Summer Beginneth

I'm posing (cross-eyed) for a quick picture after my camera was stolen by a student.

     Today is the last day of school before summer vacation starts.  Korean summers are pretty hot, and they are only made hotter by the fact that, due to shortage of abundant energy, often Koreans will forego turning on their A/C units.  However, my Texan blood has been well prepared for such heat, but I can still complain.  After all, complaining about the weather is practically a sport in Texas.

     I am gearing myself up for a couple weeks of 'camps'.  I run the first of which alone, and it's with my advanced class of middle school students.  The second week will be split between my two elementary schools, and I will just be helping the other teachers with their already-planned camps.  I'm actually somewhat excited for these camps, as they are usually a pretty good time for myself as well as the students.  They are filled with games and a movie or two perhaps.  No homework or tests.  Just fun.

     After my camps are finished, I am heading straight to Jeju (제주) for a short week-long vacation with a friend and his visiting sister.  I visited Jeju last year, and I'm very much looking forward to returning.  It is truly a gorgeous place to behold, with lots to do, especially of the outdoor variety.  It also has dozens of museums (some of which are REALLY worth while).  They can be very good for the days when it may be too hot to go hiking up a mountain or trekking through a forest.  

     For the remaining week of my time off, I hear rumors that the Pope will be coming through Korea.  I think I'll do my best to go see him, if I can.  Other than that, I haven't planned for anything really.  I suspect I will fill the time relaxing at home in Namhae, or perhaps taking some day trips I've been promising myself to take.  I think I'll be happy spending my time either way.