Today is the last day of the semester and I am elated. I don't believe it phases the students because they still have to come to school on Monday. THe only thing they're excited for is a weekend without homework.

Last weekend, Katherine visited me once again from Cheongju. She arrived Friday night. Saturday was a Christmas shopping day so we hit the usual shopping places. For some reason, neither of is were in the mood to shop. Katherine was sick and I think I was overwhelmed. After wandering for a while, we headed to Sinchon to a cafe called Dr. Fish. This place has a pool in the middle where you can put your feet in and small fish eat the dead skin on your feet. Yes, fish eat the dead skin from your feet. I heard of this for the first time this summer. A friend went to China and has the same experience. So why not try it ourselves? Well, we both couldn't get over the tickling of the fish when they nibble on the bottoms of our feet. We giggled and clung to each other while the Koreans looked at us with annoyed looks. We eventually got used to it. My feet were a bit softer but I think I'd have to have them in that pool for much longer to make a real difference.

Saturday, we partied in Hongdae again and on Sunday we headed to the horse races. This course put Hastings Park to absolute shame. It was massive and extremely busy, with little black heads everywhere. We headed to the foreigners lounge. There were brochures and diagrams on how to bet and we were very impressed on how foreigner friendly it was. Its a beautiful location. Its quite far south of the city, and mountains surround the entire track. The sky was clear and blue and it was cold. We headed home after 4 races.

Wednesday night I met up with a woman who is friends with my old Keith Road neighbours, the Lewis'. Minjung lived in Whistler and Vancouver for a while, and is now living and working in Seoul. We went for coffee and got to know each other. She has excellent English and is a very lovely person. It was nice to hang out with someone from here.

This week has been really busy at work. As it is the last week of the semester, we've had to do report cards, tests, evaluations, awards, etc. Its nice to know I will have a fresh start next week. And by fresh start I mean being able to lay the smack down with my students on the first day. I'll never forget my first day of teaching, as I stood at the front of the room, not having a clue what I was doing, and the students KNOWING that they would be able to get away with anything. Not this time, children. Also at school, two male foreign teachers have been added to the staff. Before it was all women but one, and I could always sense the drama and estrogen up entering a room. I have always worked with mostly men and been one of one maybe two women on the team and I've had more fun.

And tomorrow, Saturday, is something that I've wanted to do since I arrived: the DMZ. The demilitarized zone between North and South Korea is north of Seoul. I have to adhere to a dress code and bring my passport.

Over and out. Check back in 24 hours.