Yo Momma!!!

Ok people, I'm on pace to break records. I just finished crying after I watched the end of that Eagles game. It was.....excuse me....I'm trying to hold back the tears. I had my first winter class today so I could only watch half of the Eagles game before I headed to work. Therefore, I decided to not watch any because I couldn't have the outcome lingering (little did I know it only took 2 quarters before the thing was a reynolds wrap). So I finished around 12:30, went home, put on my gamepass and hoped that the Bucs and the Bears did there best Homer and Bart impression (the choke). Indeed they did. And what transpired next must be what it feels like to win a Superbowl (or close to it). Not only did we make the playoffs but we spanked the Cowboys while doing it. Magnificent.

Ok, enough with that. So yesterday I had a funny encounter with my host mom. You see, sometimes she shapes up the back of my head and tonight while she was doing it she stepped back with a gangsta lean (like a straight pimp) and then, after about 10 seconds, said, "Careful, very careful". I started rolling. She was dead serious. You see, I asked her to round out my neck since my hair likes to grow V style. She's not accustomed to that. So after we laughed about her comment she said, "difficult". Now for that one, you had to be there. Afterwards, when all was said and done, she uttered, "You're lucky to know me". Pure comedy. I sure did get lucky with having her as my host mom. Indeed.

Speaking of moms, let's talk about "Yo Momma". Na, but today I started talking about violence in Philadelphia (to myself) and that made me think of the schoolyard days when we would tell jokes about moms. Then, I went on to tell them about "Yo Momma" jokes. However, disaster struck when I attempted to tell them jokes. It went from "yo momma so stupid to fat to ugly to black to skinny to old".... You get the idea. Well, lets say that I thought I was funny before this encounter but they definietly humbled me. Let's blame it on the language barrier. However, I do remembr them laughing at two jokes. Yo momma so black she has to wear white gloves when she eats chocolate and yo momma so tall that when she did a cartwheel sheck kicked God in the face. The daughter laughed at more of my jokes but the parents just stared at me like, "what is he talking about?" It was good times though. Ok peoples, I'm back to lesson planning and finding articles about the Eagles that I haven't already read. Holla at your gwolla.

A Worldstar is Birthed

The classicness of all classicness since I created the word classicness...

Hello All, The Blogger who Never Blogs is Back

So after a brief hiatus your least prudent earthling blogger has returned from the depths of his ricefield. Obviously a lot has happened since we last talked and unfortunately I don't remember everything so I will try and showcase the highlights (even though I don't remember them). First though, I want to thank everyone out there that has supported me throughout this journey. I don't normally get emotional but I'll make an attempt. It seems, for me, sometimes it is easier for me to express myself through words than with someone' s piercing eyeballs. That could be because I do not have to show my vulnerability in real live action, no one can read me or actually see how I am feeling. On the other hand, I don't know why I'm saying all of this on the web which means the entire world will have access to it (because the entire world does read my blog). So, in a very generic manner, I want to say thankyou to everyone that has helped me throughout my life, to the people that read my blog, and to those that wish me well. I truly appreciate it.

Salutations, and I'm back.

So a lot has happened since our last encounter: Obama became president (and I became Obama), the young co-teacher that has become my ace boon coon is pregnant (don't think she's happy about it but you knew the consequences), another teacher that I like is leaving, I've been on a few dates (sorry dad, its hard to find 40 year old Korean women that aren't married), become closer with my homestay family, made the first school english newspaper, unknowingly adopted a language partner, the sound my hagum instrument makes has become more tolerable, my recent lesson has shown me how much the students mean to me and vice versa, and I have found what was thought to be the lost footage of me performing YMCA and Gone. Oh yea, and Obama is president. I'm sure there is more that I am missing but I can't remember. Let's hope 2009 is even more interesting to make up for me not reporting my shinannigans in Korealand thus far. I'm planning an end of the year wrap up. Don't worry, I'm going to try and dedicate myself to this blogging thing, that's my New Year's resolution.

Its been over a month and 300 lbs of rice (and foods and snacks made with rice) since we last spoke and that is very unacceptable on my part, especially since my family is trying to keep up with my happenings and some of my friends check this url (can't call it a blog if no one blogs) often only to find that same picture of me with a duck on my face. Fasheezle. Well I'm off to go think of what to write. Below is the classicness of all classicness since classicness was created. It really is that classic.

Its Almost Bout that Time

So, it only took a few days since my last post (new record). First things first (I Poppa....), my performance at the school festival was crazy. For the entire day I thought I did not have to perform because the teacher said they didn't have my song. She said they only had the karaoke version and since I did not know the song that well I needed the real version. Cool. So about 30 minutes before the night festival began she tells me everything's a go. I'm like, hold up. You can't do a brother like that. I needed at least a few hours to get ready. Needless to say, I walked up on stage with the lyric sheet in hand. Craziness then commenced. I chose YMCA because it was catchy, easy to sing, and I knew most Koreans knew the melody and the hook. I soon found out they knew "YOUNG MAN" which was sweet. That performance was one of the funnest moments of my life. I had one of my teachers record me with my camera but because of some "technical difficulties" aka a language barrier she instead took several pictures of me (which really aren't pictures just 8 second intervals of me singing). Luckily, another teacher recorded the whole thing and he told me he had the hook up. So once I get that G14 classified material I'll be sure to pass it on. You smell? Overall, the day was nice. The festival was great, a bit long, but still great. And the next day was sports competition day where the classes compete against each other in several contests (running, tug-o-war, dodgeball, jump rope...). By the way, how weird is the song YMCA? Who sings about the YMCA? Have a look at those lyrics and tell me what you think.

Soooooooooooo, its almost about that time to get our minds right and elect Barack Odrama. This week I am doing a presentation on the upcoming election and all the students know the man named Barack. At the beginnging of each class I ask, "Do you know what happens on Tuesday in America?" They all say "New President" and then begin to chant OBAMA!!! No lie. Straight up. Because I'm all about being fair and balanced I showed a 8 minute clip of Barack (with subtitles) and then reminded them that John McCain is running too. Then I get into my lessson on the election. Barack is the people's choice in Korea. No doubt. My man is a true champion and I am realizing more and more how important this shift is going to be, affecting not only our people but our standing in the world. Barack is going to have his hands full, but hey, my man can do it. Do you believe? So America better get its mind right and vote Bareezy Obeezy. And those who don't must know, there's a place you can go, when your brain cells are running low, its called the YMCA. Holla at the Village People for me. So in two days, lets toast to the future. From Korea to America. LETS DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

21 Days Later....Hagum, Asperger, and the Village People

What it do folkers? Your favorite earthling blogger is alive and back like he left his house keys. Its been some time since we last connected, how've you been. I hope your answer was "Fine. Thank you, and you?" Well I've been good. Let's catch up. I started taking this music class with the instrument being the hagum. Its an ancient, traditional Korean instrument (did I really need to say ancient and traditional?). I believe it was created to see how long P.O.W.s could play it before their fingers started to bleed. The class is 2 hours and when I'm finished the tips of my fingers look like Popeye's red beans. Also, the instrument is similar to the violin in the sense that if you don't know how to play it sounds like what Spartan soup must taste like. Man, hearing 15 people play at the same time was not pleasant. Plus, the notes are in Chinese, not even Korean. But with all that said, I really enjoy the class. I'm getting the hang of the instrument, the class is improving to the point where we almost sound half-decent, and I once my fingers become numb I don't feel the pain anymore. Fashiggady.

What else is on the plate? How about my relationship with family. It has reached a new level of comfortability (is that a word??). I'm really glad my family members speak some sort of English. It allows us to connect on a more substantive level. For example, the youngest brother is what I call a brat with an attitude problem, but me and him have the closest relationship. At times I don't appreciate the way he treats his mother and siblings but it wasn't my place to jump in. Until, one day, me and the mother had a long talk. She told me about her oldest son who has Asberger syndrome. It is a form of autism with the biggest symptom being difficulties with social interaction and restricted, stereotyped patterns of behavior and interests. This explained a lot. She went on to talk about how she looked after him very carefully for students would tease him and, even today, he has no friends. Its a shame because this kid is one of the sweetest and smartest people you'll meet. He's a gentle soul. Her other children did not receive the same amount of love, and the youngest acts out because of that. As a result her guilt, the mother allows him to behave like a problem child. She asked me to have a talk with him (he locked himself in her room). So after a while I persuaded him to watch a movie with me. We rented, yes, Terminator 2. HAHAHAHAHAHA. When my mother had to tell me something she always made me watch this (I guess she was telling me she would kill me or have someone come from the future to kill me if I didn't listen). J/P. She never did that. Long story short, we talked and things are getting better, albeit slowly. The mother was very appreciative. Its an ongoing process. Ill keep you posted (sike). And he likes the movie esp the part where John says, "Do you have to kill everybody?" and Arnold looks at sternly and says, "I'm a terminator." What kinda question was that?

Lastly, there is a school festival tomorrow and its sort of a big deal. Each class performs and they've been practicing for weeks. There are cool games, face-painting, contests, performances, art displays. Its crazy. And yes, yours truly has to perform. I chose to sing Y.M.C.A. by Clay Aiken's favorite band because Koreans know the chorus and it comes with 4 choreographed moves. Additionally, I am dancing with one of my girl classes (shh...its a secret). They sort of adopted me and we've been inseparable since. So be on the lookout for pictures and videos. Until next time (hahaha), holla at your gwolla.

Go Phillies. Bud Selig is a chump.

I Turned 22 Today, Yes I Did

So today, Korean time, I lived to see another year and I hope that one I day I will fully appreciate birthdays (because I go out of my way not to celebrate them). However, today I had no choice and I was pleasantly surprised. (Sidebar: I am currently listening to some Disney Classics, Les Poissons to be exact). Ok, back to business. My principal and my main co-teacher gave me some gifts (one in which is Ginseng candy, which sounds like an oxymoron). Also, the second floor teachers gave me about 2 lbs of grapes and 20 rice cakes (yumm). The highlight of my day was when I went to my 2-7 class where they prepared a surprise party for me. The co-teacher, the young one I've told you about, and her class bought me a cake, wrote HAPPY BIRTHDAY on the board and sang me a song. It was truly special. I guess that's what it feels like when you let someone surprise you. Later in the evening I got a phone call from some good friends. Also, my mother sent me an e-mail letting me know how much she loved me which is always good. Thanks to everyone that showed me some love.

Funny moments of the day: Me and the host parents go walking and she keeps asking her husband, "Do you have stress?" He ignores her. Then she says, "You are very calm outside but your mind is a wave." She goes on the make waves with her hands. It was hilarious. He really did not want to have that conversation. Later, we watched (and participated) in the ajima late-night workout where about 50 middle-aged women get together and do their thing (also hilarious). However, it would be nice to see this in my neighborhood. Lastly, earlier in the day a student was trying to describe ketchup and he kept saying, "It is mayonnaise friend. It is mayonnaise friend." As you can guess, hilarious.

Once again, thanks for all the love. Much appreciated.

Trip with the 2nd Graders

On Monday, my school took the 2nd grade class to one of the more famous mountains in Korea, sawlracksan. I had the pleasure of riding with class 2-7, a group of girls, and their homeroom teacher Mrs. Ju. Mrs. Ju is 30 years old and speaks English very well. I'm glad that I we were able to ride together. I feel as though, out of all my co-teachers, I am becoming closer to her for two reasons: her English level allows us to communicate on many different levels, such as using sarcasm, inside jokes, and discussing social topics. The second reason is that she is very young and many of her views, actions, and interactions with the other teachers reflects that (we have a lot in common). She is more willing to honestly express her sentiments on the other teachers, Korea, and many other topics. Additionally, she is more willing to talk to me about her personal life (one in which I get the feeling that she is not too happy with her husband). It was a great pairing.

The fact that I was with 2-7, one of my favorite classes, made the trip that much more fun. On the ride home I decided to sit with the students, because Mrs. Ju was resting her eyes, and we played some games, joked around, and I tried my hardest to memorize some of their names (I actually got 3 down). Being with the 2nd graders was nice, real nice (Bernie Mac style). I, along with Mr.s Ju, played in a potato sack race (you should have heard the girls scream when I started to hold her hand). We won the first round but lost the second because she is terribly out of shape (but weighs about 120 lbs, maybe). She wheezed for about 7 mins after a 30 second race. Also, they had this talent show where each class (there are 10) had to perform, but before the performances, there were several activities. One included a group of 5 girls picking 5 male teachers and dancing with them. It was hilarious to watch me, the youngest teacher, go toe-to-toe with the oldest but the kids enjoyed it as well as the Dojo Yoshi. I took many pictures and video so they will be up in about 5 days (tom. I am going to a 4 day conference).

Today, as I write this all over the place narrative, I taught one of my most successful lessons. In Korea, students almost always answer "How are you?" with "Fine. Thankyou, and you?" Its like they were trained to say this. As a result, I decided to teach them different answers to that question but I was very animated. Needless to say, these were my most fun classes thus far. Aight, well I'm about to finish my B-Mac and go to bed. Peace and Love.

Oh yea, today I was walking with my homestay father and it was cold so I put my hands in my sleeves and he asked me to talk them out because he didn't want the unnecessary attention (I think he actually said "strange man". I thought to myself, you're walking down the street with a black dude in Chawngju, people stare at me no matter what. While we're on the subject, I taught my siblings how to say their name using the izzle system (I know, I know.) One started calling me Athizzle (which is hilarious in their accents). Chang Bizzle, Chan Mizzle, and Chang Izzle. HAHAHAHAHA.

.....

My lil sis on the go.

The Three Amigos: English Bear, Mr Wiggles, and Mr. Squirt

In my class I have three props, one is called the English Bear. Before I start each class I take him and throw him at certain students, ask them a random question, and have them answer. The students enjoy it though sometimes they need help answering the questions. My next friend is the Mr. Wiggles. He is a footlong wooden stick with a horse head. You see, corporal punishment is legal here in the big K so the teachers carry these sticks. Unfortunately, because of my US citizenship I cannot hit students so I bought this funny looking stick that does not add to my authority (probably lessens it), but its funny. Whatever. My next friend is Mr. Squirt. He is a small elephant-shaped watergun (we got into some trouble today). He tends to wake up students and say hello to kids that can't keep their mouths shut. So far, the kids have enjoyed all three of my buddies, and I enjoy using them.

As for the school pics. As you can see, it is hard to get pictures of girls because as soon as you pull out the camera they either turn the other way or put their heads down. I actually had to sneak some pics. I also keep forgetting to take my camera to class so I only have pictures of maybe 3 classes.

So, me and Mr. Squirt went on a rampage today, doing our best Dick Chaney impression by shooting up people by accident. Well I ran into some students (the 2 individual photos above) that had their own sawed-off squirties and we went at it, Ok Corral style. These are two students I always play Ping Pong with. They don't speak much English but me and the one kid always go back and forth debating who the "ping pong" king is. Mad fun. So we faught for about a good 20 mins. Water was everywhere, and I kept thinking that my behavior was not teacher-like, but we did not get caught so, shhhhh.

In addition to the English Bear, Mr. Wiggles, and Mr. Squirt, I now have some Korean friends which, apparently, is not easy. A few are from Church and some others are girls I met from the nurse's daughter (if you remember that story). Its been real nice hanging out with them even though they might be a lil bit older (24, 25). Things are good right now. More school pics are to come. Holla at your gwolla. I know, this post was kinda weak.

Indeed. Oh yea, the Pictures (tons) Are Up and More are to Come

Okay, the pictures I promised last lunar eclipse are finally up. Stop stalking me Tracey!! To enlarge the picture just click it. I have many more but it takes a long time using blogger.com to post. However, soon I will put up (what does he mean by soon????????) pictures of my school, the teachers, my students, and some traditional Korean town the fam hit up. As for an update, things have been going really well lately. I truly enjoy teaching and the students have responded well to my lessons thus far. Also, I have become a Badminton king because my ping pong skills are lacking. The students are great are there is only one class that truly gives me problems (mainly-because there are several students whose English skills are non-existent. As a result, (IMO) many students resort to acting out in class instead of making mistakes in English or even trying to participate. They would rather not "look stupid" so they disrupt constantly. Therefore, since I cannot connect with them in my class I have begun playing Badminton and ping pong with them during lunch. Let's see if it works. The kids are great. What can I say?

What else? Well I was introduced to the school nurse's daughter and, at first, it was extremely awkward. Especially when everyone in the room in staring at you screaming "hangukmal hangukmal" (Korean Korean) because you are speaking in English!!!. She is an extremely cool person and very smart. Indeed.

In addition, even though I told everyone that I would go to Seoul to get my haircut, my host mother set up an appointment for me to go to her hairdresser. Of course I went and it was quite the adventure. First, she showed me a flip book of Korean dudes and asked me to pick what style I wanted. They either all looked like women, had weird geled up dews, or had these ridiculous hairstyles (like extra thick cornrows or some obscure looking dreds). Soooo, I asked my mother to just say shorter and then I drew a picture (which didn't work). I decided to just get in the chair and go from there. As I sat in the chair, EVERYONE in the shop stared at me for about a good 5 minutes. It was wild, like I was seal in an orange jumpsuit jiggling a pancake on my nose. So her first trim took no hair off. The 2nd took off about the same. Needless to say, we went through a few trims and then came, yes, the shape-up. Never in her life had she seen a head like mine and the Korean men don't usually get sharp shape-ups like moi. After about a 5 minute convo about the length and form of my sideburns she went in (with the forehead all I said was straight! straight! straight!). I can't front, she did her thing even though the burns were a bit uneven and my forehizzle wasn't straight. I still looked fresh, and it was much cheaper than going to Seoul to see my African connect (where the shop smells like straight 3 day-old musk).

Lastly, the family situation gets better and better. I have talked to my parents about the education system, the Korean image of women, what type of women I like, and a whole gang of other things. We even talked about their daughter and dating and what I thought about it. They call me their son to other people and I even now have a Korean name, hong chawn sa. The other night we played a game where I choose a Bible passage, say Luke chapter 6, and read a verse in English and they have to find it in Korean. They mainly keyed in on certain words and named all the verses with that word but it was still fun. They are some great people and I couldn't have fallen into better hands. I truly am blessed.

Oh yea, where are my care packages (my address is in a previous post)??? I need some American chocolates and candy ASAP. Lol.

I'm so sorry I don't update my blog enough. I forget to tell you guys so much (and a lot of interesting things have happened). And some people even stopped checking for me and I don't blame them. I think I'm getting the inspiration to go in at least 2 or 3 times a week. Let's see.

Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) and Pear Huntin Season Has Begun

During Chuseok, many Koreans visit their hometowns and pay tribute to their fallen ancestors. It is an extremely important holiday here and I'm glad I was able to grab a piece of it. Also, my homestay father's father has a pear farm and they are....delicious.

The Fam.

These pictures were taken the night of the parent's wedding anniversary. Their children decided to throw them a surprise party and it was real nice. An amazing experience. I could not have asked to be a part of a better homestay family.



These pictures were taken the night of the parent

Living Quarters-3rd Floor Style

There are 3 bedrooms where the kids sleep and the parents sleep in the attic. Balling. However, it is not a big house.

Living Quarters-2nd Floor

The Countdown Till the Pictures Come Up Continues...

I want a picture of the entire family together first before I put up all the pics. I keep forgetting though. My bad. I changed my settings so that now people can comment without having to sign up or create their own blogs. Also, I'll have some teaching updates and I am taking pictures of all my students as well. So, I got some bad news about some things going on back home but luckily I can watch the Eagles play football which (I hope) will help ease the mood. Everything will work itself out I always believe. I had a conversation with Mr. Marley's Three Little Birds and their pure and true melodies. Everything will be alright! Oh yea, here's the address:

Michael Athy

1362, Bunpyeong-dong, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-shi,

Chungbuk Province, Korea 361-823

Holla at your gwolla with some goods, money, and American souvenirs.

4 Days Later and Still No Pics...

First I want to send a shout-out to all those in the Gulf region, especially Louisiana. Be safe and get out of that state. I'm not really feeling the living situation down there anyways. Maybe it's time for permanent relocation. Okay, pictures of the house, school, students, and family will be up soon. Why does it take me so long? Two reasons: putting up multiple pics with blogger.com is time-consuming and I am lazy when it comes to blogging. Alrighty??

So, my first week of classes are done, and it was straight. What can I say? Here is my schedule, I teach middle school which consists of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade. The students are a little older here in middle school than America. I teach 15 classes during the regularly scheduled school day (10 are 2nd grade and 5 are first grade). Additionally, I teach 2 after school 3rd grade classes (for advanced students) and 3 teacher training classes. In total I have 20 classes adding up to about 20 hours a week. My first day I had 3 classes and was dead tired by the end of the day (4:30) but the rest of the week not a yawn (unless a Korean was yawning near me and forgot to cover their mouth, lol).

I find girls easier to teach and they are a little more enthusiastic to learn English. Also, they are, overall, a little bit better at listening and speaking the language. However, boys the boys are fun. I'm glad I have this mix (the classes are segregated btw). I have a few "OK boys" that say OK OK OK OK OK OK after everything I say. I wanted to give him the Homer-Bart throat choke but just made them do push-ups and sing in front of the class. Ok, what else? Oh yea, I've been bike-riding lately and its been lovely. I love the stares as I ride down the street singing Billy Joel and Young Jeezy (did I mention there aren't any black people in Choengju). I'm sure I'm leaving things out but that's life. Forgive and forget. Off to bed, gots to get up for work tommorrow and get that Won. (I try to post at school but can't seem to yet). Holla at your gwolla.

And Ivan, next time you try and school me, use a legitimate/ not shady/ not bootleg website that cites its sources and doesn't have year-old stories. C'mon man, you showed me that quote 8 months ago, about 10 years after Lauryn Hill's last real release with beats and more than 2 guitar chords. Ha! (Ivan style)

Pictures Coming Soon. I Promise!!

The Worst Blogger Alive Lives

First off, I want to say thank you to all the people that have actively pursued me and asked me to continue writing my blog. If it was not for you I would not do it (seriously, I would not do this). Secondly, I am sorry for my oft-delayed and sometimes weak literary offerings. I have been very busy but not that busy (mostly, I do not go on the computer that much, and writing in a blog is not the Dojo Yoshi's favorite activity). As a result, this blog will offer several photos for there may be I a lack of words (ha). Luckily, many Americans have practiced the use imagination and can make stories with all the pictures I post. So, let's get into my people. Word to Donovan McNabb's shoulder!!

(p.s. there will be several grammatical errors in this post)

Alright, since we last talked, the Olympics started, finished, and the leaders of China and S. Korea had a conference (lol). A lot has happened. I moved into my homestay. My co-teacher and Vice Principal (some cool peoples indeed) came and picked me up from Yonsei University in Seoul (about a 2 hour drive) and took me to my house. So I met my mother first and her first words (being translated by my co-teacher) were that I was now a part of the family and that I better act accordingly. That I can do. Alrighty then. Next I met my two brothers, Chang Il (17) and Chang Bawm (14). They were shy at first. Lastly I met my sister, Chan Mi (15) and the father (Hong). Very welcoming family. The father is a doctor (hemorrhoids style, among other things). The mother was a nurse but now stays home. Soooo, they have a 3 floor house. The first floor is his practice, 2nd is where me and the grandparents (89 and 83 and they know how to handle their own business) live, and the third is where the rest of the family lives. Its a nice mix. Indeed, I have my own bathroom and computer room so I can take Stanley Steamers and watch Ace Ventura clips in privacy.

Okay, since I took so long to write this post so much has happened that I have forgotten. Sorry if you get general descriptions of important events. What have I been doing????????? Well I gave the family Uno, Guess Who, Cards, Monopoly, and something else (??). They love games. We have played Uno, Guess Who, and several Korean games so far. I love it. They love it. Everyone loves it. This family is great (don't worry Mom and Athy/ Hoye/ Sanders family, no one could ever replace you!!). The mother is extremely nice and after a few days they invited me to their bedroom (in the attic) where they have a projector to watch (horrible) movies like Freaky Friday and New York Minute. I truly feel like one of the family. The children treat my like a big brother and the parents are comfortable asking me anything (or taking me to the market to hear a dude scream at customers to buy food while they hold a live food auction. It was bizarre to say the least). Also, the mother can cook (even though we seem to eat rice cakes all the time). Koreans love them some rice cakes and the word "maybe". To sum it up, I feel like I have been accepted as one of the family. Blessed.

Lastly, I started teaching this week. I went to lunch with all the English teachers and the principal. It was real nice. They think I am a genius because I can speak Korean (you should have seen their faces when I recited the numbers in Korean and Chinese). However, now I think they think I know more than I actually do. HA. There's this one teacher that just yells at me with a great big smile, but he speaks no English so we have awkward moments where he says a long sentence in Korean and I say 1 of the 5 phrases I have mastered. He loves it that I just try. The teachers are very nice and for the most part are all women (45 of 55). In fact, the first question I was asked was "Do you have a lover?" which apparently is common for them to ask a foreigner. Okay, back to business. I have taught 5 classes so far. 4 went really well while 1 class had no idea what I was saying. The students treat me like a rockstar. It is very awkward but I can't even lie, I like it. I feel like a fresh ear walking through a Mike Tyson dream. The boy's call me a handsome guy and the girls giggle, blush, and make funny noises/ scream when I pass. I'm sure this will go away soon and it's only because I'm a new foreign teacher. However, for now, I kinda like it. Can't lie.

So, life is good. I cannot complain, and the life that I am living is a true blessing and I don't even know how lucky I am to have this opportunity. I want to thank everyone that had a hand in this movie. I'm sure there are several spelling and proofreading errors in this post (and after this post they will still exist, sorry). Honestly, I will try to update my blog on the regular. Word to John McCain's 7 homes!! I love all you guys. Keep sending the love.

R.I.P. Big Homie

Bernie Mac helped me take my mind off of any drama or negative situations. I' grateful for that. Before I came here I told myself I would put up a BMAC quote of the day. However, I never did. I hope to soon. RIP Mac Man.

The Worst Blogger Alive

Ok. So the worst blogger birthed from Dawn Athy is back. So much has happened over the past week and I have not told my people anything. Ill try my best to sum things up. Last Saturday I visited the DMZ and got to see North Korea (4KM away). Also, I was randomly put into a Tomato festival in this small Korean town. It was one of the strangest hours of my life. One minute I was on a bus and the next I was I was marching down a street being cheered on by Koreans. It was a def. a first for a kid from Philly. On Monday I had my Korean language final exam and it went very well. I graduated and they gave me a very nice diploma (I'll put up pictures soon). A couple nights after that everyone went out and partied with the teachers. It was off the chain. The teachers are real cool and I'm going to miss them. Oh yea, there's this girl I met that has become an acquittance of mine. This woman I met that worked at the local store wrote me a letter (all in Korean...) and we went out to get ice cream. It was real nice. I practiced/ butchered my Korean and she practiced her English. I intend to stay in touch with her. Okay, next....

I also performed in a talent show in which I performed/ sang/ danced to "Gone" by N'Sync. Sweet.

On Friday we packed our bags for good (goodbye Chuncheon!!). We drove to Seoul and I did some cool things. PAT, Koreans are extremely proud of their country and take the Olympics very seriously. I was in City Hall in Seoul and watched an archery match between a Korean and a Cuban and it was real nice because the Korean dude came back and won. Watching the people go crazy was niiiiiiiiiiiice. I have pictures.

Tom. I meet my principal, vice princial, co-teacher, and homestay family. Big day. I'm going to try my best to keep you guys up to date. There will be pictures up soon. The journey countinues and now its on to a new challenge or shall I say opportunity. Its all love over here people. I miss you and am truly grateful for the support. Keep it comming. PCEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!! Yo Ivan, tell Lauryn to put out some music.

BTW. When I get my cell phone I will tell you guys my number so we can hook up. But you should download SKYPE at skype.com. Its free and we can talk for as long as we would like. My skype name is Michael Athy.

Chuck Norris Status

What up folkers? So your boy is officially a yellow belt and knows the form. Additionally, I was taught by a 7th degree black belt that is known all over Korea and by the TKD association. So know I don't have to do the Fresh Prince tick and "Mind ya business, just mind ya business" to get out of fights. Last night the TKD class went out the the Dojo Master and Dojo sidekick and has some takalbi. It was good for the taste buds. Indeed. I sat with some of the younger students and they were really nice. I practiced my Korean and they understood me for the most part. I had no idea what they said most of the time. It was a lot of fun. Dojo Master and Sidekick pulled back several shots but kept it cool. What else would you expect?

Also, I gave a 2 minute speech in front of my Korean class. No problem. I had one mess up but it was funny. Instead of saying "I am an American person," I said, "I am a person". Everyone laughed and at the time I didn't know why. Other than that my speech went nicely. I have learned over 10 verb tenses, hundreds of vocab words, and several key phrases in only 5 weeks. It's crazy how much we have covered in our classes. I think I'll continue to take Korean language classes once I touch down in my city. Aight good peoples, I'm off to watch the Korean Dark Knight premiere. Pce earthlings.

Check Out CHILLING with the COOL KIDS PARTS 1 and 2!!! Below!

Chilling with the Cool Kids Part 2

Chilling with the Cool Kids Part 1

That's the stare of a Yellow Belt master. They were some chill kids. Little man was a prankster and the girl next to me kept putting food in my bowl. Sweet.

The Waygook Syndicate

Above is the romanized Korean for The Foreign(er) Syndicate. Before I get into more important matters such as what city I will live in and what grade I'll teach and so on, I want to discuss this new cartel. So after I named myself Dojo Yoshi, I decided to randomly give out nicknames to certain others, and the movement has grown unlike any other. Now there are several members and there names go as such: The Deacon, Squidman, Hebrew Slim, Sandy, Sir Scrapdoodle, Master Chef, Big Z Zanderfield, and Curtis. There are more to come. We have established our own greeting, or insa, as well. Get ready world, the Waygook Syndicate is unstoppable.

Ok, back to more important business. This week we received our placements. I was put in Cheongju which has a population of about 600,000 which is considered suburban. I was placed there with 6 other people (3 females and 3 males). It was strange because we are all cool and they placed us together which normally doesn't happen. 4 of us (me included) live in the city while two live directly outside of it. Sweet. Also, I live in the only landlocked province in Korea because it's smackdab in the middle. Therefore, the farthest away I am from any other part of the country is 3 hours, and its only an 1hour 15 ($6) train ride to get to Seoul. Sweet. A former ETA I am cool with now (Jamal) was placed in Cheongju and he really liked it and it going to give me all his contacts (including his barber in Seoul). Indeed.

They also placed me in a co-ed middle school which should be demanding but exciting and rewarding. I'm ready to start teaching, ya dig? What else? Apparently my city makes the best pebeembap (rice and vegetables), and has delicious rice. Since I have to eat that everyday I am quite happy. Life is good, can't complain over here. Blessed, yes I am. I owe it to you, the readers. Till next time, holla at your gwolla.

I Am Legend

So what up my people out there in the internet world? What's the point of a blog if the blogger doesn't actually write anything?? There is not point. So as of today I will try my best to update my blog at least every three days. This upcoming week is going to be a bit hectic because on Monday I have my yellow belt test for TKD, a Korean language quiz, and on Wednesday I have to give a 2 minute speech in Korean (memorization style). I have a feeling that will be a really long speech (for both the speaker and the audience). So it's about to go down real heavy-like, but like the title reads, I Am Legend. Now, I do not write those words because I have a big ego. You see, last Saturday, several Camp Fulbright students came up to me, pointed, and said, "Will Smith, Will Smith". Now, I look nothing like Mr. Smith so I chalked it up to their lack of substantive interactions with black males. I mean, the Fresh Prince is about 6'2'', has big ears, and LOOKS NOTHING LIKE ME. Regardless, they were trying to give me a compliment, and the students I met and taught (3 diff classes) were very nice and compassionate. Also, almost all the scholars were cool people and it meant a lot to know they enjoyed talking with me. However, it will still take come time to get accustomed to being called handsome by little boys while they try to hug me or touch my hair. Below are some pics of the young scholars.

Camp Fulbright Video Performances

The students we taught had a talent show. It was fun, a bit hot, and maybe too long. In the end, it was worth staying the whole time. Here is some video footage. There was this one kid that hit the stage breakdancing and he did the damn thing but I didn't videotape it. Who said Hip-Hop was dead??




My man hit the stage and sang "Back At One" by Brian McKnight. I almost cried. He did his thing.







Some Korean youngsters dancing to K-Pop.


They brought out them Backstreet Boys. "I Want It That Way" to be exact.

This One is For Nick

Take your pick. Mad vegetables, good beef, and fishbone.

Dojo Yoshi Returns

What's good homeskillets? Some people are intersted in my lesson and me being a narcisssist I couldn't resist. The lesson I taught on Tuesday was catered towards high intermediate Korean students. I started with a game called Don't Say, similar to Taboo. I put up several pictures and the teams had to describe the picture without using certain words. They really enjoyed it. Afterward, I displayed a PowerPoint on my city, Philly. I talked about the Dec. of Indy., chessesteaks, Betsy Ross, and a few other important events and people (I even threw fake Philadelphian Kobe in there). Lastly, I created a handout in which they asked each other questions about their hometowns. It went really well and the students were enthusiastic about learning (even though there were times I had no idea what they were saying and vice versa). Its a learning process I know. Speaaaaakkkk Sllllooooooowlllyyy.

Throughout this journey I have met some really cool people. I did not know what to expect being around a group of people that have recieved a Fulbright scholarship. Would they be snobs? Boring? Use words like vituperation? Or just chill people that exceled at what they did? Fortunuately, the latter is the case (even though some do use words such as vituperation). I have about 10 to 15 people that I am truly cool with (some are even approaching friend status). The rest are good in my book. Its a blessing.

Also, the Korean people have been exceptionally friendly. Yesterday I had lunch with a Sociology professor after we spoke for about 30 seconds. It was random (and at first uncomfortable) but turned out to be a great experience. Many of the Koreans go out of their way to make us feel welcome and have patience when helping me with my language skills (which are pretty weak even though I can now read, write, and somewhat say any word in hanguel). I am learning a substantive lesson about how to interact with foreigners, whether they be from other countries or simply strangers. Good look Korea. Well I'm out for now. Keep the love and support comming.

Say Kim Chi!!

The great Buddha





Monks performing a daily ritual. It was tight.