More than a few people have asked me where I've been and said that the blog was lacking... To all: my apologies, I didn't think anyone was that interested. But I am happy to report back to duty and report my daily, if not, weekly updates for those who are watching and reading. Thanks for looking and I won't let you down again. 

Last week was "Chusock", the Korean Thanksgiving and Christmas all rolled into one. Typically they have a five day weekend, but every 5 years or so Chusock lands on a weekend. This, I am sorry to say, was one of those years when we only got monday off. Nonetheless, it was a welcome respite from the day to day. I recently posted this in a Korean Teachers Forum (a place to vent or vamp on whatever suits your fancy) and I think you all might enjoy it:

 I did not understand what Chusock was all about until a few students explained it to me today, and still, it wasn't clear. "You visit the graves of your dead relatives. Sweet... sounds like a blast." But I was just out walking after work and could truly FEEL the difference in the energy around my neighborhood in Seoul. For one, there were more people in the usually crowded restaurants than I've seen before. Two, they were all happy, and I mean really happy, not just punch drunk. Three, there was laughter everywhere, more than I've heard the entire time I've been here (granted only three months). There is a real sense of relaxation, like the whole city just took a long, deep breath and sighed collectively. It's as intoxicating as it is contagious, and I for one am truly happy to be here right now. Now I get it, this is "the Season" so to speak. I've been a little down recently (don't hate, I'm not pouting) and this evening turned it all around for me. You know, it's easy to say that "we determine our level of satisfaction" in life, and that "happiness comes from within". All of this is true to some extent, but I gotta tell ya, when Korea is happy, it makes it a whole lot easier for me to be happy, too. I'm gonna go for another walk. 

Since then I have been in a great mood. I wake up earlier than I have in months and try to get more done through the day. I take pride in my job and strive to be the best teacher I can be for these kids. Korea is Korea, and it certainly IS NOT Barcelona or the south of France and never will be. But it is what I make of it, and for now, at least, I'm getting by just fine, I might even be liking it. Dare I say it? Okay, here goes.... work is the best part of my day. 

Who is this guy?