The Been Briefing

so... how can i sum up my first impressions of korea and my life here?

1) korea's landscape is like west virginia... it has cities and many towns amidst mountains. it's strangely picturesque and is growing on me. i think the land is going to be my joy and love.

2) it is an absolute miracle that i am alive. mr. so drives like a maniac... like all koreans do!

3) korean food is basically rice or noodles with cooked vegetables (or dried squid or some very "healthful" meat) in about 5o bowls of various sizes.

4) my college friend lauren is secretly asian.... it has finally hit me after 4 years! in america it used to drive me nuts that she always beat around the bush. now she's saving my life, since the older generation in korea is not big on clear, direct communication.

5) korean babies are everywhere, and they're SO cute

REVELATION: i have no idea about anything korean. the language is a whole new world. the culture is completely foreign. the food is definitely WEIRD. i am seeing my failings; they're glaring me in the face. i have many areas to grow in!

as for a basic update: i finish moving into my apartment tomorrow. apparently, i live in a different town than lauren; it's called suji... not suwon. (NOTICE the change to my blog title. lol) on monday i start teaching, and i don't know yet how many classes i'll have or what my curriculum is. so lots yet to learn... but i DO like my apartment.. i live on the 1st floor of a really cute stone apartment house near a little river, and i'll be able to walk or bike to my school. oh yes... i'm desperately hoping for a bike. we'll see if that's possible. i've seen a couple of bike shops here in suwon. maybe suji will have some, too.

ok... that will have to do for now. i may not have internet access for a while at my apartment, so forgive me if i'm slow in answering emails or updating. bear with me, dear ones! love to you

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Lauren here--Ruth is doing well and I'm very proud of her (she left her window open)