1: I have been busy (both socially and work related),
2: I have been lazy when not busy,
3: There are many happenings during the Month of May within the culture of Korea so I felt it necessary to do a blog entry AFTER they were all finished!
Anyways, like I just stated, this blog will be all about special days taken tribute to doing the Mont of may. What are these days you wonder? Well during the first week of May there is the National (and global) holiday "Children's Day". A day when kids can just be kids and be allowed to eat as much candy and cookies as they like! Also, parents tend to go over-the-top in indulging their precious ones in gifts and attention on this day. WEEEE!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwxxVG0MSng
The second week of May hold Parents day- A combination of Fathers day and Mothers day. I personally like and also dislike the idea of Parents Day, as I feel both (good) Mothers and (good) Fathers should receive individual recognition. But then again...it is an easy way out for both child and adult children! Similiar traditions to the western world are practiced on Parents day here in Korea including children making handmade cards, the giving of carnation flowers, and adult children doing something a lil extra special for their parents.
http://www.theparentsday.com/around-the-world/south-korea.html
The third week of May is a day in honor of yours truly, Teachers Day. Teachers Day is also celebrated in the western world and is a day for students and their parents to thank their teachers. As for me, my first year in Korea I was overwhelmed by the amount of gifts and adornment I received. However, this being my second year in Korea I was like "Oh yea,,,,show the goods!!!" haha. Actually, I'm not that vain on Teachers Day. Despite the amount of gifts I get, I really do appreciate the generosity and kindness presented to me via conversations and hand notes from moms and dads.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teachers'_Day
Lastly, nearing the end of May is Buddhas Birthday. Korea is predominately Christian, but there still is a large Buddhist community. Buddhas birthday is a national holiday here with businesses closing and many festival/familial events taking place. I remember the beauty and awe from my first year in Korea, and my second year I was again amazed at how gorgeous and artistic the lantern displays were that honor Buddha on his big day. Man...how old is he now and how lucky he gets such a great party every year??
http://www.holidaysia.com/events/lotus-lantern-festival/
- Patrick
PS: I apologize for the inconsistencies of volume levels! I kinda slacked in the editing department....
ReplyDeletewow! it sounds like may was a busy month for you! i'm glad you were able to partake in so many celebrations and have your kids celebrate you! that's so much fun!! You are making such a big difference in their life and they obviously like you! :D so cute.
ReplyDeleteOn a side note: How are all Korean people beautiful? Seriously, all the people in the video and photos of Children's Day and from Lantern Festival are beautiful people!! what is that?!
love you*