11/52. Christmas approaches. Have got over the cold and the general stress which was making me irritable and not looking forward to work. It's a lot colder now, although I have started to wear short-sleeved shirts in the office to prove a point that we don't need all of the heaters on full-blast. The kids like to use the word 'crazy' a lot, as well as 'delicious' and 'funny', especially in their diaries.

The worst oil spill in South Korean history dominates the news, as does the dull profiles of 12 candidates all jostling for position to become the next president. My won is on Lee Myung-bak, the grand national party frontrunner at the moment - or number 2 on the voting cards. I used the oil spill, this week, to spice up an otherwise soporofic Intensive Course class, on the subject of pollution.

I have got no plans yet for Christmas Day, but have made tentitive plans to visit Seoul for new year... having discussed the matter over roast chicken with Monica and Jimmy last night. Today I created my first homemade chamchi chigae, and had my first glass of red wine since arriving here.

Otherwise, it's been uneventful lately. Looking forward to Talent Market Day, however, next Friday... hope to get some proper photos of some of the kids, inbetween operating, along with the other native teachers, as passport control.

I've posted a video (In 2 parts) of one of my favourite lessons so far... in which i become shopkeeper to teach the kids the phrase ''ít's too expensive...'' and I try to get some python references in there. However, when I last looked, I could only see part 2 online. I have successfully skyped them to mum, so if you want to see a copy (without the software advert across the middle) I can skype them to you too... although I am sure you have more pressing things to do...

Phil x