Okay, people!!!!!

PAY ATTENTION (if that's still free)

I have had some help to explain the commenting.

Thanks, Grampa Bernie!!!!

Just an observation for those who seem to be comment challenged. For everyone except Brad, pay attention:

(A) You do not need to register as a blogger to add a comment. No username / password needed.
(B) To add a comment, click on the "n Comments" at the end of a specific blog.
(C) When the "Post a Comment On:" screen appears, first thing you do, click on the "Other" entry under the "Choose an identity" topic on the right of the screen. This will change the screen so that the only thing that you need to fill in is "Name".
(D) Key in the colored, wavey, word verification string as it appears on the screen. This is to protect the comment screen from automated (programmed) responses (a major source of SPAM).
(E) Type in your comment in the box at the top of the screen on the right. Type as much as you wish (or as much as you can stand). Use the scroll bar on the right to preview your comment.
(F) Proof your comment (this is not required, but will be appreciated by those who attempt to read it once posted).
(G) Click on the Orange "PUBLISH YOUR COMMENT" button at the bottom.
(F) It may take a while for your comment to actually get posted. And, unless you back all the way out, you browser may retain screens in its buffers (and not refresh when you look at them again).

Once again, no username/password registration needed. If you don't wish to identify yourself, then press the "Anonymous" button instead of "Other" in step C. It's nicer to identify yourself. Some blog masters will not allow anonymous postings. It's nice that ours is so accomodating.

Thank You, Bernie!!!!! You're a big help.
One more thing, I moderate all comments.
They come to me and I will publish them or reject them.
It's to keep boneheads selling cheap car insurance or stock tips from posting.
I will generally publish everything, but it is at my discrepancy.
So, if you wan to to say something, say it.
I may not censor, but it is my right to.
I am the 'Thought Police' in this instance.
I am also, Judge, Jury, and Executioner, which I just looooove.
MMMMM, POWER.
Good Night and Good Potatoes.

OK.
I have received many requests for pictures of Kauai, however, I have exceeded the storage amount for the web album. I am working on upgrading it, without having to pay money. I love free stuff (which there can be plenty of it here in Seoul).
I am trying to manipulate the 'system' and stick it to the man, wish me luck.
When I get this figured out, y'all will be the first 8,000 to know.
I will do the mailbag, here shortly, but first, let's peek in on "Brad Teacher's" Room.

As you know, I was having off in a wonderful land for a week, recently.
I fought the urge to stay and decided it was best for me and my representation of the USA to come back and show how good I can be.
'Good' as in behavior, which can really be a stretch sometimes.
As explained previously, I have a lot of little kids in my classes and I have become attached, they are too cute, especially when two of them approach me and say, "Brad Teacher is a gentleman!!!!"
I mean, what am I supposed to say to that? I have these little girls fooled, but I wasn't about to tell them, it would destroy their whole vision of me!!!
These children make the worst days seem bright and when I am about to implode and snap, they bring me out of it, without even knowing what they've done.
They grab my hand to walk me to class, they smile, they hug me, they sit on my lap, they want to be near me, they make me happy, and the highlight of their day is being picked up by me, seeing the world through someone my height's eyes.
I was apprehensive about the little ones, I wasn't sure how to deal with them, but they soon put my trepidations aside. They are the funnest classes I have, well, except for the one class on M-W-F at 5:00, they are the little demons Shirley Jackson wrote about.
But I digress.
My day starts with my girls and a boy. They are eager to learn and the homework gets completed before it is due.
Are you reading this HIGH SCHOOL, MIDDLE SCHOOL, AND ELEMENTARY STUDENTS?!?!?!?!?!?!
They DO their homework, BEFORE it is due.
You aren't going to let a bunch of six and seven year-olds beat you, are you?
C'mon, FOR THE USA!!!!!
(Which reminds me, I have a class that chants, "USA, USA, USA, USA!!!!!! With me. it's a hoot!!!!)
These children make the day seem shorter and I cannot wait to enter the class to see them smile. It's like Jalapenos, only I don't have to get their parents more chips and salsa!!!! (Nothing meant by that, so don't read into it).
The questions they have, the self-instruction, the helping of others, it makes me really want to stay in teaching---IN THE USA.
They come into my class on days I do not teach them and when my boss approaches them (when I am around), they walk right by him to me!!!!
A kinda 'Rock Star', if you will.
when I see them on the streets, screams of, "HI!!!! Brad Teacher!!" permeate the air.
I was in 'Lotteria', a so-called 'burger joint' (not to bad, actually) and one of my students was there with a birthday party. The next thing I know, there are 20 kids surrounding me, all talking and wanting to hear me talk. They followed me all the way down the street yelling, "Good-Bye!"
If that doesn't make you feel as if you are making a difference, nothing will.
The kids made the return from Kauai, better, not easier, better. I felt missed and when I am greeted by hugs, I knew I made the right choice upon returning.

So, I am back into the full-swing of things, teaching, talking, laughing, and being 'popular' and I wouldn't have it any other way if I am going to be away from home.

NOW.
Questions.

Susie asks:
Is it me or is 'Flat Ben' like a Rock Star?
Not just you, Susie. As you know, we had a blast with him in Hawai'i and it gives excuses to take thousands of pictures. That guy goes EVERYWHERE!!!

What is up with the monkey on the Beer and Whiskey sign?
Monkeys are considered to be outgoing and popular. If you were born in the year of the 'Monkey', like me, it is said people will like you. Tell that to some of the people at Japs who requested NOT to sit in my section. Their loss.

What goes on in the Grass and Field experiencing room? (at the World Cup Stadium)
Preparations. Stretching. Warming up. At least when there's a match, otherwise, kids and people like me run around, screaming, "GOAL, GOAL, GOAL, GOOOOOOOOOOOAL!!!"

What constitutes 'American Sushi'?
Don't know, they probably serve ketchup with it.

It looks cold there, is it? You know where it's not cold? Kauai
It is not as cold here as it is in KC. It's actually in the 50's here (close to the 10's for you Celsius freaks).
And no, it WAS NOT cold on Kauai. It was beautiful and soooo many of you missed it. Too bad, so sad.

Jason's statement:
They all seem to be dressed in pastels to resemble Easter eggs.
Yes, they do. in fact, I have a student I call 'Pink', she is ALWAYS dressed in head-to-toe in pink. Everything is pink. The others wear light blues and purples and other pastels, I haven't quite figured it out.

Veronica, um, asks:
Geez, Louise, Brad, would you like a little bread and cheese with your whine?
Keep it up, Veronica, keep it up. And your knowledge of music will be smaller than it already is.....

Aren't your little students the cutest?
Yes, they are. And they're all mine!!!!!

What is 'MONKEY VOMIT'?
An old family recipe, my dad named it, because it looks like 'Monkey Vomit', but it is OH so delicious. However, it rips up your stomach and I can really only eat it once a year. During The Super Bowl.

Jennifer and Ken inquire:
You said you teach adults, too. Where are their pictures?
They don't like to ham it up for the camera as readily. I'll get pictures and post them someday.

The classroom doesn't look much bigger than your apartment. Is your classroom really that small? And cold? All of the kids seem to be in their winter coats.
It's not too big, but it works. YES, it IS cold. I have a portable gas heater (with an open flame--try THAT in the States) and it does a good job of heating the room up. The kids wear their coats all of the time. I wear mine sometimes, too.

How cold does it get there? Probably not as cold as it does here lately(KC)?
Chilly, not shaking in your boots chilly, but I wear long underwear all of the time. Good thing I have lost some weight, my jeans are loose.

What was X-Mas like? Is it celebrated there like it is in the States?
They celebrate it, but not with the vigor of the 'Country Club Christians' in the USA. However, there is a place, Myong-Dong, where at ten minutes to midnight, they turn off the lights and it's called, "Kissing Time", the lights are out and those who have a partner, make out for ten minutes and when the lights are turned back on, everybody cheers. I didn't make it.

Bergs noticed:
After looking at the stadium I was wondering what recreational sport do you see being played the most. You know I remember my old stomping grounds in stl and you would see street hockey and fuzz ball, soccer and maybe a little "kill the man with the ball". What do these kids play?
They play soccer up at the park near my house.
BUT.
They usually stay inside and play 'Computer Games' all of the time. when asked if any of them want to come to the USA, they reply, "NO. Your internet is too slow."
There is baseball and other stuff like that, but it is relegated to parks, which you don't always see. But mostly, the little buggers play computer games.

Sue asks:
Are all of your students girls?
A majority of them are, there are a few boys, but in MY classes, I have a lot of girls and they seem to be better behaved. For the most part. There are instances when they 'Chew' one another out, it's a funny thing. Like I have said, I don't know WHAT they are saying, but i know WHAT they are saying. Their eyes give it away and when one of them starts to cry, I know EXACTLY what was said. The kids here like to cry at the weirdest things and all I can do is try to make them stop, usually by putting them on my lap and talking softly to them, it sometimes works, but not all of the time. Then. There are the times I just let them cry it out. I had once instance where 'Pink' started to cry (she's kind of spoiled) and the rest of the class ignored her. I became concerned, until I saw her peeking over her arm and realized it was all for attention, she has the fake cry down pat, but the rest of my girls called her out and told her to quit it, THAT made her really cry. I hated to laugh, but I did.
Ya gotta love the kids!!!!

Now.
I have questions.
Did Jalapenos close?
Is Papa Kenos open at Gregory and Rockhill yet?
Is everyone stoked about the Royals as I am? Except you, Bergs.
Anybody, besides Gramma Pat, going to see The Dead Sea Scrolls?
Anybody been to the new museum at Liberty Memorial?
How's Downtown looking?
The Sprint Center?
Has the 75th Street Brewery run out of Brown Ale, again?
NHL or NBA?
Rocks or Frozen?
Sour Cream or Guac, or Both?
Anyone know of teaching positions (preferably in Social Studies or English or ESL or any others, besides Science) for a tall, good looking, smart, outgoing man who was born in the "Year of the Monkey"?
Anything I else I should know about?
New restaurants?
New places in Waldo?
Brookside?
The Plaza?
Anywhere in KC?


Okay.
I have bored all of you enough, but don't get used to the constant updates, they ain't gonna happen this frequently.
I hope this finds all of you freezing your tails off, it beautiful here today!!!!
Good Day and Good Luck.

Hello, to every single one of you.
Yes, to those of you who choose not to tell me you look at this, HI!!!
I am contemplating putting a 'hit' register on this, but I am afraid Grampa Bernie would be the only one who would let me know he is checking this out!!!!! (I know Debby looks at it, she tells me I am crazy, but we all knew that already)
Merry New Year!!!! I apologize for not updating this sooner, but Axton has been dragging his feet. I have been ready and willing to update but he keeps telling me, "NO!!!! Not yet, we have so much to tell, I have to get my thoughts in order."
Today, I finally talked him into dictating to me, he agreed, reluctantly.
I have been asked, S-E-V-E-R-A-L times to reveal the origin of Axton Kinneman. A few know, a lot don't. He is going on 15 years old this year and he is just hitting his stride. He was born out of fear and what was thought, a necessity. He wasn't used in the capacity we once thought he was going to be needed, but he refused to die. He was born in Andy's mind and adopted by me. That is all I will tell you. No, Gavin probably doesn't know the whole story, he may, but knowing him, he forgot the key details. So keep on speculating, I ain't talking!!
A Lot has happened since December 16th, the last post made here.
I have mailbag questions, I have stories, I will have pictures, and I will have a bunch o' other stuff.
Where to begin???????
I will do the mailbag first.

First.
My dad is curious as to who Grampa Bernie, Gramma Pat, Grampa Ed, and Gramma Cathy are.

Funny story, really.
It started in Hawai'i in 2005 at Shannon and Stephanie's wedding. You see, Stuckey and I ran around with Gavin and Susie quite a bit, always wanting to do stuff that could be, well, questionable and life threatening. One example, we wanted to run the guard over at Pearl Harbor (The signs said, "Pearl Harbor: This Exit," so we exited, just like the sign SAID) and Susie talked us out of it. He was a pretty big Marine and he would have damaged the Jeep, not to mention the .45 he had his hand on. (Kind of like the time Andy and I thought it would be funny to drive across Miramar, just like Maverick did. that Marine warned us FOUR times, before he started shooting) Then, Stuckey and I wanted to run into the Ocean with our nice wedding clothes on, again, Susie talked us out of it. Then, we wanted to go four-wheeling on the beach, yep, you guessed it, Susie talked us out of it. So, we started to call her Mom and started to call Gavin, Dad. They adopted us that week, Susie kept us out of trouble (and jail) and Gavin rolled his eyes at us, just like every father does.
EDIT: Susie is NOT a killjoy. No way, No how. She's just smarter than the rest of us and doesn't want to spend her vacation money bailing us out of jail!!!! She is always right there, when the fun is to be had. Just ask her 'Super-Fun Twin Sister'!!!!!!
When we got home, Stuckey and I were presented as Susie and Gavin's 'kids', at the time, neither the James or the Burns had grandkids (this has changed DRAMATICALLY, right Amy and Alan?) and we were glad to fill the role. I started calling them Gramma and Grampa and it stuck. So, that's how Gramma Pat, et al. started.
Don't worry, Grandma (my biological one), YOU will always be my favorite!!! (Tell her that, Dad)

With this off-season, our Kansas City Royals have been making some changes. Well, A LOT of changes, mainly pitching and at this press release, trading away second tier minor league 2nd baseman. I haven't been able to sit in Burns Manor to discuss these moves. So here is my opinion, if you don't like it, I really don't care.

Gavin asks:
Does the signing of Meche make more sense if you were to say it in Korean?
I like the signing. It shows Dayton has the salesman skills he was advertised to have. Is $55 million a lot? YEP. But, we needed to show we are willing to spend the bucks and this could have impact in the future on getting another good pitcher. I like the signing of Dotel, too. Why not? Anything we do this year with the pitching staff is an improvement. I mean, c'mon, SISCO? PLEASE. That guy wasn't going to do sh, er, anything with the Royals, he proved it and it was time for him to go. Fatelvys Hernandez? Um, yeah, "The buffet line is now open, folks, get there before he does or it will be ALL gone.

Why trade for Ross Gload?
Well, who would back up 1st? Huber? Brown? German? Sweinie? Or do we got out and sign some dufus to do it? With Gload, he can spell Shealy, who can DH, since we all know Sweinie will be hurt on April 5th. He gives us another, proven outfielder, since Reggie Sanders will probably be traded or get hurt and Emil Brown will be able to spend some time at DH, too, God forbid we have that guy's glove in the OF everyday. Gload can play four positions for the Royals: RF, LF, CF (although not every day and don't jump on this one quote and hammer it in the ground, Gavin, he has played CF, so if anything happens, he can go there, a better option there than German), and 1st base. I like the trade.


Why do I get excited about the Royals in December and the Chiefs in July? Is it because I don't have to watch them play?
Yep. everything is fresh. With the Royals, Dan Glass hasn't had a chance to screw them up and veto trades which would make sense. And with the Griefs, um, Chiefs, King Carl and the Reverend Edwards have filled our minds with hope. Only to yank it out of our stomachs, again.

Bergs asks:
Are the folks there approachable, do they wave and smile or say 'Hello' without being asked?
Yes they do. Those who speak English loooooooove to speak to English speakers. I always say, "Hello!" back to them. ALWAYS. I am in their country aand I have to respect them. I try not to seem like a pissed off 'Ex-Pat', so I may be more approachable, than say, some of the idiots who only go to Itaewon---A foreigner hang-out. I try to reply to them in Korean, which they appreciate, and they will say, 'Have a nice day!!!!!'


Bill and Carolyn ask:
Based on the pictures you submitted of your quarters, you must not spend too much time in your abode, do you?
Um, no. Although, I do spend some time here, just not too much. The apartment isn't as small as the first apartment I had, which was as big as any of your's bathrooms.

Cindy still wants to know:
Have you tried dog, yet?
Nope. I will though. But I have thought a lot about it. The dogs raised privately are not treated very well. They need to be tender and there is only one way to make them tender. I am not going into detail about it, so you have to do your own thinking about it.

Reid ponders:
Did you catch the K-State/Texas game?
Kind of. I was keeping track of the game on ESPN's scoreboard and chatting with Gavin while it was going on. Nice win for the Wildcats. My brother was talking to me when it ws over and his phone was going NUTS, as was he.

Do you ever jerk with people and them the wrong word for something?
I couldn't get away with it. There's always at least one student in the room who speaks pretty good English so I would be called out on it. I do try to teach them American slang, like"What's up dawg?", "Hanging out with your friends" "Cool!!" and other phrases I can think of. NO, I DO NOT teach them curse words, I leave that up to Chris, one of the other teachers.

How do you think Bob Huggins is doing? We know he's not one of your favorites.
Well, Reid, I was mostly yanking your chain about him. Trying to keep you K-State fans grounded. I think it's good for K-State, they needed some national attention and got it. Now, they do need to stay out of trouble and win some games, but that will come. I just hope Huggy stays around for a while.

Bernie had asked:
I notice on your receipt from BK, the numbers were Arabic style, is that for English Speakers, or do they use these numbers?
Well, they use both. Every place has Arabic style numbers. They use them for almost everything, but they also use Hangul numbers, too. You will see more Arabic style numbers throughout the city.
Good question, Bernie, you never cease to amaze me.

That's it for the mailbag, if you have anymore questions, please let me know. I will not call anybody out this time, but if you wait too long, I will not answer your questions.

OKAY.
There have been a couple of questions presented to me, I will answer them as honestly as possible.
On the ones I do not answer honestly, you will be able to tell. I think. I hope.

Gramma Cathy asks:

Did Gavin and Susie tell you they watch Carter?
Yes, they did. I have one concern , though, they leave beers on the table outside, are Kristian and John sure they want to leave Carter over there?

Bernie and Gramma Pat ask:

What's the deal with the smiling pig heads?
They are in the "Meat Market" picture I posted on the web albums. Those are the most tame. There were plenty more, which would have been deemed distasteful. If you want more, let me know.

Are you going to get a tree?
No. I don't want to get something I will only use once. I will save my holiday spirit for next year.

Are you going to decorate?
I bought a map of Seoul for the wall. Does that count? I will decorate my classroom, for the kids, ya know? Like I said, I would rather save my Christmas spirit for a year and go completely overboard when I am there next Christmas.

Are you going to hang mistletoe in your flat?
No. I would have no reason to use it. No one here I want to kiss. There will be mistletoe all over my house next year, though. I will give detailed accounts of those experiences next year.

What about hanging it on the cats?
My (real) mom always said to stay away from strange cats, they could be sick, have rabies, fleas, or anything else. And my (real) dad said....nevermind.

Is Kim chi really that tasty or you being politic?
It IS good. Now. It will taste different everywhere. It's like anything, the recipe changes with every little old lady. It can be spicy, it can be not-as-spicy, it can be not-so-spicy, or kind of-spicy. If you have ever eaten Gallumpkis, it is similar. The cabbage is fermented in the Kim chi pots for a few months and it has ginger, garlic, onion, tomatoes, and anything else in the cupboard. Korean sauerkraut, of you will. Not quite like sauerkraut, but close.

At your size, do you feel like Gulliver in Lilliput?
No, not at all. There are taller Munchkins in OZ and there are taller Koreans here. I have seen a couple of men as tall or taller than me. A couple of women approach my height, too.

I find it funny Bernie and Gramma Pat are always sending me questions. At their age, they still want to learn. Good for them. It will fight Alzheimer's off for a little while longer!!!!! I guess the rest of already know everything about Seoul. Will you please enlighten me?

Veronica asks:

I still can’t figure out WHY you went, or HOW you got recruited to do this. And, of course, if you have a girlfriend, why in the world would you go to the other side of the world?????

First off, Veronica, thank you for your inquiries. Knowledge should always be hunted. I will answer these questions individually.

Why?
Well, Veronica, sometimes in this life, you need more. You WANT more. And, no offense to my former bosses nor my co-workers, I felt I was wasting away and wasting myself. Although I loved the people I met, I was about ready to snap. I wanted something I could call my own. I wanted something I could do for myself. I wanted and experience only I know about. Selfish, I know, but it was necessary for ME. I could not envision myself doing what I was doing for much longer. I am in a place which is good for me, right now. I am gaining experience, seeing a culture of which I have NEVER been exposed, and I am TEACHING. That's why I went back to school, TO TEACH.

How?
It's not what you know, it's WHO you know. I posted my resume and got contacted, interviewed, interviewed again, and offered the position I have. I love what I am doing.

And if you have a girlfriend, why in the world would you go to the other side of the world?
I do have a girlfriend and she is the best thing that has ever happened to me. She wants me to do this. Do we miss each other? YES. Is it hard for me to be away? YES. BUT, the small sacrifices of a year will make me a better partner. Who wouldn't want that? We will have a lot longer than a measly year together. She has done the travel for work gig, so she 'gets it'. She actually encouraged me. Knowing full-well I would benefit greatly from my time here. She loves me, what can I say?

Especially to a country that has different characters for their alphabet, and is not too far from a crazy dictator who has the capability to blow up the world??
The Characters are different and the language barrier is a hindrance, but what I am gaining for myself and my future is worth every moment I am here. I didn't want to be a closed World person, I wanted to expand my horizons. I will be a better person when I am finished. I am not worried about the North. America lived in much worse times, this is no different. You have Castro a boat ride away from Miami and you don't worry about him, do you? The South Koreans are not worried about it and they are the ones who SHOULD be. If they ain't, I ain't. One should not live their life in fear of what COULD happen. If that were the case, we'd all be doing "The duck and cover" everyday.

And is there a hint anywhere on your blog that reveals why “Axton Kinneman?”
Nope.

Does anyone else at Jalapenos know?
Nope.
Thank you, Veronica, for your questions. they were good questions and it only took a moment.

Doc Prouty inquires:

Are there any decorations your way?
Yes, there are. The city has them all over. There is a good amount of Christians here and Christmas is celebrated. Not by all, but the is a feeling of Christmas. Not like 'Candy Cane Lane' or the side streets off Ward Parkway, The Plaza, but they're here.

Are you Learning Korean?
Yes, I am. I am taking a short course at my school every Monday and Tuesday. Right now it is the basics, reading the characters, recognizing them, and writing them. This will lead to a speaking of Korean. I will not be proficient, by no means, but I will be able to communicate.

Gigi wonders:

Can you shop for food on the base?
No, I cannot. It's just like any base in the States. Right, Andy? We tried to go across Miramar one afternoon, the Marine is still cussing us out. You have to have a sponsor or you have to go with a service person.

Roger asks me:

When did you attend the Writer's Workshop at the University of Iowa?
I did not attend any workshop there, but I have gone to Iowa Football games and Lute Olsen's Basketball Camp. Does that count? Vonnegut spent some time in Iowa City, maybe just being in the same state as him, made me smart.

Are you writing a book and we are all just pawns in the ultimate scheme of 'how I traveled around the world, got paid for it and created a 'must read' for the masses'?
Maybe

Robyn wants to know:

Have you experienced the 'unexplained' smell?
Yes, I have. I cannot explain it. I have theories of to the source. 1.) Seaweed. It smells of that, a little. 2.) Oysters. Could be, might be. 3.) Octopus. Maybe, could be. 4.) Any of the different kinds of fish they sell on the street. And Yes, some of it is ON the street.

Mickey demands to know:

Who are you hanging out with?
Well, Mickey, I am hanging out with the two other teachers I work with and my boss. The two teachers and I went to Sinchon last night (Saturday, December 16th), drank A LOT and got home early in the morning. Bars close when the last person leaves. The bar around the corner form the school, Jjokki Jjokki, has asked us to leave a couple of times. Chris, one of the teachers, and I go out and explore Seoul and see different sights. He is just as interested in checking all the stuff out as I am.

What are your students like?
I have a plethora of ages to teach and talk with. My class ages from 5-6 years old, middle school ages, and adults, older than I am (yes, OLDER. Believe or not, there are people older than I am). I teach from a couple of different books, but the adults like to 'free talk', to keep their English current and we talk about a variety of subjects. They ask questions of me and I give them new words. They are the most fun, but I have acquired some little Korean girlfriends. They make me melt when they smile at me and I become a ball of jell-o, they can be fun, at times, but they are 5-6 years old, so they have their moments!!!!

Do you talk to Debby?
Yes, I do. We talk through Yahoo! Messenger and now that I have web cam, she will be able to see my handsome face. What a lucky girl she is!!!! Actually, I am the lucky one. She is so understanding of all of this and she encourages me whenever I talk to her. She is my strength and when I feel homesick, she cures me of it, just hearing her voice can clear up a bad day for me.

Zak's query is:

Are the students there smarter than American Students, as the rumors suggest?

Well, Zak, they are more active in the process of learning. However, they are not taught the same here as in the States. They are not taught to problem solve nor are they encouraged to ask questions in the classrooms at their normal schools. They are involved in so many side activities, Science Academies, Math Academies, English Academies, Tae-Kwon-Do, and various other 'Hak Wans', that they are spread thin on time and are pushed. American students have this kind of stuff, but they do it for extra-curricular activities and because they want to. Most of the students here, have no choice in the matter.

Tiffany's question is:

How was your Thanksgiving over-seas?
Another day. I actually worked and went home. Nothing special. No turkey, no stuffing, no sweet potatoes, no sleeping on the couch, and my brother took over the slicing of the turkey at home. It's about time, i have been doing it for 20 years. His turn.

So have you made friends over there to hang out with?
See above answer!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jane's requisition is:

How do you like teaching the kids?
I love it. They test me and challenge me on a daily basis. It's what I wanted to do and I am doing it!!!!

Chris is grilling me about:

Have you been out drinking much or in the confines of a safe place?
Most places here are safe, but just like any place, you have to be smart and not put yourself in a 'position', I believe I have made the right decisions. Seoul is relatively a safe place. Crime is LOW and people don't bother each other too much.

Do they have any other type of food besides chicken?
Yes, lots of stuff. I had a stuffed tortilla of beef and lamb last night from a Turkish place and it was GOOOD!!!! Lots of seafood and cook-it-yourself places. They bring you the food and there is a grill at your table and you do it at your leisure. It is a fun way to dine out!!!!

Do they have Mexican food over there?
Yes, they do and as soon as I am done with this, I am heading out for a burrito. I will report back.

How about some pizza?
LOTS of Pizza places. They love their pizza here and it isn't too bad. they put corn on it and it comes with a side of sweet pickles.

I am waiting to see that whiskey bar...
Well, I have found that next whiskey bar:
Show me the way To the next whiskey bar Oh don't ask why Oh don't ask why

Susie insists on knowing:

Wanna smile in the morning?
I smile EVERY morning. I am a lucky boy and I have great friends, a great job, great family and great support.

Are you done with your holiday shopping?
Well, I get a reprieve, as I am meeting y'all in Hawai'i, so it can wait until after the first of the year, as I am bringing gifts with me!!!

Did you buy a PS3 for $5?
NO. I wouldn't and I won't. Contrary to popular belief, they are not that much cheaper over here than the States.

Is it wrong to want to get drunk and go sledding at 9:00AM?
NEVER. Absolutely not. In fact, I encourage it. Nothing like hot chocolate and peppermint schnapps to start the day. You know I would be doing that, if I could.

Have you found any good Mexican?
I found a place that a 20 minute subway ride, i am debating whether or not I want to do that right now.

BBQ?
Um, NO. I wouldn't even want to damage my taste buds.

Gavin is desperately wanting to know:

Have you talked to Dave and Kim lately?
Who? I used to know a couple by that name, but I do not think they exist anymore. Call Anderson Erickson and have them put on a milk carton. Besides, YOU are closer and YOU have their number. Try calling.

Andy begs the question:

How's the KFC?
Um, wouldn't know. Don't care and I wish they would all close down.

Chuck's Special wants to increase in knowledge with these questions:

Have you eaten any good Eel soup, yet? Stew? Eel meatloaf? Eel Taco? Eel Burrito?
No. No. No. No. And No. I do, however see them in tanks outside of shops, they are for sale and people do buy them.

Carolynn wants me to tell her:

Did they have a big party at Jalapenos for you?
It wasn't AT Jalapenos, it was at Flo's and I vaguely remember being there. I was showered with gifts, beer, and tequila. A good time was had by all. I think. I hope. No one got arrested, no one got sick, at Flo's at least, and Debby, Gavin, Susie and I somehow made it to the MU/KSU football game the next day.

So. That's it for today's version of the mailbag. Great questions, folks. There are some inquisitive people out there, starving for answers and knowledge. Keep it up.

On a side note:

I bought "For Whom the Bell Tolls," the other day and I believe it to be censored. If you have a copy. Please e-mail me. I would like to discuss it and find out IF it censored. I am not happy about it, but it isn't stopping me from reading it. Vonnegut had BETTER NOT BE censored or Axton will FREAK out.

Good day and stay classy and thanks for stopping by, but stay classy and thanks for stopping by............but, mostly, stay classy AND thanks for stopping by...................

Hello from Seoul.
Rumor has it, there are some of you out there who got this address from Jennifer at Jalapenos and if you did, let me know who you are!!!!!
There are new pictures in the web album, I haven't had a chance to make captions on them, but I will be doing it later today!! If you need the address, e-mail me, I will send it along and if you are not on my e-mailing list, I will put you on it.

Today, I will go into my bag of questions, there have been many, so I will do my best to answer them. And if you don't like the answer, ask me another:

Bernie from Kansas City writes:
Pat wants to know about the weather in SK. Do you have some? Why, yes, Bernie, South Korea does have weather. It's been mild here, 60's to 70's everyday, with the temperature dropping in the 40's at night. You can check the weather right HERE

Also, do Koreans have an equivalent to Thanksgiving? Yes they do, it is on September 24th, they call it Ch'usok, it is also a Lunar Holiday. Read more about it HERE

What do American ex-patriots to on the fourth Thursday in November? Well, Bernie, they can go to the U.S.O. for a nice meal, or they could just go home. Their mothers would love to see them.

Do they have turkeys on the Korean peninsula? Yes, they are called foreigners and ex-pats.

And if they have such fowl in the area, what about the concept of stuffing? As far as the real turkeys go, I have not seen any. They do have poultry, it hangs in almost every market, but as far as stuffing goes, I saw some Stove-Top in a grocery store.

What scenic properties are there that draw one to Yaksu? The subway takes you there, Bernie. You really don't have much of a choice. If you choose to get off, you may, if you choose to stay on, you may, and if you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice.

Is the Yaksu station in Seoul, or is it suburban? It is in Seoul, I would say it's in the middle, you can view the map HERE.

Maybe in the Korean Olathe? It is quite doubtful there would be a Korean Olathe, why would that have to happen in another country?

My, Bernie, you sure are an inquisitive boy, now aren't you?

Cindy from KC writes:
Are you sure you want to eat dog???!!!!??? Yes, Cindy, I do. It is an adventure I am on and what would I think of myself for passing it up? Besides, I have eaten at Sharp's, so it couldn't be much different, right?

Thank you, Cindy, for taking time out of your busy day to e-mail me. I guess it's not that hard, huh?

Dan from KC writes:
How long did it take you not to be scared sh******? Well, Dan, one cannot overcome one's fears without facing them. That said, I still run like a little girl when I see a spider. And when I see a snake, I scream---My shrink says it's because I saw my dad do the same thing at a very young age. $250 an hour sure takes you a long way.

How are the locals? They are friendly and those that speak English will do so. It catches me off guard, but I smile and say, "Hello!!! You don't understand a word I am saying, do you?" They smile and nod and tell me to have a nice day.

Cool? As with all cultures, there are the cool ones. Aren't you glad I am representing Kansas City?

Indifferent? Some of them are, but I smile and say, "An-nyeong-ha-se-yeo!!!" I'm pretty sure that's, "Good Morning, and if I don't see you Good Afternoon, and Good Night!!" Actually, it's all of them and "How are You?"

How do you watch the Chiefs? Dan, I don't. I listen to them at 3:00 in the morning. Lenny the Cool and Mitch Hothus keep me informed on Chiefs Radio!!!

Thank you, Dan, for taking time out of your day to write!! It took you, what, a minute or two? And the gratification you must feel knowing it makes me happy, must just make you proud.

Jennifer from KC writes:

How are you anyways? I am juuuuuust fine, Jennifer. I am getting to know the city and my way around. It was a good decision for me and I am glad I am here.

Getting used to your surroundings? Yes I am, every day brings new sights. Sensory overload at times, but I can stagger home after a night of drinking and not get lost. Soju has become my friend

Kids cool? Some of them are, but these children are under a lot of pressure. Hagwons (extra schooling in whatever subject--Math, Science, piano, Tae-Kwon-Do, English, and other foreign languages, if their parents so desire) after school and studying when they get home and on the weekend. They have all had their standardized tests in the past couple of weeks and they were ALL stressed out about it. There are many class clowns and some of the kids have cried, but only ONE because of me.

Debby? She is just fine. I TALK to her almost daily. Yahoo! messenger is a good thing, scratch that, it's a GREAT thing. I also have Skype, I've had it for a while, but never tried it, I talked with my friend, Andy, in San Jose (Show me the way to San Jose----that song pops in my head every time I see San Jose or hear the word) the other day. I will get to see Debby in January when we meet on Kauai. Gavin, Susie, and Stuckey (so far) will be there, too, I can hardly wait.

Thank you for taking time out of your busy day, Jennifer. It only takes a minute, doesn't it?

Thank you to Roger, for turning me on to KEXP 90.3 FM out of Seattle!!!

Thank You, Kelley, for turning me on to WFUV.ORG and 90.7 FM, Public Radio from Fordham University in New York City!!!

I like good tunes.
My iHome has been a lifesaver!!! I have listened to CDs I forgot I had and other I didn't know I had. Thanks, Pat and Benny!!!
Thank You, Danny, for thinking of me. I appreciate your gift, as well. I was able to get some things for when I get home to KC!!!!!!

That's it for the mailbag today, folks. Any other questions will be welcomed, if you take the time out to post a comment or e-mail me. It only takes a minute and I will reply.