Seoul to Soul

WELCOME TO THE BLOG OF SEOUL TO SOUL!

2009-01-31T01:00:00.000+09:00

The Journey Begins

2009-01-02T08:40:00.000+09:00

1 week ago today I boarded a plane from South Korea to return to the United States after 1 year of teaching English as a Second Language in Asia. 2008 went by so fast and Korea now seems like a distant memory. I will always cherish the time spent in Korea. Now, it is time to keep it movin' and see what life has to offer in 2009 in America.

Thank you for following my blog about my life in South Korea.

NOW THE REAL JOURNEY BEGINS...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

NATARSHA N. WRIGHT

December Farewells

2008-12-22T10:04:00.026+09:00

I have 4 more days before I return back to America and it is an exciting and scary feeling. South Korea holds a special place in my heart and I am sad to be leaving, but at the same time I am so excited to go home and see my family and friends and get ready for the next phase of my life. This year has flown by, but in this short amount of time I have learned so much about myself and gained so much from Korea, family, friends, and my new korean chingoos (friends). Thanks Korea for everything!

Here are a few pictures from my last month in Korea:

MY SCHOOL

My co-workers

The Secretaries hard at work while taking a quick pic

McDonald's Delivers...Gotta eat!

My desk

My students

Speaking Test

INSADONG
Getting Free Hugs...So you can feel warm and special

Hanging out in Insadong...Watching a parade & getting free hugs

ITAEWON
My Going Away Party
Dinner @ Outback

Mix & Mingle @ Bungalow Lounge

My 2 fav fashionistas

MIGEUM
Dinner w/ my Korean Chingoo :)

FOOD
My Favorite Korean Foods
Kimchi Bokembop

Rah-Bow-Key

Lunch w/ the Supervisors

HANGING WITH FRIENDS

We went to go see the YES MAN! very good movie!

SEOHYUN

Norabong, the singing room, karaoke
let's go get out singing on....

Funny Korean sign in the bathroom

ITAEWON
Getting out hair done

Time to eat @ the All American Diner in Itaewon

We had to "kiss the cook" after that delicious meal

Season's Greetings!

Riding the train

MEYONGDONG
Eyelash Perm

Everybody's Favorite "Hotteok"

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Until Next Time...Season's Greetings!

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

A Seoul Farewell

2008-12-16T02:36:00.003+09:00

This past weekend was my going away party. We had a nice dinner then went to a lounge afterward to mix and mingle. Check out a small clip from my get together.

Until next time...

Love Life, Love God, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Back to America...

2008-12-10T15:41:00.003+09:00

Today, I went back to the post office to get more boxes to ship more things home. 2 weeks ago I shipped about 5 boxes home and within the next 2 weeks I will ship 2 more boxes home. I just don't feel like lugging all that stuff around in the airport. I have 2 layovers and I am trying to travel light. However, I can't stop shopping. It's the holidays and I feel like since I will miss Christmas I should treat myself to my annual Christmas shopping spree which takes place the whole month December..lol

The Post Office

5 out of 7 boxes that will be shipped to USA

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Caving & Ferry Ride Day Trip

2008-12-08T00:21:00.005+09:00

Today was so much fun. I went on a "lazy" day trip with the Adventure Korea tour group. I am coming down with a cold, so this was the perfect day to relax, but still take in the sites. I am tired now and just wanted to share a few pics with you from my day. Enjoy!

Adventure Korea Caving & Ferry Tour Group

Ferry Ride View

Gosu Cave

It's me!

Dodamsanbong Peak

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

2008-12-08T00:17:00.001+09:00

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

The Blue House

2008-12-06T07:25:00.006+09:00

With only a few short weeks left I decided to take in a few more sites before I leave Korea. Yesterday, I went to the Cheong Wa Dae aka the Blue House, which is equivalent to America's White House. We had such a great time despite the below freezing temperature's. *Note to self no more outside tours in the cold..lol It is unbelievably cold here. And the sad part is it get's colder!

The entrance to the Blue House

Inside the Blue House

Ash & I taking a pic on the grounds of the Blue House

The Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House)

Deer running across the lawn

Ash & I in front of the Blue House taking a pic

Another part of the Blue House

Ash & I taking pics with our tour group

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Looking Forward to the Road Ahead

2008-12-02T22:54:00.005+09:00

I can not believe how fast the year has gone and how much I have accomplished this year. My time is coming to an end here and Korea. I have 23 days left before I return to the States. I have not been able to post much because I have been super busy trying to get things in order before I return home. I have been spending more time with my friends, traveling, and just enjoying the rest of my time here. I still can not believe that I actually came to Korea for 1 year, but I did and I am glad that I did it! I am so proud of me...You Go Girl!

Until Next Time...Never be afraid to try new things and live your life to the fullest!

Love Life, Love God, and Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T07:06:00.000+09:00

Today, did not feel like Thanksgiving Day. I didn't think that it would be so bad, but it was. What made it depressing was the weather. It was rainy, cold, and cloudy and I had to work, so it was just like another day. However, I am thankful for this experience, so when I thought about my year as a whole the day didn't seem so bad after all. Instead of being surrounded by all of my friends and family in America I was surrounded by people on there lunch break at TGI Friday's, my fellow co-workers, and family's out eating dinner at a local restaurant later that night followed by CSI Season 5. Korean's celebrated there Thanksgiving in September and I was able to spend it with my church friends and family:) For me Thanksgiving Day felt like just another day. Unfortunately, I will not be spending Christmas with my family either :(

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

30 days away

2008-11-26T19:47:00.002+09:00

1 year ago I started this blog as a way for family and friends to keep track of my journey as I took a leap of faith to move to Asia, Bundang, South Korea for 1 year. Well, family and friends the year is coming to an end and I will be returning home to the United States in 30 days. I will be home shortly after Christmas. It sucks that I have to miss yet another holiday, but at least I will be able to bring in the New Year with my family.

I won't be celebrating Thanksgiving because it is an American holiday, so instead I will be going to TGI Friday's with a few co-workers to semi-celebrate, since we have to work from 4p-10:45. Holidays are not the same overseas and I prefer not to celebrate them because it makes things more depressing and makes me miss my family and friends more. Surprisingly, I have not gotten homesick here because I have been keeping myself extra busy, which is a good thing.

Well, the bell just rang for the next class...Gotta go!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Lifestyle Fashion: Will W.

2008-11-19T23:05:00.006+09:00

This past weekend I had the pleasure of photographing a hot young fashion designer, Will White who is currently teaching English in Seoul. I am glad I had the chance to take some photos of him before I return to the States. Here is a few pics from my fly photo shoot with Will.

Visit Natarsha N. Wright Photography for more lifestyle portraiture.
http://www.natarshanwright.com

NOW BOOKING FOR 2009!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Deoksugung Palace

2008-11-15T17:22:00.003+09:00

I recently went to visit the Deoksu Palace. I am doing a 4 Palace tour before I leave. I visited 2 of the 4 Palaces I want to see before I leave Korea. Here is some video of the Changing of the Guard and my interaction with some children on a field trip. Pictures coming soon! I am at work and need to get back to class...lol

Ashley and I taking pics with kids on a field trip

Inside Deoksu Palace

Changing of the Guard

My fav pic from the day

Changing of the Guard

Me and the Kids "It's so hard to say good-bye"

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Pepero

2008-11-11T16:48:00.003+09:00

HAPPY PEPERO DAY!

Today is Pepero Day in South Korea. According to Wikipedia Pepero Day is, "an observance in South Korea similar to Valentine's Day or Sweetest Day. It is named after the Korean snack Pepero and held on November 11, since the date "11/11" resembles five sticks of Pepero. The holiday is observed mostly by young people and couples, who exchange Pepero sticks, other candies, and romantic gifts. According to one story, Pepero Day was started in 1994 by students at a girls' middle school in Busan, where they exchanged Pepero sticks as gifts to wish one another to grow "as tall and slender as a Pepero"(Pepero means "thin like a stick"). However, it is more likely it was initiated by Lotte, the company which produces Pepero."

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Reality is...

2008-11-10T17:57:00.004+09:00

Around this time last year I was preparing to come to Korea and teach English and start a new and exciting chapter in my life. I didn't have to think whether or not I wanted to come here and it was of those things that happened so fast that I still can't believe that I am actually in Korea. Wow! I can not believe how fast the year has gone. It didn't hit me that I would be going home in less than 7 weeks (47 days or so) until I had to confirm the info on my plane ticket that my school bought for my return trip home to America today. This journey has been absolutely amazing and I would encourage those who are thinking about teaching abroad to consider it because it is a great way to see another part of the world, meet new people, and learn about who you are and what direction your life is headed. Just think of it as a paid vacation for 1 year. It is so peaceful here and I have experienced little to no stress because I do not have to deal with the same things I have to deal with in America, so it is definitely refreshing to know that there is so much more to life, but I have to seek those opportunities out and get them while they are available. There are so many great things to see in this world, if you have the opportunity seize it and love every minute of it!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

N.

Memorable Moments from the Election Return Party: Seoul, South Korea

2008-11-07T00:14:00.009+09:00

While attending a Democrats Abroad Election Returns Party at the Orange Tree in Haebangchun a group of supporters (including myself) got together to watch the results come in live of who the next President of the United States of America would be from Seoul, South Korea. Words can not express the atmosphere. Along with the people there to watch the results come in were reporters, camera men, photographers wanting to capture our reactions through out the day. Here are some unforgettable moments from the Election Return Party. There are also several photos of me in various news, on-line, and print publications. To wake up and see that your pic is synonymous with Barack Obama is another one of those moments that words can not express. Take a look of some pics of me I found being used in the media, as well as, some other pics from our celebration. I am in various Korean media, newspaper, & on-line publications. I even saw my pic on Time.com that is pretty amazing! So, if you see me on-line in a publication please send me the link. There were so many reporters, etc. at the event that I was not able to find out who all of those photographers and reporters were affiliated with. Here are my favorite pics from the event...The first 4 images were taken by yours truly, Natarsha N. Wright!

Photo by: Natarsha N. Wright

Reuters Photo

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Korean Students Celebrate Obama (오 바 마) Victory!

2008-11-05T01:05:00.001+09:00

When I walked into my English class today my students started chanting, "OBAMA, OBAMA". They wanted to congratulate Obama, so they made signs and said a few words about how they felt. Here are some of my students from one of my English classes cheering for Obama!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

2008-11-04T10:01:00.000+09:00

Jeju Island

2008-11-04T09:06:00.007+09:00

This weekend I went to the beautiful Jeju Island on the last vacation I have before I return to the States in less than 60 days. It felt great to just take some time from work and enjoy life!

Me on Hagosudong Beach (Black Sand Beach)

Me riding a horse

We finally made it to the top of the mountain.

Until next time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Halloween @ LEI (Seoul, South Korea)

2008-11-01T00:54:00.007+09:00

Halloween in South Korea is pretty much non-existent, but this is where the foreigners (Americans, Canadians, etc.) improvise and make the best of it...The teachers at my job dressed up and the kids came to our office to trick or treat in between classes. There was even a monster running through the halls and scaring the kids...which was hilarious. See for yourself!

Happy Halloween!

Bros. Grimm's Fairytale: Hansel & Gretel - The Halloween Day Version I attempt to tell my kids a scary story. I punked out and told them the story of Hansel & Gretel and tried to make it scary since it is Halloween...lol

Monster Mike Scares the Kids @ LEI (part 1) Head Teacher Mike dresses up as something "SCARY" and attempts to scare the kids in various classrooms.

Monster Mike Scares the Kids @ LEI (part 2)
(MORE VIDEO COMING SOON)

Kids trick or treating in our office.

The staff & kids: Happy Halloween!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

FOREVER 21

2008-10-30T15:47:00.002+09:00

I LOVE shopping and I have been really good about it in Korea. There clothes are mostly one size fit all and are not a good fit for my hips and there style is a bit different then what I am used to. Now, everyone is wearing plaid and short skirts and couples dress alike here. The tops they wear are oversized and they wear skinny leg bottoms. They also wear round toe shoes and I am pointy toe shoe girl. However, they have great summer shoes and I brought about 10 pair. I had to get my shoe fix I could not go a whole year without buying a pair of shoes :) TODAY, WAS THE DAY WHEN I SAW FOREVER 21 (one of my fav stores in the States) AND FELL IN LOVE ALL OVER AGAIN WITH SHOPPING! It felt so good to be needed by all of those wonderful clothes. This is the BESTEST (not a real word...lol) FOREVER 21 that I have ever been in.

Next, week I am going to release all of my repressed shopping desires and go on a shopping spree as an early Christmas gift to myself before I return to the States in less than 60 days.

And just when I thought it couldn't get any better I saw my fav shoe store...NINE WEST!

Until next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Natarsha N. Wright Photography: Ashley B.

2008-10-27T13:47:00.003+09:00

CHECK OUT MY SESSION WITH ASHLEY B. ON WWW.NATARSHANWRIGHT.COM

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Changdeokgung Palace

2008-10-26T22:12:00.006+09:00

Today, was a beautiful day to do some site seeing. After church Ashley and I went to the Changdeokgung Palace to do some site seeing as well take some fall pics of Ashley (go to www.natarshanwright.com to check them out). Changdeokgung is the most well preserved palace in Korea. Click here to read more about this Royal Palace.

The side of Changdeokgung after buying tickets for tour (3,000 won).

Me in front of Changdeokgung Palace...

Me in front of the "secret garden"

Ashley and I in front of one of the King's sleeping quarters

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Korean Folk Village: Video

2008-10-23T16:00:00.000+09:00

Here is the video from my visit to the Korean Folk Village.

The Children make me feel like a STAR!

Farmers Music & Dance

See-saw Performance

Acrobatics on a Tightrope

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

I would like to THANK...

2008-10-23T15:54:00.003+09:00

TIA FOR GIVING ME THE GRATITUDE WITH ATTITUDE AWARD for teaching English in South Korea while running a Photography business. Thanks, Sis!

For more check out Tia's Real Talk.

Tia's Real Talk has given the Gratitude with Attitude to Natarsha N. Wright/Seoul to Soul & Potent Praise!

Korean Folk Village

2008-10-21T16:20:00.004+09:00

Today, I went to the Korean Folk Village in Yong-in. The Folk Village is a traditional historic site that provides the unique opportunity to participate in hands-on activities while experiencing the traditional folklore life. I had a great time. I watched the Farmers' Music and Dance, See-saw performance, and the Acrobatics on a Tightrope. There are so many great things to do that you need the whole day to explore this village.

See-saw performance

Acrobatics on a Tightrope

Farmers' Music and Dance

Me & Some of the students that were at the Korean Folk Village

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

2008-10-19T21:11:00.005+09:00

Today, I visited the Demilitarized Zone. South Korea and North Korea are the only 2 countries in the world that are still divided. The DMZ is a way to see both South and North Korea because they are technically still at war when going to the DMZ you must be escorted by South or North Korean Soldiers. I was fortunate enough to go visit the DMZ with a tour group here in Seoul called, Adventure Korea. Adventure Korea is a great way to see the different sites of Korea at an inexpensive rate while getting to meet new people.

The road to North Korea

The Peace Bell

Having lunch with the Adventure Korea tour group

Me taking a pic in front of N. Korean Soldiers at Dorasan Station

Cynthia, Ashley, & I taking a pic with a N. Korean Soldier at Dorasan Station

Ashley, Cynthia, and I at the Dora Observatory the last stop on the DMZ tour

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Cirque Du Soleil Alegria

2008-10-19T20:58:00.005+09:00

Yesterday, I had an amazing time with a group of people here in Seoul at the Cirque Du Soleil Alegria show at the Sports Complex Center. It is hard to explain, but it is a definite must see. Take the family to go see Cirque Du Soleil in a city near you.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Schools in Session: Non Fiction C

2008-10-18T00:02:00.001+09:00

Once a month around this time we give writing and speaking tests to help advance the children's writing and speaking abilities. Here is a peek into one of my upper level classes as we were doing the speaking tests.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Schools in Session: Non Fiction C

2008-10-18T00:01:00.000+09:00

Here is another look into one of my Non Fiction C classes...Today was a real relaxed day because we just finished our speaking tests and we were just catching up on some book work.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Schools in Session: Non Fiction A

2008-10-18T00:00:00.000+09:00

I don't blog too much about the students I teach just because I could go on for days about the students I teach, but this class right here...Be taking me through the motions...one day I love there sweet faces and then the next they make me want to scream. This is a love love relationship. The ironic part is I love what I am doing right now despite the ups and downs I wouldn't trade my experiences for anything. This job is so fulfilling and I gain a whole new perspective on the education system because these children go to school all year round', so by time they come to my academy in the evenings they are really not trying to hear what I have to say...lol I feel so bad for them because the literally do not have a life of there own.

Here is a peek at one of my classes...

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

2008-10-17T22:57:00.006+09:00

We love celebrating birthday's in my office and today was no exception when we celebrated Min Jin's birthday.

Happy Birthday, Min Jin!

Co-workers going straight for the cake

Yummy, Cheesecake...Eat with Chopsticks!

Yes, we eat everything with Chopsticks

How to eat cake: with Chopsticks & Knife

Someone opted out for food instead of cake...how rude! lol

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Dak Galbi...One Last Time

2008-10-17T22:16:00.006+09:00

In between classes I got together with a few of my co-workers for a quick dinner. We went to the Dak Galbi restaurant and just talked about our different experiences in Korea. Coincidentally, this is Alex's last weekend here in Korea. He is scheduled to return back to the States next week. It has truly been a pleasure working with Alex. We even got our meal paid for, so this was definitely a great way to remember the Dak Galbi restaurant....ONE LAST TIME!

The Best Dak Galbi Restaurant (located in Jeongja)

Farewell, Alex. Best Wishes to you in all that you do!

Alex is a very talented writer check him out at, Writing the Ship @ www.alexpollack.com

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

The Bird Flying Tea Shop

2008-10-17T00:30:00.000+09:00

After having dinner with the Seoul Photowalkers Mark took us to an old tea shop in Insadong called, The Bird Flying Tea Shop.

The Birds

Traditional Tea Menu

Take a seat...

and have some tea!

I had a delicious pear tea. It was nice, sweet, cool, and also had a slice of pear in it. Yummy!

Until Next Time...Take time to sip some tea and enjoy life!

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

The Streets...Late Night Vendors (4)

2008-10-16T00:30:00.002+09:00

The Streets...Late Night Vendors (3)

2008-10-14T00:30:00.001+09:00

A Wedding at Everland Amusement Park

2008-10-13T10:31:00.004+09:00

WOW! Today was the best day ever to have a Fall wedding. What I experienced was no ordinary wedding. You literally left the wedding with your jaw dropped and thinking did that really just happen?? I guess this is what it is like to have a wedding at the Magic Kingdom? The Bride (previously) & The Groom works at an amusement park in Yongin, South Korea called, Everland. They held there wedding celebration in the Cabin Hall.

Hyun-Im is one of the secretaries at my job and invited me to her wedding. She allowed me to photograph her wedding along with the other photographers there. I also captured a lot of video because it is one of those things you have to see to believe. There were Minnie & Mickey like characters, an orangutan, a penguin, a cub, a meerkat (I think or something that looks like one), a marching band, a famous Korean singer, groom carrying mother of the Bride on his back and then running around the room to show his strength to support her daughter, groom dancing and the bride blushing, 4 photographers (including me), 3 videographers, a never ending buffet, and so much more...Whew! And this was just the ceremony...after the ceremony they had a private traditional ceremony for the family and lunch.

Here are a few images from the day. This is the most interesting wedding that I have been to all year. Now, the couple is off to Boracay for there honeymoon...And they lived happily ever after...Dreams do come true!

Look at the guys face as they walk into wedding hall and surprise the Bride

The Bride as they walked in the room...LOL

Quick pose for the camera...SAY KIMCHI!

The Orangutan

The Penguin

The Everland Marching Band

The Mr. & Mrs.

Serene Love

Silly Love

HAPPINESS! The first look of the Bride after the ceremony

I am truly blessed that the Bride allowed me to photograph her special day because this is the first wedding that I have ever photographed. I am proud to say that the first wedding I photographed was in South Korea! WOW! For her it is the beginning of a never ending love with her husband that grows stronger each day and for me it is the beginning of my journey as an International Photographer and the beginning of a never ending love that grows stronger each day.

Until Next Time...know that dreams do come true!

Visit www.natarshanwright.com for more photos!

~N.

The Streets...Late Night Vendors (2)

2008-10-12T00:30:00.002+09:00

The Streets...Late Night Vendors

2008-10-10T00:30:00.002+09:00

Vendors selling various things are out all hours of the day and night. It is common to see people gathered around them trying to get a bargain. Here is what I captured while I was out with my photo group the other night.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Happy 1st Birthday!

2008-10-09T00:30:00.001+09:00

Last week, I had the pleasure of photographing So Hee's 1st Birthday! In Korea 1st birthday's are very special because 30 years ago babies did not make it to the age of one, so it is Korean tradition to throw a big bash to celebrate the 1st year of life for a child. It is almost as big as a wedding celebration.

The Birthday Girl! So Hee!

3 Generations

Cutting of the Cake with a SWORD!

A toast to So Hee! Happy 1st Birthday!

In Korean Tradition they put items such as a toothbrush (dentist), mouse (computer programmer),pen (scholar), rope (long life), money (wealthy), and a microphone (singer) on a tray and the which ever one the child gravitates towards that predicts there future.

SO HEE WILL BE A....DRUMROLLLL....

SINGER!

A great time was had by all! Family, Food, Laughter, Life! What more can you ask for??

Remember when your Grandma and everyone else used to pinch your cheeks??

Until Next Time...visit www.natarshanwright.com

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Dining in Insadong

2008-10-05T15:06:00.002+09:00

Last night, I met up with my from my friends from Seoul Photowalkers. We had dinner at a nice Indian restaurant called Namaste in Insadong inside of Jonggak station in the Bandi & Luni's (equivalent to the US Barnes & Nobel).

Me & the owner of Namaste.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Hope Angel Sings!

2008-10-05T13:22:00.004+09:00

I was so happy when I got to church today because my little boo's from Hope Angel Orphanage sang a special song during the offering...They truly have a special place in my heart.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Food for Thought

2008-10-05T00:30:00.000+09:00

After church I went to lunch next door and had a few Korean favorites.

Gimbop

Kimchi (in Korea you get many of these Korean side dishes sometimes up to 6 or more)

Mandu Ramen

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

There's no place like home, There's no place like home...

2008-10-05T00:15:00.000+09:00

As I was exiting the train station I saw this show stand setup in the inside and these little sparkly things caught my attention...There's no place like home, There no place like home...

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Food for Thought

2008-10-04T15:00:00.001+09:00

Tonight for dinner I had one of my favorite dishes...Raboki (I know I killed the spelling of that dish) It is a combination of Ramen, Dak, and Odang. Along with Raboki you get several side dishes.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

My Peeps at GS 25

2008-10-04T14:49:00.000+09:00

On breaks in between class I go to the corner store and hang out with the owners of the GS 25 (similar to 7 eleven, etc.). This lovely husband and wife always welcome me with a smile. They told me one day that days when I don't come by to say hi there heart hurts...awwww...how sweet is that. So, I make sure that I try to visit them everyday before, in between, or after school. We just sit and talk about everything from Korea, America, Religion, our favorite things, etc., while I eat my ramen. I will miss them when I return to the States :(

The owners of GS 25!

Me and my peeps at GS 25!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Farewell my friends

2008-10-01T00:45:00.001+09:00

Today, my good friend Chris boarded a plane to return to the States. I found out about this opportunity through him. Chris and I attend the same church back in the States, so it was comforting to be in a foreign country with a few friends. My other friend Neesa will be returning back to the States in 8 weeks just in time for Thanksgiving. Almost all of my friends have returned home, so he makes friend #4 who has left. Every since July I have had a friend go home. I am happy for them because I know that they will go on to do great things after Korea. Korea was a stepping stone for most of us to do those things which we have been called to do. It won't be too long before I will be boarding the plane to return to the States myself. I am blessed to be able to have meet such great people and build life long friends of all races and nationalities here in South Korea. With the exception of Shanel I photographed all that you see below.

Here are my friends that have left so far:

Shanel

Beth

Ann

Lucy

Chris

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

To view more of photos visit www.natarshanwright.com

Lifestyle Photography Session: Quiana R.

2008-10-01T00:35:00.000+09:00

Check out Quiana's Lifestyle Session on Natarsha N. Wright Photography

Go to www.natarshanwright.com to view more photos.

Until next time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Happy Soldiers Day!

2008-10-01T00:30:00.000+09:00

In Korea today is Soldier's Day. 5 years ago it used to be a holiday. Take time to show your local Soldiers some love. Happy Soldier's Day!

Photo by: Natarsha N. Wright

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Sneak Peek: Quiana R.

2008-09-29T00:30:00.000+09:00

Go to www.natarshanwright.com for a SNEAK PEEK OF QUIANA R.'s LIFESTYLE SESSION!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Where's the Toilet?

2008-09-28T00:30:00.000+09:00

That was my reaction when I entered into the restroom. I couldn't hold it no more, so I rushed to the nearest toilet (restroom) in the train station and when I opened the door this is what I saw:

I had to dip it low all the way to the floor...lol

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Reading is Fun & Mental (Fundamental)

2008-09-28T00:25:00.003+09:00

I needed to go get a new book to read, so I headed over to the Kyobo bookstore and purchased the 4-hour work week. I have heard great things about this book and can't wait to read it and then read it again. Reading is Fun & Mental. Go buy a book and elevate your mind...

Here's Kyobo (Korea's B&N or Borders)

People in Kyobo looking at books

The main attraction: BOOKS!

My new read: The 4-hour Workweek...

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Street Shopping

2008-09-28T00:15:00.000+09:00

Another day in South Korea. Street Shopping! The name of the game is price haggling, it is expected. That is why I love South Korea because most of the time you can always get a discount.

Pricing the jewelry

Shopping for jeans

I don't know what this is..Scarf or Shirt or Rag???

Coats

Purses

Bargain Hunters

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Brrr...it's cold in here

2008-09-27T06:30:00.004+09:00

Okay, so here is the thing with Korean weather; there is no in between. It really does feel like Winter. Well, right now it is 51 degrees. Today's high is supposed to be 72 degrees, but when the afternoon/night time comes it is going to be frigid again. Don't get me wrong I love the Fall, but I am not feeling the Winter like weather in the Fall. In Korea they say they have 4 seasons, but it is really like (2); Summer & Winter. Get your coats out it is going to be a long, cold, frigid, unbearable winter.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Autumn Already

2008-09-26T00:56:00.002+09:00

Wow! I can not believe how fast the year is going by. It is officially Autumn (Fall) here in Korea. Although Autumn started a little over a month ago we still were having Summer like weather. Well, today the temperature finally caught up with the season. I am really excited about the Fall. Now, I can resume my site seeing activities. I had to take a break in the Summer because it was to hot. They say that the scenery is absolutely stunning here in the Fall, so I am excited to break out my new camera and see the sites of South Korea. I have planned a few trips and have a list of things that I must do before I leave in 3 months. I will be taking a trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to see North Korea. North Korea and South Korea is the only country in the world that is separated. I will also be going to the lovely Jeju Island, Botanical Gardens, Green Tea Farm, a Mongolian Horseback Riding Show and much more, so stay tuned.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Obama Blue Day

2008-09-26T00:00:00.000+09:00

OBAMA BLUE DAY!!!

September 30, 2008

Its time to REPRESENT!!!!!

This election season has remained too close for comfort and to close to call! We have 100,000s of unregistered and millions who remain on the fence! Its time for us to come together, voice our unity, and make a difference!

Tuesday September 30, 2008

everyone is asked

to do two things

1) WEAR BLUE

2) REGISTER TWO VOTERS!

(If you can't register two voters talk to two people who may be on the fence).

LETS MAKE OBAMA BLUE DAY a DAY OF ACTION!!!!

BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!

ALSO:

*** INFO UPDATE. THANK YOU BLOG READER FOR YOUR HELP AND THE FOLLOWING INFO:

Here is the info about what you can and can't wear:
http://law.bepress.com/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4685&context=expresso

This has nothing to do with party affiliation, it is done so that neither party can campaign near the voters.

Also, under the law, the voting monitors must be made up of an equal number of voters from both major parties. They are instructed the same (1-2 days of training). This law is not enforced to discriminate from any party. With equal representation, it is enforced equally. Even if you showed up with a party pin/shirt, etc...you would be asked to go the bathroom and turn it inside out or cover it with a jacket.

--by Someone who has volunteered as an election official.

*This "alert" once again is trying to make a divide in our society.

PLEASE DISREGARD THE BELOW MESSAGE THAT HAS BEEN SENT TO YOU AND YOU HAVE SENT TO OTHERS...

Please, please, please advise everyone you know that they absolutely cannot go to the polls wearing any Obama shirts, pins or hats, it is against the law and will be grounds to have the polling officials to turn you away.

That is considered campaigning and no one can campaign within x amount of feet to the polls. They are banking on us being excited and not being aware of this long standing law that you can bet will be enforced this year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

They are banking that if are turned away you will not go home and change your clothes.. Please just don't wear Obama gear of any sorts to the polls!! Please share this information!!

A CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE IN!

Voting Overseas

2008-09-25T10:00:00.002+09:00

If you are overseas like I am here is a way you can make your vote count!

http://www.votefromabroad.org

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Cold Stone & Marvin Sapp

2008-09-21T00:30:00.003+09:00

I went into to Cold Stone tonight and while I was waiting on my FREE love it, Pecan Passion ice cream I heard something that I had never heard in all of my 9 months in Korea. Gospel music playing in the background.

Marvin Sapp's "Never Could Have Made It" playing in South Korea. Really? I stopped dead in my tracks and for some reason I started thinking about my life and how I never could have made it without my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I am really blessed to have made it this far and the amazing part is the best is yet to come!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Sought Potential Poem Movie Release

2008-09-19T00:55:00.001+09:00

My brother in Christ, Christoph J. asked me to be part of a poem movie that he had an idea for. It was so exciting to know that he wanted to incorporate my photos with his poem.

Here is what Christoph J. has to say, My NEW Poem Movie, "Sought Potential" has been released!!! It is a very inspiring and professional project that I put together for your viewing pleasure. The movie has its very own website so you can watch it over and over again. You are also encouraged to tell all of your friends and family about this good news.

Early this morning, an email enclosed with the introduction of the movie and the web address of the movie itself was sent out to my entire address book. At the end of the email, I kindly ask for the readers to forward the email on to as many people in their address book as possible.

If you did not receive this email, please message me with your email address and I will make sure that you are included so that you can forward it to your family and friends.

Share this inspiring movie with everyone you know who has potential, but might need a little reminder that all things are possible through Christ Jesus!

http://www.SoughtPotentialPoemMovie.com

For more information contact: jenkins.christoph@gmail.com

My new cut...Mi-Mi made me do it...lol

2008-09-18T23:25:00.005+09:00

I decided to break out the iPhoto booth and take a few pics of my new hair cut.

Until next time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

New Music Release: Dave Hollister

2008-09-18T00:30:00.001+09:00

by Natarsha N. Wright

Remember Soul, R & B artist Dave Hollister? He is one of my favorite gospel artist...to read more go to Potent Praise

R.I.P. Hair

2008-09-16T00:45:00.004+09:00

Today, was a very sad day for me. I have had to wear my hair in braids since I have been here in Korea because back home my BF who is a hair stylist would do my hair for me. Coming here was a challenge because she is the only person I let do my hair. Having braids in my hair for 9 months (I got my hair done once a month) really damaged my hair, so today...I HAD TO GET MY HAIR CUT! If I went home and my BF saw my hair she would not be happy, so I am doing damage control. My hair was long and beautiful, now it is short and cute. And Yes, a Korean (Mi-Mi) did my hair, she a pretty good job too. I had no other choice my hair was thinning out from the braids and I had major breakage. I love my hair and always keep it done, but being in a foreign country it is hard to keep up. Oh, I almost forget to tell you that Mi-Mi also gave me bangs...lol

I am only showing and telling you this so this does not happen to you or someone you know...So, if you are ever in South Korea just go to Itaewon to the Family Hair Shop and ask for Mi-Mi (she is Korean) and she will hook you up. They even do mani's & pedi's.

Before I came to Korea

After having braids for 9 months (I got my hair done every month)

After the cut (*TEAR* *SNIFFLE* *TEAR*)

My new cut w/bangs (me taking a moment to get myself together)

This will take some getting used to, but the good thing is my hair will grow back..YAY!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Locked Out

2008-09-16T00:35:00.007+09:00

When I came home from Namsun Mountain I could not get in the house. Apparently, the door was telling me a few weeks ago that I needed to change the battery, but how was I supposed to know they were speaking in Korea.

The front door man inspecting my door

My neighbor (I am so glad he speaks English) and the locksmith

I had to pay 50,000 ($50) to get it fixed...sigh

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Namsun Mountain/N Seoul Tower

2008-09-16T00:30:00.014+09:00

Pastor Bob and a some other people from my church got together the other day to go to Namsun Mountain and N Seoul Tower. It is was sooo much fun. Thanks Pastor Bob for showing me another part of Korea.

Namsun Mountain/N Seoul Tower

Who's great idea was this? I said as we walked 1,200m up to N Seoul Tower through Namsun Mountain

The grave site of a King

Map

Lady selling silk worms on the way up

Silk Worms (bundangee)

People walking up the steps

People walking the down the steps

The top of Namsun Mountain

People who finally made it to the top

Before going up to N Seoul Tower

Pastor Bob taking a picture of the sunset (see it reflected in the glass)

Superman

Konglish (Korean & English)

A view of the city at night

After that crazy hike and walk back down when I looked back this is what I saw

Street food...Octopus tentacles and some other unidentified objects

More unidentified objects

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Behind the Scenes w/ Natarsha N. Wright Photography

2008-09-15T00:30:00.003+09:00

The Scene: Aamir J. Seoul Station Photo Shoot (A behind the scenes look)

The Scene: 180 Couture Photo Shoot (A behind the scenes look)

To view images from these sessions and more go to http://www.natarshanwright.com

Thank you for visiting my blog!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Thanksgiving Already?? Happy Chuseok

2008-09-14T00:30:00.005+09:00

Happy Chuseok! And for those of you who don't speak Korean...Happy Thanksgiving! Today, Koreans celebrated the equivalent of the American Thanksgiving, which is celebrated in November. Since I will not be home this year to celebrate Thanksgiving I was invited to a Chuseok Dinner by some members of my church. After dinner we went for a walk to a nearby park and played traditional Korean games. Here are a few pics & a small clip of what Koreans serve for there Thanksgiving Dinner.

The People!

The Food!

The Cooks!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Last Vacation of the Year

2008-09-13T00:30:00.006+09:00

This weekend we have the pleasure of being on vacation (for the Chuseok "Thanksgiving" Holiday). It is the last one of the year, besides the one day we get off each month for the end of the session. This weekend I am just relaxing and enjoying these days off. Today, I had a photo session at Seoul Station and then I went on the Han River Boat Cruise.

Unidentified men (?) playing the drums

Homeless man chillin' eating a ice cream cone

Peace man

Happy Chuseok...Have some pears!

A view from the boat

*To view photos from today's session and more visit www.natarshanwright.com

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because if you don't who will?

~N.

Sought Potential Trailer

2008-09-07T00:30:00.001+09:00

I know that my posting has been slacking off on this particular blog, but I have been working so much, photographing people, and working on various projects that have been keeping me equally busy. Nothing new and exciting is happening here in Korea, just teaching and teaching some more. I am posting to my photography blog consistently because when I leave Korea I will be transitioning to my full-time career as a photographer, so I am documenting the clients that I have here in Korea, past clients, and my growth as a photographer. So, if you really want to know what's going on with me check out my photography site. So here is a sneak peek (after 10 hours and counting)...of the latest project that I am working on...turning a poem into a movie.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Time For a Check Up?

2008-09-04T00:45:00.000+09:00

Time For a Check Up?
Alan Riley

Can you believe it is already September? This year is going by in a blur! It seems like just yesterday we were ringing in 2008, and now there are just four months left in the year. Our awareness of the passing of time provides us with an strong incentive to look back and evaluate where we are. Have I reached my personal, professional and spiritual goals for the year? Where am I in my development in those areas? What do I need to do differently to see more progress in these areas between now and the end of the year?

Sponsor AdA few weeks ago I had my annual medical checkup. It's not a pleasant experience, especially for someone who just plain doesn't like going to the doctor. But I have seen the sometimes tragic results of NOT catching a medical problem early, so I choose to subject myself to the inconvenience and the discomfort of a medical examination because it is ultimately very important to my health.

Likewise, it is often not a pleasant experience to go through a spiritual checkup, either. None of us likes to take a critical look at ourselves, much less to ask trusted friends or accountability partners to tell us what they see. But I have seen far too many times the tragic results of NOT catching a spiritual problem early, so I choose to subject myself to the inconvenience and the discomfort of a "spiritual examination" because it is ultimately very important to my spiritual health and to my effectiveness as a leader.

In both of Paul's letters to the church at Corinth - a church that had its share of problems and challenges - he stresses the need for an honest self examination. In 1 Corinthians 11:28, the Apostle says that we should carefully examine our lives before we partake of the Lord's supper to be sure that we do not sin against the body and the blood of Christ and bring condemnation upon ourselves. Then in 2 Corinthians 13:5, Paul says: "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you-unless, of course, you fail the test? And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test." (NIV)

Have you had a spiritual check up lately?

© Alan Riley all rights reserved.

More of You

2008-09-04T00:30:00.000+09:00

by Natarsha N. Wright

1 year ago I had the opportunity to go on a missions trip with my church. It was a life changing experience for me and helped me to put my life into perspective. The Mustard Seed home is a home that houses young children with HIV/AIDS. We later found out that most of the children we visited with and took school supplies to are there waiting to die. They have no outside family and the only visitors they have are missionaries. When we visited with the children they had the presence of God and they showed us adults that life is what you make it. While the children laughed, we cried. They told us that there was no reason to cry because they have accepted God's will for there life.

After that day I had to change my mindset on life and stop complaining about what I didn't have or what I wanted and start being grateful for the things that the Lord has blessed me with and know that God will not put more on us than we can bear. Every time I start to think about complaining about what I have or don't have I think about how grateful I am to have life because it could have easily been me with no clothes, no shoes, or no food to eat. Oh, wait a minute that was me at one point in my life with no clothes, no shoes, or no food to eat, so why is it when I have those things I feel a need to want and ask for more when has already done exceedingly, abundantly, above anything that I can ask for in this life.

"...Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34

POINT TO PONDER: Why is it that we are never grateful for what God has done in our lives or how about what he has not done? What I mean is he may not have done something you wanted because it is not in your best interest. What is good for someone else may not be good for you or better yet what you think is good for you may not be what God think is good for you.

The very thing that you are trying to hold on to or catch is that same thing that God is trying to tell you to let go? Wait on God's timing and everything will fall into place.

Learn how to, LET GO & LET GOD! and seek MORE OF HIM!

Natarsha's S.K.F.A.Q....Packing Panic

2008-08-26T00:45:00.001+09:00

PACKING PANIC...

Hi Anonymous!

Do not panic! Breath. Exhale. Breath. Exhale...lol

1. I have too many clothes! There's not much I can do about that but I can't decide what to take and what to leave. Korea DOES have 4 seasons, right?

Yes! Korea does have 4 seasons...BUT it feels like there is only 2 temperatures...EXTREMELY HOT or EXTREMELY COLD...Spring is only for a few weeks and yellow dust season is usually around this time in April, Summer is HOT as Hates and there is also a rainy season that starts in July through the middle of August. During rainy season it usually rains everyday, sorta like in April in the US. Fall is only for a few weeks. Winter is long and brutally cold.

You can never have too many clothes :) I was struggling with that same issue before I came here. I have a lot of clothes and couldn't decide what too bring and I ended up bringing too many clothes. There was no way that I was only bringing 2 suitcases of clothes. I ended paying an extra $250 to bring an extra suitcase and then the additional fee for over packing...however, you have to keep in mind where are you going to put all of those clothes you are going to bring.

If you must bring all of your clothes I would suggest rolling your clothes in the biggest suitcases you can buy. Don't forget you get to take a carry-on bag! On the other hand, I would not suggest bringing all of your clothes...I would suggest bringing key pieces, a few pair of jeans, dress pants, skirts, etc. and a variety of shirts that you can layer in the winter and un-layer and wear them in the summer. Remember you may be buying some clothes too while you are here and then the next thing you will have to worry about is getting it back home. You can also ship some of your clothes ahead of you, if you know someone who lives on base or already in Korea or you can have someone ship them too you after you get here, so you can see, if you will have the space to store your clothes. I still have not worn all of the clothes I brought because I keep wearing the same thing...so sad :(

2. I love books. Books are heavy. I can't live without a few choice books.

Easy, just bring your few choice books. There are plenty of bookstores here that you can buy books from. You can also order them on-line or you can just ship them ahead of you, so they will be here when you get here or have someone ship them to you after you arrive.

I hope that I was able to answer your questions. I answered them as openly and honestly as possible. Please know these responses are based on my experience. If there is anything else I can do to help please feel free to email me. If you decide to come to Korea please let me know.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

I'm FREE

2008-08-21T00:30:00.003+09:00

I have been super busy with work. Summer intensive season started about 5 weeks ago, which means that the kids are on Summer vacation...YAY! Well, not really because the kids have to go to school ALL DAY! They are not able to join there summer vacation, play with friends, go to the mall, or just hang out at the pool and neither could I...lol because we are in school from 9:50 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. teaching ALL DAY LONG...ARGGGHHH! So, that is why I have been M.I.A. from blogging on Seoul to Soul. To be truthfully honest those kids have been wearing me out. And not only was I teaching everyday I was also photographing everyday and had clients scheduled for weekend appointments. NOW, I am FREE! Busy season has officially ended and now I am able to breath...WOOOSAAAHHHH! So, many things have been happening I don't even know where to begin..all I can say is continue to follow me on my new photography blog www.natarshanwright.com and see how things unfold! Stay tuned for great things. I am really excited and looking forward to all the new and exciting projects.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

www.natarshanwright.com

Random Post: New Shoes

2008-08-13T00:30:00.003+09:00

This is so random, but I am so excited and I can't keep it to myself. I have to let the whole world know...I just got 2 new pair of heels on sale! and they are so cute...

*I brought these pair in the US...A pair of my favorite heels...

Sorry, about my lack of posting, but I have been so busy with work that I have not had a moment to post here, but when busy season is over in 7 days (YES!) I will be able to post more...Thanks for bearing with my!

In the meantime check out:
Natarsha N. Wright Photography http://www.natarshanwright.com

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

It's getting hot in here

2008-08-07T00:30:00.000+09:00

Okay, so the summer has officially jumped off and it is hot as hates...It is so hot that you need an umbrella to protect your skin from the sun and provide some shade from the hot, humid weather...Sigh, I know I shouldn't be saying this, but I miss rainy season...I love seeing the sun because it has been a long, long time since we have seen the sunshine, but if it just cool down just a little it can make the days tolerable. Below is a couple trying to escape the "death rays" of sun!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love life, & Love yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Natarsha's S.K.F.A.Q....What Am I Really Getting Myself Into??

2008-08-04T00:45:00.002+09:00

I receive alot emails about life here in South Korea from people who will be moving here and I am going to start posting the questions and answers that I get because I am quite sure that many people have questions about South Korea and may be afraid to ask them. I will be answering questions about various questions people have about life here in South Korea. Hopefully, this will answer some lingering questions that anyone may have, but just haven't asked :)

In order to live or travel to another country you must have an open mind.

*Disclaimer: The answers to these questions are from MY POINT OF VIEW and WHAT I HAVE EXPERIENCED. If I do not know the answer I will try to ask someone who does. I will try to help out as much as I can. I am no expert. Just wish I had this info available to me before I decided to come to South Korea.
Anonymous from Louisiana:

Hi Natarsha! I came across your blog while doing a little research and I wanted to drop you a line to say that I am a fan already! I am 28 year old female from Louisiana and I have always had an interest in traveling abroad. I initially considered teaching abroad when I graduated from undergrad, but didn't follow through with it. Now that I have a Master’s degree and a law degree, I still feel like I want to do something “more” with my life. Add to that the fact that I am knocking on 30 with no real life experiences, I think I’m ready to take the plunge. Like you, I am single, no kids, and no real ties to anything.

I read through your blog and found some of your experiences to be interesting. What was most interesting to me was how you came to accept your job. As stated, I thought about teaching abroad a long time ago. But, on a whim, one of my friends stated that he wanted to do it. But now that he is seemingly on the fence, I am all for it! I would like to ask you a few questions if you don’t mind. I will understand if you don’t have time to answer my questions, but I would appreciate it if you did. I have been looking at positions and may consider taking one within the near future. I need to know what I’m getting myself into!

I know that I have bogged you down with questions and I do apologize. But I really think that this experience will be beneficial to me and since you are actually living it right now, who better to get opinions from? LOL! I thank you so much for any feedback that you can give me and I wish you the best of luck in Korea!

Natarsha in South Korea says:

Hi! I am so glad that you enjoy my blog. Thank you! Since I am single, no kids, no potentials, and nothing was holding me back I felt that this was the best time for me to travel before I settled down to have a family one day. I want to be able to tell my family about this wonderful experience. I will be more than happy to answer any questions that you may have now or in the near future to the best of my ability. I will try my best to answer your questions based on my experience. Please feel free to email me: natarsha_wright@yahoo.com any time. I think these questions are questions many people are curious to know about. With your permission I would like to post these questions and my response on my blog to help others who may be thinking these same things.

1. Was it extremely hard to adjust to life in South Korea? I am worried that I will hate it and be stuck there in a deep depression for a year! You seem to have adjusted well to the move. Is it because you have friends there with you? Would it be different if you didn’t?

No, it was not a difficult transition for me. Sometimes I miss my friends and family because this is the furthest I have been from them for a long period of time. I am blessed to be here and I get to talk to my friends and family everyday as if I were back home. I have friends here, but I do not get to see them often because we all live so far apart, so whether you have friends here or not does not make a difference. It is easy to make friends here and I have many friends here of all races. The Korean people are really friendly, well at least the ones I have come across and met :)

2. Are there other African-Americans out there? [I’m afraid that I won’t have anyone that looks like me out there…]

YES! There are many African-Americans here. I can put you in touch with some, if you decide to come here. Don't worry there will be plenty of folk who look like you when you get here. BUT don't let that be a discouragement or a determining factor for you to come or not come...the most important thing you have to have when you come to Korea or any foreign country is to have an open mind. What I mean by that is don't be afraid to meet new people and try new things, if that is something that you are not open too, then traveling abroad is probably not the best thing for you to do.

3. Of the other people that you have met, that are non-Korean, what is the average age range? [I’m afraid that the other people there from the U.S. and other countries will all be fresh out of college and I won’t have ANYTHING in common with them]

The average age range here is between 22-35 years old. You will meet plenty of people here from the U.S., other countries, and Koreans that you will have more than you think in common with. Again, be open to meeting new people and learning and growing from those opportunities.

4. What recruiting company did you use? Were your accommodations provided (i.e., airfare, apartment, insurance, etc.)? [I came across one company on the internet that would pay for the flight and accommodations, but I was a little skeptical of them….]

I went through http://asia-teachers.org. If you decide to go through this company make sure you tell them that Natarsha Wright referred you! The only thing I have to pay for is utilities and food. Make sure you do your research and find the best company that has your interest at heart. Stand firm in what you are looking for and do not be afraid to ask your recruiter questions and if he is not able to deliver just know that there are other recruiters out there that will be more than willing to help you. You are a commodity and you have something that they are looking for and they will pay to capitalize on your skills. It is a win win situation. You speak English and they are paying for you to live and teach abroad for 1 year. You gain a new appreciation and perspective on life living abroad.

5. Would you recommend the experience to others? [I know that everyone has a different experience. I do have one friend that went prior to law school and she loved it. She also said that she had a friend that hated it. I just want a cross-section of opinions.]

Without a doubt! I would definitely recommend this experience to others. Everyone will not have the same experience as I am having, but nonetheless each person who decides to come to Korea will have the own experience that they will learn and grow from. I can honestly say that you will not be the same person when you return home. You have been blessed to see another part of the world. Enjoy each day...the good and the bad whether in Asia or in the United States. Life is what you make it and what better way to shape your life by thinking outside of the box. There is more than the world than the United States take this time now while you are single and have no kids to travel and enjoy your life. Enjoy this time to get to know who you are.

6. One thing that I have been thinking about is shopping. I can honestly admit that I am plus-sized and Asians are known to be slender. Are there any places to shop out there, that you know of, that might accommodate a variety of sizes? If not, I plan to load up on some clothes before I come!

Unfortunately, there are not places that I know of that have clothes that accomodate various sizes. I am a shop-a-holic and since I have been here I have not been shopping. I am a size 4-6 and have not been able to find many things in my size. I pick up a shirt or some lounge wear every now and then, but it is wise to bring your clothes from home.

7. In line with that question, are delivery rates reasonable for shipments to S. Korea? I have no problem with shopping online if needed.

I can not answer that question because it varies based on the size of the package. It is best to contact the post office for questions related to shipping and pricing. I do not order anything online, so I am not familiar with the delivery rates. I brought majority of my items from home because I did not know what I would and would not find in Korea.

9. Is S. Korea safe enough for me to travel around on my own, i.e. grocery shopping, jogging, walking, riding the train, etc.?

Yes! South Korea is very safe. You can find singles, couples, families, etc. walking around all hours of the day and night.

10. How are your accommodations? (Your building and area looks pretty neat, by the way!) I've watched a few YouTube videos of apartments and a bunch of the bathrooms are just a room with a sink, toilet, and a showerhead coming from the sink! I find that so weird! I'm sure that I could adjust, but... YIKES! I LOVE showers and I don't know what it would be like to have water all over the place! Would it be rude to possibly request an apartment that has a shower with the sliding door as I have seen in some apartments?

People's accommodations vary based on job assignment. The YouTube videos are accurate. The showers run from the sink and it is rare to have a bathtub. You can not request an apartment with a shower door because they really do not use shower doors. That is also rare, so it may be hard to find. There are also no stoves, two burners, a washing machine and no dryers. They usually hang dry there clothes. They also do not have full size refrigerators, it is another one of those things that are rare.

11. Are there little stores where I can buy household goods to make my place feel a little more like home? If I'm going to be living in one room, I might as well make the most of it! LOL!

Yes! There are plenty of stores where you can buy household items.

Hope this helps!Anonymous from Louisiana, I hope that I was able to answer your questions. I answered them as openly and honestly as possible. Please know these responses are based on my experience. If there is anything else I can do to help please feel free to email me. If you decide to come to Korea please let me know. Lastly, if you are still trying to figure out if you want to come or not ask yourself this, "Why not come Korea?" There is no better time then the present. I would encourage you to go for it! It is a wonderful opportunity and experience, but most importantly pray and ask God, if this is something that he wants you to do.

Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime.

~Mark Twain

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Back from Vacation

2008-08-04T00:30:00.000+09:00

Well, it was nice to have a few days off from work. Now, it is time to get back to work and teach the children...I am not looking forward to long days and shorter nights. I look forward to the end of the day just so I can get to Tom n Toms Coffee and get to work for real with my photography stuff and blogs. Finding something else to occupy my time here has definitely helped the days go by fast. The kids can drive you crazy, but in the end it is all worth it because you are making a difference in someone's life...Well, let me get back to editing, answering emails, and updating my blogs.

Wooosaahhhhhh!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Heeyyyyy! I am on VACATION!

2008-07-31T00:30:00.000+09:00

Heyyyyy! Today, is the beginning of my mini-vacation. I am so excited to just hang out with friends, have a few photo sessions, and take in the sites of South Korea! Here are some sites from Central Park!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Almost Famous

2008-07-29T00:30:00.001+09:00

Today, while I was eating lunch with my friend the waiters come up to us with (2) 1000 won (in the US it would be (2) $1.00 bills...lol) and asked us to sign it. I think it was wrong for me to feel that good about being asked for my signature, but the icing on the cake was being asked to sign a 1000 dollar bill! It felt good to feel like I am almost famous! SUPA STAR!

*inside scope: that is my signature on a $1000 bill...ballin'

Don't forget to check out my new photography blog...http://www.natarshanwright.com

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Natarsha N. Wright Photography BLOG is now LIVE! www.natarshanwright.com

2008-07-27T00:30:00.000+09:00

Hi! Everyone today is a very special day...I launched my PHOTOGRAPHY BLOG!

Go to www.natarshanwright.com to follow my photographic journey. I hope that you will check it out and let me know what you think!

Enjoy!

Happy Sunday!

Love life, Love God, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Monsoon Season Begins

2008-07-24T00:50:00.001+09:00

It is the worst part of the year...Rainy Season aka Monsoon Season.

Well, what is a "Monsoon"? I am glad you asked..hehe According to dictionary.com, A Monsoon is when the seasonal wind of the Indian Ocean and southern Asia, blows in from the southwest in summer and from the northeast in winter. The season during which the southwest monsoon blows, commonly marked by heavy rains; rainy season.

This is similar to April Showers in America, but 10 times worse. Here are some pics I caught while I was riding my bike in the rain. I know I know, but I didn't feel like walking :) I am just so tired of, oops, I mean tired from busy season.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

SNAPPED: My BFF

2008-07-23T00:37:00.006+09:00

While I was getting familiar with a location I am using this weekend for a few photo sessions these two women walked into a few of my shots (while I was testing out my new camera and lenses)...So, naturally it was only right to ask them if they were interested in taking a few photos..lol Well, they were more than happy too and 5 minutes later this is what we ended up with. We had a great time laughing in the short amount of time I had with them.

Say Kimchi!

OMG! It's Natarsha...I love you!

I know what you are thinking...
but it was there idea to pose with my business cards! love it!

You've just been SNAPPED by Natarsha N. Wright Photography

Thanks again ladies.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Enter my Domain

2008-07-22T00:30:00.000+09:00

Today, has definitely been a day full of surprises...First, I got a special delivery..yep, you guessed it my camera arrived! Yippeeeeeeeee! Second, I got a crash course on how to use my MacBook. Yes! Lastly, I brought my DOMAIN name today for my photography business. Well, what is it you might be thinking...? Well, you will find out soon once I am ready to launch my photography blog. Hahahahahahahahaha!

*Aside from all of the I almost forgot that today we started, "Summer Busy Season" this is when the kids who are out on Summer vacation come to my Academy and I work from 9a-8:30p instead of 4p-11p. The kids go to school all year round, everyday...even when they are on vacation they are going to school...*sigh* I hope one day they will be able to enjoy their childhood.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Cooking with N.

2008-07-20T00:30:00.002+09:00

My Korean friend asked me to show him how to fry chicken so he could teach the kids at his summer camp...he heard it through the grapevine that I could cook...So, he came over today and I showed him a super simple way for him to fry the 60 pieces of chicken he will have to cook on Tuesday. Although this was his first time frying chicken he did a great job, especially for a guy, You Go Boy! We had so much fun he even said he felt like he was on a cooking show, so without further or due here are some pics (We even have video...hilarious) of Hans Cooking with N.

The preparation...

The legs...

Hans getting Hands on Experience...

Mix it Up...

Fry it up...

How did I do?

The results...

Good job!

That's all from now with Cooking with N. now we are going to go eat those legs...Peace!

Until Next Time...

Love Life, Love God, & Love Life because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Wednesday Night Lights

2008-07-18T00:33:00.011+09:00

Another farewell party...Farewell Janet Teacher! We got together to celebrate with Janet one last time before she leaves to go back to the States. She rocks! she suggested that we go to a different place this time which was, Barbarosa's in Seohyun. It was so go I hope we go here everytime we have a farewell party. Anyo!

Oh, btw that is Janet teacher in the middle :)

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

All things are possible

2008-07-14T00:30:00.000+09:00

Today, when I received my devotional from Joel Osteen it re-ignited a fire in me:

Today's Scripture

"What is impossible with men is possible with God" (Luke 18:27).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Is there a situation in your life today that seems impossible? As a child of the Most High God, you are not limited by what you see. You are not limited by your circumstances, the economy, or what others say because with God all things are possible! It doesn't matter how it may look in the natural, when you see things through your eyes of faith, you will see new possibilities. You will see the answer that is on its way!

It all starts by having a grateful attitude: an attitude of faith and expectancy. When you declare the promises of God over your life and meditate on His Word, it activates faith in your heart. Faith draws the good things of God into your life. When you wake up every morning, declare that with God all things are possible. Declare that you are blessed and you cannot be cursed. Declare that you are above only and not beneath. Expect God's favor and blessing in your life every day. As you do, you will see Him move on your behalf, and you'll see new levels of possibility in every area of your life!

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, thank You for making a way where there seems to be no way. I choose an attitude of faith and expectancy today. Work in my heart and life that I may be a living testimony of Your goodness to those around me. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

For more inspiration go to www.joelosteen.com

Got Beef?

2008-07-13T00:30:00.008+09:00

Well, with the mad cow scare here in Korea and all of the outrage about beef...I couldn't resist going out to get some "beef bulgogi" (beef)...and I must say that it sure was good...
Beef it's what's for dinner...

We were out doing a little shopping after dinner and I turned around and saw this...it was a perfect! I had to buy it...and it even had a little bling bling...

2 of my favorite things...camera & shoes...Love it!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Photobooth Addiction

2008-07-12T00:30:00.000+09:00

A few days ago me and some of my friends tested out the Photobooth on my laptop...hilarious! We were laughing so much or stomachs were hurting....This may be my new addiction next to Cold Stone...

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

2008-07-11T00:30:00.002+09:00

This was a great week! I went into Namdaemun to buy a new lens and some accessories for my camera. It is Hot as Hates here, so I had to go get my hair braided in Itaewon and while I was in Itaewon I ended up going to get a pedicure and eyebrow cleanup. I thought it would be cheaper because I was in Itaewon, but I was wrong I still ended paying $57 and I didn't even get a real pedicure they put water in the bowl put my feet in it, put some stuff on my toes and that was it for $30 and then they charged me $12 for the polish and then $15 for eyebrows...That was the only downside to my week...I can't wait to get home to get a real pedi & mani for half the price at Super Nail or Kim's on H St. You would think that because I am in Korea that it would be easy to find a nail salon, not true...the ones you do find are sooooooooo expensive and it is not even close to what they do in America...I don't get it...I digress...Woosah.....Anyhow, back to my great week..okay, so after all of that I found out that my camera from the States is in route and I should be receiving it in a few weeks. Which is great news because I have a few sessions booked at the end of the month....and then I received an email of my finalized business cards...Woohoo!

The streets of Namdaemun

He was in front of the subway steps singing for money...

Be careful when buying your equipment in Namdaemun there are so many places that try to get over on you, but luckily I know of someone who went there before me and recommended a great store for me to go to....

My bag full of goodies I brought...I told him that I would be back once a month...

The sun, finally made it's appearance when I was in Itaewon...it has been cloudy these days and it felt good to see the sun, but not feel it because it is so dang hot...geez, I can't wait for the Fall....

More of Itaewon...

I had to go get my hair braided...

Bling Bling Nail...

I was so happy to finally find a nail salon...but I was so mad because it was not worth it :( and it was so cute and comfy in the inside...

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Natarsha's S.K.F.A.Q. COMING SOON!

2008-07-10T00:30:00.004+09:00

South Korea is the same as living in the United States. The only difference is the culture and customs. In order to live or travel to another country you must have an open mind.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Fan of your Blog! Ask Natarsha pt. 5

2008-07-09T00:30:00.001+09:00

10. How are your accommodations? (Your building and area looks pretty neat, by the way!) I've watched a few YouTube videos of apartments and a bunch of the bathrooms are just a room with a sink, toilet, and a showerhead coming from the sink! I find that so weird! I'm sure that I could adjust, but... YIKES! I LOVE showers and I don't know what it would be like to have water all over the place! Would it be rude to possibly request an apartment that has a shower with the sliding door as I have seen in some apartments?

People's accommodations vary based on job assignment. The YouTube videos are accurate. The showers run from the sink and it is rare to have a bathtub. You can not request an apartment with a shower door because they really do not use shower doors. That is also rare, so it may be hard to find.

Typical size of a room

Typical bathroom setup

All-in-One (I know of some bathrooms that have a washing machine in them too)

Toilet

There are also no stoves, two burners, a washing machine and no dryers. They usually hang dry there clothes. They also do not have full size refrigerators, it is another one of those things that are rare.

Goodbye, Doc

2008-07-06T00:30:00.000+09:00

Sunday, we celebrated "B" because she is got accepted to medical school and this was her last week with us :( so we gathered everyone up for a day of food, fun, and laughter. We went to one of her favorite Italian places, Cold Stone, & Butterfinger Pancakes, and then just chilled at my place. We had a great day. I don't think I laughed, so hard in a long time. My MacBook even made an appearance. We had a blast playing around with photo booth. We wish "B" the best and we know she will be a great Doctor...

Farewell "B"...See you back home in America. May the Lord continue to bless you abundantly and above...We will miss you...Love, Us!

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Mac'ing It

2008-07-05T00:50:00.007+09:00

I am so excited I don't even know where to begin...Well, today, "IT" arrived. My brand spankin'
new, Shiny Black MacBook!

HELLO WORLD :)

As you all might know I am in the process of pursuing my passion of photography full-time when I arrive back to the States in 2009. I am building up my equipment little by little and also updating my portfolio. I am amateur photographer trying to make a name for myself. I started almost 1 year ago and I had about 15 clients, but most of them were freebies and people I knew because I wanted to gain as much exposure and practice as I could. Well, in the process I moved to Korea. I started to wonder, if this is what I was really supposed to be doing because it has been a slow process and lot of ups and downs, but when I came to Korea all the pieces of the puzzle started to come together. After much prayer and consulting with God. I can now say confidently that I know that this is what God wants for me. I am finding the balance between my full-time job teaching in Korea and building the foundation of my photography business.

My Canon DSLR will be arriving here from America within the next few weeks and in an effort to get familiar with my new camera I started a promotion 1-to help me get familiar with my new camera and 2-to build up my portfolio. I prayed about it and the result was to offer a FREE 45 minute mini-session. My goal was to successfully book 30 clients between July-December. As of today I have booked around 20 clients.

You may be wondering why am I doing all of this for free? In my conversations with God, friends & families I would tell them that I loved photography so much that I would do it for free. So, God challenged me and said, if you love it so much and you will do it for free...prove it to me! I have learned to be obedient to the voice of God and when says to do it I have to do it. Because I know the reward is going to be much more than I could ever imagine. That is one of the reasons I am in Korea now, because he told me to go, but if I didn't I would not be doing the things that I am doing photography wise...like pay for my equipment in cash. It feels so good. I wake up everyday excited about what God is doing and the people I will meet and the new friends I will make and the best part is that this is only the beginning and I know things will get sooo much better. When it is what God wants you to do everything will just fall into place. I already see him putting things in order and lining things up for me to be able to pursue my passion.

A work in progress:

Update paperwork (Contracts, Info Sheets, etc.) - Check

Upgrade Camera (Accessories: New Lens 85mm, 1.8)- Check, Check

Upgrade Laptop - Check

Upgrade Software (Adobe Photoshop CS3, Lightroom) - Check, Check

Work with Graphic Designer to help brand/design logo - In progress

Get Domain Name - In Progress

Get Webhost - In Progress

Work on Website - In Progress (Scheduled to launch in the Winter)

Work on Photography Blog - In Progress (Scheduled to launch in the Summer..in a few weeks :)

Secure new clients/network - Everyday..Always a work in progress

Update Portfolio - Always In progress

This pretty much sums up what I have been up to and what I will be doing for the next 6 months until I come home in January... just getting ready for my increase.

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Happy Birthday America...

2008-07-04T00:40:00.002+09:00

Being as though I am in Asia this year (South Korea)they do not celebrate the 4th of July, so I will not be able to watch the fireworks at the Washington Monument this year or get the day off of work, but hey there is always next year when I am back in the States.

Happy Birthday America and have a safe and happy 4th of July...

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Chez Moi...

2008-07-04T00:30:00.000+09:00

Today, before work a few of my co-workers and I went to the movies, lunch, and then for a sweet treat. We ended up at Chez Moi in Bundang. It was suggested that there Green Tea Shaved Ice with Red Bean and 2 scoops of Vanilla Ice Cream and Slices of Almonds was a must have. It was so good in fact, that I forgot to take a picture of it before hand, but when I go back for the Strawberry Shaved Ice I will be sure to take a picture. Oh, by the way you can expect to dish out 13,000W or $13.00 US to get a taste of this sweet treat, but don't worry, it is enough to feed 4 or more, so if you go with a group of people you can split the cost.

My co-workers from Hagwon

Green Tea Shaved Ice after we finished. It was so good I forgot to take a before picture..my bad

We felt just like this spoon afterward...All smiles!

Erica & Young Eun

Hatian & Me

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Fan of your Blog! Ask Natarsha pt. 4

2008-07-04T00:25:00.003+09:00

8. Are there any American shows broadcast on television there? If so, are they in English? If not, do they at least have subtitles? 'm trying to determine if I should just pack my DVD collection and bring it with me. While I do love Korean dramas, I'd never make it without subtitles. I love Korean series. I check them out from the library and they are highly addictive! Korea is so beautiful!! I know that I want to visit Jeju Island. That's the spot everyone in the series "Palace/The Princess Hours" always went for vacation and it's gorgeous!

YES! There are English television shows, while most of the programs are Korean programs they do have a few English channels that show good tv shows and movies. They also have a movie theater. I brought a few of my favorite DVD's that I had to have. They also have movie rental places where membership is free and to rent a movie is $1.00 and new movies $2.00 and they have a great selection of DVD's. I was really surprised.

I hope that I was able to answer your questions. I answered them as openly and honestly as possible. Please know these responses are based on my experience. If there is anything else I can do to help please feel free to email me. If you decide to come to Korea please let me know. Lastly, if you are still trying to figure out if you want to come or not ask yourself this, "Why not come Korea?" There is no better time then the present. I would encourage you to go for it! It is a wonderful opportunity and experience, but most importantly pray and ask God, if this is something that he wants you to do.

Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime.

~Mark Twain

Fan of your Blog! Ask Natarsha pt. 3

2008-07-03T00:24:00.001+09:00

I hope that I was able to answer your questions. I answered them as openly and honestly as possible. Please know these responses are based on my experience. If there is anything else I can do to help please feel free to email me. If you decide to come to Korea please let me know. Lastly, if you are still trying to figure out if you want to come or not ask yourself this, "Why not come Korea?" There is no better time then the present. I would encourage you to go for it! It is a wonderful opportunity and experience, but most importantly pray and ask God, if this is something that he wants you to do.

Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime.

~Mark Twain

Out and About in Itaewon & Myeongdong

2008-07-02T00:55:00.000+09:00

It felt good to have a random day off of work in the middle of the week, so myself and a few of my co-workers got together to go to Itaewon for a little shopping and Myeongdong for a movie and more shopping...

DESTINATION: ITAEWON, A PLACE WHERE ALL THE FOREIGNERS GO, SO IF YOU ARE FEELING A LITTLE HOMESICK AND WANT TO SEE PEOPLE LIKE YOU THEN GO TO ITAEWON. WHETHER BLACK, WHITE, AFRICAN, ASIAN, AUSSIE, CANADIAN, ETC. ALL RACES & CULTURES WELCOMED!

A few of my co-workers

We were starving, so we decided to go to one of the most popular tourist attractions in Itaewon.
Smokey Saloon: The Hamburger Grill: Hamburger Heaven

If you ever visit South Korea you must come to Itaewon to go to the Hamburger Grill...The $8+ burger is sooooo worth it...

Welcome to Hamburger Heaven...

A light fixture that I kept staring at while I was waiting for my burger...

Take a seat and let your eyes and stomach imagine how good the next images taste...

Hamburger Grill has more than burgers...There chicken sandwiches are just as good...

Finger lickin' good...oh wait! That's KFC, but this tender, moist chicken sandwich will have you wanting more...

The Classic Burger...Juicy...

The BBQ Cheeseburger...Mouthwatering...

The Spicy Burger...A little extra sumthin' sumthin'

This is what I ordered...well, actually my co-worker and I had half and half. I gave here half my sandwich for half of the chicken sandwich...The Best of Both World's

I punished my sandwich...Yummy for your Tummy...

What more can I say? It is one of the best burgers I have had in a long time...

While I was basking in Hamburger Heaven I looked at the table next to me and saw these hamburger's that I am putting on my list next time to order...I have already put it in my budget to visit this little burger heaven at least once a month :)

Okay, so after lunch we decided to go do a little shopping.

Dave trying to figure out which shirt he is going to buy...He ended up getting a wonder bread shirt...

Homeless man chillin' eating some Burger King...

I don't know what to say about this...lol

We stopped past this antique shop and saw some interesting things. Jason was facinated by this knife while on the other hand Jacinta was not feeling it...After I showed them this picture they started laughing and we started coming up for various caption that this could stand for...hilarious

While crossing the street I noticed this sign...Soul Train...All I could do was laugh...

Okay, so here is what you should know about South Korea...they have a lot of stores that are hidden on the side streets that have a lot of great stuff. However, you should not go down these streets alone, especially, if you are a tourist, it is wise to go with another person.
Better to be safe than sorry! Be careful...

Another side street with great stuff...I even brought something. I plan on going back to get some souvenirs...

NOW LEAVING ITAEWON

DESTINATION: MYEONGDONG (a cute little shopping district)
In South Korea you can find everything from shoes, clothes, accessories, food, slushies, ice cream, etc. on the street from street vendors...and if you break a heel in the process you can get your shoes fixed while you shop...

Jacinta and I decided to go to the movies and then walk around and see what we could find...

The first thing I saw when I came out of the subway station...SHOES, if you know me I have an obsession with shoes...I love shoes! One day when I get a house I am going to have a room just for shoes...

Oooo, Clothes...

Myeongdong, in the center of it all...After the movies we decided to do a little walking and see what we could find...and marvel in the fact that we are really in Korea...

Accessories...We stopped here and brought some cute little accessories...

Umbrellas...Rainy season is coming up better go get your umbrellas soon...

Street vendors...

More street vendors...

People out and about...

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.

Fan of your Blog! Ask NATARSHA pt. 2

2008-07-01T00:35:00.004+09:00

I had a friend who was already down here and he referred me. Make sure you do your research and find the best company that has your interest at heart. All companies may not offer the same accommodations that I received from my recruiter. Stand firm in what you are looking for and do not be afraid to ask your recruiter questions and if he is not able to deliver just know that there are other recruiters out there that will be more than willing to help you. You are a commodity and you have something that they are looking for and they will pay to capitalize on your skills. It is a win win situation. You speak English and they are paying for you to live and teach abroad for 1 year. You gain a new appreciation and perspective on life living abroad.

~Mark Twain

Fan of Your Blog! ASK NATARSHA pt. 1

2008-06-30T00:30:00.003+09:00

*I receive emails about life here in South Korea and I wanted to share some of them because I am quite sure that many people have questions about Korea and may be afraid to ask them. This week I will be answering questions about various questions people have about life here in South Korea. Hopefully, this will answer some lingering questions that anyone may have, but just haven't asked :)

South Korea is the same as living in the United States. The only difference is the culture and customs. In order to live in another country you must have an open mind.

Questions from "Anonymous" United States of America, Louisiana

No, it was not a difficult transition for me. I would get in my moods where I feel lonely or depressed because this is the furthest I have been away from my friends and family for a long period of time, but then I get over it because I am living in Korea! I love my life! and it is only for 1 year. The year goes by so fast you won't even realize that you have been gone for 1 year. I am blessed to be here and I get to talk to my friends and family everyday as if I were back home. I have friends here, but I do not get to see them often because we all live so far apart, so whether you have friends here or not does not make a difference. It is easy to make friends here and I have many friends here of all races. The Korean people are really friendly, well at least the ones I have come across and met :) I also spend majority of my time to myself, doing the things I like to do and just enjoying each day and each moment because this is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

2. Are there other African-Americans out there? [I’m afraid that I won’t have anyone that looks like me out there…]

~Mark Twain

Pizza School

2008-06-29T00:30:00.001+09:00

Today, was one of those where you just want to chill and watch movies all day and I did just that. I was real tired from the work week and didn't wake up until 1pm...argh (I ended up missing church :( Working 6 days a week takes a toll on you and you don't realize how much sleep you don't get until you get it...It was much needed rest and glad that I had the whole day off and was able to chill out and relax. I was thinking today that I really don't have a interest in doing anything, but just chillin' during my free time because I rarely get it. So, that is how I will be spending my Sundays just going to church, going for a walk, and coming how to relax and watch movies...Anywho, I went to Pizza School to get a $5.00 pizza which is really good for $5.00

Until Next Time...

Love God, Love Life, & Love Yourself because, if you don't who will?

~N.