Getting Older...

It's true...and my Korean kids LOVE to rub it in my face. "Teacher, you're so old now!" "MaLeah Tr. you are old lady." and the list goes on and on...

Saturday I turned 25 (in Korea, I am 26). A quarter of a century feels like an accomplishment. I've graduated from college, I'm teaching in another country, and paying off that student loan debt that haunts me in my dreams...I wouldn't want it any other way. Everything I've done, I have learned from and grown. The people in my life have taught me and are still teaching me new things about life and helping me mold myself into who I am. XO

My birthday week was very eventful. Two days, I pampered myself. Joe and Steph took me to an "Irish" pub on Wednesday night. We ate mozzarella sticks and calamari and then indulged with some fish and chips. The owners of the bar gave us drinks on the house for my birthday celebration. We played darts and enjoyed each other's company. Thursday, Emily and I ate at a famous burger place in Itaewon (mini America) called Jacoby's. Their burgers are beyond amazing! It was nice to have some girl time. Friday, my family and Korean co-teachers took me to dinner. We re-visited where we went when I first got here. I was really excited because I had not been to the restaurant since the beginning of October. And because the Korean ladies are joined us! Saturday, I worked in the morning. My first class was a 5th grade class. They sang "Happy Birthday MaLeah Teacher! We love you MaLeah Teacher!" I had 3 classes make cards for me and one class (3/4 grade) had a cupcake with a candle on it. When I walked into the class, they jumped up from behind their desks and sang "Happy Birthday" really loud! Emily surprised me with birthday gifts and McDonald's breakfast. It was so fun indulging in the guilty pleasure of unhealthy, delicious treats. All of my students gave me hugs. It was the best Saturday morning at work I have had! After work, I relaxed, watched some television, and hung out with Emily. In the evening, I met up with what I thought would be a small group of friends for dinner and drinks and turned into more which was awesome! I felt a little overwhelmed by how many people came to see me. After dinner and drinks, I danced with friends and strangers, enjoying the official age of 25! On Sunday, I didn't do much. I woke up early but fell back asleep (Sorry Mom, I know we were supposed to Skype). I made a delicious breakfast and watched a movie. Later on, Daniel and I went to Gecko's to enjoy the view on the 9th floor and visit. And after that, I watched another movie and fell asleep quite early. It was an unforgettably fun weekend!

XO,
M

Here are some pictures from my birthday week. I am still waiting on Steph to send some to me as well as Daniel. More will be posted shortly.

Emily's surprise at work on Saturday

Goof balls! Dad and Uncle Lonnie.

Getting to see my uncle and talk to him was the best birthday present!
I love you Uncle Lonnie! So happy you are doing better. XO

Dinner with the family and co-teachers on Friday

Jessie doesn't work at my branch anymore...but we stay in contact.
We have become good friends. 

My lower level 3rd and 4th graders surprised me with Birthday messages on the whiteboard,
singing Happy Birthday, and a birthday cupcake. 

And here they are!
From left: Lavy, Yuna, Ye-Ji, Daniel, and Gloria

SO cute!

Yeru is in an upper level 3/4 grade class. I was teaching them how to write letters.
She wrote a letter to me, knowing it was my birthday.