Free time and temples....

Master potter showing us the ropes.

Beautiful coastal backdrop.

Dragon guarding the entrace to the temple.

Nick pondering the meaning of life.

As the waves relentlessly pound the battered rocks.

The steps leading to the courtyard of Young-Gung-Sa temple.

Year of the rabbit as all 12 Chinese zodiac animal statues were at the gates to greet you.

One of my favorite culinary delights, Hot chili-garlic chicken....this stuff is addictive.

This one's a strike...killing some time doin a string with Mike at U-Para game complex.

Just survived Typoon ShanShan's assault on the South Korean peninsula and Southern Japan. It was a class 2 so we really were literally blown off our feet as I had to hug the nearest tree to stay afoot. No casualties I believe...but a lot of damage and garbage left unattended in the streets.

We start the countdown to our trip to Osaka. Myself, along with two teachers from the school..Nick and Kim from Arizona are flying in for a week or so. I will have a sense of homecoming as I am very familiar with the city and surroundings. It really helps that I had spent two years there so I SHOULD have no problems communicating...albeit a tad rusty. Look foraward to reacuainting myself with some friends at some old haunts.

We had a nice day trip with the teachers out to a Buddhist temple on the coast. It was a very silent, grey day which served to enhance the sense of serenity and calm. We made our way down the steps to the courtyard and could hear the monk bellowing his mantra over and over as you were able to catch a whiff of the incessant incense wafting around the grounds. Was nice to have some time away from everyday teaching and see the other Korean teachers in a more natural, casual environment. Afterwards, we feasted on duck and a squid octopus concoction with hot sauce which were each individually baked in full pumpkins. Certainly was unique but I think I'll stick to dishes like the spicy chicken you noticed above.

Finished off the day making some clay pots...first time annnnd probably last. Certainly not one of my fortes...thats for sure...I've never really be known to be overly artistic so no surprises there I s'pose.

I wish Mom a safe trip out west with Larr...will be a great change of pace for you both. Aunt Linda is enjoying the family's company I am sure. And will no doubt see some Peterkins around these here parts before a month is done.

Hope everyone is well and belated b-day wishes to Kenny who's ever nearing that big 4-0!

Until next time..live from Osaka!