At Home in Korea

This summer we took a month-long trip back to the States that was great but also provided some much-needed perspective. Coincidentally, we arrived back in Korea a few days after our one year anniversary of moving to Korea. And that brought all kinds of feels with it.

I was surprised to discover that I was glad to be back. Not just glad to be back in our house and our routine, but actually glad to be back in Korea. After a year, it feels like home. I’m glad I had the opportunity to miss it and appreciate living here before it’s time to move on.

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I really do love Korea. I think a big change in my attitude is finally getting past the baby stage with Malachi. With more independence (for all of us), life has become a little easier. But it’s not just this. Korean summer is beautiful, and being surrounded by the green rice fields and pear orchards is refreshing.

Our neighborhood is filling up with more families and though we lost a few to PCS season, most will be here with us for another year.

I love the people and the market and learning a new language. I love that we have overcome so many challenges of living here. We have adapted, we have grown stronger. We have experienced so many new things, learned so many things.

I love how safe it is here.

We have a favorite Korean BBQ that I will definitely miss when we move, and I will miss getting produce at the outdoor market.

I still don’t love having to worry about the air quality.

I also don’t love the stress of Army life here.

But I have a lot to be thankful for.