EARLY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

On Wednesday I got two nice Birthday surprises. They were both unexpected. I have really been downplaying my birthday this year. I took it off Facebook. I'm sure you're asking, why would you do something like that? I've never been one to force my birthday onto people. I expect a close friend to call or have a beer with me. But that's about it. You can ask my Dad this. He knows I really don't like to be complimented, flattered or be in the limelight for too long. That's pretty odd considering my very social personality.

Anyway, the two birthday surprises were really something. I didn't see either one coming. I don't remember reminding anyone but the four people I hang out with the most in Korea. When the Bennigan's staff showed up with a goofy hat and a cake, I was shocked.

At our Teacher's dinner meeting Ms. Yoo disappeared to the bathroom for close to thirty minutes. I was so engrossed in the conversations I didn't think much of it. She returned with a grin on her face. Before I could even ask why, the Bennigan's staff came out with the ice cream cake from Baskin Robbins. And they sang the Korean version of the Red Robin style Happy Birthday to myself and Mi Sun, whose birthday is the day after Christmas. A little embarrassing. But what an incredibly sweet gesture by Ms. Yoo.

Although maybe she is too sweet. She forced me to eat 4 or 5 slices of the ice cream cake. I lost count after she told me that we have to finish the entire cake. Who else at the table could be the designated eating anchor than the guy with the lactose intolerance???

After the 4 hour teacher's dinner I swung by the Waegookin Secret Santa party. I walked head on into my second birthday surprise of the day (although I was cued into this one because someone yelled out Happy Birthday before the cake was brought out). Like last time, it was a sweet shared birthday celebration.

You better believe I'm shocked

Now, sing Happy Birthday three times to Nati (left), Si Khoa (middle) and the crazy guy me.

Now, just if I can get everyone to forget that I am turning 27 on the Korean Lunar Calendar. Ohhhh where has my Korean youth gone? Just yesterday I was 24 in America.

Notes:

For Dave: Yes, I spent some time in the bathroom after indulging these quick melting dairy desserts. Lactose Intolerance: 100; Justin: 1 (I've still got Yogurt!)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JAMES! YOU'RE 38 IN KOREA! A mere 36 in America. Only 2 more years until your 40 in Korea!

Next.......I'm dreaming of a whiiiiiiiite Christmas~ Just like the ones I used to know~

My first holiday season away from home. And I won't be home Christmas.

P.S. What happened to the flair and wit my writing had 2 or 3 months ago? I think this blog is missing it's chuckles. What do you think?