I left Korea....
flew to Florida....
drove to Georgia...
drove to Kentucky...
drove to Illinois...
rode to Michigan...
rode back to Illinois...
then came back to Korea to a whole new area of Seoul and a whole new school.
Therefore, I feel it's necessary to start a whole new blog. Keep checking back for the link....it'll be posted soon.
xoxo
Friday, August 26, 2011
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
선생님... Teacher... Amond Teacher...Supermanda Teacher...
Student: Teacher, do you have a boyfriend?
Me: No, I don't have a boyfriend.
Student: Teacher, do you know what I think? This is just what I think. I think boys all over the world like you... and I think that you have a lot of boyfriends and you go and kiss them all.
Being called a whore by a 9-year-old isn't exactly a compliment, so I smiled, said "No way" and changed the subject to pizza. Pizza is always a good distraction for kids, they know what it is... all over the world... and they like it.
Ch-ch-changes.
Along with some obnoxious staff changes and stress inducing schedule additions, I've found myself placed with the new 5-year-olds again. I can't deny, I love the babies... even if they don't speak any English, whatsoever.
These new babies think I'm Korean and that I speak Korean, which most of the new students at least semi-think. Even one little girl who is terrified of, well, everything... clings on to me whenever I try and leave the classroom. I find her adorable, as well as her classmates, including Jaehoon, AKA Ryan.
This little guy wasn't scared of me at all from the beginning. Despite speaking no English, he's tried to feed me an eraser that I taught him looked like chocolate...colored a picture of me as a green Seonsaengnim (teacher)... and actually colored me green by chasing me with a green colored pencil, which I was unaware can actually color skin. He has to be the cutest student yet, but as always, I like the little misbehaved misfits.
Tequila... soju...
Somehow, the word burrito is uncommon here, and people generally haven't any idea what one is, so I've had to explain this wonderful food many times while I've been in Korea. Without much insight to what a burrito is, one of my students did know about tequila and when I didn't understand his accent, he showed me how to take a shot (luckily, he only threw his head back with an imaginary shotglass in hand). He is, 10.. maybe?
My 8-year-olds talk about the drink "father" likes and comes home red faced and dizzy after drinking. Soju.
How cute, my future little AA leaders of the world.
Fail.
Well, I'm pretty sure I just washed a jacket I wasn't supposed to, my cleaned apartment still looks like a disaster and there's more dishes in the sink even after my unintended company secretly washed them for me Saturday night. I'm disgusting. I'm calling it a night for now, but I'll hopefully bring more tales soon~
Throw your dreams into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will bring back, a new life, a new friend, a new love, a new country. ~Anais Nin
Me: No, I don't have a boyfriend.
Student: Teacher, do you know what I think? This is just what I think. I think boys all over the world like you... and I think that you have a lot of boyfriends and you go and kiss them all.
Being called a whore by a 9-year-old isn't exactly a compliment, so I smiled, said "No way" and changed the subject to pizza. Pizza is always a good distraction for kids, they know what it is... all over the world... and they like it.
Ch-ch-changes.
Along with some obnoxious staff changes and stress inducing schedule additions, I've found myself placed with the new 5-year-olds again. I can't deny, I love the babies... even if they don't speak any English, whatsoever.
These new babies think I'm Korean and that I speak Korean, which most of the new students at least semi-think. Even one little girl who is terrified of, well, everything... clings on to me whenever I try and leave the classroom. I find her adorable, as well as her classmates, including Jaehoon, AKA Ryan.
This little guy wasn't scared of me at all from the beginning. Despite speaking no English, he's tried to feed me an eraser that I taught him looked like chocolate...colored a picture of me as a green Seonsaengnim (teacher)... and actually colored me green by chasing me with a green colored pencil, which I was unaware can actually color skin. He has to be the cutest student yet, but as always, I like the little misbehaved misfits.
Tequila... soju...
Somehow, the word burrito is uncommon here, and people generally haven't any idea what one is, so I've had to explain this wonderful food many times while I've been in Korea. Without much insight to what a burrito is, one of my students did know about tequila and when I didn't understand his accent, he showed me how to take a shot (luckily, he only threw his head back with an imaginary shotglass in hand). He is, 10.. maybe?
My 8-year-olds talk about the drink "father" likes and comes home red faced and dizzy after drinking. Soju.
How cute, my future little AA leaders of the world.
Fail.
Well, I'm pretty sure I just washed a jacket I wasn't supposed to, my cleaned apartment still looks like a disaster and there's more dishes in the sink even after my unintended company secretly washed them for me Saturday night. I'm disgusting. I'm calling it a night for now, but I'll hopefully bring more tales soon~
Throw your dreams into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will bring back, a new life, a new friend, a new love, a new country. ~Anais Nin
Monday, January 17, 2011
2011 comeback?.. eh, maybe.
My one year anniversary in Korea came and went, and yes, I'm still holding strong. My new contract ends December of this year... so I'm thinking about making a comeback. Until I decide which topic to cover first (Since I have a good 4 or 5 months worth to debate over)... I found this picture I thought was hilariously accurate.
If you live in Korea, are coming to Korea, or want a humorous idea of how living in Korea is as a foreigner .. check out that website. (Roketship.com)
I'll try to update again soon (I know.. I say that everytime, but I'm serious).
"I think it happens to everyone as they grow up. You find out who you are and what you want, and then you realize that people you've known forever don't see things the same way you do. And so you keep the wonderful memories but find yourself moving on. It's perfectly normal." - Nicholas Sparks
If you live in Korea, are coming to Korea, or want a humorous idea of how living in Korea is as a foreigner .. check out that website. (Roketship.com)
I'll try to update again soon (I know.. I say that everytime, but I'm serious).
"I think it happens to everyone as they grow up. You find out who you are and what you want, and then you realize that people you've known forever don't see things the same way you do. And so you keep the wonderful memories but find yourself moving on. It's perfectly normal." - Nicholas Sparks
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
335 days later.
I'm starting to realize that in reality, anyone can do anything they want in life. Dreams don't have to be imaginary. Money and fear are the only two things that really stand in the way of being exactly who you want to be and going exactly where you want to go. I understand it's not always easy. Life loves to throw obstacles our way, testing our strength and determination, and not everyone can handle the failures it takes to finally succeed.
One month from today I'll have been in Korea exactly one year. I remember stepping off the airplane last October absolutely terrified. I didn't know what I was doing or what I expected. I didn't know the language, the food, the culture. Most of all, I had no idea who I was, the real me. I hoped my year would go by quickly, and I could return home without anything ever changing.
Last Friday, I extended my contract for another 6 months.
I'm still not positive I know exactly who I am, but every day I take one step closer to figuring it all out. I absolutely love this country, although I'm not entirely sure I wouldn't say that about anywhere I happened to find myself living. However, the people, the food, the customs and traditions, they all amaze me here and there's nothing I take for granted. I feel like I've done a lot--DJ Fest, Lantern Fest, Mud Fest, trip to Busan, palaces and temples, aquariums and museums, bars and restaurants, shopping, etc.-- but I also feel like there are so many things I haven't gotten to do yet, and I can't wait to see where the next 6 months takes me.
My newest idea is to get a TEFL certificate in another country for a month after my contract ends in February. Possibly Spain or Greece... or somewhere in South America.. Peru? I feel lucky, but at the same time I'm really just doing what I want to do. The world is an amazing place, why shouldn't I try to turn my dream of exploring it into a reality?
One month from today I'll have been in Korea exactly one year. I remember stepping off the airplane last October absolutely terrified. I didn't know what I was doing or what I expected. I didn't know the language, the food, the culture. Most of all, I had no idea who I was, the real me. I hoped my year would go by quickly, and I could return home without anything ever changing.
Last Friday, I extended my contract for another 6 months.
I'm still not positive I know exactly who I am, but every day I take one step closer to figuring it all out. I absolutely love this country, although I'm not entirely sure I wouldn't say that about anywhere I happened to find myself living. However, the people, the food, the customs and traditions, they all amaze me here and there's nothing I take for granted. I feel like I've done a lot--DJ Fest, Lantern Fest, Mud Fest, trip to Busan, palaces and temples, aquariums and museums, bars and restaurants, shopping, etc.-- but I also feel like there are so many things I haven't gotten to do yet, and I can't wait to see where the next 6 months takes me.
My newest idea is to get a TEFL certificate in another country for a month after my contract ends in February. Possibly Spain or Greece... or somewhere in South America.. Peru? I feel lucky, but at the same time I'm really just doing what I want to do. The world is an amazing place, why shouldn't I try to turn my dream of exploring it into a reality?
"You were given life; it is your duty to find something beautiful within life, no matter how slight." --Elizabeth Gilbert
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Sometimes I feel like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz.
I've almost let another two months go by without writing. Time is nothing here. I feel like I must fall asleep sometimes wearing sparkling, red shoes, only to wake up in a completely different week or month. My weeks go from Monday to Friday without blinking, and the weekends are filled with friends and usually some random adventure that makes Sunday night come just as quickly as the last.
The summer has come, and I spend most of my weeknights wondering how much my air conditioning will cost since it's incessantly running. On...off..on...off...on....sleep. That's how it goes. I remember a few months back when I refused to believe the weather would ever change from cold. Supposedly the rainy season was supposed to start the past couple weekends, but luckily it was sunny today which gave me brief memories of being at the beach and sitting outside in the sun. My countdown has begun, however, and Mudfest is right around the corner along with a trip to England and then a trip to somewhere in the southern parts of Korea.
Well, I realize this is short but it's late here, and since I've grown accustomed to sleeping until as late as possible every morning and making it to work barely on time, I should probably get some sleep in an attempt to change my stubborn ways. Hopefully, I'll write again soon as I have a lot to say and will undoubtedly have more by the end of the month.
The summer has come, and I spend most of my weeknights wondering how much my air conditioning will cost since it's incessantly running. On...off..on...off...on....sleep. That's how it goes. I remember a few months back when I refused to believe the weather would ever change from cold. Supposedly the rainy season was supposed to start the past couple weekends, but luckily it was sunny today which gave me brief memories of being at the beach and sitting outside in the sun. My countdown has begun, however, and Mudfest is right around the corner along with a trip to England and then a trip to somewhere in the southern parts of Korea.
Well, I realize this is short but it's late here, and since I've grown accustomed to sleeping until as late as possible every morning and making it to work barely on time, I should probably get some sleep in an attempt to change my stubborn ways. Hopefully, I'll write again soon as I have a lot to say and will undoubtedly have more by the end of the month.
"Do not look back and grieve over the past, for it is gone; and do not be troubled about the future, for it has not yet come. Live in the present, and make it so beautiful that it will be worth remembering." --Ida Scott Taylor
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Flying Purple People Eater
I really enjoy meeting new people. Granted, rarely am I one to initiate a conversation with someone new, but there must be something about me that welcomes people to come and talk to me... and I really like that about myself. Otherwise, it's just boredom or curiousity that draws people to me, but either way, it's usually pretty cool. I've met a lot of really cool and interesting people so far.
However, I've also had my share of interesting (in a not so good way) and somewhat creepy characters who've introduced themselves to me.
Yesterday, for example, I met a nice looking guy who attends one of the top universities here in Seoul as an engineering student (this was confirmed by a folder and paper he showed me to emphasize his point, since I couldn't quite understand the name of the university he was saying in broken English). He came off as a nice guy who just wanted to meet foreigners, telling me about his military stint and how he was going to a party. He even invited me to eat Kimchi and rice with him, which seemed innocent enough even though I told him it'd have to be another night. Then, he pushed the barrier a bit. He told me how beautiful I am, which I get told a lot in this country and have learned to be flattered by rather than creeped out, but he also told me he "literally" loved me.
"I love you. Literally. I love you."
This is another common phrase Koreans learn, but I always become a little nervous when I hear it because I know the conversation could quickly turn. However, lately I've learned to smile politely, say some small form of "thank you" in return and change the subject if at all possible, which I somewhat managed to do.
He went on to tell me I have a small face... another conversational repeat I often hear, which is why Korean men supposedly find me beautiful. Then, he went on to tell me he had a large face (which he didn't) and large other areas, err, if you know what I mean and continued to ask me if that was a good thing...
First of all, doubtful... second of all, it was completely inappropriate and awkward. This was the point when every escape plan I could possibly conjur up came into play.
Long story short, he followed me off the train to my transfer point then, luckily, I had to pay more to take the express train so he didn't follow me past the pay point. I also had a similiar taxi driver a few weekends back, but he was a bit less creepy. He pulled the "I love you" too though.
This being said, I know my mom is probably going to freak out now, after reading this, about me going anywhere alone, etc. etc. but really, I couldn't be in a country I'm less afraid of. I never once thought anyone was going to hurt me, and there are always people outside at all times of night, so coming home alone late at night isn't an issue. Plus, these funny/creepy people make for interesting stories and are usually really nice people who have social issues. Plus, the amazing people I meet make up for the weird ones.
It's also become a goal of mine to learn another language during my lifetime. It's amazing to me how people can speak so many... I'm jealous of their capacity to learn so easily.
til next time.
However, I've also had my share of interesting (in a not so good way) and somewhat creepy characters who've introduced themselves to me.
Yesterday, for example, I met a nice looking guy who attends one of the top universities here in Seoul as an engineering student (this was confirmed by a folder and paper he showed me to emphasize his point, since I couldn't quite understand the name of the university he was saying in broken English). He came off as a nice guy who just wanted to meet foreigners, telling me about his military stint and how he was going to a party. He even invited me to eat Kimchi and rice with him, which seemed innocent enough even though I told him it'd have to be another night. Then, he pushed the barrier a bit. He told me how beautiful I am, which I get told a lot in this country and have learned to be flattered by rather than creeped out, but he also told me he "literally" loved me.
"I love you. Literally. I love you."
This is another common phrase Koreans learn, but I always become a little nervous when I hear it because I know the conversation could quickly turn. However, lately I've learned to smile politely, say some small form of "thank you" in return and change the subject if at all possible, which I somewhat managed to do.
He went on to tell me I have a small face... another conversational repeat I often hear, which is why Korean men supposedly find me beautiful. Then, he went on to tell me he had a large face (which he didn't) and large other areas, err, if you know what I mean and continued to ask me if that was a good thing...
First of all, doubtful... second of all, it was completely inappropriate and awkward. This was the point when every escape plan I could possibly conjur up came into play.
Long story short, he followed me off the train to my transfer point then, luckily, I had to pay more to take the express train so he didn't follow me past the pay point. I also had a similiar taxi driver a few weekends back, but he was a bit less creepy. He pulled the "I love you" too though.
This being said, I know my mom is probably going to freak out now, after reading this, about me going anywhere alone, etc. etc. but really, I couldn't be in a country I'm less afraid of. I never once thought anyone was going to hurt me, and there are always people outside at all times of night, so coming home alone late at night isn't an issue. Plus, these funny/creepy people make for interesting stories and are usually really nice people who have social issues. Plus, the amazing people I meet make up for the weird ones.
It's also become a goal of mine to learn another language during my lifetime. It's amazing to me how people can speak so many... I'm jealous of their capacity to learn so easily.
til next time.
"Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense. " -Ralph Waldo Emerson
Sunday, May 9, 2010
4th World DJ Festival
The 4th World DJ Festival was held in Nanji Park near the Han River. It was a day full of... well... awesomeness. Add me on Facebook to see the rest of my pictures and a couple videos. Good music, good beer, good people... it was great. Definitely check it out if you ever have the chance.
"Tonight's the night the world begins again."
Monday, May 3, 2010
"Yesterday's just a memory, tomorrow is never what it's supposed to be.”
I realized I didn't write a single blog last month. April was amazing, and above all other things, I surpassed my halfway point in Korea. I hung out with some really interesting and great people (as well as my share of uninteresting and not-so-great ones), some who've already come and gone, others who will be leaving soon and some who I've just started to form long lasting friendships with.
I'm sitting here listening to my newest playlist (a random mix of house, dance and a few indie songs... a playlist I'd never compose for myself but I actually like it) named after one of the new friends I met. He said, "You're living your dream life here." At first I questioned this statement, but after thinking about it for a while, I realized he was right. I'm 23 and doing everything any typical 23 year old would love to be doing... meeting new people, traveling, partying, making money and living for free away from home.
Anyway, everyone asks me what I'm doing when I leave here. Quite frankly... I have no idea. I know I'm going to Europe for about a month, which will probably fly by. Then, I'm thinking about going to Illinois... kidnapping Troy's car, wherever that may be. Then, possibly taking a road trip to Canada to visit some friends... (why not?)... stopping to see my MN friends along the way... then traveling back down to Georgia for a while. If I'm broke by that point and still haven't found a job, I think I'm going to just come back here for another year... or find somewere else to go. I may get my TESOL certificate along the way.
I'm not sure. Before I got here, I was so ready to just settle... set up my life and live the rest of my life in one place. Now... I know I want that eventually, but I'm still determining if it's sooner rather than later or not. I want to make amazing stories while I can. Ya know?
Anyway, I feel like I need to start planning another short trip away soon. We booked Mudfest, I'm looking forward to that. DJ Fest is this weekend, that should be fun. But where to go for summer break... we shall see...
I'm sitting here listening to my newest playlist (a random mix of house, dance and a few indie songs... a playlist I'd never compose for myself but I actually like it) named after one of the new friends I met. He said, "You're living your dream life here." At first I questioned this statement, but after thinking about it for a while, I realized he was right. I'm 23 and doing everything any typical 23 year old would love to be doing... meeting new people, traveling, partying, making money and living for free away from home.
Anyway, everyone asks me what I'm doing when I leave here. Quite frankly... I have no idea. I know I'm going to Europe for about a month, which will probably fly by. Then, I'm thinking about going to Illinois... kidnapping Troy's car, wherever that may be. Then, possibly taking a road trip to Canada to visit some friends... (why not?)... stopping to see my MN friends along the way... then traveling back down to Georgia for a while. If I'm broke by that point and still haven't found a job, I think I'm going to just come back here for another year... or find somewere else to go. I may get my TESOL certificate along the way.
I'm not sure. Before I got here, I was so ready to just settle... set up my life and live the rest of my life in one place. Now... I know I want that eventually, but I'm still determining if it's sooner rather than later or not. I want to make amazing stories while I can. Ya know?
Anyway, I feel like I need to start planning another short trip away soon. We booked Mudfest, I'm looking forward to that. DJ Fest is this weekend, that should be fun. But where to go for summer break... we shall see...
"If you want something, don't wish for it. Life is too short to wait." --Stephen Hines
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
It's what you make it.
I guess there are worse things than wanting to do too many things in life... even if only half are extraordinary and the others involve mediocre things such as wearing jean shorts, flip flops and sitting in the sand drinking a cold beer. But, really, what else is there to look forward to if you aren't making anything happen? Extraordinary or not.
I was going to make a list of things I'm attempting to "make happen," but there's too many. Just think beautiful places.. white beaches, mountains, amazing buildings, delicious food and drinks..easy jobs or writing jobs and bikinis and t-shirts. Lots of bikinis and t-shirts.
I was going to make a list of things I'm attempting to "make happen," but there's too many. Just think beautiful places.. white beaches, mountains, amazing buildings, delicious food and drinks..easy jobs or writing jobs and bikinis and t-shirts. Lots of bikinis and t-shirts.
"If you wind up with a boring, miserable life because you listened to your mom, your dad, your teacher, your priest, or some guy on tv telling you how to do your shit, then you deserve it."
Monday, March 29, 2010
Hmmm. 5 months down. 7 more to go...
There's some nights I have nothing better to do than browse the internet aimlessly. I found these life lessons to live by, and despite the few cheesy ones, it beat all the other lists I found (aside from the cool random facts lists and best places to visit... but I feel more people should check this one out). The ones I like best are in bold.
1. Have a firm handshake.
2. Look people in the eye.
3. Sing in the shower.
4. Own a great stereo system.
5. If in a fight, hit first and hit hard.
6. Keep secrets.
7. Never give up on anybody. Miracles happen every day.
8. Always accept an outstretched hand.
9. Be brave. Even if you're not, pretend to be. No one can tell the difference.
10. Whistle.
11. Avoid sarcastic remarks.
12. Choose your life's mate carefully. From this one decision will come 90 per cent of all your happiness or misery.
13. Make it a habit to do nice things for people who will never find out.
14. Lend only those books you never care to see again.
15. Never deprive someone of hope; it might be all that they have.
16. When playing games with children, let them win.
17. Give people a second chance, but not a third.
18. Be romantic.
19. Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
20. Loosen up. Relax. Except for rare life-and-death matters, nothing is as important as it first seems.
21. Don't allow the phone to interrupt important moments. It's there for our convenience, not the caller's.
22. Be a good loser.
23. Be a good winner.
24. Think twice before burdening a friend with a secret.
25. When someone hugs you, let them be the first to let go.
26. Be modest. A lot was accomplished before you were born.
27. Keep it simple.
28. Beware of the person who has nothing to lose.
29. Don't burn bridges. You'll be surprised how many times you have to cross the same river.
30. Live your life so that your epitaph could read, No Regrets
31. Be bold and courageous. When you look back on life, you'll regret the things you didn't do more than the one's you did.
32. Never waste an opportunity to tell someone you love them.
33. Remember no one makes it alone. Have a grateful heart and be quick to acknowledge those who helped you.
34. Take charge of your attitude. Don't let someone else choose it for you.
35. Visit friends and relatives when they are in hospital; you need only stay a few minutes.
36. Begin each day with some of your favorite music.
37. Once in a while, take the scenic route.
38. Send a lot of Valentine cards. Sign them, 'Someone who thinks you're terrific.'
39. Answer the phone with enthusiasm and energy in your voice.
40. Keep a note pad and pencil on your bed-side table. Million-dollar ideas sometimes strike at 3 a.m.
41. Show respect for everyone who works for a living, regardless of how trivial their job.
42. Send your loved ones flowers. Think of a reason later.
43. Make someone's day by paying the toll for the person in the car behind you.
44. Become someone's hero.
45. Marry only for love.
46. Count your blessings.
47. Compliment the meal when you're a guest in someone's home.
48. Wave at the children on a school bus.
49. Remember that 80 per cent of the success in any job is based on your ability to deal with people.
50. Don't expect life to be fair.
I know I need to start writing more. I also know I say something similiar in each post. Highlights from the past few weeks? St. Patrick's Day was a blast... Aquarium trip with the guys and then my first movie in a Korean theater (assigned seating was odd, but it was in English so I can't complain too much)... Shipwrecked "booze cruise" with 500 other foreigners (highlight here was Julie saying "imagine how many schools would be screwed out of teachers if this boat sank")... and then just teaching. Hearing that my baby class really likes me and having the girl who disliked foreigers actually grab my arm today and play with me was a highlight also.
Oh, and I went grocery shopping. I think my refrigerator has more food in it than it has in the past 5 months. I'm stepping outside of my hot dog, quesadilla and pasta boundary. Not by much... but it's happening nonetheless.
Well, my back really hurts... so I think it's time to pop a Tylenol and try to get some sleep. I swear one of these days I'll write more. Seriously...
1. Have a firm handshake.
2. Look people in the eye.
3. Sing in the shower.
4. Own a great stereo system.
5. If in a fight, hit first and hit hard.
6. Keep secrets.
7. Never give up on anybody. Miracles happen every day.
8. Always accept an outstretched hand.
9. Be brave. Even if you're not, pretend to be. No one can tell the difference.
10. Whistle.
11. Avoid sarcastic remarks.
12. Choose your life's mate carefully. From this one decision will come 90 per cent of all your happiness or misery.
13. Make it a habit to do nice things for people who will never find out.
14. Lend only those books you never care to see again.
15. Never deprive someone of hope; it might be all that they have.
16. When playing games with children, let them win.
17. Give people a second chance, but not a third.
18. Be romantic.
19. Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
20. Loosen up. Relax. Except for rare life-and-death matters, nothing is as important as it first seems.
21. Don't allow the phone to interrupt important moments. It's there for our convenience, not the caller's.
22. Be a good loser.
23. Be a good winner.
24. Think twice before burdening a friend with a secret.
25. When someone hugs you, let them be the first to let go.
26. Be modest. A lot was accomplished before you were born.
27. Keep it simple.
28. Beware of the person who has nothing to lose.
29. Don't burn bridges. You'll be surprised how many times you have to cross the same river.
30. Live your life so that your epitaph could read, No Regrets
31. Be bold and courageous. When you look back on life, you'll regret the things you didn't do more than the one's you did.
32. Never waste an opportunity to tell someone you love them.
33. Remember no one makes it alone. Have a grateful heart and be quick to acknowledge those who helped you.
34. Take charge of your attitude. Don't let someone else choose it for you.
35. Visit friends and relatives when they are in hospital; you need only stay a few minutes.
36. Begin each day with some of your favorite music.
37. Once in a while, take the scenic route.
38. Send a lot of Valentine cards. Sign them, 'Someone who thinks you're terrific.'
39. Answer the phone with enthusiasm and energy in your voice.
40. Keep a note pad and pencil on your bed-side table. Million-dollar ideas sometimes strike at 3 a.m.
41. Show respect for everyone who works for a living, regardless of how trivial their job.
42. Send your loved ones flowers. Think of a reason later.
43. Make someone's day by paying the toll for the person in the car behind you.
44. Become someone's hero.
45. Marry only for love.
46. Count your blessings.
47. Compliment the meal when you're a guest in someone's home.
48. Wave at the children on a school bus.
49. Remember that 80 per cent of the success in any job is based on your ability to deal with people.
50. Don't expect life to be fair.
I know I need to start writing more. I also know I say something similiar in each post. Highlights from the past few weeks? St. Patrick's Day was a blast... Aquarium trip with the guys and then my first movie in a Korean theater (assigned seating was odd, but it was in English so I can't complain too much)... Shipwrecked "booze cruise" with 500 other foreigners (highlight here was Julie saying "imagine how many schools would be screwed out of teachers if this boat sank")... and then just teaching. Hearing that my baby class really likes me and having the girl who disliked foreigers actually grab my arm today and play with me was a highlight also.
Oh, and I went grocery shopping. I think my refrigerator has more food in it than it has in the past 5 months. I'm stepping outside of my hot dog, quesadilla and pasta boundary. Not by much... but it's happening nonetheless.
Well, my back really hurts... so I think it's time to pop a Tylenol and try to get some sleep. I swear one of these days I'll write more. Seriously...
"Sometimes, you have to be apart from people you love.. But it doesn’t mean you love them any less.. Sometimes, it even makes you love them more."
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Oops...Time Flies When You're Having Fun.
I've been a gigantic blog avoider lately. There's just so much to catch up on... my Taiwan trip, fun weekends filled with drinking and other such nonsense, Valentine's Day weekend, the chaotic month before school graduation and the start of the new semester, and my weekend at Camp Casey... along with other things I've most certainly forgotten for the time being. Did an entire month and a half go by without blogging? It's true then, time does fly by when you're having fun... keeping busy.
I'm going into my fifth month here already. Too bad it's not six, because that's the halfway point... but the idea that I haven't seen my family and friends in at least six months is so ridiculous to me! I feel like it wasn't too long ago I was packing like crazy, making last minute trips across states and towns, and wishing so badly I could figure out a way to stay home. Now, I'm certainly glad I'm here, but I definitely know that it's going and doing things that makes the time fly by.
So what have I learned in Korea up until now? There's good, awesome, amazing days... and then there's bad days. But there's really nothing you can do about it.
Things I love about being here (or have started liking the longer I've been here):
- My student’s smiling faces. I really do love them. It’s incredible how special children are. A year ago, I didn’t want kids… didn’t even particularly like kids, but now I realize how innocent and carefree they are, and I can’t imagine how anyone could not love them. The worst days I’ve had here have been completely forgotten by the love my students give. They are just too damn cute sometimes, and I’ll probably try and smuggle a few home when my contract is up.
- Teaching. One of my youngest students, in the 5 year old class… which really I swear some of those students are 3 years old American age, wrote his name on his own for the first time the other day and was so excited. Those are the kinds of moments I feel like what I’m doing really matters. His English name is Ted, and he kept writing the T and looking at me for help with the E. I guided his hand about three different times to show him how to do it… then he would write the D. I looked over after explaining the next coloring activity and he was so happy and had a huge smile on his face and kept pointing at his paper. He did the E on his own. Man, I like that class. Especially since the one little girl who is terrified of foreigners finally likes me… and even joked with me by calling a dog a cat and giggling her little head off.
- Having people say things to me, and slightly knowing what they mean. I pass by this little market on the way to the subway station every day, and every day the man who works there is outside and says hello to me. It’s always a very excited hello with a big smile, a nice way to start my day. I’ve had other people say hello in Korean as they pass by, it’s nice being able to say it back and not feel silly. I also know when my students who can’t speak English need to use the bathroom now, that’s a plus.
- Having enough money in my account to accidentally withdraw $400 by hitting the wrong button. I was freaking out, but in the end, it was nice realizing I have money for once.
- Taco Bell. It’s coming to Korea. I honestly think it’s because I’m here now… it’s like they know I’m their number 1 fan so they decided to follow me.
- Being in my own little world most of the time. I know if people are talking, it’s most likely not to me. I don’t have to worry about being stopped and asked for directions, I don’t have to worry about having salespeople try to help me, or peddlers trying to sell things. I can put on my iPod and go wherever I’m headed just playing whatever I feel like hearing that day. I may get stared at quite often, but even that doesn’t really bother me anymore.
- Being courageous, independent, carefree, and just plain lucky. I didn’t really feel those things before I came here, now I definitely do.
Things I still haven’t gotten used to as long as I’ve been here:
- Pushing and shoving. People don’t understand that I can usually only go as fast as the person in front of me. They think if they just keep walking into my back I can go faster. Not so much. They also don’t believe in lines.
- They have no sense of a personal bubble here. I think it scares them to be alone, I could be standing in a completely open area and if someone walks up they will still probably bump into me.
- Everyone’s in a rush, and there are always a billion people wherever you go.
- Those nasty little rice cake things. They are the grossest “snack” I’ve ever tasted.
- High heels, skirts, dresses, suits, man bags, mirrors… mirrors… mirrors. This country all about appearance. There is a giant mirror in my subway station just so people can make sure they look alright. A lady on her cell phone came and stood behind me waiting for the train one day. She was standing a little to the side of me so she could look at her reflection in the door. I moved in front of her and she moved to the other side of me so she could continue looking at herself while she chatted obnoxiously away. I moved in front of her again… and she moved to the other side. Ha. It was amusing.
Things I really miss from home:
- Laid back living. No rushing. Not a billion people trying to do the same thing at once, not really caring if you’re late.
- Knowing what the heck I’m buying—and knowing I’m using laundry detergent instead of fabric softener, which is actually what I was using as detergent for my first four months here. Ha. I miss being able to read labels.
- Yummy American food. Man, I miss the food.
- Dinner and movie nights with Tyler. I think I miss these more than anything else from back home. I miss that boy so much it’s a bit ridiculous.
- Driving. Taking the subway is a pain in the butt after a while.
- My friends… my family… being able to call someone at any given time and go see them, or take a short drive or flight to visit. No major time difference.
I know I have a bunch more to write, but that’s all for now. Maybe next time I’ll catch you up on everything else. I need to try and write more… it’s getting warmer out, maybe I’ll perk up a bit more once summer finally gets here.
I'm going into my fifth month here already. Too bad it's not six, because that's the halfway point... but the idea that I haven't seen my family and friends in at least six months is so ridiculous to me! I feel like it wasn't too long ago I was packing like crazy, making last minute trips across states and towns, and wishing so badly I could figure out a way to stay home. Now, I'm certainly glad I'm here, but I definitely know that it's going and doing things that makes the time fly by.
So what have I learned in Korea up until now? There's good, awesome, amazing days... and then there's bad days. But there's really nothing you can do about it.
Things I love about being here (or have started liking the longer I've been here):
- My student’s smiling faces. I really do love them. It’s incredible how special children are. A year ago, I didn’t want kids… didn’t even particularly like kids, but now I realize how innocent and carefree they are, and I can’t imagine how anyone could not love them. The worst days I’ve had here have been completely forgotten by the love my students give. They are just too damn cute sometimes, and I’ll probably try and smuggle a few home when my contract is up.
- Teaching. One of my youngest students, in the 5 year old class… which really I swear some of those students are 3 years old American age, wrote his name on his own for the first time the other day and was so excited. Those are the kinds of moments I feel like what I’m doing really matters. His English name is Ted, and he kept writing the T and looking at me for help with the E. I guided his hand about three different times to show him how to do it… then he would write the D. I looked over after explaining the next coloring activity and he was so happy and had a huge smile on his face and kept pointing at his paper. He did the E on his own. Man, I like that class. Especially since the one little girl who is terrified of foreigners finally likes me… and even joked with me by calling a dog a cat and giggling her little head off.
- Having people say things to me, and slightly knowing what they mean. I pass by this little market on the way to the subway station every day, and every day the man who works there is outside and says hello to me. It’s always a very excited hello with a big smile, a nice way to start my day. I’ve had other people say hello in Korean as they pass by, it’s nice being able to say it back and not feel silly. I also know when my students who can’t speak English need to use the bathroom now, that’s a plus.
- Having enough money in my account to accidentally withdraw $400 by hitting the wrong button. I was freaking out, but in the end, it was nice realizing I have money for once.
- Taco Bell. It’s coming to Korea. I honestly think it’s because I’m here now… it’s like they know I’m their number 1 fan so they decided to follow me.
- Being in my own little world most of the time. I know if people are talking, it’s most likely not to me. I don’t have to worry about being stopped and asked for directions, I don’t have to worry about having salespeople try to help me, or peddlers trying to sell things. I can put on my iPod and go wherever I’m headed just playing whatever I feel like hearing that day. I may get stared at quite often, but even that doesn’t really bother me anymore.
- Being courageous, independent, carefree, and just plain lucky. I didn’t really feel those things before I came here, now I definitely do.
Things I still haven’t gotten used to as long as I’ve been here:
- Pushing and shoving. People don’t understand that I can usually only go as fast as the person in front of me. They think if they just keep walking into my back I can go faster. Not so much. They also don’t believe in lines.
- They have no sense of a personal bubble here. I think it scares them to be alone, I could be standing in a completely open area and if someone walks up they will still probably bump into me.
- Everyone’s in a rush, and there are always a billion people wherever you go.
- Those nasty little rice cake things. They are the grossest “snack” I’ve ever tasted.
- High heels, skirts, dresses, suits, man bags, mirrors… mirrors… mirrors. This country all about appearance. There is a giant mirror in my subway station just so people can make sure they look alright. A lady on her cell phone came and stood behind me waiting for the train one day. She was standing a little to the side of me so she could look at her reflection in the door. I moved in front of her and she moved to the other side of me so she could continue looking at herself while she chatted obnoxiously away. I moved in front of her again… and she moved to the other side. Ha. It was amusing.
Things I really miss from home:
- Laid back living. No rushing. Not a billion people trying to do the same thing at once, not really caring if you’re late.
- Knowing what the heck I’m buying—and knowing I’m using laundry detergent instead of fabric softener, which is actually what I was using as detergent for my first four months here. Ha. I miss being able to read labels.
- Yummy American food. Man, I miss the food.
- Dinner and movie nights with Tyler. I think I miss these more than anything else from back home. I miss that boy so much it’s a bit ridiculous.
- Driving. Taking the subway is a pain in the butt after a while.
- My friends… my family… being able to call someone at any given time and go see them, or take a short drive or flight to visit. No major time difference.
I know I have a bunch more to write, but that’s all for now. Maybe next time I’ll catch you up on everything else. I need to try and write more… it’s getting warmer out, maybe I’ll perk up a bit more once summer finally gets here.
“Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends.” – Maya Angelou
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
The Random Mandatory Health Check
I should have failed my health check, point blank. Basically, it was me and my new coworker and we were pointed in the direction of each random check point by the director of our school.
First, was the chest x-ray. We were told to change into robes which of course couldn't be normal, easy robes. They looked harmless, but in actuality they had criss-cross ties that took all I had at 9 in the morning to figure out. Then, I was basically told to hug this wall looking thing and stand still. Easy enough.
After changing back into my clothes, I followed Julie to the next room where we were directed to stand on a platform and wait for a metal plate to bop us on the head. Then, it was the sound test...which after the non-English speaking lady sets a pair of headphones on my head, I nod when I hear the noise. It was only later that I was informed that I was supposed to raise the arm that corresponded to the ear the noise was coming from. Whatever. That's not common knowledge, despite what you say.
This room also consisted of the same lady measuring my chest (I didn't even ask why...) and her taking my blood pressure. Then, the eye exam. It was at this point that I realized I should probably have just gone home and came back another day. It's no surprise I'm pretty blind, but first, I held the little metal thing up to the wrong eye. Next, instead of numbers.... I started naming letters. Back home, the eye chart consists of letters. Not in Korea. The whole thing was numbers. Z and 2 look the same, right?
Now that I was utterly convinced I was going to fail, I was sent to take a pee test and give blood. Luckily, I grabbed the stall in the bahroom that actually had a toilet. I also got to walk into a room full of people holding a dixie cup of pee and my director reaches out to grab it from me to give to the lady. No, thank you.. I'll take it to her myself. Oh, and I almost passed out giving blood. Imagine how thankful I was to find out the last room consisted of talking to the doctor.
I wasn't very good at understanding the doctor. I'm not even entirely sure what I told him, since I just guessed what some of his questions were. No wonder I was called back 2 days later...
My liver enzymes were high. Whatever that means. I met my supervisor who walked me to the place I needed to go... arm in arm. I'll never get used to that Korean ritual. Girls locking arms to walk somewhere together. Awkward.
Basically, this time was even worse. My supervisor and the doctor talk the whole time in Korean except for one sentence from her to ask me if it hurts when I pee. No, but even if it did I would probably lie to you. Awkward moment number 2. Even more awkward is when the doctor asks me if my back hurts and when I answer no, he proceeds to get up out of his chair, come over to me, bend me over, and practically karate chop my back. Thank goodness it wasn't hurting. Sheesh.
Then, I was told I needed an ultrasound (which my supervisor kept calling something crazy... and scared me at first until I realized what she was actually talking about). I got dirty looks for having a belly button ring. Then, this is how the interaction went between me and the doctor:
Doctor: You take any (something I couldn't understand).
Me: Do I take any what?
Doctor: (mumble jumble)... h... e.. l... b.
Me: Do I take any h...e...l...b? Helb? Help?
Doctor: Yes. Do you take any help?
Me: Help? Do I take any help? Um. No...?
2 minutes pass by.
Me: Herb! Did you mean herb? H...e...r...b? No, I don't take anyof those either.
Doctor: H...e...r...b. Yes. Your liver looks abnormal.
Then she snarled a bit and sent me on my way. Like it's my fault Koreans like to mix up the letters "r" and "l." Then I was told to yet again give blood. Oh joy. Oh, and I was also told that my mom would be back in a minute if I just sat and waited. Because, obviously, that's who the Korean lady with me must be.
In the end... my health check came back fine. I guess I was just fighting off something the first day. Thank goodness. I like it here... but I don't even like doctors back home, let alone ones who can't understand me. Knock on wood I can last a year without catching any major illnesses... or breaking a bone... or anything that would require me to go through the torturous process of seeking medical help.
First, was the chest x-ray. We were told to change into robes which of course couldn't be normal, easy robes. They looked harmless, but in actuality they had criss-cross ties that took all I had at 9 in the morning to figure out. Then, I was basically told to hug this wall looking thing and stand still. Easy enough.
After changing back into my clothes, I followed Julie to the next room where we were directed to stand on a platform and wait for a metal plate to bop us on the head. Then, it was the sound test...which after the non-English speaking lady sets a pair of headphones on my head, I nod when I hear the noise. It was only later that I was informed that I was supposed to raise the arm that corresponded to the ear the noise was coming from. Whatever. That's not common knowledge, despite what you say.
This room also consisted of the same lady measuring my chest (I didn't even ask why...) and her taking my blood pressure. Then, the eye exam. It was at this point that I realized I should probably have just gone home and came back another day. It's no surprise I'm pretty blind, but first, I held the little metal thing up to the wrong eye. Next, instead of numbers.... I started naming letters. Back home, the eye chart consists of letters. Not in Korea. The whole thing was numbers. Z and 2 look the same, right?
Now that I was utterly convinced I was going to fail, I was sent to take a pee test and give blood. Luckily, I grabbed the stall in the bahroom that actually had a toilet. I also got to walk into a room full of people holding a dixie cup of pee and my director reaches out to grab it from me to give to the lady. No, thank you.. I'll take it to her myself. Oh, and I almost passed out giving blood. Imagine how thankful I was to find out the last room consisted of talking to the doctor.
I wasn't very good at understanding the doctor. I'm not even entirely sure what I told him, since I just guessed what some of his questions were. No wonder I was called back 2 days later...
My liver enzymes were high. Whatever that means. I met my supervisor who walked me to the place I needed to go... arm in arm. I'll never get used to that Korean ritual. Girls locking arms to walk somewhere together. Awkward.
Basically, this time was even worse. My supervisor and the doctor talk the whole time in Korean except for one sentence from her to ask me if it hurts when I pee. No, but even if it did I would probably lie to you. Awkward moment number 2. Even more awkward is when the doctor asks me if my back hurts and when I answer no, he proceeds to get up out of his chair, come over to me, bend me over, and practically karate chop my back. Thank goodness it wasn't hurting. Sheesh.
Then, I was told I needed an ultrasound (which my supervisor kept calling something crazy... and scared me at first until I realized what she was actually talking about). I got dirty looks for having a belly button ring. Then, this is how the interaction went between me and the doctor:
Doctor: You take any (something I couldn't understand).
Me: Do I take any what?
Doctor: (mumble jumble)... h... e.. l... b.
Me: Do I take any h...e...l...b? Helb? Help?
Doctor: Yes. Do you take any help?
Me: Help? Do I take any help? Um. No...?
2 minutes pass by.
Me: Herb! Did you mean herb? H...e...r...b? No, I don't take anyof those either.
Doctor: H...e...r...b. Yes. Your liver looks abnormal.
Then she snarled a bit and sent me on my way. Like it's my fault Koreans like to mix up the letters "r" and "l." Then I was told to yet again give blood. Oh joy. Oh, and I was also told that my mom would be back in a minute if I just sat and waited. Because, obviously, that's who the Korean lady with me must be.
In the end... my health check came back fine. I guess I was just fighting off something the first day. Thank goodness. I like it here... but I don't even like doctors back home, let alone ones who can't understand me. Knock on wood I can last a year without catching any major illnesses... or breaking a bone... or anything that would require me to go through the torturous process of seeking medical help.
"Try a thing you haven’t done three times. Once, to get over the fear of doing it. Twice, to learn how to do it. And a third time, to figure out whether you like it or not." —Virgil Garnett Thomson
Friday, January 15, 2010
It waited 70 years until I got here.
Almost two weeks ago, it started snowing here. Not only did it end up snowing a lot, but it was the "heaviest snow recorded in Seoul's modern history." It was awful. Not only do I dislike snow, but having to walk to the subway, then wait for the bus in it, was torture. I happened to be 45 minutes late to work (luckily I ran into two of my coworkers and the director of the school while waiting for the extremely late bus) due to how slow the traffic was and how crowded the subway became. Regardless of how much I hated that Monday, I was extremely amused by the people sweeping off the sidewalks with brooms and the mass usage of umbrellas that day. I decided to do as the Korean's do and use my umbrella as well. I also fell in the middle of the road while running to catch a green light, which was probably karma seeing as I once said I would never run for a green light. I guess that's what I get. I guess that's also what I get for running on ice.
Today it snowed a little, but luckily it stopped before I left for lunch this afternoon.
"Nature has no mercy at all. Nature says, 'I'm going to snow. If you have on a bikini and no snowshoes, that's tough. I am going to snow anyway.'” --Maya Angelou
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Things change. People change. Shit happens. Make Lemonade.... or something like that.
Even people with an amazing path in front of them fall flat on their faces sometimes. Put yourself out there and get nothing in return. The heart can be my least favorite organ.
How to get over it? Book a trip to Taiwan for later this month and apply for a visa to go to China in May.
It may not help completely, but it sounds like a pretty damn good start. I can't wait.
How to get over it? Book a trip to Taiwan for later this month and apply for a visa to go to China in May.
It may not help completely, but it sounds like a pretty damn good start. I can't wait.
"You're going to come across people in your life who will say all the right words at all the right times. But in the end, it's always their actions you should judge them by. It's actions, not words, that matter."
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Fukuoka, Japan
I had to make a visa run to Japan, and despite having a couple obstacles along the way, I ended up having a really good time. My coworker, Julie, and I left on December 28th at 5:45 a.m. to head to the Incheon airport for an 8 a.m. flight. We caught the bus and made it exactly 2 hours before our flight was supposed to take off. Luckily, the Incheon airport is really fast, so we got checked in and through security with enough time to grab a McDonald's breakfast.
At this point, I still didn't have my visa number required to apply for my visa since my superviser forgot to give it to me the prior week. I kept checking my e-mail on my iPod Touch to see if I had gotten any word from my her, but nothing. We boarded the plane, and I kept my fingers crossed that I would have an e-mail by the time we landed. I knew my phone wasn't going to work in Japan.
Well... basically, here's the things that ended up going wrong for us:
1. I still didn't get my visa number by the time we arrived at the Korean Consulate.
2. My iPod Touch didn't work in the consulate to check and see if she had gotten it to me.
3. I didn't know how to make a phone call from the stupid pay phone.
4. We found out that the consulate was going to be closed the following day (the 29th) through January 4th. Which means the trip was a big waste of time because we wouldn't be able to pick up our visas the following day as planned.
5. I still didn't have my visa number by the time we convinced the lady to do them in one day for us.
Eventually, the super nice lady agreed to have them done before the consulate closed that day and looked up my visa number for me. In the end, everything worked out and we had all day Tuesday to explore Japan until our flight left at 8:50 p.m.
My favorite things about Japan:
1. The vending machines on every corner, which included things like Coke, cigarettes, and beer.
2. How polite and calm everyone is compared to here. Not once did I see anyone run to catch the subway or crosswalk.
3. The ladies behind the counter at Family Mart who laughed and handed me a fork with my cup of Ramen noodles.
4. The toilets in the airport that made a waterfall noise when you started peeing. Awesome idea.
5. Ease of getting around and seeing everything possble in one day (shrine, temples, mall, dome, etc. etc.) And the fact that we got to the airport, checked in, then decided we wanted to go to McDonalds which was like 8 subway stops away... and still made it back to the airport with 45 minutes left to spare. It's so easy getting from place to place.
10. The mountains, ocean, cool houses, trees and beauty of the city.
At this point, I still didn't have my visa number required to apply for my visa since my superviser forgot to give it to me the prior week. I kept checking my e-mail on my iPod Touch to see if I had gotten any word from my her, but nothing. We boarded the plane, and I kept my fingers crossed that I would have an e-mail by the time we landed. I knew my phone wasn't going to work in Japan.
The Korean Consulate
1. I still didn't get my visa number by the time we arrived at the Korean Consulate.
2. My iPod Touch didn't work in the consulate to check and see if she had gotten it to me.
3. I didn't know how to make a phone call from the stupid pay phone.
4. We found out that the consulate was going to be closed the following day (the 29th) through January 4th. Which means the trip was a big waste of time because we wouldn't be able to pick up our visas the following day as planned.
5. I still didn't have my visa number by the time we convinced the lady to do them in one day for us.
Eventually, the super nice lady agreed to have them done before the consulate closed that day and looked up my visa number for me. In the end, everything worked out and we had all day Tuesday to explore Japan until our flight left at 8:50 p.m.
1. The vending machines on every corner, which included things like Coke, cigarettes, and beer.
2. How polite and calm everyone is compared to here. Not once did I see anyone run to catch the subway or crosswalk.
3. The ladies behind the counter at Family Mart who laughed and handed me a fork with my cup of Ramen noodles.
4. The toilets in the airport that made a waterfall noise when you started peeing. Awesome idea.
5. Ease of getting around and seeing everything possble in one day (shrine, temples, mall, dome, etc. etc.) And the fact that we got to the airport, checked in, then decided we wanted to go to McDonalds which was like 8 subway stops away... and still made it back to the airport with 45 minutes left to spare. It's so easy getting from place to place.
6. The awesome shrimp tempura lunch we ate, delicious!
7. 100 Yen stores.
8. Clothing with completely random English phrases written on it.
9. Japanese sticker booths, and trying to figure out how to work them with no English in sight. 10. The mountains, ocean, cool houses, trees and beauty of the city.
Yes, I want to go back. There's actually a 311 concert in April which I think would be tons of fun, so if I can pull off the weekend trip I may do that. Why not?
"A dreamer is one who can only find his way by moonlight, and his punishment is that he sees the dawn before the rest of the world."
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Korean War National Museum
It was cold outside, and I wasn't feeling particularly well, but it was a nice little trip to the War Memorial and Museum. Off the Samgajki station only a few minute walk leads to this large museum that costs only 3,000 won. Not only is there a lot to see inside, but outside there are statues, tanks, and airplanes to play around in and look at. Too bad I was freezing, otherwise I would have loved to go explore the airplanes. We didn't make it that far.
Supposedly, you can rent headphones and listen to information about every display in the museum, but we decided to just look around and read whatever signs were translated into English (which luckily, most were). It wasn't overly exciting, but it was cool nonetheless.
We went about about an hour before the museum closed, so we didn’t get to spend too much time there. Considering I didn’t feel too good, one hour was enough for me.
My New Favorite Food: Thai
My Thai in Itaewon was delicious. The chicken phat tai... a glass of white wine, so good. I will definitely be going back.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Christmas in Korea
Yes, I know... I've been a blog slacker. Luckily, I have lots of interesting (and a couple not so interesting) things to share. In the time since I last wrote, I've made it through Christmas Eve, Christmas and a Japan trip. This post will be dedicated to Christmas in Korea since I believe it's important for one to realize that although acknowledged, it doesn't seem like it's as big a deal here as back home. For example, I worked on Christmas Eve. Yuck.
We had our birthday/Christmas party on Thursday, so really the morning was all fun, aside from the fact that I was unknowingly thrown into the position of party MC since Naomi decided not to go to work that day (thanks Naomi!). We celebrated all the kids who had birthdays in the month of December... and then we switched to the Christmas party where we had a carol contest and Santa came.
Santa was pretty funny. He was this nervous Korean guy from another school, and he basically just repeated himself like 30 times to each the kids. "Were you good this year? Will you be good next year? Merry Christmas." The kids loved it though, so it was all good. They all mostly got huge gifts so they were happy.
The afternoon classes were a bunch of BS because I actually had to teach, no fun party for the older kids. Luckily, after my last student left at 5:25 I went to the teacher's room to see if there was a meeting and she said everyone else was leaving early so there wasn't one. I asked if I could leave early and thank goodness... she said yes! Off to Brigid's...
I spent about an hour and a half getting to Banghak station where I met Brigid and Sarah at "the Galbi place" or so it is known as. They already had quite a bit of soju and Cass... so it was my turn to finally try Soju. It wasn't too bad... would have been better if I hadn't recieved a half cup full of only soju, but it wasn't as terrible as I thought. Would be good mixed with something.
I spent Christmas day with Brenna and her family, which was really nice. I bought a cute cake from Paris Baguette. They had really delicious looking cakes with chocolate and fruit and little characters, so I just had to buy one for them! They invited some other friends over too, so I basically spent my day eating delicious American foods (turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, salads, bread, pies… etc. etc. etc.) Then, we watched Elf and played all sorts of different games on the Wii. I totally kicked butt in bowling… and that’s about it. It was a nice relaxing day though.
Brenna was even kind enough to get me some cool gifts, Victoria’s Secret body wash, sprays, lotions, etc. She kept my tradition of getting goodies from VS! I was so excited!
Overall, Christmas was real enjoyable and a lot better than I expected. I was being a bit of a Scrooge this year, but really there was no need. I have made some really great friends who made the holidays really awesome!
I have lots more pictures on Facebook so add me on there if you want to see more.
We had our birthday/Christmas party on Thursday, so really the morning was all fun, aside from the fact that I was unknowingly thrown into the position of party MC since Naomi decided not to go to work that day (thanks Naomi!). We celebrated all the kids who had birthdays in the month of December... and then we switched to the Christmas party where we had a carol contest and Santa came.
The kids wait for Santa to call them up one at a time, then show off all their presents.
Santa was pretty funny. He was this nervous Korean guy from another school, and he basically just repeated himself like 30 times to each the kids. "Were you good this year? Will you be good next year? Merry Christmas." The kids loved it though, so it was all good. They all mostly got huge gifts so they were happy.
Doesn't my homeroom class and I look thrilled? Hehe.
Gerstungkinder 2009
Then, we got our buffett. The kid's moms brought food for the school to eat, so we had all sorts of goodies including pizza with sweet potato (which was interesting), lots of fruits, kimbap, chicken wings, sandwiches, and a bunch of other little random foods. It was pretty good though. One of my students told me I was being unhealthy when I poured myself a Coke... haha, I told her it was Christmas so I was allowed. Whatever, I just love Coke.
The afternoon classes were a bunch of BS because I actually had to teach, no fun party for the older kids. Luckily, after my last student left at 5:25 I went to the teacher's room to see if there was a meeting and she said everyone else was leaving early so there wasn't one. I asked if I could leave early and thank goodness... she said yes! Off to Brigid's...
I spent about an hour and a half getting to Banghak station where I met Brigid and Sarah at "the Galbi place" or so it is known as. They already had quite a bit of soju and Cass... so it was my turn to finally try Soju. It wasn't too bad... would have been better if I hadn't recieved a half cup full of only soju, but it wasn't as terrible as I thought. Would be good mixed with something.
Anyway, from there we went to Camp Red Cloud, where we met Mark... hung out for a bit. Acted slightly ridiculous and then ended up at the Veteran's Club, where supposedly the officer party was supposed to be. Well...definitely no "party" but a bunch of guys older than my parents and for a brief moment the cute MP who we met on our way to the bunker earlier in the night. He was married and only 20, but he was cute enough toat with and look at for the 15 minutes he was there. Then... a rum and Coke, 4 beers and a shot later, I ended up fast asleep on Brigid's floor mattress, which was actually quite comfortable. Overall, and despite being at work for 8 hours, it was a pretty fun Chrimstas Eve.
Pictures: My Christmas Eve dinner... a shrimp cocktail. Me trying on Mark's gear and realizing how heavy it is. Brigid being slightly intoxicated.
I spent Christmas day with Brenna and her family, which was really nice. I bought a cute cake from Paris Baguette. They had really delicious looking cakes with chocolate and fruit and little characters, so I just had to buy one for them! They invited some other friends over too, so I basically spent my day eating delicious American foods (turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, salads, bread, pies… etc. etc. etc.) Then, we watched Elf and played all sorts of different games on the Wii. I totally kicked butt in bowling… and that’s about it. It was a nice relaxing day though.
Brenna was even kind enough to get me some cool gifts, Victoria’s Secret body wash, sprays, lotions, etc. She kept my tradition of getting goodies from VS! I was so excited!
Overall, Christmas was real enjoyable and a lot better than I expected. I was being a bit of a Scrooge this year, but really there was no need. I have made some really great friends who made the holidays really awesome!
I have lots more pictures on Facebook so add me on there if you want to see more.
“I just like to smile, smiling's my favorite.” –Buddy the Elf.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Well, Korea, here it is...
…the list of things I want to do while I’m here. By November 1st of next year, I want to have all of these things completed. For a year’s worth of things, this really isn’t that much… but it’s a goal list and that’s all that matters.
In alphabetical order since I'm just like that, I want to:
I love bookstores. I love books. I love that I finally bought Gone with the Wind today, and I can't wait to read it. I also can't wait to read The Predictioneer's Game. Both will be amazing.
The Kyobo bookstore in Gwanghwamun (Line 5, exit 3) was really cool because there's a big "Foreign Books" area. It's also easy to get to. It literally took me about 15 minutes to get in, find my book, and get out. It probably would have been less but the number of people in the bookstore alone was insane. The number of people in this city and at certain places at particular times never fails to shock me.
After the bookstore, I went to Forever 21 in Myeong dong (Line 4, exit 5). That place will make me go broke if I go there too often. I love it! Too bad it's more expensive here... but there's 4 or 5 floors of clothe, shoes and accessories, it's HUGE.
The store had Christmas music playing and Adam Sandler's Hanukkah Song came on. I couldn't help but laugh. It's so funny when some music comes on and hardly anyone knows what the lyrics are saying. Heh.
Anyway, I now have 6 new shirts, a new necklace and hat, and because I’m a dedicated shopper (haha) I got a free planner! I’m excited about that, I’ve been wanting one and it’s in English. Perk.
I'm not a pillow.
Three people on the subway decided I looked comfortable enough to lean on while they slept. Ok, so they weren’t literally laying on me… but they were a little too close for comfort. I was also a human tissue yesterday when one of my students got hit with the door because she was playing right by it. I side hugged her while she cried, then she took the bottom of my shirt and wiped her face on it. Needless to say, it was disgusting, and I highly dislike snot.
My students have the ability to make me laugh. I really do like them most of the time.
Case in point… this is what one of my students wrote on his test. The directions said, “combine the following groups of sentences to make one sentence.” These were the sentences:
-The stream was pretty.
-The stream was little.
-The stream was fast-moving.
-The stream was safe to drink from.
Instead of getting the correct answer, which would involve using commas between the adjectives to make one sentence, this is what I got:
“I go to mountain. The stream was pretty, and fast-moving. I drink it because stream was safe to drink from. I drink a lot so stream was little.”
This makes me smile and chuckle every time I read it. I really want to give him points for creativity and think I will. I mean, he at least knew what the sentences meant, bonus points.
In alphabetical order since I'm just like that, I want to:
- Go hiking at least once (like actually make a day of it...)
- Go on the DMZ tour through the USO
- Go to an art gallery
- Go to at least 15 new restaurants (7/15)
- Go to a museum
- Go to a performing arts show
- Go to a sporting event (I'm hoping a baseball game...hehe)
- Learn one new Korean word each week (0/42)
- Make Pancakes (Mainly because I've had a craving since I got here)
- Put at least half my paycheck into my savings account each month
- Read at least one book a month (1/11)
- Sing at a Norebang karoke room
- Take at least one interesting picture a week with the Nikon (0/42)
- Take at least one picture a week with the Sony (0/42)
- Try as many new foods as I can (10)
- Try soju
- Visit another country
- Visit at least one noteworthy place a month (0/11)
- Write at least one article every two weeks for either an online site or a local magazine/newspaper/whatever I can find (0/21)
- Write at least one blog post a week (0/42)
- Watch the sun rise or set
- A new sense of independence-- being able to do everything alone without thinking twice
- An appreciation for everything I take for granted back home including ease of communication and the convenience of being able to get around easily, as well as a ton of other, more eye opening things
- A new understanding and compassion for children that I never had before
- A new understanding of the world, experience of travel
- Courage to do what I want with life
- Money to start doing what I want and to find my place
I love bookstores. I love books. I love that I finally bought Gone with the Wind today, and I can't wait to read it. I also can't wait to read The Predictioneer's Game. Both will be amazing.
The Kyobo bookstore in Gwanghwamun (Line 5, exit 3) was really cool because there's a big "Foreign Books" area. It's also easy to get to. It literally took me about 15 minutes to get in, find my book, and get out. It probably would have been less but the number of people in the bookstore alone was insane. The number of people in this city and at certain places at particular times never fails to shock me.
After the bookstore, I went to Forever 21 in Myeong dong (Line 4, exit 5). That place will make me go broke if I go there too often. I love it! Too bad it's more expensive here... but there's 4 or 5 floors of clothe, shoes and accessories, it's HUGE.
The store had Christmas music playing and Adam Sandler's Hanukkah Song came on. I couldn't help but laugh. It's so funny when some music comes on and hardly anyone knows what the lyrics are saying. Heh.
Anyway, I now have 6 new shirts, a new necklace and hat, and because I’m a dedicated shopper (haha) I got a free planner! I’m excited about that, I’ve been wanting one and it’s in English. Perk.
I'm not a pillow.
Three people on the subway decided I looked comfortable enough to lean on while they slept. Ok, so they weren’t literally laying on me… but they were a little too close for comfort. I was also a human tissue yesterday when one of my students got hit with the door because she was playing right by it. I side hugged her while she cried, then she took the bottom of my shirt and wiped her face on it. Needless to say, it was disgusting, and I highly dislike snot.
My students have the ability to make me laugh. I really do like them most of the time.
Case in point… this is what one of my students wrote on his test. The directions said, “combine the following groups of sentences to make one sentence.” These were the sentences:
-The stream was pretty.
-The stream was little.
-The stream was fast-moving.
-The stream was safe to drink from.
Instead of getting the correct answer, which would involve using commas between the adjectives to make one sentence, this is what I got:
“I go to mountain. The stream was pretty, and fast-moving. I drink it because stream was safe to drink from. I drink a lot so stream was little.”
This makes me smile and chuckle every time I read it. I really want to give him points for creativity and think I will. I mean, he at least knew what the sentences meant, bonus points.
"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and to endure the betrayal of false friends. To appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." — Bessie Anderson Stanley
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Teacher Amanda needs teaching practice.
Explaining the meaning of words is not my strong point. I'm actually really awful at it, and I think it's because I think about it too much. I'm not trying to sound like a brainiac or anything, because that's not it at all, but seriously, when a student asks me the meaning of a word my mind goes into overdrive.
For example, today in a class with only one student, we read an article that had the words "explosives" and "drugs." (It was an article about dogs working for people). So, I let her read it to herself and underline any words she didn't know. Of course, she didn't know "drugs."
Insert for those of you who aren't aware: Koreans don't do drugs. At least not in Korea. At least not that I've ever heard of or heard talk of. Well, they probably do... but they definitely don't let you know about it. Ok... again with the over thinking...
Anyway... the word medicine came to mind. Bad effects. Not wanting to let my ten-year-old student know that drugs make some people feel good. Bad. Bad. Bad. Medicine. Then, a large list of names came to mind and then I decided to stick with saying illegal medicine as my final answer.
Her response?
Are they what Obama drank when he was younger?
My response?
Did you read that? I have no idea. Probably... Yeah. (Thinking maybe she's referring to alcohol, but then I'd have to explain that).
Her response?
Yes he did. I read. Why people do that?
...silence...
She looked at me and then said that maybe other people reccommend they do drugs and that's why. "A"++ for student. "F" for teacher.
Ok... maybe I was just having one of those days. I also got asked what "geez" was after I used it a couple times in class today...luckily, that was by a kindergartener and they lose interest quickly.
Sleep time for Teacher Amanda. I need an "A" day tomorrow.
For example, today in a class with only one student, we read an article that had the words "explosives" and "drugs." (It was an article about dogs working for people). So, I let her read it to herself and underline any words she didn't know. Of course, she didn't know "drugs."
Insert for those of you who aren't aware: Koreans don't do drugs. At least not in Korea. At least not that I've ever heard of or heard talk of. Well, they probably do... but they definitely don't let you know about it. Ok... again with the over thinking...
Anyway... the word medicine came to mind. Bad effects. Not wanting to let my ten-year-old student know that drugs make some people feel good. Bad. Bad. Bad. Medicine. Then, a large list of names came to mind and then I decided to stick with saying illegal medicine as my final answer.
Her response?
Are they what Obama drank when he was younger?
My response?
Did you read that? I have no idea. Probably... Yeah. (Thinking maybe she's referring to alcohol, but then I'd have to explain that).
Her response?
Yes he did. I read. Why people do that?
...silence...
She looked at me and then said that maybe other people reccommend they do drugs and that's why. "A"++ for student. "F" for teacher.
Ok... maybe I was just having one of those days. I also got asked what "geez" was after I used it a couple times in class today...luckily, that was by a kindergartener and they lose interest quickly.
Sleep time for Teacher Amanda. I need an "A" day tomorrow.
"Begin doing what you want to do now. We are not living in eternity. We have only this moment, sparkling like a star in our hand — and melting like a snowflake.” --Marie Beyon Ray
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Umm... yeah...
My Nikon literally has dust on it. Guess it's time to start taking more pictures with it and set the Sony aside for a bit.
I decided to take a picture of my dinner: Kimbap.
I decided to take a picture of my dinner: Kimbap.
I forgot how much I love my Nikon.
I love my Sony too...
that is all.
"All photographs are there to remind us of what we forget. In this - as in other ways - they are the opposite of paintings. Paintings record what the painter remembers. Because each one of us forgets different things, a photo more than a painting may change its meaning according to who is looking at it." ~John Berger
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
