It's been two months and I'm still missing these people like crazy! When living abroad far from family, old friends and a familiar culture you start to rely on friends in the same country as yourself for support and comfort. They essentially become your family. And for the past two years I've been lucky enough to have these wonderful people in my life and apart of my family here in Korea. Not only have I had to deal with my support system leaving, but I've also been extremely homesick. I've been in Korea for a little over two consecutive years and when I sit and think about how long I've been away from the states....I first hold back my tears and then literally shake my head.
I haven't seen my parents, siblings and even nieces and nephews for two entire years. I've been so homesick to the point where it's actually quite embarrassing. Now before you say, "Well, why didn't you come home Angel?!" I wanted to stay a fourth year and unfortunately my new teaching position started soon after my last contract ended. So basically, not enough time.
I'm better now, but there was a good week or two where it was pretty bad. I needed a few groceries and walked to the nearest market and I just started crying. Out of the blue, I just started sobbing. I couldn't stop myself. I just kept crying. I also found myself crying while at work. Not a pretty sight, especially when I was starting a new position and needed to make a good first impression. Luckily no one ever saw me...I don't think.
I'm settled into my new apartment and my homesickness has lessened. I've also been pretty busy at work so I have things to keep my mind preoccupied. My brother is coming to visit in August/September, which I'm super excited about! I've also had a lot of distractions so things are starting to look up.
A friend from home came to visit.
Friends from Seoul and Jeonju came to see the Cherry Blossoms.
Went to Yeongdeok for a day.
And to celebrate Children's Day/Cinco de Mayo and Buddha's Birthday I, along with friends, road tripped to Mokpo.
