Unfortunately, it rained all weekend which meant more time on the bus and less time out exploring. We stopped of at a "beach" for a little bit, but the tide was out so far we couldn't actually see the water. There they did introductions/speeches by family branches. Mychaela and I were our of branch and also had to give a speech. Actually, they had me giving speeches all weekend. Awkward.
Her family is amazing though. They were so nice and welcoming, a few people spoke English so one of them pretty much adopted us. And the kids were ADORABLE. Seriously, so cute. By the end of the trip we'd been able to make friends with them and were playing together on the bus ride back.
Anyway, while we were at the "beach" there were traditional snacks. Including a traditional fish you can only get in that area. Of course we were made to try it. It had bones, which, apparently, are meant to be chewed and swallowed. Needless to say its not one of my favorites and I have no intention of ever eating it again. I think this picture (which I stole from Mycheala) says it all.
After this we went to visit their grandfather's tomb. Tomb's in Korea probably aren't what your picturing. They aren't like a mausoleum. They are outside, and really just raised circles with grass growing on top. They look like small hills, or (if you ski) moguls in grass. So, we trekked out to the tomb in the rain, they made their bow, and we left, slightly muddier then when we arrived.
Then we had eel for dinner. Not too bad, but still not something I need to eat again. And, of course, there was drinking. The drink of choice: VERY strong strawberry "wine." While better than soju, I wouldn't classify it as wine or delicious. Korean's really like their alcohol strong. And I'm a girl who doesn't really like alcohol unless its in some super girls drink, like a pina colada. So my year here has definitely upped my alcohol tolerance.
And, when there is alcohol, there is usually karaoke. That dinner was no exception. And I was forced to sing. Those of you who have heard me sing no I can't, for the life of me, carry a tune. I tried explaining this, but it did no good. So, I did the first verse of 'Old McDonald had a farm.' It was pathetic. Mychaela had been pointing to me, trying to force me into it. So I got her back. She did a lovely (uhm) rendition of 'Oh, my darling Clementine.' It was good times.
Then we went to the pension, which is like a youth hostel, but Korean style, meaning you sleep on the floor. We tried putting down a ton of blankets, but it was still hard. Whoever said that sleeping on the floor is good for your back lied. Neither of us were moving very smoothly the next morning. Also, the pillows were stuffed with cut up straws. That's right, by pillow was made of straws. Oh, Korea.
It was totally worth it though. It was a good weekend and it was great to spend time with a Korean family and really get into the culture. I'm very grateful that I was invited along and was able to have that experience.
But, moving on. Here's a quick countdown/timeline
1 day until Harry Potter!!!
4 days until Mud Fest
31 days (Korean time) until I head home!!!
There is sure to be more in between, but this is what's planned right now. Getting so close!! And, lame as this is, I'm super excited to see Harry Potter with Michaela and Clara tomorrow!!! Its going to be awesome!!
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