I did, however, manage to put together cards for my guy co-workers. There's only two of them, so the ladies of our branch decided to do some special things for the guys. My gift was a bit cheesy, but I can't help it. Cheesy is my style. I also pulled together a mix CD for one of my students who wanted music from my former band, Dear Dear.
Cards with "10 Reasons Why You're Awesome":
A mix CD for a student. Owls/trees = common theme throughout the things I do:
As an aside, many friends ask me if I would ever date while in Korea. It is tempting considering how all of Korea is fixed around "the couple" and it seems like everyone is in matching outfits (a popular thing to do while dating). But, as much as I try to fit in with the young and happy dating scene, I think I'm too old of a soul. I'd much prefer cranking up the music and painting, or tea and a great book. And those things don't seem to fare well with another person.
I'm really glad that Korea recognizes that men enjoy gifts and being pampered, and deserve so, just as much as women. It's impressive how forward Korean can be as a result. I'm sure most American guys would brush it off and say, "Nah, we're cool". But it's only pride. And maybe a twinge of discomfort. But if they lived in a country where it's cool for guys to wear man bags and be just as fashionable as their female accomplice, they'd admit that it's nice to get cards and chocolates...
Anyway, conclusion: Valentine's Day is sweet and it's a great excuse to do something nice for the opposite sex and, in my case, especially towards men. Ladies in the States, don't be shy. Try it sometime :)
