Miami to Mokpo (27 hours)

June 21st I left Miami to begin my adventure to South Korea and start the most interesting year of my life. I wish I could say it was a flawless departure but I would be lying. Between my overweight luggage and the screwdriver they found in my carry-on while walking through security I was already overwhelmed. The nice TSA lady let me keep my screwdriver, I think she felt bad for me because my face resembled a tomato and I was crying. If you have met my family than you know that I am the luckiest girl in the world and leaving them for the other side of the world is just crazy...

Crazy is exactly what I thought when I arrived in Atlanta for my 3 hour layover. I cried, I panicked, I exchanged my money, and than I got on the 14 hour flight. I slept for the first 6 hours or so. It was a relief to have knocked out some time but I still had 8 hours to freak out and cry. I did what any desperate girl would do...made friends with my neighbor. Huge amounts of gratitude go to Kevin my new friend. This awesome 18 year old practiced my Korean phrases with me and stayed with me all the way to baggage claim! It's safe to say he holds a place in my heart.

I stood in the airport looking for the sign with my name on it. None. About 10 minutes passed and I saw Amy (my manager) running up. She and another co-worker Mr. Lee drove 4 hours to pick me up in person. We greet each other (bow, shake hands, hug)??? It was an awkward combo of them all and I am still trying to figure out what to do. Shortly after, I am in the back seat of a car and we are off to my new home.

I fell asleep for a little while and than woke up at a rest stop. Anyone who is concerned that there are no toilets in Korea, worry no more. Not only are there toilets but they even say occupied on them in digital writing. Cool! Time to eat...My first Korean meal was a noodle and broth combo and it did not make such a good impression. We will leave it at that. Back in the car, and back to bed. I feel it is necessary to mention that Amy and Mr. Lee were watching an array of Korean television on the navigation screen. I guess that is legal here!

The next time I woke up we were arriving in Mokpo...

Why?

I am often times asked the same question when I tell people I am moving to South Korea. Everyone says... WHY? So I figured the best way to begin this blog would be to explain how I arrived at this decision. For a lack of better words, the economy stinks. More importantly though I love to travel and this was an amazing chance to visit places on the other side of the world. I was having a difficult time finding a job in Miami and Korea wanted me. I'm an easy sell once you toss in the idea of travel and sightseeing.

To address some concerns that have been brought to my attention i.e. North Korea blowing up South Korea. I am going despite the discordant relationship between the two countries because it has always been unsettled and I don't believe much will change. I will however blog the instant I see any bombs going off. Moreover, many people have been concerned about the food in South Korea and if I will go hungry. I have done some heavy investigating and I have heard from many the food is actually really good but more importantly they have hamburgers and a Costco. I will admit if I am starving though, just in case someone feels bad for me and wants to send some bagels, ramen, and brownie mix. Oh wait I have been told I won't have an oven; maybe some prepared brownies would be better.

So why am I not in Korea yet? Everything takes time but I will say I went to Atlanta yesterday to get my Visa (yes, you have to go in person) and I should learn in the next few days when my departure day is!!! I'll let you know.