어떻게? What do I do?

Hey everyone! Like the same as any one elses' life, we are all faced with important choices and decisions in which will help shape our future. This goes no different for someone living and working abroad. I have really fallen in love with my life here in korea. Not only with the life that I have made with friends, experiences, my apartment and personal belongings that I have acquired, and my future plans for my life here in Korea; but I have also fallen in love with teaching. Now, as the ned of my first year in Korean is coming nearer, I am now being faced with the option of renewing my contract with my current employer or to begin a new contract with a new school this coming March (school terms begin and end in March here in Korea).

A fewMany aspects are playing into my decision. . Relocating to a country in which I knew no one and at first did not know the language or any cultural norms was tough. However I prospered here and have since developed good friendships and a secure sense of placement. However living on my own has really made me realize just how much I love and appreciate my family. While deciding on whether or not to renew my contract, the first and most important factor that I am making necessary is a trip home to visit my family. I love them dearly and I know they would love to see me just as much as I would them. Now I'm not looking for a long term stay at home, but long enough to visit and not be rushed (3 weeks precisely!)

I have a few options for visiting family in which I explain in the video. 1 includes staying with my school, and the others would be me seeking employment elsewhere.

Secondly, I am very comfortable with my job and really enjoy my kids and coworkers. however, as explained in the video- job security may be an issue since I am working at a small private school which is slowly loosing it's fight against the public school systems offering English programs.

And thirdly, as I toy with the idea of possibly needing to find a new job whether it is based on my visit home options or job security...I can't help but wonder 'is the grass greener on the other side?" I would hate to leave my current kids and workplace only to be unhappy in a job that has slightly better benefits or a allowed me a few extra days at home. I would rather be wealthy in happiness than a bigger paycheck.

So....as the next week unfolds I shall come to a conclusion and will let ya'll know ASAP.

As always...take care and much love!!!

-Patrick

Taiwanese Get-Away!

Ahhh nothing like a little winter 'warm up' holiday vacation! During my school's only week long winter break I took the time to embark on a solo exhibition to the beautiful country of Taiwan. I had heard a lot about Taiwan from a friend of mine and has peaked my interest to visit this enchanting and welcoming place.

I arrived in the biggest city of Taiwan, Taipei, just in time to celebrate the New Year on January 31st, but spent the majority of my trip in a small costal city called Hualien City.

While in Hualien I enjoyed the lush pebble beaches, hiked the famous Taroko Gorge Mountain, explored the natural landscapes both in and out of the city, and sampled the local culture by speaking to the townspeople, trying new foods, and observing some of their history.

All of the positive things my friend had ever mentioned about Taiwan was verified on this vacation. Not only is the climate and nature just standstill-beautiful, but the people of Taiwan were so welcoming, friendly, helpful, and genuine. While spending my one day in Taipei and then again in the smaller town areas I was treated most kindly and appreciated by all the Taiwanese people. It truly was a 'feel good' country.

I only was able to stay in Taiwain for 5 days...but it sure did make a good impression on me. This mini-vacation to Taiwain was just the energy and love booster that I needed in the depths of winter. I most certainly plan on visiting Taiwan again someday...probably more than once...and definitely for longer than 5 days!!!