we had off from work today since it was a tree-planting holiday here. i didn't plan any trees, but kate invited me over to her house to eat ��탕 (kamja tang) which means potato soup, but actually it's a spicy pork soup.

i rode the subway out to 사가정, about ten stops northeast of me on line 7. kate, sue, and june met me at the station and we walked over to her house. i was really excited to see that she lived in an actual house, until now i've only ever visited the homes of koreans who live in apartments. i've seen these houses and i've always been so curious what they look like inside.

it wasn't too large, but it was three stories, although i only saw two of them. unfortunately i didn't feel comfortable asking to take pictures, but maybe someday i'll get to go back and get some. her mom made a delicious meal, actually to tell the truth i don't think i've ever had a meal of korean food i didn't thoroughly enjoy. after that we went up to kate's room on the second floor and played card games while eating apples and strawberries. i was a little nervous since i hadn't really talked to sue since the weekend, but after some initial awkwardness it was fine and i think we'll be able to be friends comfortably.

it was an amazingly beautiful day, sunny and warm, temperatures in the mid-sixties. june took off after a while to meet another friend, so i suggested the girls and i get out of the house. we walked over to a café that served fresh fruit drinks and desserts. i had a tasty crushed ice strawberry and banana concoction, and i was completely stuffed after that.

it was a nice relaxing day, definitely felt more like a sunday than a tuesday.