So Long...Farewell

Last night was our farewell dinner party...then karaoke :) I had some of the most fun in my whole stay here. I'm going to miss Korea, but I know that I will probably appreciate being home once I get there. A month probably feels like a long time to some, but now that I've been here almost that long, it feels as if it's not nearly enough time to really learn about a place. I hope to continue studying and return someday...Lord only knows for how long.

Hanging out with friends tonight, since its our last night here...

Until next time, God Bless

Reverse Culture Shock

I had a great weekend, this weekend. I got to play piano for a brief time, and eat a subway sandwich shortly after--subway never tasted so good! After that, I went to chill with my friend Yumi and spend some more time in Insadong for shopping. By the time we got through eating the stores were already starting to close up. I was still able to get a few things, but it feels much like a thrift store; they have many of the same items that you just have to sift through to find the best price and quality. I'm not much of a shopper anyway, but it was still fun!

Sunday I visited my friend Kyeongmi's church. It was pretty neat, because I recognized the music and could hum along to it :) I didn't understand what was being said, but I loved the passage. It was about the woman and the vessels, where the oil didn't stop until all the vessels were filled. What's really cool, was I was just thinking of that scripture the day before, so I know that God laid it on my heart! After church, we went to Itaewon, a "westernized" city for the military base near-by. I found myself not really enjoying the atmostphere, because there were so many people speaking english! I have already gotten used to hearing the Korean language all around me, and not understanding what's being said; I had such a hard time talking and listening, because it felt like sensory overload! All of a sudden I can understand the things around me and my mind had to learn to block it out again! So strange!  I think it was good, though, so I know what to expect when I get home.

I missed the trip to Chun-gae stream, but I'm hoping to go this week sometime :)  We have our group presentations and our individual papers to write, so we're still busy, but things are definitely coming to a close. I find myself not ready to leave, even though I miss home so much!

A few more hours of language class today, the Han river cruise tomorrow, then presentations and home...bittersweet :)

Everyday's a Holiday...

We went to Everland today; a family amusement park. It was pretty cool and we had perfect weather. It rained in the morning, but stayed cloudy the rest of the day. I rode what was probably one of the shortest roller coasters in history, but it was loaded! We also rode a couple of water rides (my favorties) and bumper cars! It's always great feeling like a kid :)

We also  saw some special shows before lunch, which were very interesting. There was a bird show, a monkey show, and some others. then we walked around the "zoo" and saw some very unsual animals like the polar bear and some lions.

Everland was definitely more beautiful at night than during the day. Before we left, we stayed for the parade, which was basically a light show. It was so magnificent!


 

In order to get home we had to wait for a bus, but at least we were some of the first one's on (that meant we got seats) since we had at least an hour to travel. I was sitting with Rebecca while Tina and Sue were behind us. On the second stop, some strange guy pushed his way back at stopped at our seats. I was almost asleep when I felt someone tap my shoulder. I look up and it was the strange guy...he acted like it wasn't him. In the process of him tapping my shoulder, he managed to disturb Rebecca's hair. We both freaked out! I couldn't tell if he was sleeping, or if he was hammered (but probably a little bit of both). The guy kept falling asleep, or falling over and looking at us. The thing that bothered me was when he stared at Sue with a strange smirk on his face. I got so mad, I wanted to punch him in the face...but I just stared him down instead. Emma, one of our Korean buddies was looking out for us and told him no to bother us. He told her he was drunk and apologized in English. In my opinion, he wasn't drunk, but he had been drinking. I felt he knew what he was doing and I was real uncomfortable. He got off at the next stop and we were able to enjoy the rest of our ride home.

When we arrived at the subway station, we transferred a couple of times. During the wait, we were all goofing off due to being slap-happy. By this time, it's nearly 12am and we are exhausted! Once we got to our last subway station, we headed up to street level and discovered it was raining! I didn't care, so i just walked around in the rain. It was so refreshing--besides, I love Seoul in the rain! The day couldn't have ended better!

I've had some serious thinking this evening, regarding the "drunk" guy and some other conversations we've had throughout our stay here. Regarding the drunk guy, I thought about how ashamed he might have felt to not have control over his actions--given he really was drunk. Then I thought, "Wow, he must really have some massively deep hurt in his life as his motive for getting smashed." It was strange how my heart just broke for him. I mean, initially I was totally freaked out and ready to utilize the Taekwondo we learned (no lie); but once I thought about it and I tried to see where he was coming from, I found it so sad that I took some action by praying for him. I can't imagine being at a point where I feel like there is no hope.


On a lighter note, I was also thinking back to an evening when some of us went out for dinner and hung out afterwards. We were talking about what the first thing is that we look for when meeting someone of dating interest. I was surprised at how many said something about chemistry, or just a feeling. I, too, used to look for chemistry or a feeling, but I finally learned that it isn't always based on feelings (much like my relationship with God). It's more about the relationship and the person than about how you feel, because the feeling isn't always going to be there. One can't rely on feelings, because feelings change so quickly. I think that when a relationship is based on feelings, it is most vulnerable to failure. Not that I'm saying there shouldn't be any chemistry, but it shouldn't be solely based on it. If you don't feel it, it doesn't make it any less true or real...you simply just don't feel it at the moment; doesn't change the reality any. God is still God, even though I don't always feel his presence. I know He is still working in my life, regardless of how I feel.


Free day tomorrow...sort of. I have plans to meet my Korean Language teacher and go play the piano around 1pm. I cannot wait! I know that once I play, I will feel like myself again! I miss playing and singing and all the gifts the good Lord has blessed me with! Then, I have plans to meet my friends again and stay with them overnight. We'll be headed back to Insadong and  some other places! I can't wait!

Until next time, God Bless!

Beautiful Days

Yesterday we climbed yet another mountain :) I have experienced a major jump start for when I return home. I definitely think 6 flights of stairs without stopping will be possible by the time I leave (No kidding) Between the subway stations and the mountains, home is looking so beautiful right now. I'm ready for the gorge again!
We "took a stroll on the hillsides" of Seoul, in a small "hilltop" park ("mountain"). It was nice, but didn't really feel all that much worth the view. What sold me was the group of elementary kids that couldn't get over seeing foreigners. Priceless! We could also see Seoul's highest peak from the park, which was pretty awesome!

Today we had two classes, had a wonderful lunch, and took off for Seoul Tower (I'd post the pictures, but my camera batteries are dead). We got to see the 'old Seoul' and 'new Seoul'. The northern part of the city is where the University lies, which is considered the old Seoul. The new Seoul is the south, beyond the Han river. It never used to be the city, but it has been expanded. It was a breath-taking view of the city within the mountains!

 

At the tower, there is a famous place for couples to take a lock with a message and place it there. It is supposed to be a symbol of their undying love for each other. It may seem a little juvenile to some, but I think its kind of interesting.

After visiting Seoul Tower, we were supposed to head to nandaemun market, but reverted to just the ballpark. Across from the ballpark was an olympic stadium. I don't know if it was for the olympics already hosted, or the olympics that Seoul will host in 2018. However, the stadium was simply awesome! In the background/beyond the stadium, were the mountains, in plain view. I have to say it's one of the most beautiful ballparks I've ever been to...

The game was pretty cool, and my camera has some pretty awesome zoom action! Caught some sweet pics of the pitchers for the Doosan Bears (the team we were rooting for). Something very interesting at the stadium was there were definate sides for teams. If you are not a fan of the team, you don't sit on that side of the stadium! It was kind of cool, because when the team of your section got up to bat, everyone in that specified area started cheering. I thought American's loved baseball--heck no! American's don't get into the game near as much as Koreans do! However, it was so good to see a baseball park again...it has been so long! (I have to admit though, I was missing me some Votto).

 

Another busy day tomorrow. I think we have an official dinner with the main chairperson of the International Affairs of Hansung. Some of the participating students will wear their traditional dress/costumes, and the Koreans will also do a traditional dance or performance.

So much to do this last sight-seeing week! Next week we prepare for presentations and papers! Until next time, God Bless!

Absentmindedness

I have returned from a most beautiful trip to Gyeongju. The only 3 day trip we take and I manage to forget my phone--not that it was entirely necessary, but my family was a bit worried since we didn't have internet access there either! Needless to say, if my head wasn't attached, I'd lose it. Plus, the one and only time we went to the major mountains and the beach in the same day...I forgot my camera! I will have to post pictures later.

We had different roommates for this short trip and that was quite enjoyable. I got to room with Emma, who I haven't really gotten a chance to get to know yet. She's very dramatic and has such an honest, out-going personality. Forget her wearing her emotions on her sleeves...she's covered in them! It was a lot of fun, because our room seemed to be the "go-to" room. Everyone came and went as much as you can imagine. The first night, we learned that the "hotel" had a traditional Korean staging, which meant that we were sleeping on the floor with mats. When we went into our room, there was no furniture except a coffee table and a television. We had a very small kitchen, one bathroom/shower and one bedroom--all to five girls (very funny)! We agreed to all stay in the livingroom, because there was air conditioning. It was like a three day sleepover with friends, though. :)

The second night, we had a very interesting night. Four of us were out by 1130 and our fifth girl came in a bit later with some others in the program. I would say about 15 minutes later, if that, someone was walking the hall ringing our door bell and trying to get in the door. Thankfully, it was locked and Emma (our Korean buddy assigned to us) called the front desk for security.

Today, we arrived back safely, at about 230pm. It's raining here, but that's okay. I stayed in this afternoon to catch up, and wait for McDonald's tonight! Woohoo! I've done well so far...this is the first time I've gone for true Westernized food. Lunch today was chicken fingers, but even they had spices in them, so they were still Korean :) (especially since I'm IN Korea...ha ha).

Here is was our view.

Also, while there, we caught a glimpse of the weather on TV. Good thing, because there is a Typhoon headed for Japan. It's likely we'll get the remnants of it afterwards, but I don't know how fast its moving or when it might arrive. You can track it as well, here: http://www.weather.com/weather/map/interactive/Seoul+South+Korea+KSXX0037

We visited Andong, a village of traditional Korean houses that people currently live in. They have some of them open for viewing, but not many. It was very interesting! We also got to visit the 600 year old tree! They say that a goddess lives within it, and if you touch the tree, you will not be barren. It's also tradition that you write down a hope and tie it to the tree so it will come true. The tree is a symbol of hope and sustenance, since it is so old.



We also visited a couple of parks that house the tombs of kings. The tombs were built within hills, and the higher the hill, the more important the person. Really neat, especially from a far distance.

After we walked through all the parks, we went to the riverside for some relaxing.

Restful weekend, then back to the grind on Monday. Tuesday is a Baseball game! I can't wait!

Until next time, God Bless! Have a wonderful Friday/Weekend!

Writer's block

I've been having a great time, but falling behind on sleep again...not always my choice. I think I'm going to try turning in early, even if it means I'm a party pooper. :) I've realized how old I've become, taking this trip...getting used to going to bed by 11 is really not working here. Especially, becuase the Korean culture is mostly about night life. Shops are open at night, and everyone walks the streets. Subways and bus routes are crouded. It's very energizing, and enthralling, but in my old age, I'm actually fit for working and hitting the sack earlier than 12am.

When did I grow up?
Who knows what's in store for tomorrow....probably more rain, but actually, I like Seoul more when it rains :)

Until next time, God Bless!

Dose of Reality

I had a wonderful weekend! Friday, I met my friends for supper, and on the way to dinner, we passed people fighting in the street because of a small car accident. I could tell because of the tone, even though I didn't know what they were saying. However, it was so good to see my friends, but so strange, because everyone was older and all grown up. They all have jobs and are so busy with life these days...helped me to really appreciate the time they took out of their day to see me! We had dinner at a really nice Korean restaraunt and then went to starbucks for coffee. They said if I pay attention, most Koreans have to get coffee after every meal...ha ha. I fit in so well here (other than being completely caucasian). This is when I truly began to feel I was in S.Korea.

Saturday was the DMZ trip. It was very...enlightening. I became very aware of the pain and suffering of the separation of Korea. There were some pretty serious moments, because there were restrictions on photography and places fenced off where land mines still exist. The only safe place was the road we were driving on in many cases. We visited the Freedom bridge, where people go to mourn for loved ones they cannot see. This makes me appreciate that America's civil war resulted in unification, not separation.

  

  

 



This trip was probably the most interesting so far, even though it was a bit somber. It was very informative and made me realize the emtional hardships of Korea. To this day, there is hope of re-unification.

After visiting the DMZ, I went back to Paju, to visit my friend Yu-mi and her family. It was very good to experience home life with her  and her family. It was so quiet out there, that I slept well! They fed me well, too! Yu-mi's mother is an excellent cook, so much so, that I've skipped supper this evening. What I was surprised to know, was that her mother was diagnosed with cancer last year and had been getting treatments. She is no longer getting treatments, and her hair is growing back...like so many others I know back home. I was able to say that I understood, because some of my family and friends have gone through the same thing recently.

While there, I watched gameshow TV and dramas--what we call soap operas. I didn't understand anything, but it was still kind of funny. It's so cool how facial expressions are universial :) I took the subway for the first time. It feels better than taking the bus, however, buses are so much more common and easier to access. The transportation system is wonderful. I have nothing to compare it to as far as city life, but it is so very easy to understand and get around.

I had a very restful day today, which has helped me get on the correct schedule. Traditional Korean dress will be tomorrow as well as some more language classes. Time to study!

Mysterious Ways

In the politics class yesterday, we were talking about familial statistics, and some of the traditions as to how Korean families function. During the description, it hit me that my up-bringing has truly been one way that God has molded me for missions, or outreach to other cultures. You see, my family is sort of clannish...we always are around each other in a big setting, and we're very close for American families these days. While growing up, I knew my 3rd and 4th cousins and all, above and beyond my immediate family. I feel fortunate, because I've always noticed how international people are similar. When I used to spend time every Thursday with a multitude of mixed cultures, I had noticed how no matter where they are from, they treat each other like family. It's a bond that Americans take for granted.

Personally, its been very interesting to discover and appreciate the way God has molded me to be who I've become so far. Having been taught to keep family close, has definitely been an advantage experiencing the Korean culture. Last night, we had ordered pizza and chicken and drank Coke. It was delicious, but the best part about it was, we all had gathered around the table and talked. I loved every minute of it! Not only were we getting to know each other, but we compared our different cultures to one another. Again, God had shown me how thankful I should be for my younger years; not that I haven't been before, but it's just a great confirmation to know that I'm definitely in God's will and willing to allow God to mold me to be who he is designing me to be.

I'm looking forward to today...meeting my exchange friends tonight for supper!

Rainy Day Clay

Jeremiah 18:1-7
The Word which came to Jeremiah from the Lord, sayting,
Arise, and go down to the potter's house and there I will cause thee to hear my words.
Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels.
And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter; so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it.
Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying,
O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? Saith the Lord. Behold, as the caly is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel.

Today we had our second dose of classes: Korean Politics and Language again. The political part was very informative, and interesting. The language class is very helpful...I'm already beginning to recognize some things. After class, we went to make our own pottery in Incheon. We visited the ceramics museum first, then we headed down to get creative! I actually took a picture of a palace and doodled it onto my ceramic piece...just to have a "home-made" souvenir! It's going to be difficult getting it back to the states without it breaking, though! I had so much fun with the pottery today. We even got to try the pottery wheel like the scripture describes above. It was really interesting and neat!

What was really fun was trying to understand the woman who was leading our pottery making, because she spoke Korean (obviously). She would come by and one-by-one explain what you needed to do with actions. Even though I had no clue what she was saying I was able to make sense of it enough to finish! I did have some help from the other helper, though. She really helped my piece to look smooth and sturdy--I never quite got the hang of it.

Now, as we're chilling, we have ordered pizza. I just have to laugh, because its so strange to go to a foreign country and have my native cuisine! I feel bad, too, but I'm sure they want to make us feel as welcomed as possible. I have found a couple of good dishes that aren't too spicy. Tonight we had a splendid meal, but since most everything was spicy, I didn't try to eat much of it. Something I really enjoy (even though it is sometimes not the most comfortable) is how they sit on the floor to eat. You remove your shoes and all sit together at the table. Technically, you're supposed to keep conversation to a minimum, but when it's all friends, it's a little different.

Tomorrow we visit KBS a Korean film company. Should be interesting!

Thankful Thoughts

I'm so happy to have the time to share my experience with you. I've been places that I don't have the time to share, but this is really nice; especially for me to be able to think back on my day and recap, going at it one day at time.

We had a very busy day today! This morning was our first official class. We learned the vowels and the consonants of the korean language. So much for just one hour! (Which reminds me, I've got to practice!) Of course, I was the only one who forgot to say my major during introductions...leave it to me and my social awkwardness.

Lunch today was red bean rice, pumpkin soup and soy soup. The pumpkin soup was good, almost like liquid cornbread that tastes a little like pumpkin. I tried a green leaf and it had pricklies on it...like hair. I tried it anyway, and I don't know what happened, but it tasted like something we clean with. It was a burst of an herb and lit my mouth on fire. I asked them what it was and they said it was sesame leaf. It tasted very herbal, almost like an aloe. Evidently I was eating it wrong, though...you're supposed to eat it with jeuk bokum--made of pork with spices. I had this dish the first day I was here, over rice but today it seemed a little more spicy. I know, I know, I sound like a big chicken when it comes to spices...and I am--at least here. They have their own Korean chili that goes in almost everything....and I mean everything!

After our class this morning, we went to the downtown palaces. We walked forever, and today it was very humid, but once I post the pictures, you will see the mountains in the background! I just looked at the architecture and the scenery and just thought, "Wow. God, you are so amazing...how can people look at this place and not know there is a God? I thought Kentucky was beautiful, but these mountains...and the intellegence that you have provided for civilians to build and live amongst the mountains...simply incredible. You are an awesome God!" It brought tears to my eyes, having a little moment with the savior :)

 

 

This evening, we went and ate fried chicken! I was never so happy!!! It was so nice, and there was a korean sweet sauce that was simply delish! Coke was free! I even asked them what the catch was, and they informed us that some restaraunts offer free beverages! I was like, "That would never happen in the states!" Coke never tasted so good! :) During dinner, I got to know some more of the girls and we got to talking about music! Ha ha...I loved it! They say there is a piano room on campus, and I'm bound and determined to check it out sometime!

After dinner, we stopped at a Smoothie King. Never been before, but it was good. I enjoyed a very refreshing pineapple smoothie. While smoothying, we engaged in some interesting conversations about religion and different customs, as well as courtship and marriage. One of the girls, Tae Jung (we call her Emily) was sharing about her relationship and how they've dated for 3 years. She is wearing a type of promise ring, and we had asked if she would be getting married. She explained that it is custom for them to get married six years later. That's a heck of a long time! So we shared the differences between american traditions and such. It was very interesting, because there are the different countries, Taiwan and Malaysia and Korea, of which customs are all different in some way. As far as religion, it varies too...different types of buddhism. The girls said they practice what their parents do, even though they don't necessarily agree with it. I found that very interesting. Maybe some future opportunities to talk about my religion will occur again. I was just glad that my Faith ring provided the opportunity of the subject (one of the many reasons I wear it)!

Pottery making tomorrow! Should be fun! I love artsy stuff! We even get to bring our work home with us! Then Friday, I'm meeting my old friends who came to the states, for dinner! It will be so good to see their faces again!

Leaving you with one of my favorites: Genesis 2: 31a: And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good.

Force of Nature

Had a very refreshing nap just a few moments ago...made myself wake up, because I realized that my body wants me to sleep now, like I was back at home. I didnt' sleep for very long last night, waking up every few hours, trying to make myself sleep. But at least I've been able to get some sleep! Had a Korean breakfast this morning...I have to say, I'm not really prepared to have spicy/seasoned rice for every meal just yet. It was delicious, but I was not ready for it.

Coffee here tastes the same, if not better. It was quite refreshing as well. The coffee shop was very nice, and they were playing Christian music...one of my favorite songs--How Great Thou Art. About 25 percent of S.Koreans are of Christian religion; this was included in an information packet we were given as a welcome gift. Very informative of all the religions and foods and social etiquette.

It's been very nice getting to know the other girls and learning about their culture. We've talked about our interests and what has led us here to S.Korea. There are 22 participants in the Summer program this year, and this is actually only the second year for the program. Six of us are from the US, five from Thailand, three from Malaysia, and the rest from S.Korea; quite a mix of cultures. Official orientation is tonight, with classes starting in the morning.

Until next time, God Bless!

Today's the day!

I was so pumped when I woke up; the day had finally come! I am on my way to S.Korea...or so I thought. After getting everything loaded up and ready to go by 630, I realized I needed my insurance card. I knew just where to look...or so I thought. After looking four times all over the house, I was undoubtedly going to be late to the airport. After a slight panic mode, I told myself, "God will provide, because I'm supposed to go on this trip!" So once mom made her authority known, the papers showed up right on top of my piano...not where I had left them, by the way. Needless to say, I started my day in continuous prayer (not the type of continuous prayer I'd hope for, though). I was so very thankful, and so very stressed that once I got to the airport, I just went on in and checked my bags and everything. I was waiting for everyone inside, while they were waiting for me in the Lobby. Miscommunication #1.
Taking off for Detroit, we had boarded a puddle jumper, but we each got our own row, since there weren't very many people on the flight. We started on time, and arrive early. It was only a 40 minute flight. Right before landing, we started counting swimming pools...and most of them were inground. Landed a little rough, but about right for the small plane. Next, we boarded the flight to S.Korea. It was not a small plane, in the least bit. The terminal or walkway connecting the different terminals was so neat! They had syncronized music with a long hallway of lights!

The flights wasn't bad at all. I had forgotten just how much I loved to fly! The power of it...phenomenal! Take off was superb. Landing scared me just a bit, though. However, flying over Alaska and the arctic, so breathtakingly beautiful! Watched a couple of movies including UP, North by Northwest, a few episodes of my favorite TV show, all for free! It was all complimentary! I was able to get a couple of hours of shut eye, but not much. (It's about to catch up with me for real!)

Once we got to the airport, it wasn't much of anything to worry about and got our luggage pretty much right away. Other than the fact that it was 2 am home time and I didn't feel comfortable calling then, it was all good! From there, we bussed over to Seoul to find the places we're staying (not on campus, evidently, but close enough). The everyday architecture is beautiful! So many neat bridges and tunnels!...and the MOUNTAINS. Boy are they something else! They are just neat!

I would have to say, though, the highlight of my trip so far, has been seeing Yu-mi! As we were eating in a little food place down the street from the University, her and Mi Yeoung met up with me to say hello! I almost cried, but it was just so good to see them, that joy overwhelmed me. Them and a few others work at the University, so on a free day, probably this weekend, we will all get to hang out agian! I can't wait!

It still hasn't hit me that I'm in a whole nother part of the world. I thought it would feel strange, being in a place I don't recognize the language, or know what people are saying until/unless they speak english; but the truth is, it doesn't feel any different...it just looks a little different. I'm sure the longer I'm here, the more acclamated I'll become and start to really feel like I'm halfway around the world. :)

To all my family and friends back in the States, I'm safe, and I hope you all have a wonderful fourth of July! Turning in for the night...

Peace to all, and God Bless! Thanks for all the prayers!