XI. You asked for it...

HAPPY LUNAR NEW YEAR!!!

At Aquana Resort with my cousins :)

      I have to admit, with this break coming up, I was a bit anxious, wondering how I was going to spend the Lunar New Year. Everyone was busy making plans and visiting family, and I had no idea what to do. Of course, this whole time, my Korean relatives were planning a surprise...
     I visited my relatives once and it was a semi-awkward experience. In no way did they make me feel as such, but I couldn't help it, considering that I couldn't speak the language. It was during Chuseok, the Korean Thanksgiving, so I was also overwhelmed with the people there. But this time it was different.          

     My trip started Sunday, when my uncle and his family drove 6 hours out of the way just to pick me up. We then spent a grueling 10 hours in a car, mostly because of bumper to bumper traffic. But you know, it wasn't bad at all. The first time I met my cousins, I hardly got to know them because of the chaos. But the trip forced us to get over the language barrier and get to know each other. I can honestly say I had an amazing time. I LOVE my uncle and his family. They are the coolest family ever. 

Hyun Soo, the eldest

Joon Suh, the most loving child

Hyun Suh, the happiest baby in the world

     We arrived at a waterpark called Aquana and essentially went straight to bed. The next day was the Lunar New Year. We celebrated by eating mandoo gook (dumpling soup) which is sooo delicious. Then we spend the day at the park. That night we drove back to my uncle's house.

     That night I was able to see my mother's sister (I'm in love with this woman) and her family. The next day I departed, showered with money and gifts. Oh, how I love Korean relatives ;)

With my Waesookmo (Uncle's wife)

With my aunt and her beautiful daughter

      Overall, I had an incredible time. I was nervous, but my relatives treated me beyond well. This has been the first time (in Korea) that I've experienced love and generosity way beyond what I expected. It literally brought tears to my eyes. I was so blessed. I hope I can see them again, soon, and repay them for their kindness. :)

  

X. Yes, I do have a life.

Apart from teaching, it's hard to do anything else. The schedule is demanding and there's hardly days off. Luckily, the last open weekend, my Australian friend Wendy and I went to Changdeokgung Palace and some other places to squeeze in some sightseeing. The weather report said it was a chilling -9 degrees Celsius, but we managed (with aluminum cans of hot chocolate and jumping jacks). 

We have a long weekend coming up for the Lunar New Year. Tokyo was calling my name, but alas, the prices are sky high. Let's see what will happen for the next long weekend. Any suggestions?!