tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3112480208749547672024-02-07T12:29:49.418+09:00Heart and SeoulKeep up with me while I teach abroadUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-12974524214295170052011-11-28T15:55:00.004+09:002011-11-28T16:28:14.214+09:00A Hong Kong Thanksgiving<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9N7YJ5GTDJgFlGhjNie7AXCVdiOjC8rwwYsvtW0vxtlN7RL25WEoq2OTsFwVJkUPxrBm524p4gNg4lyDsHZQwUEQGvP8TqzFnUsaF1-SrHkxDGy81FBAq1RR2mHTqrqU07v9qvFDloSF/s1600/IMG_0218.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9N7YJ5GTDJgFlGhjNie7AXCVdiOjC8rwwYsvtW0vxtlN7RL25WEoq2OTsFwVJkUPxrBm524p4gNg4lyDsHZQwUEQGvP8TqzFnUsaF1-SrHkxDGy81FBAq1RR2mHTqrqU07v9qvFDloSF/s320/IMG_0218.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679939431298630082" /></a><br /><br />A friend and I went to Hong Kong for American Thanksgiving. We arrived late on Wednesday night and stayed through Sunday morning. Here are the highlights:<br /><br />Thursday - Disney Land<br /><br />Friday - Star Ferry to Hong Kong, Stanley Waterfront Service, Lan Kwai Fong, Symphony of Lights harbor show, Temple Street Night market<br /><br />Saturday - Massage and facial, the Jade Hawkers Bazaar, The Shamrock Pub<br /><br /><br />Disney was a wise choice for American Thanksgiving. We had lunch at the Starlight Cafe and as I was enjoying my fried chicken and looking around I was remembering all of my other Disney times. It was nice to be looking at such familiar surroundings on a day that should be spent with family. <br /><br />The time I spent in Hong Kong was way different than my trip last year. Last year my buddy and I had wandered about SoHo just taking in the sites but with little direction. Then we experienced the great Dragon parade. It was an adventure, but there was much of Hong Kong to explore.<br /><br />In preparation for this trip I inquired about places to go and things to do. We were directed to an area of Hong Kong called Stanley. This was a wonderful choice. Much to my surprise this area of town is on the other side of the island so it was longer taxi ride than anticipated but well worth it. The shopping was great. I was able to pick up some things for me and some things as gifts. After a few hours of shopping and lunch we ran into some colleagues who pointed out a grocery store and some other fun shops. We were able to pick up some spices and pudding - both of which are hard to come by in Seoul.<br /><br />The night market was interesting. It was a last minute plan so I had already had dinner. I would have preferred to eat at the market as the food looked and smelled great. We soon realized that the night market had all of the same stuff as the Stanley market. A lot of junk with only a few treasures. The shopping was much better in Stanley as there were more stalls with authentic goods (or so I hope).<br /><br />Saturday was very similar to my last trip to Hong Kong minus the typhoon. I meandered through the streets of Kowloon taking in the site and turning down about 100 offers for a tailor, watches, and bags. I enjoyed an inexpensive and relaxing massage followed by a facial. The jade market was good and I picked up a few more pieces for myself and others. <br /><br />Returning to school today was a little hard to do given the amount of work I DIDN'T do over the break, but I was happy to see my students. I was able to touch base with a few that have been struggling a little and to hopefully encourage them towards biology success. With mid-terms coming up stress levels are sure to be increasing from already high levels. <br /><br />In less than 3 weeks midterms will be over, college apps completed, and I'll be on a beach somewhere in Australia. More to come later.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-91472172853922718102011-11-21T15:51:00.002+09:002011-11-21T16:03:39.331+09:00Winter has arrivedIt's beginning to feel a lot like winter here in Seoul. This weekend we had temperatures below and just above freezing. I have been enjoying the cooler weather for the most part. What has not been pleasant is zipping around on my scooter in such cool temperatures. Until I get a face shield for my mask I do not think I'll be riding much while the temperatures are so low.<br /><br />As much as I enjoy the cool temperatures I was delighted to see that it will be between 65 and 80ºF while I am in Hong Kong this week. After a half day with the students and a faculty luncheon and afternoon of work, I'll be heading off to Hong Kong with a friend for a quick vacation.<br /><br />I am looking forward to the time away from Seoul. All we have planned so far is a day at Hong Kong Disney, dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe, shopping at the Jade Market, and seeing the harbor light show. The rest of the time should be filled with blissful relaxation. <br /><br />As exciting as a long weekend in Hong Kong is, my thoughts will be with my family as they gather at the Emrich household in Tampa. I'll miss out on the good food, the gentle (and not-so gentle) picking on each other, and the general awesome family times. I'll enjoy seeing the photos and hearing Mom's account of the weekend. In return I may send some fun Disney stuff and/or crazy flavored kit-kat bars.<br /><br />Before now and then I have much work to accomplish, including studying for and passing my lifeguard certification exam. So without much more of a delay I will continue to study my manual.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-25082974623046573532011-11-14T16:10:00.002+09:002011-11-14T16:26:48.385+09:00The Fourth DayToday is the day after the fall student retreat. For six weeks I worked along side 30+ teens and adults to prepare an intense 3 day retreat. The weekend was exhausting, awesome, energizing, renewing, and exhausting. I loved having the opportunity to interact with my students outside of the classroom and to show them more about myself and my faith. The weekend and the time leading up to it reminded me a great deal of my Alpha times. <br /><br />Alpha was the retreat I attended and helped with while in college. The one that I can honestly say started me on my path to living and working in Seoul. That one weekend set off a chain of reactions that has helped me make some wonderful life decisions. I don't think that I would have ever considered doing long-term service had it not been for the experiences that occurred as a result of attending my first Alpha. If I hadn't gone to Cleveland I wouldn't have ended up in Baltimore, and I might not have come to Seoul. It is amazing to see how seemingly small actions can lead to new opportunities.<br /><br />Coming off the mountain (where the retreat was held) I was met with a mess in my apartment, stacks of papers to grade, meetings to attend, and lessons to plan. None of that went away while I was on the retreat (how amazing would that have been?) and the urgency to finish my planning and grading has actually increased. However my understanding of and relationships with my students has been strengthened. The lessons will happen (ready or not), the tests will be graded (eventually), the meetings will happen, and I will clean up my apartment or my adjumonie will come and clean it for me. The feeling of being more focused on God, for me and my students is why I have chosen to work in a Christian school. Once again, I know that I am exactly where God wants me to be right now in my life. <br /><br />De Colores!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-53969599898613364302011-10-10T16:06:00.002+09:002011-10-10T16:21:53.605+09:00Where did the time go?Once again, it seems like my weekends disappear before they begin. This weekend involved a market adventure, retreat preparation, a SPECTACULAR high school performance, a wild and crazy birthday party, American brunch, lifeguard training, and preparing some Mexican fare for a dinner meeting I have tonight.<br /><br />I failed to accomplish much in the way of grading papers, but I was involved in the high school environment. <br /><br />Preparing for the high school retreat (Vida) reminded me of preparations for ALPHA in college. I have enjoyed getting to know my students on another level, and showing them a non-academic side of myself. A few of the students wanted to know if they could call me Rebecca. When I said that would be ok with me outside of the classroom, they still couldn't bring themselves to use my first name. It was a bit dramatic, but very comical.<br /><br />I am one step closer to becoming a student again. I have applied to and received a provisional acceptance to a graduate program at the University of Maryland-College Park. There are two final steps, submission of transcripts and successfully passing an entrance exam. The transcripts are being compiled (which is what happens when you attend 4 different universities) and I am contemplating the test. I will need to have a 3 hour block of time to complete 50 multiple questions and 10 essay questions. My student suggested that I simply "Google" the questions or use my textbook. I was exasperated at the thought and I wondered what they have learned thus far in their education. I corrected them by explaining personal integrity, and I hope it sticks with them.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-52238778641536759272011-09-14T11:45:00.002+09:002011-09-14T11:52:27.190+09:00Chu-Sok StaycationToday marks the final day of my Chu-Sok holiday. Chu-Sok is equated to American Thanksgiving and this year it fell on Monday/Tuesday so we had a 5 day weekend. <br /><br />I spent most of my time doing nothing and loving it. I did to the following:<br /><br />1. Have an adventure in a new part of the city. Lilly and I made the trip to the end of Line 6 and looked around that stop for a while. Our area of town is much more exciting, but at least I know that now.<br /><br />2. I drove my scooter around the city and have started to feel more confident as a driver. This was a great time to practice as there was very little traffic yesterday.<br /><br />3. I watched college football, cricket, and played Cribbage until the wee hours of the morning one day. <br /><br />4. I watched all 4 Indiana Jones movies, in a row, with the Walkers. I recommend doing it one day when you are stuck inside with little else to do. <br /><br />5. I finished about 1/2 of the work I had hoped to accomplish. I still have the rest of today.....(procrastination is hard to grow out of).<br /><br />All-in-all, it was a great holiday and I am happy that we only have two days before the weekend happens again.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-35980598684982851442011-08-22T16:09:00.002+09:002011-08-22T16:28:19.686+09:00For the love of studentsPast and present, I love my students. I am always a little apprehensive at the start of a new year. One never knows what each new class will be like. Even knowing who you should have, people can change a lot during a summer or with new classmates. After seeing each of my new classes and a lot of my former students I can safely say that I really do love my students.
<br />
<br />In addition to thinking the world of my current students I have been in contact with some of my former students as well. I love to hear what my SKHS girls are up to, good, bad, and boring. I have had the chance to chat online with some recently and it bring me joy. Just a few minutes ago a graduate from the class of 2011 stopped by and talked with me for a few minutes. Tomorrow he will head off to the University of British Columbia in Canada. I feel honored that he would take a few minutes during this crazy time before his departure to talk with me. It may have been a accident as he was looking at the new gym and I just happened to be here, but I'll take what I can get.
<br />
<br />And in other news, my birthday and birthday weekend were great. My birthday was filled with cake (homemade chocolate, homemade red velvet, and Costco sheet with a rainbow), friends, family (by proxy) and good times. My birthday was announced over the speaker system at the start of the day so students were extra nice to me (it helped that both of my senior classes got cake out of the deal). After school I was able to swim a 1/2 mile before going to Korean BBQ with the normal "meating" crew.
<br />
<br />Friday night several of us went for dinner at Outback and then I stopped by the high school's "Night of hanging" (it was simply a new twist on Hangout Night). Saturday involved a working coffee morning with Steph at a new coffee shop in the neighborhood, watching House with the Walker's, and some serious BOC (my favorite bar) with the residents of B-12. Sunday started with church (the best start possible) and was followed by coffee, groceries, rooftop sunbathing, Burger King, the aquarium at COEX (manatees, penguins, and seals were some of my favorites), an iced chocolate, On the Boarder, and a sneak attack gift from SCUBA Poz.
<br />
<br />All in all, it was a good 29th celebration. I can't wait to see what this year brings Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-22290321574435666192011-08-16T06:43:00.002+09:002011-08-16T07:00:51.260+09:00Registration DayA week of staff days came and went. There were meetings, meetings, and more meetings. We did have a 1/2 day faculty retreat which was enlightening. As a faculty we met in small groups to discuss what it means to be "Centered in Christ" which is part of the school's mission statement. We talked about what that means to us personally and how it can be seen in our teaching. It was a good retreat.
<br />
<br />One morning between meetings I was approached by a teacher I have known for the past year but had little personal interaction with. I have been wanting to get to know her and her husband better but there just didn't seem to be the opportunity. She invited me to join the Bible study she and some other young ladies are a part of. I was surprised and excited at the thought. Out of no where two of my desires seem like they will be fulfilled. 1. Getting to know this teacher (and some of the other ladies) and 2. Participating in a Bible study. I have been trying to complete the daily Mass readings, but that just isn't my meeting my Bible understanding needs. Mass readings give you a snapshot of a book in the Bible but can often be disjointed. I took my time in deciding if it really was something I can do this year. The Bible study meets on Thursday mornings from 7-7:45. As it turns out, Thursdays are the only days in which I have to teach first period and the day in which I teach 4 of 5 periods. Knowing that it will be a long day, I have decided that starting it with a Bible study is really the best choice.
<br />
<br />Thursday night of last week marked the last "Meating" with all members present. Last year I became part of a going to have Korean BBQ (meat) every Thursday night. Over the summer one of the founding members decided to return home to be near family during trying times. He will be departing this week, so we had one last Thursday of good food and good times. Sunday night we returned to the normal restaurant with an extra 15ish people to have a farewell dinner. I am sad to see him go, but happy to have known him.
<br />
<br />As a result of going to the farewell dinner I missed Sio's birthday dinner at On the Boarder, but I was able to spend some quality stitching time with her earlier in the day.
<br />
<br />Having a social network already in place is one of the best parts of being a returning teacher. That and not having to try and remember every little detail about the school and living in Seoul.
<br />
<br />Now onto current events. Today is Registration Day. Today is the day that all new students and parents come to school for a soft opening of sorts. The Head of School will formally welcome them and then they will disperse by division. The new high schoolers will be welcomed by the principal and the student council. The faculty will be introduced and then dismissed to our offices where we will wait for the students to be led around and introduced. Not too much stress which is good as I have a lot to finish before the start of instructional days tomorrow. I should have done a lot of work last night, but I was battling with my first batch of almond butter. What I learned is that I should roast the almonds in advance next time rather than attempt raw almond butter. In the end, after a lot of food processing (greater than 1 hour) I have a cup of almond butter sweetened with honey. While I'm not the biggest fan, my neighbor KC really seemed to enjoy it.
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-33034330071961174732011-08-07T15:07:00.003+09:002011-08-07T15:19:13.750+09:00Farewell vacation, hello school yearToday is the last day of summer vacation for SFS teachers. My vacation was remarkable. I spent time in Hawaii with friends, New York with family, South Carolina with family, St. John's with friends and finally Florida with more family. I went shopping, diving, and bike riding. I visited Busch Gardens, Carrowinds, a volcano and an aquarium. I had all of my favorite home cooked meals and went to some of my favorite restaurants. I saw most of my family, middle school friends, high school friends, camp friends, college friends, and teacher friends. I made the most of 7 wonderful weeks and now I am looking forward to the start of the school year. <br /><br />Even knowing that exciting times lay ahead I am reluctant to see my summer vacation come to an end. Today I started to settle into my school year Sunday routine. I went to Church at the Cathedral and stopped for groceries on the way home. I did some laundry, school work, and worked on my latest crocheting project. I also spent time catching up with my friends here and swam .5 miles. <br /><br />As a school teacher in Korea I have the chance to have 3 New Year events. I have a new calendar year on January 1 like the rest of the world. We celebrate Lunar New Year at the end of January/start of February in Korea. And now the start of the school year. In addition to new academic beginnings I am hoping to start some new personal habits. I hope this is the year of fiscal responsibility, home cooked meals, and time at the gym. So far I have been going strong and I hope I am able to continue the trend as the school year and all of the accompanying demands begin. I am lucky to be supported by wonderful friends.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-28260044837384397062011-08-05T07:28:00.003+09:002011-08-05T07:43:54.907+09:00Night and DayArriving in Seoul this year has been a completely different experience than last year. The transition has been much more relaxed. I am gearing up for the upcoming school year rested, settled, and mostly stress free.<br /><br />When I arrived in Seoul (4:20 am) I discovered that the first bus to my school didn't leave until 6:15am. I was faced with the idea of waiting another 1.25 hours for a bus that would take at least 45 minutes to get me home. After almost 24 hours of traveling I was saddened by this thought. Much to my delight my buddies (Kristen and Youngin) were minutes away from the airport. Getting picked up in person is much more fun than a bus ride. I hope to return the favor one day.<br /><br />Wednesday is a blur of jetlag, unpacking, and visiting with old and new staff members. I went with the new teachers to Homeplus where I was able to pick up some groceries and help them out a bit all while having a ride to and from school. It was a nice trade off. <br /><br />After a good night's sleep Thursday started off with a visit to the school gym. I was expecting the same old gym, complete with little light, cramped machines, and awful paintings on the wall (a zebra playing basketball, the PowderPuff girls, and Superman). Much to my surprise the gym was completely redone over the summer. The area was expanded so more room and more natural light, the walls redone with mirrors and woodwork in place of the paintings, and more air conditioners. The new gym is much more pleasant to work out in and I intend to spend more time there.<br /><br />Thursday morning involved a trip to Costco and Homeplus with two wonderful science teachers. It was nice to pick up the things I forgot the night before and to catch up with my friends. I was also happy to find that Costco has chicken sausage and turkey burgers for sale. Tonight Colleen and I are going to try and turn turkey burgers into turkey tacos. This could open up many more meal opportunities. This is actually the first time that I have seen turkey available in Korea aside from on base at Thanksgiving. <br /><br />Thursday afternoon I ironed all of my wrinkled clothes and met with the new science teacher. She has her doctorate in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. From what I have seen we are going to get along great and I am going to learn a lot from her. We are meeting again today as an IB BIology department to discuss this upcoming year. <br /><br />Thursday night my friends and I went for Korean BBQ. While our group wasn't complete (Nate and Megan have yet to return) it was nice to catch up over a great dinner. <br /><br />Sleeping Thursday night wasn't as easy as I had hoped. I woke up a few times, but was able to get back to sleep after a short time. A good part about being jetlagged is that I tend to wake up very early in the morning so I have already been to and from the gym this morning. I feel I have been quite productive and the day is just beginning. Up next, coffee, breakfast, and time at my desk. <br /><br />So far, this is a great school year in the making.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-25102353371452752352011-03-18T19:26:00.003+09:002011-03-18T19:27:27.866+09:00Tioman IslandMy friends and I are about to leave for our Tioman Island vacation. 8 days and nights of tropical island fun and SCUBA certification. I can't wait. When I return I'll make it a point to add photos and updates.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-52978953022487412172010-12-31T00:16:00.002+09:002010-12-31T00:21:55.770+09:00Florida holidayAlmost two weeks into my trip and I don't know where the time went. I have seen high school friends, college friends, camp friends, brothers, sisters, parents, a niece, nephews, and dogs. I have eaten great food, opened gifts, gone to Harry Potter world, ridden roller coasters, shopped, and pampered myself. Now I sit in the Tampa airport awaiting my flight to Baltimore. 3 nights there then back to Tampa for two nights before heading home to Korea. <br /><br />It has been a great trip. I love teaching in Korea but I hate being so far from all of the awesome people in the States.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-41697787641610167912010-12-15T21:51:00.002+09:002010-12-15T21:57:57.451+09:00Packed and ready to goTonight I pulled out my suitcase. Usually I pack the day of/night before. Not this time folks. I am packed and ready to go. Granted, I literally only packed 3 outfits, it still counts. <br /><br />I decided that I am going to add to my wardrobe during my Christmas visit, and as incentive I only packed 3 outfits. If nothing else I'll be doing a lot of laundry while at home. <br /><br />So, what did I do with the rest of the space? I filled it with gifts and knick-knacks from Korea, China, and Hong Kong. I have consumables, jewelry, clothing, toys, foreign currency, newspapers, postcards, and other random things. I laughed at some of the things I purchased as I put them into the suitcase and I know my friends and family will enjoy them too. <br /><br />Now all I have to do is finish proctoring and grading my exams and then get to the airport. The wonderful HR man arranged to have a driver pick me up at my apartment and bring me to the bus stop. From there it is about an hour to the airport, the normal 2 hours in the airport before boarding, and a mere 20 hours more of flying before I arrive in Florida. <br /><br />Yea!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-29148396926193343002010-11-28T15:40:00.002+09:002010-11-28T15:47:09.372+09:00Purple sweet potato gnocchi and other domestic tasksAh Sunday, a day of rest and relaxation, a day of procrastination, or a day of panic before the start of another week? For me it has been all three.<br /><br />I tried to start the day off with a trip to Costco. That didn't work so well as all the cars had been checked out already. Instead Myleah and I walked down to the local store only to find it closed. We lingered in a coffee shop until it opened, made our purchases and returned home. When I returned home 5 hours ago I had big plans for my day. I was going to go to the gym, finish organizing the slides in my classroom, finish my lessons for this week, and clean my apartment. In reality I have watched some tv, played some computer games, cleaned up part of my apartment, made several trips to storage, made purple sweet potato gnocchi and vegetable soup stock, cleaned out my fridge, and filed or deleted all of my October e-mails. I feel I was productive, but I didn't really make a dent in my list of to-do's. <br /><br />I have a little over two hours before making something to go with the gnocchi. Part of it will be spend cleaning off my dining room table. Hopefully the other part will be filled with highly productive powerpoint creating.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-39536039132921800812010-11-26T20:47:00.002+09:002010-11-26T21:12:54.272+09:00The quest for goodnessToday was an amazing day. Here in some chronological order is why.<br /><br />1. I woke up sans alarm clock and it was sunny outside. I finally feel like I am getting enough sleep, and I just LOVE waking up to the sun shining in my bedroom.<br />2. I skyped with most of the family. I had some face time with Mom, Dad, Savannah, Chris, Laurie, Patrick, April, Kelan and Aidan. I saw a lot of Kelan, including his smile, and a moment of Aidan.<br />3. Had a venti Starbucks latte. Yum.<br />4. Went shopping with some of the girls. We went to Insadong and Namdemun. I purchased some Christmas gifts (Mom, Mary, and Chris), a wedding gift (JP and Nora), and some things for me. For myself I purchased some hanji coasters, gloves, ear muffs, and a table top Christmas tree.<br />5. I had leftover Thanksgiving food for lunch. Yum (again).<br />6. I went to Itaewon where I had a massage and an adjustment by my chiropractor.<br />7. I had an early dinner at Quiznos (you guessed it, yum)<br />8. I explored part of the city via subway system. <br /><br />Here is where the actual story begins. Upon returning to my subway stop I got turned around and ended up taking a different exit than I had planned. I knew where I was, I just wasn't where I wanted to be. Well, on my way up to the street level to catch a cab home I spotted several folks with Auntie Anne bags. I had seen them before but hadn't really given them any thought. Tonight it was different. I decided to find the Auntie Anne's and purchase a soft pretzel. Well, I went up and down 10 stories in two buildings before i came to the food court I had been in yesterday. I had looked around yesterday briefly so I knew that Auntie Annes' wasn't there but I figured another look around wouldn't hurt. I noted the Japanese place, the Kraze burger, the Mister Donut, and then with nothing but a line of people in front and two vats of lemonade I found the Auntie Anne's. I ordered an original pretzel, cheese, and lemonade. Good thing they understood my pointing and that I learned the word for cheese in Korean last week (~chees-a). I had my pretzel then found a taxi and came home. Bonus finds during my wandering include a Smoothie King, a Friday's and a Bennigan's. <br /><br />I hope that tomorrow is just as good as today and that I get some homework done.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-24003552978338321882010-11-12T22:10:00.003+09:002010-11-12T22:20:08.030+09:00Crepes, hot chocolate and muscle atrophyThis morning as I was putting on lotion I realized that my right leg had atrophied. It isn't terrible, but noticeable. One of my friends was able to see a difference, even while I was wearing jeans. Time and use will even things out.<br /><br />This morning I started life with two functioning feet by swimming laps. I only swam for 20 minutes, but it was great.<br /><br />The school day was nothing really special. One of my students wasn't feeling well so I made her a card. I cut strips of construction paper (orange and blue) and wove them together. Then I glued that to a piece of white paper and wrote her a get better soon message on the back. I was going to give it to her when I taught her after lunch. Too bad she left school early. I understand she wasn't feeling well, but I had gone through the effort for nothing. The card sits un-given in my bag.<br /><br />After school and swim practice my building mates and I went for dinner at a crepe place. It was AMAZING! I had a savory crepe with cheese, potatoes and bacon. It was so good, but of course, the company was much better.<br /><br />After a quick stop at the store for some essentials (apples, cheese, kiwis, and green pens) I took a taxi home. While walking to catch a taxi I passed several coffee shops and was very tempted to buy a hot chocolate. I resisted the urge, and I am so happy I did. I decided to make my own once I got home. I have never made my own hot chocolate. I have always used the instant powders. Today I made the best hot chocolate I have ever had. Not only is it very tasty, but not too much work, and much less expensive than the coffee shop drinks. Not to mention I used low fat milk.<br /><br />All in all, today was a day I enjoyed.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-16417194204628926062010-11-11T20:12:00.004+09:002010-11-11T20:25:36.595+09:00Pepero Day, two shoes, and study groupsBig things happening. Sorry in advance for the lack of order or connections.<br /><br />Today is Pepero day in Korea. On November 11 it has become tradition to exchange Perpero treats. These are little cookie-ish sticks that are either dipped in chocolate, chocolate and nuts, or filled with chocolate. They are good and it was fun giving them to my students today. I gave them to some classes as they watched a movie on Global Climate change and as prizes for students getting the correct answers in another class. It was different.<br /><br />I went to the doctor for another round of x-rays and a consultation today. I went with a book in hand and low expectations. I was told by my doctor in the States that a break like the one I have can take up to 9 months to heal. It has only been 3 and at my last appointment there had been no indication of healing. I arrived at the hospital, was taken to the x-ray area and left to wait. After a few minutes my number was called and I went for my 4th set of x-rays. This was the first time I was given a lead apron to wear. I was especially happy to have it as I just finished a lesson on mutations due to radiation. The tech and I went through the normal x-ray steps. He said a few things in English and motioned a lot. I sat, I stood, and I turned this way and that way. After my X-rays I went and waited for my consultation. The news this time was better. I have showed signs of healing, although my toe is still broken. I have been cleared to wear sneakers and swim, but specifically told to avoid running, jumping, or heels. Tomorrow will be the first time this year that my students will see me in two shoes. I have to take care as there is a possibility of re-breaking my toe. I suppose the new trampoline will have to go without my testing for another two months. I go back in January for more X-rays and another consultation.<br /><br />Upon my return to school from the hospital I had 8 students join me in my room for some extra help. They didn't really need me, but I provided a place where they could study in groups. That was my big push last week at parent/teacher/student conferences. To try studying in a group. I am happy to see that several of them are giving it a shot. I think they will benefit from the effort. I love getting to know my students more.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-10834533180235771852010-10-31T19:31:00.002+09:002010-10-31T19:37:55.578+09:00Halloween without the partyFor the last three years Halloween has been celebrated with a great Op Teach party. This year was completely different. Rather than spend the day getting ready for the party I followed my normal routine then simply handed out candy.<br /><br />My Sunday routine is:<br />- Coffee on the walk to the subway. Today I had my favorite drink (Campfire Mocha) from Caribou. It may have lacked the little marshmallows I would get in the States, but the drink was just as I remembered it.<br />- Subway ride to HomePlus<br />- Groceries for the week<br />- Taxi trip home<br />- Church<br />- School work<br />- Fun times<br /><br />Today's fun times consisted of sitting around a bonfire (that's right, three in three nights) with some awesome folks and handing out candy to the oh-so cute kids. I ended up letting Jo pass my candy out for me and I quite enjoyed just watching and visiting.<br /><br />Now I am back at home, a little smokey smelling and contemplating my lessons for tomorrow. I have done most of the reading I just haven't put anything into a presentation yet. Hm...It will happen but first I might watch some TV.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-50573084825424614072010-10-30T19:33:00.002+09:002010-10-30T19:54:22.519+09:00The blue formToday was a great day. In reality, my life here in Korea is wonderful. Here are the highlights of my last few weeks.<br /><br />1. I really like my students - they have such high expectations of me that I am becoming a much better teacher. My former students are great, and the relationships that I have/had with them cannot be replicated, however the dynamics here are so different. Having boys in the class is different, but enjoyable. Living on campus (and not having much of a life) has given me the opportunity to see many of the events that my students are involved in. Last night while out to dinner some of my students came into the restaurant just to say hello to me. It was so heart warming. After dinner we went for ice cream and I ran into the same group of students again. It was great.<br /><br />2. I received an e-mail from a former student. Just as I was about to go to sleep her e-mail came in and made me laugh. Hearing from the States is always wonderful.<br /><br />3. My presence has been requested for next week. My time has been booked for Friday night of next week. My new friends wanted to make sure that I was going to come for dinner so they made a point to mention it tonight.<br /><br />4. Oktoberfest! Tonight was the campus Oktoberfest. We had a nice potluck style dinner and a bonfire. The fellow who organized it filled out a building request form (blue form) and magically 6 gas grills were delivered for the meat, and several table with chairs were put up. My school has these blue forms that I have known about but have yet to fill out. Last night another teacher blue formed wood for a bonfire and 4 bags of wood was delivered precut and ready to burn. Amazing! As a result of these blue forms and the effort of my co-workers I have had two lovely nights enjoying the cool-ish weather. My addition to the meal tonight was German potato salad. I did eat much of Aunt Adeline's potato salad when I was younger, but I think I may have come close. I tripled the serving and only had one small portion left. <br /><br />I am going to leave it at that and enjoy an evening of crocheting and yogurt making. I hope the yogurt turns out this time.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-23873227039579984832010-10-11T16:53:00.002+09:002010-10-11T17:03:27.526+09:00Positive feedback loopsA positive feedback loop is one in which the products of the reaction(s) ensure the process continues. Contrary to the term "positive" they aren't always good reactions.<br /><br />Here are three examples in my life and how I have overcome them today<br /><br />1. Updating my blog. I got out of the habit of updating it on a regular basis so the idea of trying to catchup was overwhelming. Rather than just give it a shot two weeks ago I just let it go. The longer I left it the more I would have to write to catch up, and the more I forgot about my day-to-day happenings. I have decided to just pick up where I am rather than where I left off.<br /><br />2. Grading lab reports. I have let three assignments pile up. Instead of just sitting down and getting some of them graded I have simply pushed them to the back of my bag. Weeks later they are still there (a little more worn than when handed in) and my bag is simply heavier. I had imagined these papers terrible to grade each requiring more time than I have. Today while my students took a test I was able to grade an entire classes lab reports. Granted the class was only 8 students, it showed me that I shouldn't fear the amount of work. <br /><br />3. SKSH reference letters. I specifically asked the students to give me all of their information before the start of the summer. I even began working on the letters before leaving Baltimore. Then the summer happened and I didn't do a single letter. I brought all of the information with me to Korea only to get sucked into the vortex of my new school without spending any time on the reference letters. Today, after school I blocked out 2.5 hours to write these letters. Would you believe it only took me one hour? All that time I was worried for nothing.<br /><br />Let me be an example ladies and gentlemen. Don't procrastinate, and if you do, don't let it go too long. Props to Sayeda and Liz for your gentle reminders of my promise to you. All letters have been e-mailed to the guidance department, hopefully with a few days to spare.<br /><br />Now, with the hour before Monday night football (really a Sunday night game) I will grade more papers. Or maybe I will take a walk....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-36873862181680599322010-10-11T06:51:00.003+09:002010-10-11T06:54:01.161+09:00Morning timeMy father reminded me that it has been a while since I have updated my blog. In the last two weeks I have been busy trying to keep up with my work and fit some fun in. My foot is still broken and I got my first cold of the school year. I have almost recovered from the cold and will be in a walking cast for the next month at least.<br /><br />This morning I decided to have one of the bagels I bought last week. I cut into it and realized that it has a layer of bean paste. Not what I want ever, especially in the morning. Hm....guess I'll find something else.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-7980954849874062082010-09-26T15:17:00.003+09:002010-09-26T20:10:02.786+09:00Pictures from Hong Kong<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik73ZS_BpjPP7xbHXYLC5oVfzYVjfSzwtjucMUO7yB5gsGjABZOg8K0siWUmD4d-qtxh1rDFfDH_Y_N5QZHdf0ay0F1sznGv2UwawgzX5331FjaJvJYjBYQHcinK54GGT6CdUwZOxeaczc/s1600/SAM_0053.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik73ZS_BpjPP7xbHXYLC5oVfzYVjfSzwtjucMUO7yB5gsGjABZOg8K0siWUmD4d-qtxh1rDFfDH_Y_N5QZHdf0ay0F1sznGv2UwawgzX5331FjaJvJYjBYQHcinK54GGT6CdUwZOxeaczc/s320/SAM_0053.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521103692102066594" /></a><br />Oh the Fire Dragon. What was supposed to be a huge dragon supported by tons of people turned out to be a dragon made of burning incense carried by about 20 people. Now that I think about it, a grand feat, but at the time such a let down.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ5OAq52ABoliXceaJ5zLe2NqJnvNjy5dkVRGIQBx-6o9fhizqSrW_TWIhH6f3P0mPlAxrg80gWWOnHfodj0xI9pb7doa6lTmPOx3HiST2tkAiEtoHIoGV6Gkg3h27298JSkzORcq6DOtg/s1600/SAM_0021.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ5OAq52ABoliXceaJ5zLe2NqJnvNjy5dkVRGIQBx-6o9fhizqSrW_TWIhH6f3P0mPlAxrg80gWWOnHfodj0xI9pb7doa6lTmPOx3HiST2tkAiEtoHIoGV6Gkg3h27298JSkzORcq6DOtg/s320/SAM_0021.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521103682690716514" /></a><br />Part of an art display we noticed. The kid was cute too.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8SKeKnMJSkXYLylRh41xtBPe6n3_6nmLExjVzOOQWB5dh7xVVanMFswWz33HE4T9Ce8mbGjgTxDu0TUEWkU_fPfUCJbqv897-jMcBxhUWyoKSdZLRV8YS8xfK7UALq_rYShBuPP28hgw/s1600/SAM_0014.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8SKeKnMJSkXYLylRh41xtBPe6n3_6nmLExjVzOOQWB5dh7xVVanMFswWz33HE4T9Ce8mbGjgTxDu0TUEWkU_fPfUCJbqv897-jMcBxhUWyoKSdZLRV8YS8xfK7UALq_rYShBuPP28hgw/s320/SAM_0014.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521103680904562466" /></a><br />If you look closely you will notice this is the image of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. They were in a building lobby and totally took me by surprise. There was no reason for them to be there. I just had to take a photo.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MLvQzM83IcOs3vT7ym91AVUJPv9fEhHJgSacavjhWwKSZm5g76uZVpK64Rc31onc2eiM1rHHs5ia4SaBNy26yleHfD5xDy7q44F-EVYLiKVMvloA7fs04jxt95LJq-KcEVkboPNC3V-k/s1600/SAM_0012.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MLvQzM83IcOs3vT7ym91AVUJPv9fEhHJgSacavjhWwKSZm5g76uZVpK64Rc31onc2eiM1rHHs5ia4SaBNy26yleHfD5xDy7q44F-EVYLiKVMvloA7fs04jxt95LJq-KcEVkboPNC3V-k/s320/SAM_0012.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521103673807237570" /></a><br />The knight in shining armor I met while having lunch at an AMAZING Spanish restaurant. I had to go all the way to Hong Kong to experience tapas, go figure.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQMKOVObfx02FyrtMjJMTHXuepS8lOybSrc8PwNsfrgIiPK7idPjMW8f4cocq4h53YJQtsTmTLvEZAlLUFFkRe58HDpKaGdP7J162K7eIlirhl0C357sLe0O1ohNOHmnByvxMPn6TG2We/s1600/SAM_0005.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQMKOVObfx02FyrtMjJMTHXuepS8lOybSrc8PwNsfrgIiPK7idPjMW8f4cocq4h53YJQtsTmTLvEZAlLUFFkRe58HDpKaGdP7J162K7eIlirhl0C357sLe0O1ohNOHmnByvxMPn6TG2We/s320/SAM_0005.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521103668681345026" /></a><br />The view of the Hong Kong skyline from our hotel room.<br /><br />While in Hong Kong I bought a camera. Here are pictures from my last day in Honk Kong.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-65427247539194904522010-09-23T12:52:00.003+09:002010-09-23T13:03:23.599+09:00Ni-houChina has been wonderful. Aside from the fact that I was unable to log onto my Facebook account or my blog while I was in China proper I greatly enjoyed my stay. The hotel we stayed in was the nicest hotel I have stayed in to date. The room was spacious, the bed soft, and I could watch tv while taking a bath. <br /><br />Here is a snapshot of my time in Guangzhou<br />Day 1 - Traveled, arrived, checked into the hotel, had authentic Chinese food for lunch (chicken with peppers), a "foot" massage that turned out to be feet, arms, legs, head, and back massage plus a spinal adjustment, drinks in the lounge while watching college football, authentic Chinese food for dinner (pork, mushrooms, and bamboo) bed.<br /><br />Day 2 - Buffet breakfast that offered sushi (not that I had any), conference with an instructor that was hard to follow, buffet lunch with lots of Asian choices, conference that turned very boring, trip into the city that ended with dinner at Spaghetti House where I had pizza, drinks again in the lounge while watching MLB baseball.<br /><br />Day 3 - Buffet breakfast, conference at the host school - still boring, lunch of nothing special, end of the conference, an hour of reading while in a hammock above the pool, room service for dinner.<br /><br />Day 4 - Leisurely morning, packed up and checked out, buffet lunch, flight through a typhoon to Hong Kong. <br /><br />As it is time to get ready to go out in Hong Kong I will leave you with that and update in more detail later. Life is good.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-1494768974362957392010-09-16T11:35:00.003+09:002010-09-16T11:41:18.730+09:00Water AerobicsThis morning I woke up in enough time to join the water aerobics class held at the pool. I hobbled down to the pool, half asleep wondering what it would be like. I was the first to arrive after the instructor and the life guard. I picked up the equipment it looked like we would need and mentally prepared for my first bout of exercise in 5 weeks. I was excited and nervous. The instructor directed me to the deep end where the class would be held. With the assistance of a floating device water aerobics in the deep end is awesome. Virtually no pressure on my still broken foot. The instructor had pins removed from one of her legs about two weeks ago, so she knew my hesitations. More folks filtered in and we were off and going. 45 minutes later I felt a little tired but happy to have made the effort. As fast as I could I made my way home and got ready for school. At the start of school (3 hours ago) I was full of energy as I usually am after being in a pool. Now I am ready for my after pool nap. I am glad I went and I am looking forward to going again after Chu-Sok.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-12288921827192544832010-09-16T11:28:00.003+09:002010-09-16T11:34:45.474+09:00One day to ChinaTomorrow I leave for China. So, instead of getting my sub plans ready, packing, grading papers, or even prepping for my next class I am updating my blog. Figures.<br /><br />After much wonder the details are coming together for my trip. Misty and I arranged to have a taxi pick us up at 5:30am to take us to the bus stop where we hope to catch the next bus to the airport. Our goal is to make it to the airport by 7:00am for our 8:50am flight.<br /><br />We will arrive in China 3 hours later where we will take a shuttle to our hotel. As the conference doesn't start until Saturday morning we pondered what to do with our Friday afternoon. One look at the pictures of the hotel pool solved that problem. If the weather is nice you will find us at the pool, lounging. <br /><br />Two days of workshop fun about Understanding by Design and a 4th day in Science City (must be a great place) then Misty and I will head to Hong Kong. We have our flight arranged, a room booked, and tour books to look through. My students told me I should shop and sleep for the three days I am there. I figure Misty and I will find a few more touristy things to do while there. The one thing we have decided is a MUST is the nightlife. I feel it has been months since going out for a night on the town, so I am ready to enjoy one (responsibly.)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-311248020874954767.post-79522945398297602982010-09-12T16:29:00.001+09:002010-09-12T16:30:38.164+09:00Rebecca 0, caramel disaster 2Today, Sunday, has been relaxing and productive. I woke up, read part of my book, went to Mass, then headed down the hill for coffee. Being able to move around easier I am determined to get off the hill every weekend. I was just beginning my descent when I was offered a ride which I gladly accepted. I had an iced coffee at Paris Baguette and stopped at the grocery store where I finally remembered to buy aluminum foil and plastic wrap among other things. I got the ingredients to make my own salsa and hoped to find a reasonably priced blender at the black market. The two blenders I saw were way overpriced so I said no thanks, grabbed a taxi and went home. I tidied up my place, had a nice long shower, and then ventured to make a few things. The salsa turned out great (I used a neighbors blender). I was unsure about the heat of the peppers I used, but it was just right for me. I had enough salsa to freeze some, give some away, and have some for this week. I also tried to make caramel sauce again. The last batch was bitter, this batch is too runny. Perhaps the third time will be better.<br /><br />The highlight of my day was receiving an e-mail from on of my SKHS students. I am enjoying my new students, but I miss knowing how my former students are doing. She said several SKHS folks were keeping up with my blog, which made me happy. I only request that you let me know how you are doing too. Comments are welcome, e-mails are great, letters are better.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0