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...