The Great Return 2009

Since I haven't been overseas this last month or so, I've felt my life has not been "exotic" enough to blog about, hence the lack of blogs during my time at home. As I am reflecting on my time in the States, I must admit, shame on me for thinking like that. Iowa is not "exotic" by any means but it is certainly worthy of some blog space and appreciation. And full of its own adventures.

The time has come for The Great Return 2009. I am flying out in just a few hours to begin the 28 hour journey to my one of my most of favorite places: Korea! This time I'll be teaching at a public school with better hours, more vacation time, in a better city and hopefully a lot more little perks like trainings and outings throughout the year. I'm amazed at how all the things for the job fell into place. And so quickly! That's how Korea operates though....fast.

It's such a strange feeling being home after a long time away because I came back and everything was generally the same. Things carry on much like they did when I had a break during college. In that regard, it's so easy to take for granted the time I have at home, picking on the fam, being ungrateful and bored. But on the other hand, it's wonderful to be able to experience the same old routine of life at home. Regardless, I feel pretty good about how I spent my time.

I made a trip out to see Dan (and Abs!) in North Carolina. I saw the beautiful mountains of western NC and camped in them. I saw lots of football games of Peter and Caleb. I saw Lana tie the knot. I saw a piece of KP's new life. I had several mega friend hangouts with high school buddies. I got fitted for Annie's wedding and gave opinions on wedding dresses. I rode bikes a lot. I road tripped to Columbia, MO. I got in some solid runs with Kitty. I had a few shopping trips with my mom and lunches with my dad. And I had many hilarious nights in with the sibs, mattress sliding, rollie chair street challenges, hallway soccer, etc.

It's. been. good. Just what I needed to renew my spirits and vigor.

Now on to another year of experiences in Korea. I'm pumped! Pumped to see old friends in Ulsan (but not to say goodbye to Kat right away...), pumped for a new city, students, friends. AND SUPER UBER PUMPED TO SEE KATE AND CHAZ who are in the same city as me!!!!!!! What a glorious reunion that shall be!!!

Now, I expect people (yes, you who is reading this) to remain faithful in promises of better efforts to stay in touch. As I too expect to be held accountable in that department. You can expect to hear about my flight experience (there's always something interesting that happens) in the next blog....so long, farewell, auf wiedersehen adieu....