the much needed escape from the humdrum. They are poetry.
-- Albert Perry

Can Darnell's smile get any bigger?... nope! I think if he tried to make it bigger it'd just hurt! Ha, ha, ha.

Highlights of my Day... Friday, August 18

1. Ran into Ms. Friendly Neighbor… the lady that always hits me when I see her. Today we ran into each other in the elevator, literally. Ha, ha, ha.
2. Well it rained in Cheonan tonight and so it seemed like everyone in Cheonan was at the Yawoori taxi stand with me! I had to wait 35 minutes for a taxi and so not only did I arrive in Songtan an hour late but I also showed up minus any possible signs of patience.
3. Ran into Stalker Boy and was thankfully shortly thereafter rescued by Darnell who got great kicks out of the whole situation. Thanks Darnell!
4. Ran into Trouble Boy and his little pose of Philippine buddies who swarmed me like bees on honey and tried to convince me to ditch my friends. A for effort boys.
5. Once again I was rejected by that Mr. Grumpy Man at the club cause I’m Canadian. It seems like they’re still not accepting Canadians… their loss! I put up a good argument though and even the Air Force security showed up to back me up!
6. Jokes on Mr. Grumpy Man…. thanks to Greg’s quick thinking, he was able to smuggle me into the place through the hotel stairwell door. The workers who saw me walk in asked me for my id and had no problem with the fact that I am Canadian. I don’t think being Canadian is the problem, it’s Mr. Grumpy Man!
7. Chatted it up with this Philippine girl and then spent a good part of the night trying to dodge her. She was trying to hunt me down and it was freaking me out. I have a boyfriend… that means I love men!
8. Met this Korean-American dude who was clearly more American than Korean and I ended up getting into this lengthy discussion about why Korea is way better than America. It was quite humorous.
9. Laughed my butt off while trying to help some couple learn the “Bunny Hop” dance. I’m pretty sure I had stepped on all their feet but they didn’t care. We all were too busy giggling and laughing at each other.
10. Had a fun night with some of my buddies in Songtan but I always end up feeling guilty for the fact that Ryan is at home.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
Did I do that?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.
-- Marcel Proust

Announcing "Sky Life"...(from left to right) Brad, Kevin, Shine, Bryan, and Rupie... Eumbong Middle School's boy band. Today was our last practice session before tomorrow's big pop song contest.

Highlights of my Day... Thursday, August 17

1. Strolled into work AGAIN… did I mention I’m still on holidays, supposedly. Walked in and was greeted by the cutest boy band, “Sky Life”. They came to school today all ready for their dress rehearsal and they looked so sharp. I was quite the proud teacher too! Ha, ha, ha.
2. Spent a grand total of THREE HOURS with Vanessa prepping her for the big English contest tomorrow. We’ve been going hardcore with her speaking contest prep and so I’m putting all my faith in her for tomorrow.
3. Interesting how Ryan complains about his supposed tummy and yet I walk in on him eating cheesecake for supper.
4. Rushed off to see Sue and had a heck of a time trying to flag down a taxi! Finally got a taxi and when I arrived late at Sue’s house, the taxi driver informed me he didn’t have any small bills for my change. He had no change.
5. Only in Korea would a taxi driver give you your money and ask you to wait while they go search out change…. that’s exactly what he did. I’d like to think I’m a good person and so I stayed and waited.
6. Spent some time with my little buddy Sue and she was greatly humored by my Jeju hitch hiking story.
7. Awkward but humorous moment with Sue. We were doing some silly tongue twisters and well, considering her huge curiosity to learn all the English words she can jam into her mini-Korean head, she can across the word “cannibal” and naturally asked me what it meant. I explained it to her and now I think she thinks Canadians eat each other.
8. Freaked out on Ryan today about the “stupid, pathetic, loser-game” he plays all the time. Listed off numerous things he could do instead and well, I didn’t think he was listening but turns out he took my advice. Came home three hours later and he had cleaned the house from top to bottom, did the dishes, laundry, and organized the shelves. I walked in on him sitting on the bathroom floor scrubbing his sneakers. WOW!
9. Had one of those blah nights and so I decided to make a super long distance call to Canada. Called up my buddy Pete. The first few minutes of our conversation was spent on him freaking out and me giggling. I haven’t talked to him since I left Canada. Felt so good to hear that he’s been curious about me.
10. Humored both Pete and myself with random stories of just how different my life has turned out. Just goes to show you, you never know! I love it!

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
How will things be this time next year?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
I am thankful for laughter, except when milk comes out of my nose.
-- Woody Allen

What you're looking at is Eumbong Middle School pride and joy of the English department... Vanessa! She's been faithfully studying English and eagerly shows up during the vacation so that she can pick my brain about English.

Highlights of my Day... Wednesday, August 16

1. Back to school AGAIN… so much for having a summer holiday eh?! Showed up for school sporting my new threads and jewelry that I bought yesterday in Seoul. Nothing feels better than new gear!
2. Had an interesting conversation with my boy band members and they informed me that I got voted “prettiest teacher” by the middle school boys. Thanks…. silly boys.
3. Ryan is so cute! Today when he came to pick me up at school I was running a bit late and so he had to wait. He refused to come into the school (he’s too shy) and so I got two of my students to go outside and harass him. He didn’t budge and instead sweated it out outside in the blazing heat.
4. Found out that one of my uncles has prostate cancer and because of previous surgeries and all the scar tissue due to them, they can’t remove it. Thankfully the doctors claim that it won’t kill him but he’ll have to go through radiation treatment and that’s not exactly fun.
5. Rumor has it Andi’s sister Shelly is smuggling fruit into the States… ha, ha, ha. Just joking but it just goes to show how tight those Americans are.
6. A quick trip to LotteMart got me abusing the phrase “It only cost X dollars” and so I ended up buying nothing that I had originally went in for.
7. Resisted the temptation to buy lip gloss… mind you, that was only because Ryan walked into LotteMart and I knew he’d comment on it so I quickly tossed the gloss away. Ha, ha, ha.
8. Talk about PMS… Julian totally freaked on me tonight and, of course, I was quick to put him in his place. I guess that friendship is over and so I’m really disappointed in him. Nothing is like living your dream and having someone else bash it.
9. Thanks to my new friend Miguel for the spiritual words of wisdom and being an ear I can vent to.
10. Seriously thinking about where I’ll be living next year. So far my options that I’m considering are… Cheonan (Korea), Seoul (Korea), Toronto (Canada), New York (USA), or Australia (to do more schooling).

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
Where in the world are you?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
Accomplishing the impossible means only that the boss will add it to your regular duties.
-- Doug Larson

After the demonstrators left the area, Ryan and I took some pictures. Check out the huge decorating of City Hall!

Highlights of my Day... Tuesday, August 15

1. Woke up early and got ready for our big day in Seoul… our big hunt for the perfect watch. Turns out I was the only one who woke up early (Ryan slept in) but karma baby…. took the bus to Seoul and Ryan got rained on while he drove his scooter out to meet me. Coincidence? Hmmm….
2. Got too excited about my massive new Skippy peanut butter and loaded up my bread with an inch think of it. Ended up almost choking to death as Ryan stood there and watched.
3. Today was a holiday in Korea and so when we reached downtown Seoul we were confronted with a massive crowd of demonstrators outside of City Hall. You should have see the dozen and dozen of police buses that drove in, parked and then unloaded, what appeared to be, the equivalent to the SWAT team!!! They had vests on and shields in hand… wild!!!
4. There were SOOOOOOOO many police buses blocking off this one area of Seoul that even Ryan and I, on the scooter, couldn’t bypass them to enter the area. Seoul was infested with these police!
5. Apparently I’m an in-the-closet shopaholic! I even have a motto… “Wow, it’s only X dollars!” and with that comment I justify all that I buy. I used it to justify jeans, a shirt, some jewelry, a belt, and some other things. Ryan caught me saying it one too many times and had a good laugh.
6. Experienced first-hand how Koreans change into clothes in a packed mall with no change rooms or bathroom available… they use a skirt. I was totally bewildered but caught on how to do it, not to mention I’m sure I entertained all those around me as I struggled to change into jeans underneath the skirt! Ha, ha, ha!
7. Met one of the cutest mini-Koreans at a restaurant tonight. I waved at her and she was ALL eyes on me! Ryan said hi to her but she ignored him and kept her eyes glued on me. She was about to come and sit beside me when her parents motioned for her to leave with them. She was so curious about me… so cute.
8. Fed the itch my brother gave me… the itch for a perfect watch. My quest to find this ultimate watch ended when I spotted a Louis Vuitton watch. It was perfect. I was so happy and so I splurged and even bought a three diamond Chanel watch.
9. Ryan revealed to me that he sometimes doesn’t want to hold my hand when we’re in Cheonan. I understood why he said that but didn’t know how to take that comment.
10. Well we shopped, shopped, shopped… and then we dropped! I passed out on the bus ride home and I’m sure Ryan struggled while driving back home.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
What makes this place so different?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
The safe way to double your money is to fold it over once and put it in your pocket.
-- Frank Hubbard

Highlights of my Day... Monday, August 14

1. Countdown is on till I have to go back to work and yet today I got asked to come into work. What the….!!! With the big English contest being this Friday, not only are some of my students forced to go to school but I am too.
2. Spent a chunk of my day with the cutest of boy bands… “Eumbong Life”. The band consists of six of my middle school students who’ll be competing in a pop song contest this Friday.
3. Feelings of shock and dismay as Eumbong Life sang their first song. Either they don’t know the translation of what they’re singing or someone forgot to screen what songs these boys could and shouldn’t sing. Song was a bit inappropriate but they’ve been practicing it so long. It’s too late to change it now…. oh gosh!
4. They tried to lure me to stay longer at school by offering coffee and food… no way! As soon as time was up, I was out of there!
5. Apparently Ryan’s got some new and interesting dance moves… where’d you pick up those? Moves like those are just too scary! Ha, ha, ha.
6. Spent only an hour with Grace tonight but boy did that hour felt like a life time. Two words to describe this mini-Korean… “TOO HYPER”!!! And yes, all caps is totally necessary!
7. Totally fascinated with Grace’s little sister who proved to be one of the biggest sponges I’ve ever met!!! Sponge-Girl repeated everything I said, word-for-word and with such awesome pronunciation. I was impressed!
8. Thanks to Grace’s mom for feeding my addiction… my lip gloss addiction that is! Ha, ha, ha… you laugh but you’d be shocked at how just many lip gloss I have!
9. What’s a visit at Grace’s house without some kind of mishap! Every time I visit her something ALWAYS goes wrong. Hmmm… I’ve only visited her three times but so far we’ve spilt ice-t on a beautiful suede rug, her sister peed on the floor, and today as I was leaving, Grace knocked over her glass. Grape juice everywhere!
10. Seriously thinking of sabotaging Ryan’s computer. That boy is hooked on this “silly, pathetic, loser game” (as I refer to it as) and stays up WAY too late playing it.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
Can you stop?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
In some countries they'd mistake you as having a seizure!
-- ME (ha, ha, ha)

Okay... so I was alittle bit bored but it was just to hot to venture outside longer than I already had. Here's looking at... me!

Highlights of my Day... Sunday, August 13

1. Finally reached Cheonan at 3:20am and had to deal with the annoying dude that refused to leave me alone on the train. Then once I got rid of him it was the taxi drivers at the station… they’re like seagulls!
2. Got in around 4am and stayed up to watch the sunrise… well, that sounds nice but it’s not the truth. Tried to catch up on all those emails that flooded my inbox.
3. I’m a reptile… a Polish reptile… or so the skin peels on my blankets suggest! I’m officially peeling now and it’s causing a mess. I look like a mix between a burn victim and a cancer patient… I know that’s not funny, but neither is my massive peeling!
4. Massive laundry day. With a wash and dry cycle, that’s 3 hours… did 4 loads of laundry… that’s 12 hours of work my little baby did! My poor machine went non-stop.
5. Well, it’s official… I’ve got the “itch”, thanks to my brother Bobby-B!!! He’s apparently developed this obsession with watches and today I wasted 2 hours online trying to find my own special watch.
6. Ventured to Yawoori (shopping mall) to scoop out watches. Saw lots of ridiculously over-priced jewelry but no watch I particularly watch. The search continues.
7. With the extremely humid and hot weather, Ryan bailed on shopping and so I strolled around the streets to check out the street vendors by myself.
8. Received an interesting message from some random stranger on myspace who apparently goes to my old high school in Whitby…. Jamek. Reminisced about some of my high school moments and the teachers. Rumor has it a certain teacher is under some kind of suspension of some sort. Andi… you’re going to be shocked when you hear this story!!!
9. I officially have one last week of vacation and tonight my co-teacher at my middle school called me and asked me to come into work tomorrow. Some of my students are competing in an English contest this Friday. Now, I know she understands English but apparently she doesn’t know what the word “vacation” means.
10. Turns out Ryan is more than just my boyfriend… he’s my ear-cleaner. Do you remember the character “Danny Tanner” off of the show “Full House”… Ya, well, Ryan’s the Korean version of him! Ha, ha, ha!

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
What part of "no" don't you understand?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
What matters is not the idea a man holds, but the depth at which he holds it.
-- Ezra Pound

Highlights of my vacation... Sunday, August 6 to Sunday, August 13

1. Sunday night at 10:30pm Ryan and I started our adventure down to Jeju Island. I took a 4hr train ride down to Mokpo where we met up (Ryan drove his scooter down so we’d have it on the island), killed time, and then took the 9am ferry over to the island. Finally at our beautiful hotel on Jeju Island at 2pm on Monday.
2. Despite my desire to be the best beach bum possible, we went on various sightseeing adventures. My favorite was both the huge garden maze and the massive waterfall. Initially I didn’t want to use the maze map but it was so hot and we were lost in this massive garden. Had many laughs as we past other confused lost people!
3. Froze our butts off as we adventured into this underground cave as a part of our sightseeing tour of Jeju. The cave was pretty cool but too cold… the chocolate museum on the other hand… NO comment. It just sucked!
4. Our days consisted of sightseeing in the morning, swimming all afternoon and then eating out and being lazy in the evenings… it was great. One problem though… total lack of gas stations made added some interest as we flew around on the scooter on an empty tank… more than a couple of times.
5. Most “interesting” part of the trip was definitely when I thought I’d wonder off on my own. I ended up getting lost, walking two hours, getting roasted in the sun and then hitchhiking it back to the hotel. Much thanks to the last car that picked me up… a father, a mother and a 12 year-old girl (Korean) who were so eager to help me and definitely loved the fact that I am a foreigner.
6. Went to some miniature village that has replicas of some of the world’s most famous buildings, smaller versions of course. I saw London, I saw France, I saw…. NO CANADA! Wasn’t impressed and so I tried to play the role of the “ticked off customer”… too funny though. Got to meet Louis Armstrong and Marilyn Monroe though. Ha, ha, ha.
7. Our original room where we stayed for 4 out of the 5 nights was BEAUTIFUL! Standing on the balcony we could see the ocean staring back at us.
8. Considering eating the local food meant eating fish, fish, and more fish, we thought we’d eat at the hotel… big mistake. The centennial breakfast consisted of different breads; the American breakfast consisted of uncooked bacon and was so overpriced! We went in search of some more westernized food and ended up at the airport and out of luck. Finally allowed Ryan to take me out for fish. I chewed on the bones and picked off the skin. It turned my stomach at first so I closed my eyes and ate it. Not bad actually.
9. It was definitely interesting to note the various differences between mainland Korea and Jeju Island, Korea. Jeju seems like it’s own little world, so uninhibited by mainstream culture (like Nike stores, McDonalds). Unlike mainland Korea, they have rock fences, palm trees and I didn’t see any rice fields. Instead, I saw orange tree farms everywhere.
10. Definitely was entertained at the local beach fair even though we only went on two rides. It’s definitely a Korea thing… the ride conductors yelling out funny comments at the riders that is. SOOOO funny! We sat there giggling at them all. On one ride the dude was clearly picking on the chicks and so the poor girls were falling out of their seats and looked so foolish. We went on this huge swinging boat ride and our ride conductor told us his sad story about how he’s here cause his girlfriend broke up with him and so he wishes us the best of luck… thanks. Good times.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
Do I have to go back?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
You're a reptile!
-- Yoonbeer

... to ME!!!

Thanks to all who wished me a happy birthday!

Well I'm heading out of Cheonan for the week. I'm treating myself and the big guy to a vacation down on Jeju Island where the beach is waiting for our beach bums, the sun is blazing hot, and where the ocean is calling our names.

Come back next Sunday and I'll fill ya in on my birthday and my trip!

See ya!

-- Amy

Much thanks to my little Sue and her mom for the great birthday party. You girls are so awesome!

Highlights of my Day... Saturday, August 5

1. Woke up clueless as to where I was and then I realized I was still in Songtan. Raced it back to Cheonan for my plans with Sue.
2. Went over to Sue’s house today and her and her mom surprised me by throwing me a mini surprise birthday party! They sung to me, gave me some gifts and even had a cake for me. It was so incredibly sweet of them. I was very touched!
3. I’ve officially “reached” Sue. I’ve been approved! Today she wanted to show me something and so she took me by the hand. Both her and her mom were surprised cause she’s not a touchy girl at all.
4. Saw my first green spider… pretty cool. Thanks Sue.
5. Came home and was greeted by Ryan and his brother roaming around in my house. Oh my gosh… my house was so messy and so I was kind of embarrassed. Ryan’s brother was super cool about it though.
6. Took my gift certificate that Sue’s mom had given me today and did some shopping! I felt like Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman” when I stacked up the clothes on the counter! What a rush! Looks like I’ll be sporting some new threads for my trip…. sweet!
7. Ryan went and got pretty much all his hair chopped off… like I told him not too. He’s still a great looking Korea but I love the longer hair.
8. Attempted to go to Carafor to pick up some stuff for our trip but ended up driving the scooter into a rainstorm. We saw the crazy lightening ahead of us but thought it was farther away than it really was. Had to turn around but boy did those rain drops hurt on my exposed face.
9. Second attempt to go to Carafor later in the evening was a success. Stocked up on sunscreen lotion, goggles, and had a good laugh as Ryan tested out various water toys to see which one he liked. What a big kid!
10. Came home and no sooner did I open the door than I crashed for the night!

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
What do I really want?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.
-- Victore Borge

Good-bye to my elementary homeroom E2 class -- The Blue Sharks! I'll miss your hyper jumping in class and silly laughs... I won't miss the brutal early mornings though!

Joking around with some of the middle school girls. How come they are so dry but I'm soaked?!

Highlights of my Day... Friday, August 4

1. While on my way to the camp I ran into my favorite student, Ryan from Eumbong Middle School and so we stopped to say hi. He was so shy because Ryan (my bf) was there and so that was a first. Usually he greets me with a loud hi and sometimes a jab to my shoulder. Ha, ha, ha.
2. Was surprised at camp with some cards and gifts from students. Last night some of them gave me flowers and today some of them gave me birthday letters/cards. Thanks to Chloe for the piggy-bank! He was so proud that he had bought it for me… so cool!
3. With 80 totally hyperactive students, 200 water balloons, tons of water guns and one blazing hot sun, our planned game of “capture the flag” was scrapped and instead with had an all-out water fight! IT WAS AWESOME!
4. Somehow I ended up being the focus target of this water fight by many students and so I got bombarded with water balloons, shooting water guns and even cups of water!!!! I was so soaked!
5. Thanks to Johnson for being my sidekick! He never paid attention in my class but was my faithful partner in the big water fight. He and I together did random water shootings. We had so much fun my tummy hurt from laughing!
6. Had to say good-bye to all the students and so that was kind of sad but I found relief in knowing that I’ll see some of them again cause they’re students of mine from my school.
7. Ventured out to Songtan to meet up with Darnell and got to see his part of the Air Force base. The base is huge. These guys have it good!
8. Julian came down and met up with me in Songtan. We had a good time and he’s a super cool dude to talk to. Gotta love those Korean boys!!!
9. Was totally shocked when I tried to enter a club and was refused. “No Canadians allowed in this club” is what the security kept on yelling at me. Turns out some Canadian girl punched the manager and so now the manager is seeking revenge on all Canadians. Jokes on her though, Darnell and his buddies distracted the security while I snuck by. Didn’t think it’d work but it did. You should had seen his face though when I left the club and said good-bye.
10. Got harassed for trying to be a good friend. Went on a hike and a half to bring subway sandwiches to “Trouble Boy” and ended up getting proposed to in the middle of the street by him… it was a joke of course but he was persistant.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
Who doesn't like Canadians?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
We do not stop playing because we grow old. We grow old because we stop playing.
-- Anon

Some random snapshots of the mini-Korean cuties at tonight's big performance. Encore! Encore!!!

Highlights of my Day... Thursday, August 3

1. All 80 students got dragged through two full dress rehersals for tonight’s big performance and it was brutel! We all sat for a little over 5 hours (with a break for lunch) in a smelly auditorium that had one air conditioner very inconveniently located at the back corner.
2. Went in search of some kind of entertainment for those waiting around in the auditorium for their turn on stage. Voila…. water spray bottles!!! Amused myself and the kids by doing random “drive-by sprays”! It was so funny.
3. While in the bathroom stall, I got ambushed by two girls with water spray bottles who thought it funny to stand on the toilets, lean over the stall wall, and spray me.
4. During lunch I edited a speech that was written by a teacher and was quite shocked at the grammatical errors.
5. As my E2 class performed our class poem that we had written together, I was totally confused by what appeared to be changes in the program. Turns out my co-teacher took it upon herself to change what I had planned.
6. Was surprised by my Eumbong Middle School Principle who came out today to show his support to me. He wasn’t able to stay for the show but he wanted to say hi to me. This man is so awesome and I thought it was respectable and so cool that he went out his way for me.
7. My Vice Principle came to see our show and so that was really special too. All my students had their parents there and so it felt awesome to also have someone in the crowd cheering me on.
8. Volunteered myself to help out opening and closing the stage curtain during the performance! I decided to copy Ariel and fold the curtain around my body so that the crowd couldn’t see me but that thick velvet curtain made me so hot.
9. The show was a HUGE hit with everyone. Everyone was impressed and the students all were awesome!
10. After the show, Ariel, Edil, and I went to each class and greeted the parents and made comments to the students. Everyone was smiley and all the parents loved us. It was great to meet everyone but it kind of made me sad that tomorrow will be the last day of camp.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
Why do you ask me to do things if you're going to turn around and do it yourself?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
Just give medium.
-- Yoonbeer

... and here's the newest member to the A-Team... Julian. Born in California but now in Korea.

Highlights of my Day... Wednesday, August 2

1. Turns out not all my readers enjoy my “diarrhea of the mouth” and my willingness to joke about my mishaps. Everyone deals with life on different terms, these are my terms and if joking about things is how I deal with life’s sour moments than I think that’s my prerogative.
2. Have officially given up on trying to make people understand what it feels to be a foreigner. After two years being here, I still am a stranger to even my neighbors.
3. One of the middle school classes is presenting the song “Lemon Tree” tomorrow at the performance and so we worked on it today. It’s quite a depressing song actually but now I can’t get that song out of my head.
4. Tomorrow’s the big performance and so today my E2 homeroom class and me worked like mad on our performance piece. We wrote a poem and it’s pretty good if I do say so myself.
5. Yummy… mystery meat today for lunch. I’m not too sure which I was more disgusted by, the fact that I couldn’t figure out what kind of meat this was or the loads of fat that surrounded what little meat we got!
6. Caught a bit of sunstroke after spending some class time outside and then waiting for Ryan like for an hour on the curb.
7. Went on a 20 minutes goose chase for an appointment book at this stationary store that you walk from one end to the other in five minutes. So, needless to say, I got frustrated and left.
8. Awkward moment when I ran into one of my co-workers from Wollang Elementary School with his wife. He doesn’t speak much English and so I tried my best but ended up saying “smelly” instead of “boy” so “boyfriend” came out like “smelly friend”. Oops. I think they realized my mistake cause they had a good laugh about it.
9. Big plans for this Friday with my Air Force buddies and, the newest addition to my A-Team, Julian. Julian’s Korean-American and apparently is having a hard time in Korea so he jumped at the chance to hang with my crew.
10. I’m doing pretty good I think…. I’ve been off of green tea ice cream for about three days now. That’s a record! Ha, ha, ha.

QUESTION OF THE DAY...
What's Sunday?

QUOTE OF THE DAY...
You're old!
-- one of my students

Horse play in the staff room today. It was Korea vrs. Canada... and I think Korea kicked Canada's butt!