Day 3

Today I was able to get my calling card so I could talk to my parents for more seconds. I started the day of great because of the great breakfast at the hotel. Breakfast was buffet style and had plenty of options to get me full. I had to eat a lot to get full because my omelet was 1/3 the size of the omelets that I normally prepare at home. After we ate, we visited Gyeong Bok Palace and learned about the life of royalty. The architecture of the buildings was breathtaking. It amazes me how people built those buildings during that time period. The brilliant colors and the detailed wood carvings of the animals and flowers in the awnings and trusses of the temple. We also got a chance to visit the museum in the same vicinity. Cindy enlightened us on various traditions practiced by Korean families. For instance, outside visitors do not visit newborn children during the first three months of their being to ensure that the child isn't exposed to any potentially harmful impurities. We also got a chance to go see a Korean martial arts comedy entitled, Jump. Although the entire two hour performance was in Korean, I still enjoyed the talent and skill of the performers. Later, we went to the Blue House(residence of the President) and took pictures of the complex. We also had the opportunity to do some souvenir shopping. It felt kind of good pulling out 10,000 won(even though it's only $10). It just sounds good. The vendors had plenty to choose from and I hope that I've made some good selections for my family and friends.