Video Footage: A weekend in Tokyo

True to form, the Harrington's captured a few video shots of their Tokyo weekend including train rides, Disneyland entertainment and more!

For your viewing pleasure:

Thawing in Vietnam: Breathing in Paradise

The final full day on Phu Quoc Island was, by far the most relaxing and rejuvenating day, which was, in fact spurred on by the misfortune of the previous nights battle with chili peppers. Regardless, the day was a perfect routine of eating, laying out, soaking up the warmth of the sea breeze underneath the palm trees, swimming, napping, eating again, short walks on the beach, reading, and napping some more.

Only two things were unwelcome on this final day of vacation: 1) a horrendous sunburn EVEN though the Harrington's took proper precautions with sunscreen and staying in the shade. Note to others: do not trust Vietnamese brand sunscreen and 2) a power outage in the evening prevented the couple from eating any where other than their hotel since they were unfortunately low on cash and staying at the hotel would allow them to pay by card the following day at check-out. 

So it was, in true Island fashion - napping on the beach and turning a bright pink by the end of the day, the Harrington's concluded their Island stay and went to bed knowing the next day would bring the next round of travels before seeing them back at home in Daejeon.

Thawing in Vietnam: Following Red Dirt Roads

Waking up in a bit of paradise involves slowly making one's way to the resorts open air restaurant for a complimentary breakfast buffet complete with baguettes, jams, fresh fruits, pancakes, omelets, various vegetable salads and dressings as well as watermelon juice and strong coffee. Enjoying said complimentary breakfast while watching small waves lap the shore and listening to the rustle of palm fronds. Continue the morning by showering and renting a motorbike from the front desk ($10US for the entire day, although cheaper can be found on the island) and commencing on an exciting day of touring and soaking in the revitalizing vacation vibe.

Decked out in helmets and matching sunglasses, the Harrington's took to the red dirt roads and occasional paved roads that define Phu Quoc infrastructure to enjoy a butt-numbing day of wind in the hair, slightly secluded beaches and the passing of densely forested jungle-scapes. After a few wrong turns, otherwise known as intentional detours to get a better feel of the island, the couple arrived at the phenomenally beautiful Sao Beach. White Sand. Blue Water. Palm Trees. Seaside Table serving up beers, fresh lemon sodas and an assortment of snacks. By far one of the most gorgeous places the Harrington's had ever been.

Following a bit of swimming, floating, and lounging on the beach it was back to the motorbike to continue island exploration. The next destination was a pearl farm where the Harrington's saw a pearl harvested from an oyster and proceeded into a large shop filled with thousands of gorgeous, pearly jewelry (a couple of which just so happened to make up the pair of earrings Melissa would eventually purchase to add to her travel-souvenir-accessory-collection).



Bedazzled with pearls and in desperate need of a quick shower and short rest back in their hotel room the couple made a short stop over before climbing back onto the bike and heading out toward Mango Bay for Happy Hour and the sunset. Enjoying the extreme privacy and seclusion of Mango Bay Resorts beach, the Harrington's breathed in the fresh and rejuvenating air, grateful for these moments to explore and be together.

However, the main purpose of coming this way, a bit north of their own resort, was to sample the delicious fares of Sakura, the number one rated restaurant on Phu Quoc Island according to tripadvisor.com. As promised, the restaurant provided heaping portions of some of the most amazing Vietnamese dishes the couple had yet encountered including foot long fresh spring rolls, chicken in coconut sauce and beef fried with chilies. Unfortunately, a day of bouncing on the back of a motorbike with sunglasses that were too tight and a lack of water intake left the Mrs. feeling a bit nauseated and unable to help with the task of eating the mountains of food. Generally up to the challenge, the man easily packed away an ambitious amount of dinner, including the chilies which would soon prove disastrous.

However, unaware of the troubles to come and desperate to return to the hotel and drift off into a deep, restorative slumber, the Harrington's made their way back to Arcadia Resort, where they did not enjoy a deep slumber but rather, one of the two had an unfortunate battle which waged throughout the night and into the next day...

Thawing in Vietnam: Stories from the Couch

Having enjoyed lunch in Can Tho and managed to snag a bus heading for Long Xuyen, the Harrington duo crammed into the little gray bus which proceeded to fly down the narrow streets connecting one delta town to the next. Along the way, anyone who looked like they may need a ride to the next town was hollered at from one of the men riding the bus, being offered a ride to their destination. This created a bit of a rotation in the seating arrangements but did little to disturb the Harrington's crammed in the back with their day packs in their laps.

A bit exhausted from their early morning walk and full tourist days, the Harrington's walked from the bus stop to a small cafe to refuel before checking into a hotel. Using hotel wi-fi the couple checked their CouchSurfing messages in time to see that a couple of Long Xuyen hosts were ready and willing to meet up for dinner so long as the Harrington's made a call to let the CSers know the couple was in town. So, after a short nap and some time catching up on soccer, the couple found themselves at the front door of the hotel being handed motorbike helmets and being directed as to which bike they should climb aboard for a night tour of the city.



The rest of the evening was enjoyed taking in the sights of a city at night from the back of a motorbike with a couple of stops to enjoy the generous, interesting and friendly company of these CS superstar hosts. The night began with a delicious bowl of lemongrass fish with noodles and sugar cane juice followed by a run around town and topped off with strong coffee and tamarind juice. All the while the Harrington's were blown away by the incredible generosity of these four friends who were not only showing them the town and offering their friendship and knowledge of the land, but were extending Vietnamese style hospitality in offering to purchase meals and drinks. Every act was more than the couple would have dared to dream, little did they know the following day would be simply a continuation of this supreme hospitality.

Waking up, the Harrington's made an executive decision to enjoy a double breakfast morning, hitting up their complimentary breakfast of bread and coffee before hopping on the back of motorbikes for a second breakfast of Vietnamese beef pho. Fully loaded with food and energy the Harrington's enjoyed the day with 2 of the 4 CS/friends they had met the previous night. With flexible jobs in the city, Nam and Nguyen were able to treat the Harrington couple to a trip across the river to Tiger Island where the couple learned about Vietnam's political history, particularly of the 2nd President who lived many years on Tiger Island. The grounds of the president's childhood home and nearby museum were well tended yet extremely quiet and peaceful on a Monday afternoon and definitely left the Harrington's feeling as though they'd had a particularly unique experience.

With hotel reservations on an island awaiting the couple, they reluctantly said good-bye to their fabulous new friends after a fantastic lunch of various tofu dishes and another generous outpouring of hospitality as the two morning tour guides took the Harrington's to the bus stop in the next city and made sure the couple had the proper bus tickets to get to Rach Gia and then to the Island the following day.

With nothing but fondness for Long Xuyen and the ability of CouchSurfing to bring people together, the Harrington's enjoyed a more comfortable, yet lengthy bus ride to Rach Gia, their jumping off point for Phu Quoc, Island.

Thawing in Vietnam: Mekong Delta Tourist Attractions

Prior to arriving in Vietnam, the Harrington's had a general plan to spend a day or so in HCMC before heading into the Mekong Delta with plans to finish out the vacation trip island-getaway style. The Delta is the nation's farmland, rich with water sources for rice and fruits of numerous varieties. Typical to farmland regions, the people of the Delta were rumored to be peaceful, hospitable and taking life at a slower, more enjoyable pace. Fearing that getting a taxi to the bus station and a bus into the delta might prove more troublesome than enjoyable, the Harrington's opted to duck into one of many tour operators outside their hotel on their last night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Roughly $25US each and the couple had tickets for a tour package which would extend two days and include transportation to the river, on the river, a small lunch, accommodation and dinner (since the couple chose the homestay) and a number of tourist attractions throughout. Similar packages had been seen online and while they would have provided more beautiful and potentially private experiences, the Harrington's were thrilled to pay a meager $25 per person rather than the $350-400 they had seen quoted through online tour operators.

So it was, on the morning of Saturday the 18th, at 7:30 am, the Harrington's made their way to their tour provider and were led to their bus to begin their journey into the Mekong Delta. With Sozo treats and a rest stop in between to make a quick purchase of 'Adidas' sunglasses and snacks the Harrington's and other tour-goers eventually arrived in My Tho, Vietnam where they quickly and eagerly transferred onto their first of many boats for the day.

First along the tour route was a stop at a beekeeper's farm where tourists were welcome to try the sweet and rich honey tea and a few sweet snacks as part of the tour fee. It was here also that the group had the opportunity to hold up a honeycomb slot of sleepy bees and for a few brave souls to hold a ridiculously large snake.

From honey to small canoes, the Harrington's and others donned the quintessential conical hat and made their way through the winding river under the shade of coconut palms and to the occasional chatter of canoe guides requesting that the foreigners 'givemoney, givemoney, givemoney' although this too was covered in tour costs. Unique, perhaps, to the Harrington's experience was watching the semi-drama of a woman (Vietnamese) go overboard on her small crew causing a small bit of moans and giggles as she was able to re-board and continue on her way.

Reunited with the larger river and the larger boat the tour was forced to make a quick change of plans as enough boats were not present to take guests from the large river, down the small river to a coconut candy factory, therefore the candy was postponed and lunch took place earlier than planned, which was perfectly timed as the Mrs. was beginning to feel the pangs of hunger.

A small lunch of rice, overly steamed and flavorless vegetables with a couple pieces of fish sauce chicken were included with the meal price. For those feeling a bit more famished, the tourist restaurant also provided a variety of dishes including Fried Elephant Ear (a local fish) Spring Rolls, a Mekong Delta delicacy. The Harrington's, who are always down for a bit more food and a few adventurous eating experiences leaped at the chance to enjoy such a dish and were not disappointed.

Filled with rice and fish and with the promise of properly sized boats the group of foreign tourists made their way to a coconut candy factory which was a showcase of fine skill as local women prepared a sweet and unique to Vietnam coconut candy.

From the tourist attractions of My Tho it was time to board the bus and hit the road until reaching the city of all cities in the Delta, Can Tho. Here, each tour guest would go to their pre-requested accommodation which for the Harrington's meant a Homestay which can more accurately be described as Guesthouse or Bed and Breakfast.

Upon arrival, the Harrington's were quickly directed to take a small cottage on the river while the rest of the group dispersed into a garden area. After settling in a bit and getting a feel for property and surrounding area guests began chatting and preparing for a dinner spread which would include another taste of Elephant Ear spring rolls, fried pork spring rolls (partially made by the tourists/guests themselves), fried tofu in a fabulously seasoned tomato sauce and green beans. As if that weren't enough, the evening ended with fresh pineapple and what felt like endless rounds of local rice wine.

With a mosquito net draped over the bed and the sound of the river and occasional motorboats passing by the Harrington's were soon dozing off into a peaceful slumber before another day on the delta.

Thawing in Vietnam: Day of Arrival

Having partied all night long with the Mullen's, still humming the tune of No Doubt's "I'm just a Girl", the Harrington's grabbed a cab from Dunsan Girls High School and headed to the bus terminal at 3:30 am to catch a bus to Incheon International Airport. Prepared to feel the pangs of hunger after such a late night, the Harrington's (specifically, Melissa) carried a bag of Paris Baguette Treats along with her one small daypack. Groggy and ready to nap on the bus the cinnamon rolls and pastries from Paris Baguette were forgotten by Melissa, resulting in a Subway sandwich breakfast after checking in at the airport.

Airport Eats

From Incheon the duo flew to the budget airline airport in Kuala Lumpur (LCCT?) Which is all that a budget airport should be, cheap and busy with budget travellers. After grabbing a quick bite and shedding some winter layers in the tropical warmth of Malaysia the couple was soon in flight heading for their final destination of Ho Chi Minh City.

Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City the Harrington's took a moment to orient themselves to any potential scams by glancing through the Lonely Planet while sipping some fresh watermelon and passion fruit juice. Always leary of taxi drivers that approach them while in Southeast Asia, the couple opted to hop in with a metered taxi which seemed to be 'recommended' by the airport staff. Entering Ho Chi Minh City was a concierto of honks, beeps, and whizzing motorbikes. The taxi driver 'kindly' took the couple on a small tour of the city before looping back to the street where the couple would find their hotel for the next two nights, Hotel TiTi.

Checked into the hotel and eager to see a bit more of the city and more importantly get some food in their bellies, the Harrington's took a short walk through a bit of downpour until they found a nice looking rooftop restaurant and bar. Looking over the menu, the couple quickly decided that a serving of goat meat fried in coconut oil as well as grilled beef and cheese sounded like the perfect compliment to a cold Tiger beer. And the dishes were perfect.

A Year Ago Today: The 27th of June

A year ago today, the Harrington's embarked on a trip that they had counted down for a number of days, weeks, months and quite possibly years. At the close of May, the couple had moved out of their unforgettable 519 home and began working the Summer High School Institute to gather up a last bit of cash prior to taking off for a bit of a World Tour: Guatemala, South Africa and Thailand being the main stops but Qatar, Malaysia, Japan and a quick San Fran trip all made their way into the mix as well. The tour would end soon as the Harrington's were in South Korea in order to teach English for a year (or more).

Now a year has passed. There are many things which are deserving of pause and reflection. However, one thing has been with-held from The Harrington Time readers until this very day. A sort of reward for those who saw the Harrington's off, supported their journey and has remained loyal to tuning in. This one thing also, simply put, got lost in the files and, is ultimately a bit of a disappointment. Yet, let us not give up and lose heart, because while it may not be all that it could have been, it is still a shining example of who the Harrington's are and who they carry with them (specifically Chris Livingston and the HSI crews of 2009 and 2010).

The following is what began as a worthy attempt to recreate the joy that is Where the Hell is Matt? and ended up as a few random shots of the Livingston style Gogo-Dance!

Enjoy!

Looking Back: Dancing in the Streets

Following the world travels of the summer 2010, the Harrington's found themselves in San Francisco enjoying Mexican food, wine, cool air, family and friends while acquiring their visa for their year contract to teach English in South Korea. A few days in San Francisco is always enjoyable, particularly when enjoyed with good people and when stumbling upon annual festivals. Annual festivals in San Francisco are particularly enjoyable when live music enduces live dancing as seen in the following footage.



On that day, the Harrington's weren't fully unaware that approximately 8 months later, they'd find themselves walking the streets of another festival hosting city and stumble upon yet another instance of live music producing live dancing.



Turns out, festivals all around the globe bring out the best in people's dancing skills and for that, the Harrington's are grateful.

Falling Slowly into Howl at the Moon

If you've been with The Harrington Times for long or more specifically during the last few months of their time in South Korea, you are surely familiar with references to Gung-dong, a neighborhood near Chungnam National University that is full of cheap eats, numerous coffee shops and plenty of amazing finds.

Many foreigners in Daejeon are familiar with Santa Claus and in small part thanks to THT, Taco-K in the Gung-dong neighbor hood but perhaps, in your desire to attend such well-established joints you've missed out on another night-life gem: Howl at the Moon.

Howl at the Moon is a bar which speaks deeply to those with musical talents, such as dear friends of the Harrington's Aaron and Brian. The bar features 'pick' shaped tables as well as a larger 'guitar' shaped table. Another musically inclined feature are the instruments available for strumming or shaking (particularly if you are the only customers). One highlight of the bar that the Harrington's and friends have yet to participate in, yet anticipate is Wednesday night Open Mic nights. While Mike and Melissa are by no means musical artists, they do enjoy hearing others express their musical talents and hope to attend on a Wednesday night and enjoy the full musical experience this bar has to offer.

Update: Readers may have been asking themselves: Why is the title of the post 'Falling Slowly into Howl at the Moon?' Well, wonder no longer, the reason for such a title is evidenced in the following video, an impromptu performance of the song "Fally Slowly" from the movie Once. Enjoy.

Getting There: Gung dong is accessable by the following buses: 105, 104, 113, 106, 108, 706 and others. The most common stop name will be Chungnam Dae Hak-gyo. Howl at the Moon is down the street, toward the University, from both Santa Claus and Taco K.

A Classroom Full of Monkey's

Earlier this week, Melissa Teacher found herself standing in front of a group of 17 2nd Grade Students acting like a Monkey. Actually, it was the other way around, 17 2nd Grade Students found themselves acting like Monkey's in front of Melissa Teacher. In an effort to teach this handful of young Korean students bits and pieces of the English language, Melissa Harrington has settled on a number of popular English children's songs which makes for straight forward lesson planning and plentiful opportunities to hear sweet little kiddos sing sweet little songs.

Readers who are often scouring the net for tips on teaching young children English in Korea very well may have stumbled upon this song lesson a few months ago. Knowing she wanted to begin working with numbers, Melissa happily drew on the wisdom of cohorts in the teaching business and went to work teaching Bongam Elementary Schools 2nd Graders: 5 Little Monkey's. If you're looking to do a similar lesson with your students, feel free to check out this PPT Presentation and don't miss out on using this worksheet from SukSuk.

Celebrating 2 Months with Lady Annyeong

Today, March 21, 2011 marks the two month anniversary of the Harrington's sharing their home with a sweet 3.5 legged dog who answers to Lady Annyeong. In honor of her presence in the Harrington's '519' Apartment and on the pages of The Harrington Times, we bring you two videos showcasing Lady Annyeong on this day of celebration.

In the first video, enjoy the experience of coming home to Lady Annyeong as she sits, paws, sneezes and shows unabashed joy at the return of her beloved Mr. and Mrs.



Now, an opportunity to see Lady at play. For two months the Harrington's have tried to find a toy for Lady Annyeong that she would love and enjoy. Proving her loyalty to this family, Lady was not satisfied with any toy purchases but rather waited until Mr. Harrington managed to find a Tennis Ball on the street, free of charge. Even the Lady understand the value of a good dumpster find.

Looking Back: Sepak Takraw 25th Annual Kings Cup, Thailand

Using 'Blogger' as our platform, here at The Harrington Times, we can check up on statistics such as which posts recieve the most hits in a given day, week, month or over all time. The story with the third most views at THT is a story brought to readers in September of 2010; 25th Annual King's Cup: Sepak Takraw. It was, by far, one of the more amazing and enjoyable moments of the Harrington's time in Thailand during the hot and humid month of August. We expect, with the popularity of the original story, this video will come as a welcome addition to the Harrington's coverage of the King's Cup in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Looking Back: Here, There, Everywhere - Thailand

During the hot, muggy, humid, miserable season that is Thailand in August, the Harrington's managed to have a number of purely Thai Experiences. From avoiding the scams of Bangkok, to wandering the ruins of Ayutthaya, listening to K-Pop in Lampang, hunkering down in Chiang Mai and even a little rest and relaxation on the coast in Songkhla, the Harrington's had an eventful and memorable 2 weeks in Thailand during their World Tour 2010. Of note, was the numerous and various modes of transportation the couple enjoyed while touring Thailand, from ferries, planes and trains, to tuk-tuks and elephants, the couple experienced the widest array of transportation while in Thailand and managed to put some of those experiences together in a video compilation. Enjoy the many modes of transport as experienced by the Harrington's in Thailand.

Looking Back:Joy and Beauty in Khyaelitsha

Upon arriving in South Korea we at The Harrington Times worked hard to cover all the bases regarding stories from the Harrington's recent world travels while offering up-to-the-minute reports on their Korean lifestyle. In September and October we presented some 'Looking Back' stories regarding summer 2010 travels. Unfortunately, with the zeal and attention that the Harrington's give toward living their lives to the utmost, many of these 'Looking Back' posts featured home videos captured by the Harrington's during their travels. Well, with a bit of extra time on our hands and a browsing through the YouTube archives of the Harrington's we at THT realize we've left bits and pieces of the summer adventures out of our faithful reporting. So it is, we return to the series 'Looking Back' and hope to fill in the missing pieces and images over the next few weeks or months to properly document the life and times of the Harringtons.

You may recal that the primary reason the Harrington's traveled during the summer of 2010 was spurred by their desire to attend the World Cup in South Africa. Having enjoyed their game and a few sights in and around Cape Town, the couple made their way into a Township for their last night in South Africa. Each township experience the couple had while in South Africa was beautiful and powerful. Two such moments, from one special day, were caught on camera.

During the tour and their night in Khayelitsha the Harrington's had the great pleasure of listening to this group of kiddos sing and learn with great joy and enthusiasm.



The Harrington's also had the opportunity to meet this woman, who goes by the name Beauty. She willingly and humbly shared her story with the Harrington's: her story of AIDS, abandonment, dreams and hopes. She shared her struggles and her joys. She shared her heart. Her story is one the Harrington's were honored to hear and hope to remember for all time. Here, we offer our readers a chance at hearing that same story, from the mouth of Beauty herself.

Stay tuned for additional long over due articles regarding the Harrington's summer travels as well as regular updates regarding life in Korea.

Pet Adoption in South Korea

Who wouldn't want a little of this in their life?

The Harrington's are not the first to adopt a sweet furry friend after spending a few months while in Korea nor will they be the last. Regardless, for those who are in South Korea who are considering making the big commitment regarding a little fuzzball of a friend, the Harrington's hope to share a bit of insight regarding the process with future articles addressing other pet related issues such as veterinary expenses, traveling home, etc. as the issues present themselves to the Harrington family.

In South Korea, there a few ways to which the Harrington's are aware one can seek out pet adoption, the primary source being Animal Rescue Korea. This organization's website is in English, so Guest English Teachers, have no fear! The site is essentially a network of English speaking animal lovers who are connected and knowledgeable about animal shelters throughout the peninsula. The site is filled with information regarding adoption, fostering, volunteering and even plentiful forums to discuss ALL things pet related.

As to the Harrington's specific experience with ARK and pet adoption: Lady Annyeong (then known as Sylvie) first came to the attention of Melissa Harrington while she was browsing topics posted on http://www.waygook.org/ an extremely helpful place for English teachers in South Korea. After email communications with the original poster, the filling out of an adoption application and much conversing, the Harrington's chose to meet Sylvie on their way through Seoul. The meeting was held between the Harrington's, Sylvie and Sylvie's foster on a Monday afternoon. Although the couple had first heard about Lady Annyeong/Sylvie through http://www.waygook.org/ she was a part of the system that is Animal Rescue Korea. She was being cared for in the home of a Foster Volunteer. The primary benefit of such a set up is that, for potential adopters a Foster can provide adequate information regarding current routines, temperament, potential issues, etc. This information was extremely valuable to the Harrington's who wanted to be quite sure they took in a dog to whom they could serve yet maintain their own routines with. Following this first meeting, the Harrington's took a few days away from Lady Annyeong/Sylvie to make sure it was a commitment they were ready and willing to make for this particular dog. As readers know, the decision was a definite yes.

For others considering adoption or purchasing a pet in South Korea, here are some things to consider/take away from the Harrington's experience: regardless of your choice to buy or adopt, at least look over the application form and pre-adoption information provided on the ARK's site - this is crucial to understanding what is expected of you as a pet owner; if this is your first pet, consider searching for a pet with a foster so as to get any insight you can regarding your specific critter; know the rules and regulations regarding returning to your home country with a pet; consider pet food prices and time commitments in light of your current money needs and social commitments; be prepared to fall in love with a cute ball of fur and teach it new tricks!

And for those considering a pet who need just a bit more convincing or friends and family of the Harrington's who want to see what Lady is capable of, a home video from '519'.

A Walk in the Life of Lady Annyeong

Since welcoming Lady Annyeong into their daily lives, the Harrington's have enjoyed a bit of an increase regarding their daily routine. One of the great pleasures in owning a dog is the near-requirement that owner's 'get outside' to ensure excercise and fitness for their four (or 3.5 legged) friend while at the same time getting in a bit of fresh air themselves. The Harrington's have made a decent habit of walking Lady Annyeong before school, after school and before drifting off to sleep at night. With 3.5 legs Lady Anyeong shows no disadvantage in her walking or running skills. Daily walks are the fuel that keeps Lady's fire burning and her deeply felt love for such assures the Harringtons that upon returning to Wyoming Lady Annyeong will find great happiness and feel right at home in what will be to her, a foreign land.

For those family and friends who find the distance excruciating at times and are particularly anxious to 'know' this new addition to the Harrington family, we at The Harrington Times gladly bring you a video depicting various scenes from one of Lady Annyeong's all time favorite routines: the daily walk.

Thankful Hearts in Daejeon

Unlike any other Thanksgiving Day, the Harrington's both conducted this fourth Thursday of the month as if it were any other Thursday. They woke, showered, walked to work and taught their regular round up of Korean students. The equivalent of Korea's Thanksgiving was in September meaning the Harrington's had their chance at a five day weekend a couple months ago.

The next few days will provide the Harrington's a number of opportunities to be with friends and co-workers celebrating this Holiday, giving thanks for the many gifts they've received. But today, the Harrington's have taken a moment to inform readers what they are thankful for, in Korea and back home.

In Korea, the Harrington's are grateful for:

• Adorable and often wonderful students.
• Opportunities to travel and see many parts of Korea.
• The amazing variety and flavors of Korean food (at super affordable prices).
• Green Tea Lattes from OEC Coffee.
• Expat friends to chat with, thrift with, play Catan with and enjoy meals with. Friend who are more than adequate at serving the role of support network and 'family'.
• Beautiful scenery from the natural to cityscapes.
• The opportunity to travel and work simultaneously.
• The generosity and hospitality of the Korean people.

From back home, the Harrington's are grateful for:

• Fellow bloggers, allowing the couple to stay connected.
• Emails, Facebook messages, blog comments, cards and Skype calls, everything that constantly reminds the couple how richly blessed they have always been and will continue to be.
• Outpourings of concern regarding the couples safety.
• Memories of holidays past, spent with family playing games and preparing delicious meals.
• Gifts which arrive at the perfect time. 519 Friends, you are a part of the Harrington's family which is deeply missed. Thank you for allowing the following moment to occur in the lives of Mike and Melissa Harrington.

Thriller

On October 22nd, Mr. Harrington's middle school, Namseon, held it's fall festival. This is a time for the student's to showcase their talents and skills, much like an American school's talent show. And these kids ARE talented! There were magicians, violin players, singers, harmonica players, K pop dancers, ballet dancers and none other than Mr. Harrington himself up on stage.

Many readers of the Harrington Times will be wondering why in the world was Mr. Harrington up on stage? It's so against his grain. And it is. When his coteacher asked him to perform at the festival, Mr. Harrington felt like he couldn't say no, like he usually would. He at first agreed to sing, thinking that some of his coteachers would join him, but as more and more declined his offer, he decided he had to change his act. He decided to perform Michael Jackson's Thriller with about 20 of his students. They practiced everyday at lunch for about two weeks, and even pulling a few two-a-days in the week preceding the festival. And it all paid off! Watch the video for proof.

Thriller was definitely one of the hits of the festival. So much that parents and teachers all congratualted Mr. Harrington afterwards. Even the principal, whom Mr. Harrington had hardly spoken a word, came and poured a shot of SoJu for Mr. Harrington at the teacher dinner later (which was HUGE). Up until that point, Mr. Harrington had assumed that the people congratulating him were just being the overly kind Koreans he has began to know. It wasn't until he watched the video later that night that he realized how well it turned out. He was pleasantly surprised! But, there were many other stars at the festival. Mr. Harrington's school is just loaded with talent. Check it out:

By far one of Mr. Harrington's favorite acts. For those of you who don't know, Mr. Harrington loves the sound of a harmonica. This act had three, of different shapes and sizes, the likes of which Mr. Harrington had never seen before. He wishes he could have filmed the whole thing!


Wondergirls never fail to get the crowd cheering.

One of the other hits. Clap.

Ballerina. One girl in front of about a thousand people. Gutsy!

The mothers did a dance too. This is their warm up.

What I assume is Jpop warmup.

Video Covereage of An Unordinary Night

Here we have live video coverage from our recent article: An Unordinary Night in Daejeon.

We at The Harrington Tinmes hope you enjoy the firework show and launching of a paper lantern.

Looking Back: Enjoyable Moments on the V&A Waterfront

While wondering around Cape Town mid-July, the Harrington's found themselves, more than once enjoying the sights and sounds of the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. The waterfront was constantly buzzing with people, performers and boats coming and going. Shops lined the walks offering a mix of Africa-themed goods, World-Cup souveniers, various culinary options and general run of the mill goods expected from a shopping center.