Some things I know

1. My documents for my E2 teaching visa were sent out yesterday. Did you know it cost $72 dollars to send a light package via FEDEX to South Korea? That's not even the express! It will still take 6 days to get there. This shocked me, but at the same time, it's a huge load off my mind. Now I'm just waiting for my Visa Issuance Number so I can go forward with the process.

2. I have one more week at work. I've said most of my goodbyes already, and it's been really hard to leave. At the same time though, it's been really exciting and I'm looking forward to an opportunity for a fresh start.

3. Korean characters are really difficult to draw. I've been trying to teach myself basic Korean, and it's not going well. I'm hoping that it will become easier when I'm over there and I can actually use it and hear it in context, but until then I'm just going to keep watching video lessons on YouTube.

4. I haven't written anything of substance for a long time. As much as I wanted to get back into writing, and as much as I've told myself I'd keep going to writing groups, I just haven't done it. This frustrates me. I do have something I want to say, I just don't know how exactly to say it.

5. I hate packing. Although, I've been really good about keeping stuff down to a minimum this year. I realize that I've lived in three different residences in three years and every time I go to pack, it just makes me realize how silly all of my little stuff is. I already occupy enough of the planet with my space, I don't need a closet full of clothing I don't wear to go with it. I've made several trips to good will thus far, and I will make several more before I leave. I am still proud to announce that everything I own can be lifted and fit into my car, and I own a Mazda. That's impressive.

6. I will definitely keep posting from Korea. It has been asked several times from readers. I am confident I will have more interesting things to post about from another country. I'm not sure what tone it will take, but that will have to be determined when I get there. I know I'm in for some culture shock, so I'm sure I'll blog about that. I know I'm in for some food shocks, so I'll probably blog about that. As for anything else, we shall just wait and see. Surprises are good, no?

It's Official at Work: They Know (and I Feel a Little more Free Now)

I sent the following to the staff today:

April 13, 2010

Dear {School Name} Staff:

I love and respect you all. You are seriously one of the best school staffs and group of co-workers I have ever worked with--so talented, professional, (and fun!)--all of you. You took me in as if I were a part of your family when I was new to the state. I must also say that I am very thankful for my time at {school name}. I have allowed myself to grow professionally and personally in ways I never would have if I hadn't have been placed here as an AmeriCorps tutor just two short years ago. Thank you for being such a supportive, caring group of individuals.

That said, I want to say that my employment at {school name} and {school district} is coming to a close. I was offered an opportunity to teach English in Seoul, South Korea and after great debate, have decided to accept. I have been looking forward to teaching English abroad for quite some time now. This is the time. It's now or never. My assignment begins May 31, 2010. I am therefore giving my two weeks' notice starting today. In order for me to prepare for my assignment overseas, I am requesting that my last day at {school name} be Friday, April 30, 2010.

This is a new adventure and chapter in my life. Of course I am thrilled. I want to keep in touch with so many of you and share my journey. Thank you for understanding my need to branch out and "spread my wings." I will miss you and the students dearly.

Yours in Service,

Recycled Art Girl
recycledartguru@gmail.com

I thought this was fitting for today...

Detox Over

Thank god and all things holy (or wholly) for that. Tonight was a housemates birthday, so I found it rather fitting that on the last day of of the detox I had pumpkin pie and lasagne. Good stuff. I forgotten how much I miss sweet carbs. And I didn't really indulge and overdo it like I usually do. I don't feel bloated or sick, just satisfied. I suppose the detox did its job. Or maybe it's all in my head. Who knows. Now if only I can keep up with that moderate attitude throughout the year.

In other news, I'm making a lot of good progress at work. I feel really good about this year, like it can be a good thing. Positive relationships with other teachers and co-workers...supportive environment. I've switched my schedule around on Mondays and Wednesdays so that I can stay for after school without going over my hours during the day so I don't have come in until 10 am!

And how cool is the Rational Number Project? I will probably end up doing another post on this sometime soon, but I'll just say that this tool is very awesome. Lots to do this sememster, and lots to learn both in school and at work (in a school) I feel like a kid and a teacher all over again.

How cool is that?