The Perfect Gift

October 2, 2011
The Perfect Gift

When I was packing to come to Korea, I used my time in Japan to mentally work out what I would and would not be able to find. I had high hopes Dr. Pepper would be available at import shops, and knew most stores stocked familiar brand names. When it came to choosing whether...
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Whatever Will Come Will Come

September 30, 2011

And we’ll meet it if it does. I’ve got exactly four teaching days left before my replacement arrives, all green from Dallas, and just under two weeks until my flight to San Francisco. I wish I could say I’m looking forward to returning “home”, but the truth is I’ve been very numb to both...
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It’s Not Korea I’m Leaving

September 26, 2011
It’s Not Korea I’m Leaving

With American soil soon to be under my running feet, I’ve been asking myself the same question a lot lately: who will I be when I’m not what I am here, in Korea? It should come as no shock to anyone that we all have different personas for dealing with different stages of our...
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Korean Students: Things Are Never Looking Up?

August 21, 2011
Korean Students: Things Are Never Looking Up?

I had one of the most depressing and culturally insightful classes with some of my higher-level students this week. Unlike in some hagwon, where foreign teachers are not allowed their say when it come to class format and textbooks, my boss really values my input; I have had total creative control of the gold...
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Liberation Day Weekend

August 16, 2011
Liberation Day Weekend

My massive feet were treated so well this weekend. Not only did I finally give up on ordering shoes and just buy a pair of Merrell’s for 165,000 Won, but I also splurged on a massage in Itaewon. If your back ever needs relief in Seoul, go to Healing Hands. They’ll set you up....
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Here’s to Another Two Months

August 9, 2011
Here’s to Another Two Months

So I finally managed it. One year in Korea. This past week has been nothing more than concentrated anticipation over getting my severance pay, finishing morning adult classes, and getting paid for said classes. On top of that, I’ve been doing a lot of research for errands this holiday weekend: seeing if there are...
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My History with Alcohol

August 8, 2011
My History with Alcohol

I didn’t have a real drink until the night of my 21st birthday. Call me a liar, if you like – I scarcely believe it myself. My perception of social drinking has evolved, I believe for the better, over the last fifteen years. Although sometimes it’s difficult for me to revisit the boy that...
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Need Advice on Living Abroad?

Thinking of teaching English in Japan? Volunteering in Thailand? Backpacking around New Zealand? If you're looking for some insider tips on the places to go and the people to meet, check out my consulting services. If you just have a few questions, no worries: email me.