"Where's Your Husband"?

Once again, on the streets of Geksa, the downtown area of Jeonju, I am spoken to by high school boys who are eager to meet a foreigner. This time, these guys asked where I was from and after I told them, they immediately said "Oh, Michael Jordan"...and I said that was Chicago and then it was "Oh, Kobe Bryant" and I said that that was Los Angeles. It was great! Every knows US athletes! And then, the inevitable question: "Where's your husband". I never know what to say, so I always laugh and say "not here". Thank God, this time I didn't get the "how old are you?". These guys were great! Very smart and fun! They really wanted their picture taken! The second picture, below, is of the walkway in Geksa that leads to the shops, restaurants and movies in this area. I took these pictures on Sunday, my day for the movie.

The biggest topic these days is the kidnapping in Afghanistan of the 23 Korean missionaries. There are stories everywhere about what is happening, and the tragic news that the leader of the group was killed several days ago. My

adult classes want to talk about nothing else. I had one lady tell me that she hoped that the United States would get involved because she didn't think Koreans were very good negotiators. I have to admit that it did take a while for the
Government here to send someone to Kabul, but so far, news remains limited. The Afghan government seems determine to not release Taliban rebels in exchange for these Koreans, given the problems it caused in the Spring when they released rebels in exchange for an Italian journalist. It really is hitting close to home here. I am thankful that I have access to so many sources over the Internet.

Today, Monday, is again hot and humid. There is lots of advice in the English speaking papers about how to get a good night's sleep during the month of August. Not everyone has air-conditioning so most days and nights are grueling.

I had few adult students this morning. Many people seem to be confused about the school closing the last 3 days of this week. I guess everyone assumed that August 1 fell on Monday for some reason.

I am eager to make my trip to Seoul! The school secretary is helping me with my train reservation later today. Have an inexpensive place to stay so I am all set. It blows my mind that I am heading into 10+ million people!

Thanks for all your feedback on the blog. Keeps those cards and letters coming!