Learning, Playing, and Growing in Korea
안녕하세요, 한국에서요!
(Hello from Korea!)
Two weeks ago, I had my Chuseok break — basically the Korean version of Thanksgiving — and it was so nice to have a little time off from work. During the break, I ended up doing something I haven’t done in a while… I played volleyball! One of my friends here used to play before coming to Korea, and he really missed it. After searching around, he found a group that plays at Camp Walker, a military base only about 45 minutes away. I was super nervous since it had been over a year since I last played, but it turned out to be exactly what I needed! The people there were so kind and welcoming, and now I have a group I can play with every week.
Had to take a pic of the fire truck. Dad may be retired but I will always be a firefighter’s daugther!
After that first weekend, I was so sore, but honestly, it felt amazing. It’s been a long time since I’ve had a workout that left me that tired and happy. The worst part was definitely my forearms — they were bright red and aching from being out of practice. Still, I was proud of my passes (even if it hurt to touch the ball by the end of the night!).
Also, I got invited to play in a tournament here! I might be able to say I competed in a tournament in Korea soon!
Getting back into volleyball was extra special because I’ve been feeling a little homesick lately. I miss my family, friends, and of course, my dogs. I miss driving with the windows down, blasting my music, and singing like I’m performing at the biggest concert of my life. I miss being able to go to church or anywhere, really, and just communicate freely without having to rely on charades or my phone. There are definitely days when I miss America — and Florida!
On a brighter note, I’ve also started Korean lessons! I began a few weeks ago and met once a week with my tutor, who’s amazing. I’m learning how to read and pronounce Hangul, the Korean alphabet, and working through two different workbooks. My tutor also writes new words in a notebook that I copy and practice. I’m focusing on listening, reading, writing, and memorizing all at once, which is challenging but really fun. I can’t wait for the day when I can confidently order food or buy something without needing to translate or gesture my way through it. It’s definitely not an overnight process, but I’m enjoying every step of it.
I know that my posts are few and far between and I hear from dad that you are waiting patiently for an update! SO
Thank you for reading and keeping up with my adventures here — your love and support mean so much! Sending lots of love (and a few volleyball bruises LOL) from Korea!
사랑을 담아,
Samantha
P.S. If you want to contact me, you can message me on socials, whats app or use the email on the home page of the website! Even if I don’t hear from you, I appreciate your silent support and I am hoping the best for all my beloved readers <3
