A Portrait - The Best Christmas Present Ever

A few weeks ago I celebrated my birthday here in Korea. It was, to be honest, somewhat dismal without friends or family to share the day with. But the following day I received an awesome present from Liane in the post (including a Muse t-shirt!). Word got out to some my students that it was my birthday and I also got the sweetest birthday card ever - which I dedicated my last blog entry to, if you're interested in seeing it.

I've always been of the opinion that if you truly want to give something valuable to someone you should give your time. Time is surely the most valuable commodity we have, so to give your time to someone is to show that person you really care. That is why the birthday card, which was made by my students, meant so much to me - they put lots of time into it, they even laminated it!

A few weeks ago a shy student approached me and asked if she could take my photo. Without inflating my ego, this is common, students often come and ask if they can take my photo. But this girl, in her poor English, said she wanted to draw my portrait, so I happily obliged. I forgot about it as the weeks since have passed. I was expected a sketch on a flimsy piece of paper to one day be returned to me (which I would have gratefully accepted).

But today, she returned with a water painted portrait, framed and enclosed in a glass case which she gave me as a Christmas present - the sweetest present I've ever received! So much time...

And she is quite the artist too. I was lost for words. See below.

May I have the Jerked Cod please?

Every so often I wonder, 'why don't they get a 'native' English speaker to do some proof reading?' - I read t-shirts, brochures, tourist guides and menus with appalling and laughable English. Try make sense of some of these items on the menu:

The best birthday card ever

Well, these cards from students are almost deserving of their own blog! Not being much of birthday person I was happy to pass the the week before and after my birthday with a little secret. But late last week the secret was leaked by a friend who tutors Hyun A (one of my students) for extra cash while she studies.

My birthday was Sunday and Monday I walked into Hyun A's class to the loudest, 'HANA TUL SET (1 2 3)...HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU...' The class literally erupted into song, 'Happy Birthday' was followed 'Congratulations and Celebrations.' It made my day. Teaching has, of course, given me many irreplaceable and unforgettable experiences, but this was no doubt one I will never forget and never even attempt to replace.

I was then presented with a card and a gift, again completely unexpected. Below is the card (which is laminated!) It is surely the best card I've got from my students to date and possibly the best birthday card I'll ever receive.