And now, back to school

Today is the first day of school! Excitement abounds here at Jeju-dong Elementary School. The teachers have been shuffled and adjusted, the astroturf is being laid, and kids are running around cleaning out classrooms. I consider myself one of the luckiest foreign teachers on Jeju. Why? Because...I have 2 wonderful young, positive Korean co-teachers who are as excited to teach with me as I am with them (and they both speak fantastic English - woopee!). Because the 4th grade teachers in my wing of the building are some of the best teachers in the school. Because I get a brand-spanking new classroom in a matter of weeks. Because decisions that impact me at school are actually run by me and my opinion counts. Because it's a beautiful sunny day and spring is coming! Because this week I intend to purchase a car which will make my morning sleep time considerably longer. And because my cousin Emily arrived safe and sound in Jeju last night and I get to spend the next month with her as we explore Jeju, practice yoga, play with the kids at my school, and eat delicious Korean food. Yes, this semester looks even more promising than last if that's possible. To quote Koreans everywhere, "I am happy."