So today we got to travel to Gapyeong, which is the city where the Education Center is where we will be teaching. It was great to get out of the classroom we have been in all week editing textbooks and listening to lectures. We left around 9 am and were there by about 10:30. Again- let me reiterate that I am SO GLAD I don't have to drive here in Seoul. The traffic stretches from end to end. Kind of like Atlanta times 20. Anyway, the education center is under construction (about 65% completed), so we just went to get an clearer idea in our head of where we would be. Of course, we all wanted to see the size of our rooms. They are about the same size as the hotel-type room we are in now- but we will not be sharing. The most exciting discovery was that we will all have our own small balcony. So nice. I really feel like we are lucky to have the assignment we have.
So, the center is literally on the side of a mountain, so after touring the building, we went for a small "hike". I don't know if I would call it so much a hike- it was more of a CLIMB. Seriously- this mountain was quite steep. Our principal, Jaime (can't remember her formal Korean name), is a trim woman, maybe like 55 years old, and she was practically floating up the hill. The Korean people are really fit and healthy. (even the beer has "for well being" on the label). We got to the top and there wasn't much of a view, but we did find a grave. It will be really nice to have a mountain trail right outside the back door.
After the tour and hike, we went for lunch- Korean BBQ. It is beef cooked over hot coals, served with veggies and rice and soup, etc. Great food. We got to meet most of the Korean teachers who will be there with us, and they are all really nice. I am most excited about working with Jaime. She is so warm and friendly, and seems truly concerned and invested in us working well together. She had us all tell what we would like for her to have prepared for our breakfast!
The town of Gapyeong is really small, but I think we will be OK. We will be able to get small things there- but will need to go into Seoul once a month or so for some harder to find things. I am content to eat my free meals in the cafeteria with the students.
So- we are just hoping construction is completed on time for us to move on April 30. Until then, lots of lesson planning. This weekend will be busy with a birthday party for me Friday night, a St. Patricks Day festival on Saturday, and visits to the palace on Sunday.
PLEASE send me some emails. I have only heard from a few of you. I miss everyone and want to know what's going on with you. Since we have laptops and wireless internet in our room- I have great access to email. Hope everyone is well. I AM VERY JEALOUS looking at the Charlotte weather. It is still in the 50's everyday here. Can't wait for spring...
3 comments:
Hi Molly! I've enjoyed reading your blog. It sounds like you are having fun, staying busy and enjoying yourself. I'm so glad and hope things continue to remain interesting. I'll definitely be keeping up with all you blog about. Thanks for taking the time to share!
Hey you seem to be doing so well and learning a lot at the same time. I am so jealous of your experience, I can't waite to hear more of your stories. Happy Early Birthday, I wish I was there to share in your party!
Hi Molly! Happy Birthday. Assume that you are either still doing St. Pat's Day celebration or you are in bed.
We enjoy your Blogs. I tried to answer one early on, but couldn't get it to go. Maybe it was the process for establishing a User Name or Password. So, I'll do Anonymous and hope it transmits.
We especialy like the pics. Don't forget to get in them as well. Be sure the one you let use your camera doesn't have sneakers on. We also like the details of your narrative. Makes us want to come and visit.
Uncle Doug & Aunt Jac
Post a Comment