Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Winter Vacation
Greetings followers (so basically hi mom!). My apologies for being a bit of a lazy blogger lately. School and camp finished and I found myself napping and watching Criminal minds versus doing something productive with my time. I just want to let you know that Eric and I will be away from the blog for the next 17 days as we will be Central Europe for our winter vacation. For the next two and half weeks we'll be running around Prague, Bratislava, and Vienna. I promise a multitude of pictures and posts when we return. Furthermore, we'll be sans internet for this time so if you email us and we don't write back that's why. See you in a couple of weeks!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Finished: 2 textbooks and 2 camps later
Well it’s official. After semester’s end on December 30th and two additional weeks of English camp, I have finally fulfilled all of my teaching obligations for the year. In a lot of ways the school year passed quickly, but when I look at the stack of lesson plans, materials, and rosters on my desk I can feel the full weight of the past 10 months. When I first came to Dae-Sung Middle School my students were painfully quiet and were hooked on the two phrases of “I’m fine thanks, and you?” and “Nice to meet you.” On my first day these two phrases made me feel welcome and content. However, as time passed on and my students were still saying “nice to meet you” each time they saw me, I knew the upcoming year would be very interesting.
Weeks soon turned into months. As the months passes “I’m fine” slowly became substituted with “I’m _____ because _____.” Now many of you back home might find this progress painfully slow (and at times I did as well), but for my students to deviate from the repetition which was ingrained in them since third grade was a big deal. Each day different adjectives would be used, not all correct, but I always appreciated the effort. My girls tend to have a flare for the dramatic so the adjectives: fantastic, horrible, and I’m dying were in high rotation.
As second semester started we became more open with each other. I’d have students find me during lunch to talk about their weekends and evenings at home. While not all of this could be communicated 100% in English, we were able to understand each other through exaggerated gesturing and acting. My favorite days were Fridays because I would meet with J.S. and H.R., whose English ability was quite high, and we’d discuss the differences between life in Korea and life in America. We’d also talk about their future goals and the like. Friday’s were also my favorite day because I taught class 2-6. Sure, as a teacher I shouldn’t pick or play favorites, but everyone has a favorite class; the one class where students are outgoing, kind, and excited to see you. Regardless if we were learning about descriptions or compliments we always managed to start and end laughing.
As the second term came to an end, I had to explain to students I wouldn’t be returning to Dae-Sung next year. This was hard to do because they kept misunderstanding what I was saying. They thought I was going on a vacation, not moving back to America. As the term ended and goodbyes were said, I had 18 students voluntarily sign up and attend my winter camp (a good handful of these students came from 2-6). Together we learned to critique movies and music, we learned the difference between formal and informal conversations in English, and we played many speaking games. In addition to this, I had five students bring in a new English word to share with the class each day. I would provide definitions for these words and I would use the word in a sentence. Once day, a student brought in ‘sweet tooth’. I explained this meant someone likes to eat candy, chocolate, and cake. However, my students could not get past the literal word. They wanted to know which specific tooth in the mouth was the sweet tooth and why did this tooth like candy so much. It’s safe to say they didn’t walk away with a full understanding of the word.
Initially I was dreading having to work the two extra weeks after term’s end. However, once my camp got started and ultimately was completed I could be happier that I did it. I was able to spend time getting to know my students a tad better and I was really impressed at their initiative to take my class, especially since all of these students middle to lower end of the English ability spectrum at my school. On the last day I rewarded students’ hard work with snacks and a movie. Winter camp proved to be the best possible way to end my teaching in Korea.
Weeks soon turned into months. As the months passes “I’m fine” slowly became substituted with “I’m _____ because _____.” Now many of you back home might find this progress painfully slow (and at times I did as well), but for my students to deviate from the repetition which was ingrained in them since third grade was a big deal. Each day different adjectives would be used, not all correct, but I always appreciated the effort. My girls tend to have a flare for the dramatic so the adjectives: fantastic, horrible, and I’m dying were in high rotation.
As second semester started we became more open with each other. I’d have students find me during lunch to talk about their weekends and evenings at home. While not all of this could be communicated 100% in English, we were able to understand each other through exaggerated gesturing and acting. My favorite days were Fridays because I would meet with J.S. and H.R., whose English ability was quite high, and we’d discuss the differences between life in Korea and life in America. We’d also talk about their future goals and the like. Friday’s were also my favorite day because I taught class 2-6. Sure, as a teacher I shouldn’t pick or play favorites, but everyone has a favorite class; the one class where students are outgoing, kind, and excited to see you. Regardless if we were learning about descriptions or compliments we always managed to start and end laughing.
As the second term came to an end, I had to explain to students I wouldn’t be returning to Dae-Sung next year. This was hard to do because they kept misunderstanding what I was saying. They thought I was going on a vacation, not moving back to America. As the term ended and goodbyes were said, I had 18 students voluntarily sign up and attend my winter camp (a good handful of these students came from 2-6). Together we learned to critique movies and music, we learned the difference between formal and informal conversations in English, and we played many speaking games. In addition to this, I had five students bring in a new English word to share with the class each day. I would provide definitions for these words and I would use the word in a sentence. Once day, a student brought in ‘sweet tooth’. I explained this meant someone likes to eat candy, chocolate, and cake. However, my students could not get past the literal word. They wanted to know which specific tooth in the mouth was the sweet tooth and why did this tooth like candy so much. It’s safe to say they didn’t walk away with a full understanding of the word.
Initially I was dreading having to work the two extra weeks after term’s end. However, once my camp got started and ultimately was completed I could be happier that I did it. I was able to spend time getting to know my students a tad better and I was really impressed at their initiative to take my class, especially since all of these students middle to lower end of the English ability spectrum at my school. On the last day I rewarded students’ hard work with snacks and a movie. Winter camp proved to be the best possible way to end my teaching in Korea.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Muju Mountain
Two hours outside of Gwangju lies Muju Mountain; a popular ski resort in Korea. Since we finished school on the 30th of December, a group of us thought it would be a good idea to rent out a cabin for the New Year’s weekend. While Muju looks like only a large hill when compared to Mt. Hood, there is something cozy and beautiful about it. Maybe I think of it in this way because the mountain and surrounding town don’t resemble your typical Korean city or maybe it has something to do with the fact it was covered in snow. Regardless, I found myself intrigued by this small mountain community.
We spent our weekend in a small, two story suite equipped with a kitchen. However, true to typical Korean accommodations, there were no beds; just blankets and pillows. The compact lodgings combined with the large amounts of snow made for quite the cozy weekend. On Saturday afternoon Eric and I explored our small corner of town. We walked along back allies and winding roads to take in the nature around us. It sounds weird, but I’ve really come to miss being surrounded by trees. Gwangju, like most Korean cities, are just landscapes of bright lights and tall concrete high rises. Not especially appealing. So to be in the mountains, surrounded by snow and trees was a real treat for both Eric and I. After our walk, Eric and his friend Matt took it upon themselves to “break ice”. This activity involved them throwing large chunks of ice into the frozen river below, trying to break the frozen top layer. Somehow they managed to kill a couple hours doing this activity. As fascinating as it was, I found my time better spent reading my book and watching Gone With the Wind indoors.
On Sunday, we made our way to the main street of town. There we would ultimately catch our bus home, but we decided to head in early to see what it had to offer. There, the trees are lined with lights and Timberline-esque wooden shops. If I knew any better, I would have thought I was in some American ski town. Since we didn’t have any need for ski gear, we decided to plop down in one of the coffee shops. There I indulged in my first bagel with cream cheese since I’ve moved here. Let me just say, a bagel has never tasted so good. I found myself licking the little container my cream cheese came in. Can you tell I’m cheese deprived?!
However, all good things must come to an end and we soon found ourselves on a bus back to Gwangju. Even though we didn’t get to spend as much time as I would have liked in the great outdoors, I’m thankful for the few short days I had.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Christmas in Korea
For obvious reasons, Christmas this year would be unlike any other we’ve had. However, instead of focusing on cons of why it was so different (mainly no prime rib, potatoes, and cheesecake) we decided to focus on the pros (this being the first Christmas we actually spent together). To make the most of the day, we decided to join forces with our friends and the result was a Korean version of a western Christmas.
The eight of us (Matt, Chantel, Jimmy, Rachel, Luke, Holly, Eric and myself) started the afternoon off by grabbing coffee at Big Apple Coffee downtown. There, we had our secret Santa gift exchanges. the only rule for the exchange was the gift could not be more than 20,000 won (around $17). The exchange was nice because it guaranteed everyone would have a gift to open on Christmas. Eric received his gifts from Rachel. He was given: two books and a six pack of beer. My gifts came from Holly. She gave me a bunch of fun accessories and a bottle of sparkling wine; all of which I was very excited about.
After opening presents, we made our way over to VIPS. VIPS is a buffet which serves up a variety of western food. Because of this, it is a little spendy but we all agreed it was worth it for Christmas dinner. To ensure I got my full money’s worth I believe I went back for forth’s before heading for the dessert table. When it came time to leave, all eight of us were waddling out of there. After dinner, we invited our friends back to our place for some after dinner drinks and some Christmas music. There we spend the rest of the night drinking wine and spending time with good friends. To sweeten the deal even more, it started snowing after dinner. So from 7pm onward we had ourselves a white Christmas.
So while I may have never imagined having a Christmas like this, it did not disappoint in the least. I hope all of your holiday’s treated you just as well. Have a great new year everyone!
Friday, December 24, 2010
Twas the Night Before Christmas...in Korea
‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through Gwangju
Everywhere was busy, the streets were a zoo.
People were walking and talking without a care,
Despite there was a threat of snow in the air.
Rather than being nestled and snug in their beds,
Students were forced to learn English instead.
We quickly learned Christmas Eve isn’t special here,
It is just an ordinary day of the year.
This bit of news made Eric and I quite sad,
However we would not let our Christmas go bad.
With the flip of a switch and some researching too,
We quickly found something fun to do.
We bundled up in our scarves and our coats,
And on the way out we grab some 10,000 won notes.
We ran underground to where the subway lay
And after waiting five minutes we were on our way.
We passed: Nonseong and Hwajung and Sangchung too,
Until we finally found ourselves in Sangmu.
We climbed our way up to the street up above,
All I could think was “thank God I have gloves.”
We turned to our left and walked up the street,
Both Eric and I could not feel our feet.
We walked and we walked and we walked a bit more,
Until we encountered a big yellow store.
There E-Mart was across from the park,
It provided a break from the cold and the dark.
We walked up and down the aisles of treats,
Looking for snacks and drinks which could be discreet.
We were off to see a movie next door
And we needed some drinks to sneak through the door.
We both agree theater prices are little bit whack,
And that’s why we always bring our own snack.
With soda and candy bars shoved our pockets,
We made our way to the front ticket office.
“Two for the The Tourist, please.” We said.
“The one at 9:30?” The clerk said, cocking his head.
“Yes that’s the one, two tickets please.”
The clerk understood us with surprising ease.
With snacks in our pants and tickets in tow,
We were now ready to enjoy the big show.
The movie was over and much fun was had,
But now it was time to call us a cab.
We made it home just before midnight,
And decided it was time to turn off the lights.
Lying all nestled and snug in our bed,
Images of past Christmases danced in our heads.
Sure we’d miss the potatoes and roast,
But we have each other and that matters most.
So before we closed our eyes real tight,
We whispered, “Merry Christmas my dear, and I bid you goodnight.”
Everywhere was busy, the streets were a zoo.
People were walking and talking without a care,
Despite there was a threat of snow in the air.
Rather than being nestled and snug in their beds,
Students were forced to learn English instead.
We quickly learned Christmas Eve isn’t special here,
It is just an ordinary day of the year.
This bit of news made Eric and I quite sad,
However we would not let our Christmas go bad.
With the flip of a switch and some researching too,
We quickly found something fun to do.
We bundled up in our scarves and our coats,
And on the way out we grab some 10,000 won notes.
We ran underground to where the subway lay
And after waiting five minutes we were on our way.
We passed: Nonseong and Hwajung and Sangchung too,
Until we finally found ourselves in Sangmu.
We climbed our way up to the street up above,
All I could think was “thank God I have gloves.”
We turned to our left and walked up the street,
Both Eric and I could not feel our feet.
We walked and we walked and we walked a bit more,
Until we encountered a big yellow store.
There E-Mart was across from the park,
It provided a break from the cold and the dark.
We walked up and down the aisles of treats,
Looking for snacks and drinks which could be discreet.
We were off to see a movie next door
And we needed some drinks to sneak through the door.
We both agree theater prices are little bit whack,
And that’s why we always bring our own snack.
With soda and candy bars shoved our pockets,
We made our way to the front ticket office.
“Two for the The Tourist, please.” We said.
“The one at 9:30?” The clerk said, cocking his head.
“Yes that’s the one, two tickets please.”
The clerk understood us with surprising ease.
With snacks in our pants and tickets in tow,
We were now ready to enjoy the big show.
The movie was over and much fun was had,
But now it was time to call us a cab.
We made it home just before midnight,
And decided it was time to turn off the lights.
Lying all nestled and snug in our bed,
Images of past Christmases danced in our heads.
Sure we’d miss the potatoes and roast,
But we have each other and that matters most.
So before we closed our eyes real tight,
We whispered, “Merry Christmas my dear, and I bid you goodnight.”
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Merry Christmas!
Season's greetings from Korea! It is an extremely cold and blustery Christmas Eve here in Gwangju. This morning, on our way to work, we encountered snow flurries so we are keeping our fingers crossed that we get a white Christmas this year. While we will miss sharing this holiday with all of you back home, we are excited to spend our first Christmas together, in the same location that is. While it would be easy to be upset at how un-christmasy this year's holiday is, we know this will be a holiday we will never forget. So we hope that all of your Christmases are filled with love, smiles, and full stomachs! Merry Christmas!
Love,
Dana & Eric
Love,
Dana & Eric
Lunchtime Mishaps
I am the last person to know anything at my school. Even then, I only find out what the teachers who speak English deem necessary for me to know. On the occasions that I am told what is going on, five times out of ten I find out after the matter. Today’s lunch was definitely one of those five times when I was only privy to information after the event occurred.
School time lunches have three staples: rice, soup, and kimchi; the rest of the dishes change daily and unpredictably. Per usual, I made my way to the teacher’s cafeteria with my usual lunch dates, Sue and Su Min. When I reached the lunch line, the first thing I saw was the soup. Today’s was puréed black bean and rice soup. I’ve had this one before and know enough about it to know I don’t like it. However, being an ‘adult’ at my school I am given the luxury of picking and choosing what I want on my lunch tray. Thus, I bypassed the soup. I knew this would not go unnoticed since skipping any of the three staples is guaranteed to cause an interrogation as to why I’m not eating it. However, to my surprise no one said anything; not one teacher. This was truly a first. Relieved, I continued eating my lunch and minding my own business.
Then on the way back to the office, the other shoe dropped so to speak. Immediately after leaving the lunchroom, my a colleague asked me, “Why didn’t you eat the soup?”
“Oh, that soup isn’t my favorite. So I decided not to have it.” I replied.
“I see. But today is a special day in Korea. “
“It is?” Shoot, here it comes.
“Yes. Today is the shortest day. On this day every year, we eat that soup.” She explained.
“Oh, I see.” I stated slowly while trying to think of something better to say.
“It was very strange for you not to eat the soup today.” She continued.
“I didn’t know. If I had—“ I stated, but was quickly cut off.
“Well lunch is finished now.”
“Should I have just eaten the soup?”
“Yes.” She stated matter-of-factly.
“Sorry.”
Sorry was all I could think to say. I wasn’t sure what my colleagues expected me to say. I didn’t mean to offend anyone, but clearly I had. However, a head’s up on the walk to the lunch room would have been nice. I often find myself in this compromising position of acquiring information after the fact. Oh well, another day and another lunch hour survived. I think it’s sufficient to say that for the last five days of work, I will put a little bit of everything on my tray to cover my bases. Oops!
School time lunches have three staples: rice, soup, and kimchi; the rest of the dishes change daily and unpredictably. Per usual, I made my way to the teacher’s cafeteria with my usual lunch dates, Sue and Su Min. When I reached the lunch line, the first thing I saw was the soup. Today’s was puréed black bean and rice soup. I’ve had this one before and know enough about it to know I don’t like it. However, being an ‘adult’ at my school I am given the luxury of picking and choosing what I want on my lunch tray. Thus, I bypassed the soup. I knew this would not go unnoticed since skipping any of the three staples is guaranteed to cause an interrogation as to why I’m not eating it. However, to my surprise no one said anything; not one teacher. This was truly a first. Relieved, I continued eating my lunch and minding my own business.
Then on the way back to the office, the other shoe dropped so to speak. Immediately after leaving the lunchroom, my a colleague asked me, “Why didn’t you eat the soup?”
“Oh, that soup isn’t my favorite. So I decided not to have it.” I replied.
“I see. But today is a special day in Korea. “
“It is?” Shoot, here it comes.
“Yes. Today is the shortest day. On this day every year, we eat that soup.” She explained.
“Oh, I see.” I stated slowly while trying to think of something better to say.
“It was very strange for you not to eat the soup today.” She continued.
“I didn’t know. If I had—“ I stated, but was quickly cut off.
“Well lunch is finished now.”
“Should I have just eaten the soup?”
“Yes.” She stated matter-of-factly.
“Sorry.”
Sorry was all I could think to say. I wasn’t sure what my colleagues expected me to say. I didn’t mean to offend anyone, but clearly I had. However, a head’s up on the walk to the lunch room would have been nice. I often find myself in this compromising position of acquiring information after the fact. Oh well, another day and another lunch hour survived. I think it’s sufficient to say that for the last five days of work, I will put a little bit of everything on my tray to cover my bases. Oops!
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