41/11

Less rain, more humidity, some classes unbearable because of faulty air conditioning and sweaty kids. Not always pleasant. I wish it was spring or fall again, when the weather is more temperate.

Still no decision on whether I will be at the same hagwon later in the year. Negotiations are dependent on finding a replacement for me and a temporary teacher while I am away. I either decide to challenge myself in my work and take a different job at possibly higher pay or play it safe for another year, but challenge myself in areas away from work - which I must admit I am leaning towards at the moment. I have just 49 days left of teaching, if you discount my Japanese adventure. I really could do with a break... I am not as motivated as I used to be... going through the motions a little. I know the expression 'a change is as good as a rest' well I am thinking more of ' a rest is as good as a change'.

I had my first Vietnamese Pho meal, in Changwon, on Friday. Another meeting which became one of those informal date things... "Do you mind if my friend comes along?" The style is different from Korean cuisine, although a lot of the ingredients seemed similar.

Got drunk on Friday and washed my mp3 player with my jeans the following morning. So, I am without mp3 player... maybe it is time I got myself an 160GB iPOD anyway. I must also upgrade my phone to one that isn't solely in Korean and has an English/Korean dictionary. Garry has got one, and I have phone envy. However, I am trying to save for Japan and I won't need a phone while I am there. I have bought my guide and visits to Hiroshima, Harajuku, Yokohama, Kobe and Tokyo are on the cards.

Before that.. next Saturday.. I plan to do something very touristy, and attend the Boryeong Mud Festival, in Daecheon. Info here, but beware - turn the awful music down - http://www.mudfestival.or.kr/index.jsp - followed by my 7th visit to Seoul.

Before that, I am visiting Jangyu, today, with Garry, Kelly and Jumi. Our first outing together since the Gimhae Cherry Blossom trip. Garry's Korean brother says Jangyu contains the hottest girls in Korea. Frankly, I don't think they could get much hotter. They love exposing their legs, especially now it is summer time. Expect some photos. Meanwhile there is a recent fountain themed collection in my photo section.

Phil.