Saturday, December 31, 2011
Spice
So I finally know the secret to eating spicy flavored foods. The advice is from a Korean too. Simply keep eating it. Evidently spicy foods is an addiction and if you eat it enough, you won't be able to stop. Is this really advice I want to take?
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Teas
I am so grateful I stocked up on teas. When I first got sick, I was pretty worried since I forgot to bring cough syrup with me. Indeed it was a hard few days there. I kept gargling salt water, drinking nice warm and soothing teas, and taking hot showers. Anything and everything to be able to breathe easier. In Korea, when you are sick you have to deal with it. You still go about your day even if your temperature is 102.5 and your throwing up. That is the way life is here. The only exception is if your in the hospital.
The reason? How else will they know you are diligent.
Thankfully, this week was my vacation. And those teas my lifesavor. Each cup I drank, I could feel it making it easier to breathe. More like each sip. It is partially just from being warm. I think the warm water alone would have done good. Also though, I think tea has some very good healing properties. And yes, I put in my honey. I have gotten plenty of advice. I don't know why honey works. It does though. If your sick, drink a warm drink with honey in it. Lemon too if you can handle that.
The reason? How else will they know you are diligent.
Thankfully, this week was my vacation. And those teas my lifesavor. Each cup I drank, I could feel it making it easier to breathe. More like each sip. It is partially just from being warm. I think the warm water alone would have done good. Also though, I think tea has some very good healing properties. And yes, I put in my honey. I have gotten plenty of advice. I don't know why honey works. It does though. If your sick, drink a warm drink with honey in it. Lemon too if you can handle that.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Out and About
This last weekend wasn't the best. I wasn't feeling very well so stayed in bed the whole time. Monday evening I thought to myself, enough is enough. I'm getting up and out of here tomorrow. Tomorrow came. I wondered if I should just go to the office and work on lesson plans. But you know, if I am going to all the work of getting out of here then I should make it worth it.
So I bundled up, grabbed tissues and my purse, and started hiking to Namsan to catch a bus. Didn't get very far. The shortcut behind the cafe that goes down hill... had ice. I fell of course. A Korean lady saw me and ran over chattering in Korean. I gave her a thumbs up and she motioned me to the other side of the brick path. So I jumped over and gave the thumbs up again and she knodded, chattering a mile a minute the whole time. I smiled to her and went on my way.
At the bottom off to the side is a backyard to some apartments. Oh Lord please hide my blunder from their eyes and memory! Kept walking. Got to the front of those apartments where people were waving and saying goodbye to some other people. I bowed and kept walking.
One of the cars passed me and stopped. I walked up to it and looked inside. I couldn't tell if he was a teacher here or not. So many look the same. He offered a ride and so I climbed in. I said Jain, and he asked where after that. So I said Sawol station and he knodded and said Gyeongsan. As he drove, I learned he was the father of a freshman highschool girl age 18. He had another older daughter, but would really like a son. His English was good (to me, he didn't think so) because he went to seminary in the Philippians. I was like, "Seminary? So you are a pastor?" He knodded and said he was director of something or another at the conference office. Oh boy... someone important.
He asked where I was going from Sawol and I said downtown. His office is downtown so he kept driving. I want to buy presents for family back home, but I don't know what to buy. He said truly Korean gifts required a guide to find them or make them. He gave me his business card and I wrote his wife's name and number on it. She will take me shopping sometime next month. I am excited, but unsure what it will be like. Anyrate, he dropped me off at Banwondong. Or so I thought.
This is the stop on the route where you can either walk or switch trains. I always have walked. Well, I didn't recognize anything. So I went downstairs and went to exit 12. It was not the exit 12 I knew. How come I get lost every time I go downtown by myself? Anyrate, I figured out that Banwondang plaza and station are two separate things. I started walking in the direction I figured was the right direction (and I was right.)
As I was walking along, a tall Korean (taller than me by a lot) spoke English to me. I was surprised and he carried an easy conversation. He said he had seen me around there before and did I work in the area. I told him I was a teacher, and no I didn't. (I think it was a pick up line.) He was trying to call the owner of a space that was right there about renting it for an office. He had been to New York and that was why his English was so good. I tried asking if I was going in the right direction. He wasn't sure of where the Lotte Young Plaza was. A white guy and his Korean girlfriend walked by.
Okay, I'm adjusting to Korea very well because I rather ask a Korean who may not understand English well for directions instead of another foreigner who probably shops there all the time. What is not right about this?
My friendly Korean guy pointed to them and was really excited. He was like, "He has a Korean girlfriend! I want a foreigner girlfriend!." I was like, "that is my cue... bye." He stopped some other Korean ladies and asked them for me and they gave directions. I think he wanted to escort me there, but I wasn't willing to wait for him to finish setting up the agreement for renting that office space. Also, I am pretty sure he was in his 40s. Boyfriend?! I got a bit uncertain and gracefully made my exit.
I now knew where I was and enjoyed the rest of my trip. In the end I didn't do any shopping. Just got supper and saw a movie. A movie in English might I point out. That was really important. I am starting to say some of my phrases super basic like a Korean who is learning English. So being in a setting where normal English (even if it was a bit old English... Sherlock Holmes) was used was nice.
So I bundled up, grabbed tissues and my purse, and started hiking to Namsan to catch a bus. Didn't get very far. The shortcut behind the cafe that goes down hill... had ice. I fell of course. A Korean lady saw me and ran over chattering in Korean. I gave her a thumbs up and she motioned me to the other side of the brick path. So I jumped over and gave the thumbs up again and she knodded, chattering a mile a minute the whole time. I smiled to her and went on my way.
At the bottom off to the side is a backyard to some apartments. Oh Lord please hide my blunder from their eyes and memory! Kept walking. Got to the front of those apartments where people were waving and saying goodbye to some other people. I bowed and kept walking.
One of the cars passed me and stopped. I walked up to it and looked inside. I couldn't tell if he was a teacher here or not. So many look the same. He offered a ride and so I climbed in. I said Jain, and he asked where after that. So I said Sawol station and he knodded and said Gyeongsan. As he drove, I learned he was the father of a freshman highschool girl age 18. He had another older daughter, but would really like a son. His English was good (to me, he didn't think so) because he went to seminary in the Philippians. I was like, "Seminary? So you are a pastor?" He knodded and said he was director of something or another at the conference office. Oh boy... someone important.
He asked where I was going from Sawol and I said downtown. His office is downtown so he kept driving. I want to buy presents for family back home, but I don't know what to buy. He said truly Korean gifts required a guide to find them or make them. He gave me his business card and I wrote his wife's name and number on it. She will take me shopping sometime next month. I am excited, but unsure what it will be like. Anyrate, he dropped me off at Banwondong. Or so I thought.
This is the stop on the route where you can either walk or switch trains. I always have walked. Well, I didn't recognize anything. So I went downstairs and went to exit 12. It was not the exit 12 I knew. How come I get lost every time I go downtown by myself? Anyrate, I figured out that Banwondang plaza and station are two separate things. I started walking in the direction I figured was the right direction (and I was right.)
As I was walking along, a tall Korean (taller than me by a lot) spoke English to me. I was surprised and he carried an easy conversation. He said he had seen me around there before and did I work in the area. I told him I was a teacher, and no I didn't. (I think it was a pick up line.) He was trying to call the owner of a space that was right there about renting it for an office. He had been to New York and that was why his English was so good. I tried asking if I was going in the right direction. He wasn't sure of where the Lotte Young Plaza was. A white guy and his Korean girlfriend walked by.
Okay, I'm adjusting to Korea very well because I rather ask a Korean who may not understand English well for directions instead of another foreigner who probably shops there all the time. What is not right about this?
My friendly Korean guy pointed to them and was really excited. He was like, "He has a Korean girlfriend! I want a foreigner girlfriend!." I was like, "that is my cue... bye." He stopped some other Korean ladies and asked them for me and they gave directions. I think he wanted to escort me there, but I wasn't willing to wait for him to finish setting up the agreement for renting that office space. Also, I am pretty sure he was in his 40s. Boyfriend?! I got a bit uncertain and gracefully made my exit.
I now knew where I was and enjoyed the rest of my trip. In the end I didn't do any shopping. Just got supper and saw a movie. A movie in English might I point out. That was really important. I am starting to say some of my phrases super basic like a Korean who is learning English. So being in a setting where normal English (even if it was a bit old English... Sherlock Holmes) was used was nice.
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Dwight Nelson
I spent Christmas Eve, and my Sabbath, watching an online sermon by Dwight Nelson. I really like this pastor and the thoughts that he brings to the table. However, I also am suspicious of pastors and their intentions. Some are genuinely interested in humanity and helping us know Jesus better. Others think they are, but in reality want to take what they learned in theology school and transplant it into your brain. I'm not fond of the latter but run across them every now and then.
As I was saying, I enjoy listening to Dwight Nelson. A relative of mine asked me some weeks ago concerning a post I had made. I had been enthusiastic about what I had learned from Dwight Nelson regarding the angel Gabriel. She asked if it was biblical. I said of course, since there had been texts for everything he had said. I encouraged her to go research it for herself. Well it has been bothering me so I started that sermon over with the studyguide printed out and ready.
I didn't even get halfway through when I depressedly stopped. He has good ideas. I can see the gears in the brain turning. However, some of what he claims is in the Bible wasn't there when I looked them up. Some of what he said was fact, well, according to my New King James Version Bible isn't specific. It doesn't say one way or the other. It was simple assumption. Other things he said were on the mark and I am appreciative for those insights as they help me understand God better. So mixed blessing.
After writing down notes and going back and forth, I feel that even if you love your pastor and trust him... you should still look it up for yourself. I can't ask Nelson any questions as he is from a big church across the ocean. I can pray though for direction and keep studying. That is what I intend to do.
As I was saying, I enjoy listening to Dwight Nelson. A relative of mine asked me some weeks ago concerning a post I had made. I had been enthusiastic about what I had learned from Dwight Nelson regarding the angel Gabriel. She asked if it was biblical. I said of course, since there had been texts for everything he had said. I encouraged her to go research it for herself. Well it has been bothering me so I started that sermon over with the studyguide printed out and ready.
I didn't even get halfway through when I depressedly stopped. He has good ideas. I can see the gears in the brain turning. However, some of what he claims is in the Bible wasn't there when I looked them up. Some of what he said was fact, well, according to my New King James Version Bible isn't specific. It doesn't say one way or the other. It was simple assumption. Other things he said were on the mark and I am appreciative for those insights as they help me understand God better. So mixed blessing.
After writing down notes and going back and forth, I feel that even if you love your pastor and trust him... you should still look it up for yourself. I can't ask Nelson any questions as he is from a big church across the ocean. I can pray though for direction and keep studying. That is what I intend to do.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Instant
Something I find I really like here in South Korea is the wide use of instant drinks. Coffee packets, tea packets. You just add them to water and drink. It is always so tasty.
I have always struggled with knowing how much cream and/or sugar to put in my coffee. I finally found a brand, Gevalia, that I really like. I only need some creamer and was fine without the sugar. Obviously I couldn't bring my coffee pot with me so I left all my coffee supplies at grandma's.
Tea was simple for me to make. Stick the tea bag or tea container into the cup, leave it for 10 to 15 minutes (I like it strong) and then drink. No sugar necessary for me.
Now I am in Korea where all these wonderful packets sit on the store shelves. I have plenty to choose from. They are the right mix and combination. I am glad. I first started with coffee that had chocolate in it. So yummy and a great way to help one feel better if lonely or cold. Then today (because of my sore throat) I bought more tea and discovered that they also come in instant packets. I had been using peppermint tea, but picked up a few others including lemon. Also got some honey. Anyrate, I made pomegranate first and sipped my warm drink. I was surprised at how sweet and yummy it was. No wonder Koreans consider tea dessert. Now I have a cup of raspberry tea. The packet is perfect for the normal cup size of 8 ounces!
I have always struggled with knowing how much cream and/or sugar to put in my coffee. I finally found a brand, Gevalia, that I really like. I only need some creamer and was fine without the sugar. Obviously I couldn't bring my coffee pot with me so I left all my coffee supplies at grandma's.
Tea was simple for me to make. Stick the tea bag or tea container into the cup, leave it for 10 to 15 minutes (I like it strong) and then drink. No sugar necessary for me.
Now I am in Korea where all these wonderful packets sit on the store shelves. I have plenty to choose from. They are the right mix and combination. I am glad. I first started with coffee that had chocolate in it. So yummy and a great way to help one feel better if lonely or cold. Then today (because of my sore throat) I bought more tea and discovered that they also come in instant packets. I had been using peppermint tea, but picked up a few others including lemon. Also got some honey. Anyrate, I made pomegranate first and sipped my warm drink. I was surprised at how sweet and yummy it was. No wonder Koreans consider tea dessert. Now I have a cup of raspberry tea. The packet is perfect for the normal cup size of 8 ounces!
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Staff Party
Today was such a crazy and unplanned day. Classes canceled, classes switched, students asking complicated questions, take-out supper, lots of Monopoly Deal. However the biggest surprise was after supper at 6pm. We went to an event held by the school. All the staff here at YoungNam SahmYook academy gathered for games and a raffle. Everyone got something in the raffle (prizes being things you use around the house like tissues, sesame oil, and laundry detergent.) I won deordorizer containers. A lady near me won kimchi containers. Michael won vegetable rinse and serve containers. We played a championship style series of games. The game involves sticks that you throw on a blanket. Depending how they land determines how your team can move their pawns on the "game board." It reminds me of the board game "Sorry." There was tons of food to eat. Mandarins, crackers and chips that you can only find in South Korea, small lotto chocolates, and juice. I definitely had my fair share of chocolates and such. However I got in quite a few cups of orange juice so I wasn't COMPLETELY unhealthy ;) On our way out, we each got a package of toilet paper... which is 30 rolls. Your set for several months on that :) Saves money and time too. Those aren't easy to carrying from E Mart on the bus.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Holiday Care Package
Over the weekend and the last two days I have been struggling to keep my chin up. Holiday season is here and I am basically by myself. I want nothing more than to be stateside for the rest of the year, but unfortunately that isn't possible.
Then today as I sat dismally in chapel, listening to the students perform with their instruments, Teacher Martin came by and told me I had a parcel in the office. I blinked and asked if he meant I had a package. He knodded and left. As soon as chapel was over, I tore out of the auditorium and to the administrative office. There sat a box with my name on it.
Excitedly I carried it to my office. Inside was a wonderful birthday card from my dad. Then green, green, and more green. We all know that is my favorite color. There were Christmas decorations, candy, clothing, my favorite scent from Bath and Body Works... and a much coveted prize - silverware. I have normal knives, forks, and spoons. Thank the Lord!
Then I came to a note... don't go any further until December 24, Christmas Eve. Hey now! Hehe. That was an awesome idea and gives me yet something more to look forward to. Thank you dad and Linda! I miss you all so much!
Then today as I sat dismally in chapel, listening to the students perform with their instruments, Teacher Martin came by and told me I had a parcel in the office. I blinked and asked if he meant I had a package. He knodded and left. As soon as chapel was over, I tore out of the auditorium and to the administrative office. There sat a box with my name on it.
Excitedly I carried it to my office. Inside was a wonderful birthday card from my dad. Then green, green, and more green. We all know that is my favorite color. There were Christmas decorations, candy, clothing, my favorite scent from Bath and Body Works... and a much coveted prize - silverware. I have normal knives, forks, and spoons. Thank the Lord!
Then I came to a note... don't go any further until December 24, Christmas Eve. Hey now! Hehe. That was an awesome idea and gives me yet something more to look forward to. Thank you dad and Linda! I miss you all so much!
ARC and Bank Account
I got my Alien Registration Card yesterday. Yay! Now we are going to try to get me a bank account again. Looking forward to it. Hope that paypal can be hooked up with it. That would make so much a lot easier.
Oh yeah, and for those cards that aren't in the mail yet, today I will be putting the rest in. So mail! Yay! And if you would like me to send you a card... just say so. I will gladly go buy one or write a letter and send you mail.
Oh yeah, and for those cards that aren't in the mail yet, today I will be putting the rest in. So mail! Yay! And if you would like me to send you a card... just say so. I will gladly go buy one or write a letter and send you mail.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Out with the old and in with the new...?
Well I guess everyone is aware now that Kim Jong Il is dead. North Korea is on a delicate balance at the moment. Though there is a chosen heir, the possibility of a power struggle is very high. Let us pray this danger stays in North Korea. Though that is questionable as there are already rumors of a missile strike in Seoul. Waiting to see what happens. United States of America is looking really good at the moment. I'm ready to come home if the need arises. However, God placed me here so if He wants me to stay put then I will.
http://edition.cnn.com/2011/12/18/world/asia/north-korea-leader-dead/?hpt=hp_t1
http://edition.cnn.com/2011/12/18/world/asia/north-korea-leader-dead/?hpt=hp_t1
Speech Contest
Today at the auditorium, Michael and Linda were the judges for the speeches the students gave. Between sets of speeches, I went up and asked questions. Basically between that and a raffle the kids got a lot of presents. It was fun. However the whole thing was like two hours long so it got a bit old. It was also impromptu so I was really uncertain of what was to happen when. Good thing Teacher Oh was there to tell me what to do and say when.
Going Home
So the school changed their minds about whether I could go home during winter break or not. I am allowed to. YES!!!
So I was going to show up and surprise everyone, but you know, after all the drama of the last couple weeks I am just telling you straight up. I am going to come home. Not for as long as I would have liked. Jetlag is going to be a problem. However I am going stateside!
I have so much to do. I am going to empty my storage unit in Lincoln and move everything back to the farm like grandma has been telling me to do. Should have listened to her. Must go find my brother and chill with him. I GET TO DRIVE MY CAR!!!! Yes!
I wish I could visit everyone, but I don't think that is going to happen. Next year, hopefully, I will have better luck on the timing and working with the school. The school though is very strange in their ideas. Things that are okay in America are not okay here.
So excited I can just get back and see my brother... I love the rest of you as well. Just remember, he is my twin. I really want to see him.
I leave here hopefully on January 20... and that means I will probably arrive January 20. Funny huh. Will email and all that when I get an actual plane ticket in my hand. The school is only paying for me to go to the states. I have to pay my way back. So I am totally saving. So excited!
So I was going to show up and surprise everyone, but you know, after all the drama of the last couple weeks I am just telling you straight up. I am going to come home. Not for as long as I would have liked. Jetlag is going to be a problem. However I am going stateside!
I have so much to do. I am going to empty my storage unit in Lincoln and move everything back to the farm like grandma has been telling me to do. Should have listened to her. Must go find my brother and chill with him. I GET TO DRIVE MY CAR!!!! Yes!
I wish I could visit everyone, but I don't think that is going to happen. Next year, hopefully, I will have better luck on the timing and working with the school. The school though is very strange in their ideas. Things that are okay in America are not okay here.
So excited I can just get back and see my brother... I love the rest of you as well. Just remember, he is my twin. I really want to see him.
I leave here hopefully on January 20... and that means I will probably arrive January 20. Funny huh. Will email and all that when I get an actual plane ticket in my hand. The school is only paying for me to go to the states. I have to pay my way back. So I am totally saving. So excited!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Fork or Chopsticks
In my last post I talked about my amazing American meal at Travelers. Well I forgot one small detail. When I tried to eat the coleslaw with a fork, it wasn't working out to well. Can't believe I'm saying this, but chopsticks are easier to use. I no longer am good at using forks ~_~
Travelers
Last night Linda, Michael and his girlfriend Jimi, and I went downtown to the CGV IMAX theater to watch Mission Impossible 4. I like Tom Cruise. I enjoy the movies he is in and think he is really good looking.
Anyrate, after the movie we were trying to decide where to go get supper at. Michael mentioned some sort of Korean noodles. I wasn't in the mood for Korean food so I suggested the Lotteria where you can get chicken and burger sandwhiches with fries. Linda loves the fries there so she was game. Jimi never gave an opinion, I wonder what she likes to eat? Anyrate, Michael is a vegetarian so that was the best place. He mentioned Burger King as it has better burgers for those of us who eat meat. We just couldn't decided.
Then he suggested Travelers. It has good food no matter what you eat or don't eat. So we went. We sat down and they brought us menus. There was pasta, burgers, appetisers, breakfast, and drinks. Oh man, choosing was hard. I ended up with ordering coleslaw, cheese burger, and cider (Korean version of sprite and better tasting.) They have real American food there! The dill pickle was an actual dill pickle, not sweet. They had ranch dressing. The burger tasted normal ^_^ It was so nice. I am tempted to go back either for supper Christmas Eve or sometime Christmas Day. I might not. Here is why.
Travelers is a bar. Those days it might be packed. Last night it wasn't that full. We played darts and Foosball. It was a lot of fun. However near or on holidays it will probably have a lot of drunk partying going on. I am uncertain I want to be in that environment for Christmas.
Anyrate, after the movie we were trying to decide where to go get supper at. Michael mentioned some sort of Korean noodles. I wasn't in the mood for Korean food so I suggested the Lotteria where you can get chicken and burger sandwhiches with fries. Linda loves the fries there so she was game. Jimi never gave an opinion, I wonder what she likes to eat? Anyrate, Michael is a vegetarian so that was the best place. He mentioned Burger King as it has better burgers for those of us who eat meat. We just couldn't decided.
Then he suggested Travelers. It has good food no matter what you eat or don't eat. So we went. We sat down and they brought us menus. There was pasta, burgers, appetisers, breakfast, and drinks. Oh man, choosing was hard. I ended up with ordering coleslaw, cheese burger, and cider (Korean version of sprite and better tasting.) They have real American food there! The dill pickle was an actual dill pickle, not sweet. They had ranch dressing. The burger tasted normal ^_^ It was so nice. I am tempted to go back either for supper Christmas Eve or sometime Christmas Day. I might not. Here is why.
Travelers is a bar. Those days it might be packed. Last night it wasn't that full. We played darts and Foosball. It was a lot of fun. However near or on holidays it will probably have a lot of drunk partying going on. I am uncertain I want to be in that environment for Christmas.
Friday, December 16, 2011
YN36 International Christmas Party
Tonight we held our Christmas party with the students. It was pretty neat. We split into two teams. Amelie and a lot of students decorated and set up the Globish Center. Emma, Linda, Michael and I set up the Shakespeare room. We played a mixture of Christian and Christmas music while preparing food. Also got sidetracked with some students... shuffling! Then finally it was time to start our party.
Class president opened it up with a few words, the principle talked, prayer, and then we dug into the food. After that we had the gift exchange, then sent the juniors off with gifts and messages, and then we had our dance. Michael brought a lot of energy to that. I joined some students in shuffling. My own dance routine was a hit. Hiphop style ;) Then we played Linda's game of Mission Impossible. While they were off running all over the school completing the list of missions, we started cleaning up our respective areas.
Then we ended the evening at the auditorium at the candle light service for the juniors... both middle school and high school. Afterwards there was a lot of hugging and crying. A lot of them won't see each other again. Graduation seems to be dreaded as much as loved I guess. Then I finally was able to get off my feet.
But I can't sleep. Silly me... I had 4 Dr. Peppers and am more awake than I should be :P
Class president opened it up with a few words, the principle talked, prayer, and then we dug into the food. After that we had the gift exchange, then sent the juniors off with gifts and messages, and then we had our dance. Michael brought a lot of energy to that. I joined some students in shuffling. My own dance routine was a hit. Hiphop style ;) Then we played Linda's game of Mission Impossible. While they were off running all over the school completing the list of missions, we started cleaning up our respective areas.
Then we ended the evening at the auditorium at the candle light service for the juniors... both middle school and high school. Afterwards there was a lot of hugging and crying. A lot of them won't see each other again. Graduation seems to be dreaded as much as loved I guess. Then I finally was able to get off my feet.
But I can't sleep. Silly me... I had 4 Dr. Peppers and am more awake than I should be :P
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Birthday
I have had an unexpected birthday so far. Last night, I went out to eat at the Outback Steakhouse. Everyone was busy and will be very busy for the next day or two so I figured I would go by myself. However Teacher Michael and his girlfriend met up with me there and we had a good evening. It was nice.
Then today I was surprised at worship with a cake and candle. Well, not a cake really. Think of little debbie snack cakes stacked in a pretty way with a candle stuck in. Easy to serve ^_^ I made my wish and blew out the candle.
Throughout the day, students said happy birthday, sang happy birthday, played happy birthday songs, and gave me notes wishing me the best. It was amazing. And another cake like the one earlier appeared and they sang it all over again and I blew out the candles and made the same wish again.
I wished for something that I figured I could have. The principle already expressed a desire for me to not go home this coming break, so I didn't wish for that. My brother is in the states and soon to deploy, so I couldn't wish for him or other family/friends to be here. I stayed with something more practical. If I do my research and see if it is possible, then my wish might come true! If it does, I will tell you.
Now the day is coming to an end. This has been a pretty neat birthday. So many have expressed their good wishes for me. There have been some testimonies and confessions of how much I mean to them. So sweet. Today was a good day.
Then today I was surprised at worship with a cake and candle. Well, not a cake really. Think of little debbie snack cakes stacked in a pretty way with a candle stuck in. Easy to serve ^_^ I made my wish and blew out the candle.
Throughout the day, students said happy birthday, sang happy birthday, played happy birthday songs, and gave me notes wishing me the best. It was amazing. And another cake like the one earlier appeared and they sang it all over again and I blew out the candles and made the same wish again.
I wished for something that I figured I could have. The principle already expressed a desire for me to not go home this coming break, so I didn't wish for that. My brother is in the states and soon to deploy, so I couldn't wish for him or other family/friends to be here. I stayed with something more practical. If I do my research and see if it is possible, then my wish might come true! If it does, I will tell you.
Now the day is coming to an end. This has been a pretty neat birthday. So many have expressed their good wishes for me. There have been some testimonies and confessions of how much I mean to them. So sweet. Today was a good day.
Break Plans
I have had several questions come my way about what I will be doing between school semesters from Dec 23 to the end of February. Well, it is really hard to say. A lot of my plans have fallen through. So I don't know anymore what I am doing for Christmas. I was going to go to Palgone Mountain with a group, but not enough signed up that we are aware of. So they are planning to cancel it.
For about three weeks in January I will be teaching classes for winter camp. I have two conversation classes in the afternoon from about 1pm to 3pm. I might be able to pick up two more to teach in the late morning. Waiting to hear back from a high school Korean teacher on that.
I am starting a masters course in January. I will be focusing on that through January and February.
I have two or three days in the beginning of February to teach conversation classes.
Junior graduation to attend.
And then nothingness for two or three weeks... so focus on my masters course.
During this time, I plan to create a more thorough curriculum for several of the classes. I was thinking social studies... maybe literature. If we don't find more English teachers, they most likely will cut the culture classes so I will probably prefer to focus on the literature classes. However it works out, I plan to find ways to stay busy!
For about three weeks in January I will be teaching classes for winter camp. I have two conversation classes in the afternoon from about 1pm to 3pm. I might be able to pick up two more to teach in the late morning. Waiting to hear back from a high school Korean teacher on that.
I am starting a masters course in January. I will be focusing on that through January and February.
I have two or three days in the beginning of February to teach conversation classes.
Junior graduation to attend.
And then nothingness for two or three weeks... so focus on my masters course.
During this time, I plan to create a more thorough curriculum for several of the classes. I was thinking social studies... maybe literature. If we don't find more English teachers, they most likely will cut the culture classes so I will probably prefer to focus on the literature classes. However it works out, I plan to find ways to stay busy!
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Psalms 3:1-3
WOW! I have a lot of enemies, Lord! It feels like the whole world has suddenly turned against me! Throngs of angry people thirst for my blood! They chase after me shouting, “Not even God can help you!” But none of this matters—it falls on deaf ears—because You, O Lord, are my protector, my source of strength, my reason to believe! ~Psalm 3:1-3 (Randy Reed Paraphrased Version)
1. If you have ever had a bad day, this describes it. If you have ever lived in a horrible situation, this describes it. If you ever had a horrible job, this describes it. No matter how dangerous, discouraging, and stressful life can be... David was there too.
2. This leads to my next point. No matter how dangerous, discouraging, and stressful life SHOULD be or seem... you can live a happy life. Maybe not relaxed, because we must always keep our guard up against the Deceiver. However, we don't have to worry. Someone we can trust, God the Creator and Savior, has got our backs.
3. This leads to another point. God is taking care of us. Someone can try to hurt our feelings, discourage us, use us, manipulate us, kill us... however they can't really touch us as long as we trust in God. Does that mean bad things won't happen? No. That means that nothing will happen that won't be used in some way to bring others to Jesus. That we will be okay no matter what does happen.
Should I keep peeling this onion? I don't know, I think it is a bottomless pit full of more insights than one person could ever find. I just wanted to highlight some simple notes from my crazy and disorganized brain on this text so that I could have a mental outline to keep it straight by. Also sharing it with you ;)
1. If you have ever had a bad day, this describes it. If you have ever lived in a horrible situation, this describes it. If you ever had a horrible job, this describes it. No matter how dangerous, discouraging, and stressful life can be... David was there too.
2. This leads to my next point. No matter how dangerous, discouraging, and stressful life SHOULD be or seem... you can live a happy life. Maybe not relaxed, because we must always keep our guard up against the Deceiver. However, we don't have to worry. Someone we can trust, God the Creator and Savior, has got our backs.
3. This leads to another point. God is taking care of us. Someone can try to hurt our feelings, discourage us, use us, manipulate us, kill us... however they can't really touch us as long as we trust in God. Does that mean bad things won't happen? No. That means that nothing will happen that won't be used in some way to bring others to Jesus. That we will be okay no matter what does happen.
Should I keep peeling this onion? I don't know, I think it is a bottomless pit full of more insights than one person could ever find. I just wanted to highlight some simple notes from my crazy and disorganized brain on this text so that I could have a mental outline to keep it straight by. Also sharing it with you ;)
Bus Door
I was riding back to Jain from a town trip tonight when I noticed that there is a door in the bus between us and the driver. He has his own glassed in work zone. Just how have I missed that for the last three months is beyond me.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Beef, it's what's for dinner
Tonight in celebration of our middle school being 2nd place in the nation, we ate out at a beef restaurant. Yummy food. Great friends. Life is pretty sweet.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
English Dorms
Tonight after supper I was chilling on my computer when a knock came at my door. Getting up, I opened it to find two girls standing there. They said there was a potluck at the English girls dorm. So I grabbed my shoes and ran over. It was in honor of the juniors who are graduating from middle school to high school. There was so much food... and I had already eaten!! I took a plate though, since they made me go through line first. Teacher Martin came behind me so I asked him what a lot of it was. I recognized the crab and didn't touch that, but there was plenty of other options.
After that we all went to the boys English dorm and watched a movie. "Knight and Day" starring Tom Cruise. Needless to say, the girls went wild during several scenes. There was Korean subtitles so they understood most of the movie. Now I am sitting in my apartment stuffed full wondering how I am supposed to even move.
After that we all went to the boys English dorm and watched a movie. "Knight and Day" starring Tom Cruise. Needless to say, the girls went wild during several scenes. There was Korean subtitles so they understood most of the movie. Now I am sitting in my apartment stuffed full wondering how I am supposed to even move.
Korean... somethings.
Last night Linda and I were talking while watching a lunar eclipse outside. Our breathe was freezing in puffs in the air so I started to sing "Puff the magic dragon." Only I changed dragon to girl at the last minute. This brought an explanation from Linda about Koreans and the use of the word magic by females in their society.
For a female to say she is magical or any variation of that, well, it means she is on her period.
So how do Koreans explain where babies come from if they are so tight-lipped about this kind of stuff? They tell their kids that they, "found them under the bridge." The Korean word for bridge and pelvis is the same. So a play on words tells the truth and keeps them from asking too many more embarrassing questions is used.
Okay, awkward moment. Bye.
For a female to say she is magical or any variation of that, well, it means she is on her period.
So how do Koreans explain where babies come from if they are so tight-lipped about this kind of stuff? They tell their kids that they, "found them under the bridge." The Korean word for bridge and pelvis is the same. So a play on words tells the truth and keeps them from asking too many more embarrassing questions is used.
Okay, awkward moment. Bye.
lunar eclipse
Saturday just after 9:30pm, a complete lunar eclipse started taking place. I have seen lunar eclipses before, the most notable memory being in college where a friend and I slipped out of the dorm at 2am to view it. And take silly pictures of our not-so-awake faces. Anyrate, last night I kept track of the moon through my bathroom window. When it had a good portion covered, she put on a coat and slippers so I could go outside. Knocked on Linda's door and we stood there talking and watching our breathe freeze in the air. It was cold. So we went back inside. A little later she came and got me so we could see the whole moon complete in shadow. I never can decide if during an eclipse the moon be orange or brown. Not that it matters. It is just random trivia.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Magic Jack
I have a program I can use to make phone calls in the US without it costing either my family and me international charges. However, this wonderful setup seems to have limits. Not every phone company works. I tried calling someone down in my hometown and it wouldn't connect. Evidently there isn't a contract between Craw-Kan and Magic Jack. All good things have an imperfection it seems.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
ARC
My alien registration card was applied for yesterday. Reallly excited about that. Went to the bank today, but found out we have to wait for the card to arrive in order to make a long term bank account. New policy. Since the card won't arrive for another three weeks... *sigh*
So am giving my kids finals now since they are out of their regular classes finals. Hopefully they do well. When they finish that, they will spend the rest of the year decorating for Christmas. Yay.
So am giving my kids finals now since they are out of their regular classes finals. Hopefully they do well. When they finish that, they will spend the rest of the year decorating for Christmas. Yay.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Ears
"My baby has bright ears," Teacher Oh told me today on our way to the immigration office. I sat there wondering if that meant "clean ears," "big ears," or something else. He asked if I knew what that meant. I didn't. There is a common Korean phrase that translates as someone having bright ears. This means that they hear things easily when asleep and wake up. So his baby is a light sleeper and wakes up at the slightest noise. Got it!
Monday, December 5, 2011
Korean Suicide Rates
Koreans take education very seriously. I am concerned for their health. The students are concerned for their health. It is their culture to improve themselves. Parents and educators force students to stay up until 2 or 2:30am only to rise again at 6:30 or 7am. If students feel too much stress, they kill themselves. It is a very normal occurance. Every 40 minutes, another person had killed themselves.
http://thecasualtruth.com/story/escalating-suicide-problem-asia
Below is a link to four students' stories. They are short and informative. I really wish you would take the time to read them.
http://www.alienteachers.com/1/post/2011/11/4-students-stories-that-sum-up-so-many-of-the-problems-korea-faces.html
Education isn't the only factor. Their ideal of beauty seems to be as well. This is a video of a documentary done by someone after she graduated from high school. It is just as informative.
http://vimeo.com/26833191
Please take the time to pay attention to this blog. Understand that you affect those around you. You might literally be holding someone's life in your hands at this very moment.
http://thecasualtruth.com/story/escalating-suicide-problem-asia
Below is a link to four students' stories. They are short and informative. I really wish you would take the time to read them.
http://www.alienteachers.com/1/post/2011/11/4-students-stories-that-sum-up-so-many-of-the-problems-korea-faces.html
Education isn't the only factor. Their ideal of beauty seems to be as well. This is a video of a documentary done by someone after she graduated from high school. It is just as informative.
http://vimeo.com/26833191
Please take the time to pay attention to this blog. Understand that you affect those around you. You might literally be holding someone's life in your hands at this very moment.
Fashion
Something interesting I noticed yesterday was in the fashion culture here. It affects those who come over. I talked to Teacher Michael about it and decided it was blog worthy.
Americans have a tendency to enjoy wearing jeans and casual shirts. Jeans are relatively cheap compared to slacks. Koreans on the other hand are always dressed business style. Slacks are super cheap and jeans are extremely expense. So when Koreans do wear jeans, they wear designer jeans that look good.
Foreigners come over here and live in this culture. I can't because I'm too big, but you buy clothes here that fit and they are really nice and preppy by American standards. Foreigners change when they come and live here. Their sense of style changes. They dress much nicer. They become walking fashion statements.
Yesterday when I went to Daegu, I went in black sweaters that had a red logo, a blue shirt with pink and orange dessert cactus on the front, and my really nice winter coat from JCPenny's. I looked in the mirror and thought, "Tacky, I'm going to get mobbed." I went to Daegu and every foreigner I saw looked like he belonged in a prep school, New York, England, or Paris. They had nice shirts, vests, hats that slant, and slacks.
However, if a foreigner just arrives, you know they are new. The way they dress screams, "American." They wear casual jeans, t-shirts, sweaters, whatever.
Americans have a tendency to enjoy wearing jeans and casual shirts. Jeans are relatively cheap compared to slacks. Koreans on the other hand are always dressed business style. Slacks are super cheap and jeans are extremely expense. So when Koreans do wear jeans, they wear designer jeans that look good.
Foreigners come over here and live in this culture. I can't because I'm too big, but you buy clothes here that fit and they are really nice and preppy by American standards. Foreigners change when they come and live here. Their sense of style changes. They dress much nicer. They become walking fashion statements.
Yesterday when I went to Daegu, I went in black sweaters that had a red logo, a blue shirt with pink and orange dessert cactus on the front, and my really nice winter coat from JCPenny's. I looked in the mirror and thought, "Tacky, I'm going to get mobbed." I went to Daegu and every foreigner I saw looked like he belonged in a prep school, New York, England, or Paris. They had nice shirts, vests, hats that slant, and slacks.
However, if a foreigner just arrives, you know they are new. The way they dress screams, "American." They wear casual jeans, t-shirts, sweaters, whatever.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Some More Transportation Firsts
I decided to go to Daegu by myself today. Took a bus, then took the subway. Watched the movie "Breaking Dawn Part 1," then took the subway, took the bus, took a taxi, and arrived home.
Simple right? Sorta was. I got lost using the subway portion of my trip... twice. So skipped out on the Australian steaks I was going to pick up for lunch and went straight to the movie. Was so grateful to recognize the theater.
A high school girl sat with me and walked me out. She knew English fairly well. Her mother teaches English. She thought I was in high school too. The pigtail braids I think did that. She was mortified to learn I was a teacher instead of a student. I told her it wasn't a big deal as that was a common occurance with me. Not entirely true, but I wanted to save face and help her feel more normal. Don't want to cause more stress on any student right now since it is finals... last thing I want to do is somehow help someone feel bad enough to kill themselves. Oh Korea, really?
Got back without a hitch. Grateful for that. Koreans are really nice and helpful. I was looking a bit lost several times and those nearby immediately hurried over to help. I understand more now why those who speak Spanish sometimes look a little lost in America. I wish I knew Spanish so I could help them with simple things like where to go and what stuff on the grocery shelf is.
Being here has shown me that new cultures are not an easy thing. I cling to my western culture quite a bit. It is a sense of familiarity and provides stability with so many new overwhelming things. So I can understand the people of other cultures who come to America would feel a bit in shock and insecure.
Simple right? Sorta was. I got lost using the subway portion of my trip... twice. So skipped out on the Australian steaks I was going to pick up for lunch and went straight to the movie. Was so grateful to recognize the theater.
A high school girl sat with me and walked me out. She knew English fairly well. Her mother teaches English. She thought I was in high school too. The pigtail braids I think did that. She was mortified to learn I was a teacher instead of a student. I told her it wasn't a big deal as that was a common occurance with me. Not entirely true, but I wanted to save face and help her feel more normal. Don't want to cause more stress on any student right now since it is finals... last thing I want to do is somehow help someone feel bad enough to kill themselves. Oh Korea, really?
Got back without a hitch. Grateful for that. Koreans are really nice and helpful. I was looking a bit lost several times and those nearby immediately hurried over to help. I understand more now why those who speak Spanish sometimes look a little lost in America. I wish I knew Spanish so I could help them with simple things like where to go and what stuff on the grocery shelf is.
Being here has shown me that new cultures are not an easy thing. I cling to my western culture quite a bit. It is a sense of familiarity and provides stability with so many new overwhelming things. So I can understand the people of other cultures who come to America would feel a bit in shock and insecure.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Hospital
So I had to go get my physical today. There is only one hospital in Daegu willing to help with getting the alien registration card. So we went there. Teacher Oh helped me walk through to all the places we needed to visit. Got tests done and my height confirmed. I am evidently 172 cm or something like that. There were no lines and that was doubly nice. Was in and out in less than 20 minutes and that says something. Was expensive though. About 72,000 won... which is about $65. Actually in America that is cheap, but here for me now it is expensive because I haven't been paid my next paycheck yet ^_^
Buson
Yesterday was my first time in Buson. It is a rather large city to the south of here. It is also considered one of the nicest places for foreigners to live. My school took all the teachers there to walk through an all girls school. It was pretty fancy and neat. I was shocked at the high tech level and diversity among the classrooms and hallways. That level of sophistication is something I definitely have not seen in any American school. It was pretty impressive.
We ate lunch in the bus on the way there. Kimbop. They handed out yummy bread and pringles too. Then every staff member got a gift bag full of oranges and sweets. Yummy.
For supper we went to a restaruant that speciallizes in sea food (hey it is next to the sea). I opted for a tofu soup that was rather salty and side dishes. Overall good food.
Using the restroom there was another story. When you went into the bathroom, if you were female you had another girl watch the door because it was a co-ed bathroom. The toilets were the squat style.
After that we went to the ocean. Or sea. Something. It was pretty to watch. In winter the waves are higher and more enjoyable to view.
Then our long 2 hour bus trip back. Hung out with two Korean assistants that helps us English teachers. They are super sweet and I enjoy talking to them. It was a great way to spend my Thursday.
We ate lunch in the bus on the way there. Kimbop. They handed out yummy bread and pringles too. Then every staff member got a gift bag full of oranges and sweets. Yummy.
For supper we went to a restaruant that speciallizes in sea food (hey it is next to the sea). I opted for a tofu soup that was rather salty and side dishes. Overall good food.
Using the restroom there was another story. When you went into the bathroom, if you were female you had another girl watch the door because it was a co-ed bathroom. The toilets were the squat style.
After that we went to the ocean. Or sea. Something. It was pretty to watch. In winter the waves are higher and more enjoyable to view.
Then our long 2 hour bus trip back. Hung out with two Korean assistants that helps us English teachers. They are super sweet and I enjoy talking to them. It was a great way to spend my Thursday.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Similarity in History: US and Korea
I was mentioning at one point that my Korean students are very creative. They had watched the movie Tangled based off of the German fairy tale known as Rapunzel. In this movie you have a kidnapped princess who wants to visit the world outside her home (which is a tower) in order to better see the lanterns that always appear on her birthday. She blackmails a thief into helping her. They fall in love. Her mother (who really isn't) steals her back. He saves the day. They go back to her real family and everyone lives happily ever after.
There are a series of characters in this Disney film that could get the students' attention. Rapunzel is the obvious choice. She is beautiful, kind, and has long magic hair that glows when she sings. The thief, known as Flynn Ryder (but whose real name is Eugene), is also much loved for his caustic sense of humor. Rapunzel's pet chameleon named Pascal really keeps the story going and is a cool, fun character. Maximus, a palace horse and eternal nemesis of Eugene, is smart and brave in tracking down the thief but becomes a friend and helps save the day. I figured some of my students would pick Mother Gothel, the evil lady who had kidnapped Rapunzel because she is pretty neat too. Then there were some thugs who we all nicknamed: hook, cupid, mime, etc. You can guess what their characteristics might be.
Some of my students really liked Eugene (the thief). However, they spelled in their essay his name as Yu Jing or some other Korean version. That amused me. They took a European name and make it Korean.
My dearest twin had the amazing thought... America did that to immigrants. A lot of people who moved to the states had their names changed "accidently" by customs. We did it too.
There are a series of characters in this Disney film that could get the students' attention. Rapunzel is the obvious choice. She is beautiful, kind, and has long magic hair that glows when she sings. The thief, known as Flynn Ryder (but whose real name is Eugene), is also much loved for his caustic sense of humor. Rapunzel's pet chameleon named Pascal really keeps the story going and is a cool, fun character. Maximus, a palace horse and eternal nemesis of Eugene, is smart and brave in tracking down the thief but becomes a friend and helps save the day. I figured some of my students would pick Mother Gothel, the evil lady who had kidnapped Rapunzel because she is pretty neat too. Then there were some thugs who we all nicknamed: hook, cupid, mime, etc. You can guess what their characteristics might be.
Some of my students really liked Eugene (the thief). However, they spelled in their essay his name as Yu Jing or some other Korean version. That amused me. They took a European name and make it Korean.
My dearest twin had the amazing thought... America did that to immigrants. A lot of people who moved to the states had their names changed "accidently" by customs. We did it too.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Japan - But the Best End
So I woke up this morning and realized I had slept a wonderful and much needed 10 hours. Enjoyed using the beauty products the hotel provided me with, then went downstairs to check out. Check out was at 10am, so I have 3.5 hours to kill before I could go get my visa. I pulled out the map I had picked up at the hotel and planned a route to food... the scenic route of course. Got to see a shrine, temple, and two parks. The first park was for walking dogs. The second was for little kids. Neither had benches, chairs, or tables. So I kept going. People watched for quite a while. Walked in a shopping area where the street is closed to traffic and the top is covered with a roof. Found a starbucks there... but didn't get any.
At the embassy, I found two white guys ahead of me. Recognized one from the day before. Typical. Neither spoke to me. Outside on my way in, I saw a middle aged couple. I managed to catch the lady's eye and smile. She returned the smile. Finally, a foreigner acknowledged me. *sigh*
Now that I was armed with my visa, I merrily made my way back to Namba Station... and got lost at the front door. It is more than a station, it is a mall. Lovely. However there was a map and an area with the Nankai Line or something close enough to that... so I went in that direction. Saw signed with an airplane and that name, kept going. Right up to second floor where there were ticket machines. After five minutes of panicking over how to use them and what I wanted, a light bulb blinked on and I quickly got my ticket and headed to the tracks.
Once there, I approached a lady and held my ticket out to her. I wanted to confirm I was at the right tracks and this train went to Kansai airport. She looked desperately at me and finally got out "changee" while making circles with her two hands. I understood and knodded my thanks. I was at the right tracks, however I didn't want this train, but the next one. An English announcement of the next train confirmed that.
Never have I been so eager to get to an airport. Nor looked forward to a plane ride so much. If there wasn't an ocean between me and my school, I wouldn't have been so nervous. Made it to the airport, got something to eat (McDonalds) but couldn't finish it. Some things about travel never change. I went to throw my trash away and was curious what to do. One said paper. One said plastic. One was for liquids. Where though did I put my left over sandwich? A worker there pointed to paper. Paper is was.
Went up to 4th floor, did a survey and got a free playing card with an anime screenshot on it, got my ticket to my airplane... found my gate. Again there was a cute guy. He watched me a lot. I watched him alot... when I wasn't sleeping. What is it with finding cute guys everywhere I go? Anyrate, a foreigner couple sat nearby when it was almost time to board. I was laying there and suddenly realized I was hearing English. I looked over at them thinking they were Asian because the girl's English was like my Korean students... but both of them were white. I went back to sleep. Finally boarded. Plane took off. Watch Osaka disappear below me, and it was a pretty view with the lights at night.
Got to Gimhae airport in Busan and happily bought a bus ticket. While waiting for the bus I called Teacher Oh so he would know what time to pick me up at the bus station. Asked some of those really good looking airport police if I could take a picture... they apologized and said no. Disappointed, and a bit embarrassed, I hid in a food court and ate ice cream. My throat hurt so it felt good. Slight sore throat still here after the weekend. Sadly.
Got on the bus, made it to Dongdaegu. However it wasn't the same building that I got on the bus at. So I was lost and was worried how Teacher Oh was going to find me. Poor guy was tired as it was driving me to these appointments and caring for his newborn son. I decided to start walking until I recognized something, but saw a payphone first. Great, I would call him... but then I saw him coming towards me. So grateful.
I made up for not talking much the last two days by talking to him. Probably helped keep him awake.
I have three sets of Japanese coins... and more random coins but they aren't in sets. The 50 coin was the rarest for me to get. It has a hole!
I must have been biting my mouth in my sleep from the stress of this trip because it has a hole in the cheek that leeks clear, weird tasting liquid. Looks like a sore sorta. Hoping salt water swished around helps. Or just cool juice. Whatever helps it heal quickly!
Japan was expensive. Compared to the USA, moderately so. Compared to Korea, very much so. I didn't do much shopping, but enjoyed seeing things and taking a few pics. Though I didn't take much pictures because I didn't want to offend anyone. *sigh* It was a good experience and helped prove to myself that between Jesus and I, things will be okay. He directs and takes care of me, and I soak up everything I can.
At the embassy, I found two white guys ahead of me. Recognized one from the day before. Typical. Neither spoke to me. Outside on my way in, I saw a middle aged couple. I managed to catch the lady's eye and smile. She returned the smile. Finally, a foreigner acknowledged me. *sigh*
Now that I was armed with my visa, I merrily made my way back to Namba Station... and got lost at the front door. It is more than a station, it is a mall. Lovely. However there was a map and an area with the Nankai Line or something close enough to that... so I went in that direction. Saw signed with an airplane and that name, kept going. Right up to second floor where there were ticket machines. After five minutes of panicking over how to use them and what I wanted, a light bulb blinked on and I quickly got my ticket and headed to the tracks.
Once there, I approached a lady and held my ticket out to her. I wanted to confirm I was at the right tracks and this train went to Kansai airport. She looked desperately at me and finally got out "changee" while making circles with her two hands. I understood and knodded my thanks. I was at the right tracks, however I didn't want this train, but the next one. An English announcement of the next train confirmed that.
Never have I been so eager to get to an airport. Nor looked forward to a plane ride so much. If there wasn't an ocean between me and my school, I wouldn't have been so nervous. Made it to the airport, got something to eat (McDonalds) but couldn't finish it. Some things about travel never change. I went to throw my trash away and was curious what to do. One said paper. One said plastic. One was for liquids. Where though did I put my left over sandwich? A worker there pointed to paper. Paper is was.
Went up to 4th floor, did a survey and got a free playing card with an anime screenshot on it, got my ticket to my airplane... found my gate. Again there was a cute guy. He watched me a lot. I watched him alot... when I wasn't sleeping. What is it with finding cute guys everywhere I go? Anyrate, a foreigner couple sat nearby when it was almost time to board. I was laying there and suddenly realized I was hearing English. I looked over at them thinking they were Asian because the girl's English was like my Korean students... but both of them were white. I went back to sleep. Finally boarded. Plane took off. Watch Osaka disappear below me, and it was a pretty view with the lights at night.
Got to Gimhae airport in Busan and happily bought a bus ticket. While waiting for the bus I called Teacher Oh so he would know what time to pick me up at the bus station. Asked some of those really good looking airport police if I could take a picture... they apologized and said no. Disappointed, and a bit embarrassed, I hid in a food court and ate ice cream. My throat hurt so it felt good. Slight sore throat still here after the weekend. Sadly.
Got on the bus, made it to Dongdaegu. However it wasn't the same building that I got on the bus at. So I was lost and was worried how Teacher Oh was going to find me. Poor guy was tired as it was driving me to these appointments and caring for his newborn son. I decided to start walking until I recognized something, but saw a payphone first. Great, I would call him... but then I saw him coming towards me. So grateful.
I made up for not talking much the last two days by talking to him. Probably helped keep him awake.
I have three sets of Japanese coins... and more random coins but they aren't in sets. The 50 coin was the rarest for me to get. It has a hole!
I must have been biting my mouth in my sleep from the stress of this trip because it has a hole in the cheek that leeks clear, weird tasting liquid. Looks like a sore sorta. Hoping salt water swished around helps. Or just cool juice. Whatever helps it heal quickly!
Japan was expensive. Compared to the USA, moderately so. Compared to Korea, very much so. I didn't do much shopping, but enjoyed seeing things and taking a few pics. Though I didn't take much pictures because I didn't want to offend anyone. *sigh* It was a good experience and helped prove to myself that between Jesus and I, things will be okay. He directs and takes care of me, and I soak up everything I can.
Monday, November 28, 2011
First Day - Japan
Okay, so right off the bat I am just going to say... I don't handle airports and planes very well. At all. That said you can imagine I had no appetite before I got to Busan and was feeling rather nauseous from the moment I went inside the airport to the moment I finally landed. With that horrible bit of info out of the way, let's discuss me going to Japan!
Teacher Oh picked me up at 5am and took me to the bus station. I got a nice bus ride straight to Gimhae. That is how I suggest getting to and from airports. Anyrate, then I went inside and got my ticket. The security guards are young men in black walking in teams of two... and looking so incredible. Oh man.
Then I went through security. Their security is a bit lax. You don't have to take off your shoes and pull out your liquids. They just want your laptop out. That is all. That was easy. Got some breakfast, of which I could only eat half. Then I changed my 500,000 won for about 30000 yen. Okay that sucked. Finally it was time to get on the plane. Went through the gate, down some stairs, onto a bus, walked to the plane and climbed on. Did I mention I wasn't feeling so good by this point? Anyrate I got some pics of Japan as we went over.
Then we landed. I gladly got off that plane... after making some insane eye contact with a pair of intense eyes. Why am I do attracted to all these men? At least it wasn't one way. Thankfully lost him in the crowd. Well, I let him go on ahead. Found my way on a tram to the main building where I walked through quarantine, inspection, and finally immigration. Once through all that, I happily made my way out to the train platform. I pulled out a map, pointed at Namba Station, and asked what to do. Everyone was really helpful. Not in the nice and smiley way that Koreans are. More professional and formal. I went where they pointed and sat down on a train. Stayed on that for like 50 minutes until I got to Namba Station.
I was armed with my map and headed eagerly outside. Half a block later I was lost. So I asked some traffic person for help. He scratched his head and muttered train station... then called some fellow who knew a few more English words to help me. I didn't understand his Japanese, but I did make out some of the pidgin English... so I got to walking and finally found my hotel. Checked in and then headed to the Korean Embassy.
That was quite the experience. I saw a lot of stuff and made mental notes to get pics on the way back or stop by to shop for food tomorrow. Used 2/3rds of my yen already on transportation, hotel, visa... *sigh*. At least McDonalds is cheap. Sorta. Compared to everything else, yes. Compared to America, no.
Got to the embassy, went inside. Allowed my complete exhaustion to show in my face as I asked "What now?" Did I mention I didn't sleep well all weekend? Particularly the night before I flew? I was tired. Like I would start to zone out and have crazy dreams that made no sense, only to jerk awake. Anyrate, a lot of paperwork and even more time spent sitting... I finally get the visa stuff stored away. No interview though. That is kinda weird. I can pick my visa up at 1:30 tomorrow.
So on the way back I pulled out my camera and started snapping pictures. Found McDonalds and got a late lunch... well, I hadn't been eating so half then and the other half later for supper. Then I made my way back to the hotel. I was almost 3pm and check-in wasn't until 4pm... so I chilled and read a book. Then the lady at the desk brought my key (which turns on the lights as well as unlocks my door), and a basket full of beauty products. I picked up one of everything. It was nice.
Then my vacation started. I have a normal bathroom. A bit small... like a camper. However it has a tub and shower... so I took a bath. And then a little later I took another. And I used a face mask and pampered myself. I enjoyed sitting back and reading. I plan to sleep well tonight. They provide slippers, coffee, all toiletry items anyone could need, pajamas, a pants press, New Testement, Buddha book... TV that is all in Japanese... At least the heating is the same as in Korea :) Figured that out easily enough. It is a lot warmer here though. I am grateful for that. It would suck though if there was a tsunami right now... I am pretty sure I am only a foot above sea level. Your either on a mountain or you are not. Most are not.
Anyrate, I am sure there was a lot more I was going to say. However the outlets are not like American outlets or Korean outlets so I have limited battery. And I want to post some pics on facebook yet tonight. So I am going to go.
Tomorrow's plan is check out by 10am. Walk around and eat until 1:30. Get my visa. Get to the train station. Get to the airport. Wait for plane... go back to Korea... at like 8pm at night. Call Teacher Oh and let him know when my bus leaves. Get on bus and have him pick me up in Daegu probably around 10pm. Get back home around 10:45 or 11? Maybe? Then get up early and teach?
Actually I want to thank Teacher Oh right now and right here. He is getting only a few hours of sleep transporting me all over... getting home late, leaving early... and dealing with a newborn kid. So he is in worse shape than me. I pray he didn't fall asleep at the wheel this morning after dropping me off.
Now I am saying bye. God bless!
Teacher Oh picked me up at 5am and took me to the bus station. I got a nice bus ride straight to Gimhae. That is how I suggest getting to and from airports. Anyrate, then I went inside and got my ticket. The security guards are young men in black walking in teams of two... and looking so incredible. Oh man.
Then I went through security. Their security is a bit lax. You don't have to take off your shoes and pull out your liquids. They just want your laptop out. That is all. That was easy. Got some breakfast, of which I could only eat half. Then I changed my 500,000 won for about 30000 yen. Okay that sucked. Finally it was time to get on the plane. Went through the gate, down some stairs, onto a bus, walked to the plane and climbed on. Did I mention I wasn't feeling so good by this point? Anyrate I got some pics of Japan as we went over.
Then we landed. I gladly got off that plane... after making some insane eye contact with a pair of intense eyes. Why am I do attracted to all these men? At least it wasn't one way. Thankfully lost him in the crowd. Well, I let him go on ahead. Found my way on a tram to the main building where I walked through quarantine, inspection, and finally immigration. Once through all that, I happily made my way out to the train platform. I pulled out a map, pointed at Namba Station, and asked what to do. Everyone was really helpful. Not in the nice and smiley way that Koreans are. More professional and formal. I went where they pointed and sat down on a train. Stayed on that for like 50 minutes until I got to Namba Station.
I was armed with my map and headed eagerly outside. Half a block later I was lost. So I asked some traffic person for help. He scratched his head and muttered train station... then called some fellow who knew a few more English words to help me. I didn't understand his Japanese, but I did make out some of the pidgin English... so I got to walking and finally found my hotel. Checked in and then headed to the Korean Embassy.
That was quite the experience. I saw a lot of stuff and made mental notes to get pics on the way back or stop by to shop for food tomorrow. Used 2/3rds of my yen already on transportation, hotel, visa... *sigh*. At least McDonalds is cheap. Sorta. Compared to everything else, yes. Compared to America, no.
Got to the embassy, went inside. Allowed my complete exhaustion to show in my face as I asked "What now?" Did I mention I didn't sleep well all weekend? Particularly the night before I flew? I was tired. Like I would start to zone out and have crazy dreams that made no sense, only to jerk awake. Anyrate, a lot of paperwork and even more time spent sitting... I finally get the visa stuff stored away. No interview though. That is kinda weird. I can pick my visa up at 1:30 tomorrow.
So on the way back I pulled out my camera and started snapping pictures. Found McDonalds and got a late lunch... well, I hadn't been eating so half then and the other half later for supper. Then I made my way back to the hotel. I was almost 3pm and check-in wasn't until 4pm... so I chilled and read a book. Then the lady at the desk brought my key (which turns on the lights as well as unlocks my door), and a basket full of beauty products. I picked up one of everything. It was nice.
Then my vacation started. I have a normal bathroom. A bit small... like a camper. However it has a tub and shower... so I took a bath. And then a little later I took another. And I used a face mask and pampered myself. I enjoyed sitting back and reading. I plan to sleep well tonight. They provide slippers, coffee, all toiletry items anyone could need, pajamas, a pants press, New Testement, Buddha book... TV that is all in Japanese... At least the heating is the same as in Korea :) Figured that out easily enough. It is a lot warmer here though. I am grateful for that. It would suck though if there was a tsunami right now... I am pretty sure I am only a foot above sea level. Your either on a mountain or you are not. Most are not.
Anyrate, I am sure there was a lot more I was going to say. However the outlets are not like American outlets or Korean outlets so I have limited battery. And I want to post some pics on facebook yet tonight. So I am going to go.
Tomorrow's plan is check out by 10am. Walk around and eat until 1:30. Get my visa. Get to the train station. Get to the airport. Wait for plane... go back to Korea... at like 8pm at night. Call Teacher Oh and let him know when my bus leaves. Get on bus and have him pick me up in Daegu probably around 10pm. Get back home around 10:45 or 11? Maybe? Then get up early and teach?
Actually I want to thank Teacher Oh right now and right here. He is getting only a few hours of sleep transporting me all over... getting home late, leaving early... and dealing with a newborn kid. So he is in worse shape than me. I pray he didn't fall asleep at the wheel this morning after dropping me off.
Now I am saying bye. God bless!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Japan - Not the Best Start
I made a reservation at a hotel where I will be staying tomorrow night. I made the reservation through a service that said you could pay for your stay there. In cash if you prefer. So trustingly I made the reservation. They charged my bank account. It is expensive to stay in Japan. I want the school to pay for it. So having it come out of my bank account seriously was not a good idea. Hoping when I get to the hotel tomorrow with cash in hand, that they will put the money they took back in my account. Japan isn't starting out with a good rep. They need to work on their PR a lot.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Korean/American words
So you know how I am over here and should be learning some of the Korean language. And that is a good idea, I'm not saying it isn't. I just want to show how different a lot of things are. Americans call South Koreans, well, Koreans. And we call their language Korean. We do this in fact for many cultures.
However, they are not actually Koreans... and their language isn't Korean. South Koreans call themselves Hanguk-in. And their written language is Hangul. Their traditional clothes are called Hanbok. Notice that these all start with "Han." If you are from North Korea then it is entirely different.
South Koreans call Americans by a completely different name. Our country and citizenship doesn't sound even close to what they call us. I don't remember what the names are, and I apologize for that. Just thought it was interesting.
However, they are not actually Koreans... and their language isn't Korean. South Koreans call themselves Hanguk-in. And their written language is Hangul. Their traditional clothes are called Hanbok. Notice that these all start with "Han." If you are from North Korea then it is entirely different.
South Koreans call Americans by a completely different name. Our country and citizenship doesn't sound even close to what they call us. I don't remember what the names are, and I apologize for that. Just thought it was interesting.
Date
The other day Teacher Oh took me into Jain to get pictures for my visa. On our way back, he was explaining a lot of what we would have to do once I had my visa. Set up bank account, go get a physical at the hospital. He then said we would be going on another date. I looked at him in surprise, so he expanded, "When guy and girl go somewhere together, it is called a date." He meant the best, and I couldn't help it. I giggled. It was funny!
And for those romantic relatives and friends of mine... don't matchmake us. He is married with a newborn son ;)
And for those romantic relatives and friends of mine... don't matchmake us. He is married with a newborn son ;)
Soy Sauce
Linda was eating chicken the other day with the freshmen boys. I was with the freshmen girls. She was explaining to them how she couldn't remember the Korean word for soy sauce. She liked to be able to ask specifically for the soy sauce chicken. The boys explained that it wasn't just soy sauce, but soy sauce was the base. (Hint for Mindy the next time she attempts to make chicken.)
They went further and explained it wasn't good for you to eat just soy sauce. That if you ate just soy sauce, it would turn you into a girl. Linda thinks she now knows why Kim Hyun Joong is so cute... he eats a lot of soy sauce. ^_^
They went further and explained it wasn't good for you to eat just soy sauce. That if you ate just soy sauce, it would turn you into a girl. Linda thinks she now knows why Kim Hyun Joong is so cute... he eats a lot of soy sauce. ^_^
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Happy Thanksgiving!
Today I taught my co-teaching kids about Thanksgiving. It was a lot of fun. Once I was out of classes for the day, I ran off to my apartment to finish preparing food. I made chicken! I decided to call it Zesty Basil Chicken, and was a bit afraid there was a wee too much basil. Turns out the basil was the least of my problems. It had way too much lemon juice saturated throughout all the pieces of chicken. Next time I am using soy sauce as my base! Not doing that again. Teacher Linda loved it though :)
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving meal. Amalie and Emma were amused by the amount of food we had. They also got to try new foods they had never had before. We had mashed potatoes and yummy gravy, green beans, cornbread dressing (thank you Linda), vegi ham topped with pineapple and raisins, dinner rolls, and so much more. Of course there was pumpkin pie. Can't enjoy a meal without it.
Pumpkin pie is very sweet to Koreans. Amalie ate the pumpkin filling with bits of her dinner rolls. It shows how much difference there is between our cultures and it was great to talk about it. We had a lot of fun hanging out and just talking.
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving meal. Amalie and Emma were amused by the amount of food we had. They also got to try new foods they had never had before. We had mashed potatoes and yummy gravy, green beans, cornbread dressing (thank you Linda), vegi ham topped with pineapple and raisins, dinner rolls, and so much more. Of course there was pumpkin pie. Can't enjoy a meal without it.
Pumpkin pie is very sweet to Koreans. Amalie ate the pumpkin filling with bits of her dinner rolls. It shows how much difference there is between our cultures and it was great to talk about it. We had a lot of fun hanging out and just talking.
Scandalized
So I think I seriously surprised Amalie today. Koreans are very particular about footwear and what to where when. I was at Teacher Linda's apartment next door. I just needed to run over to mine and grab one more fork. So I didn't bother to put on my shoes, I went in my socks. That is faster... and I grew up in Kansas. Come on. We do things without a lot of extra ceremony. Koreans love their ceremony. The look on Amalie's face when I went out that door was hilarious.
Reservation
It was worked out so that I would be heading to Japan really early Monday morning. I like to have a plan. I want all my bases covered. If I have someone to help me, then usually we get it straight how I do what and when. For instance, on Monday I climb into Teacher Oh's car at 5am. We go to the bus station where I have a ticket. I climb on the bus and sit in seat 16. I stay on the bus until it arrives at Busan. I climb out and walk into the airport, check-in, and fly to Osaka.
Then I have to plan. I need all my bases covered. If there is no one to help me, I have back up plans B, C, D, E, and a variety of spin offs of those plans. They are interchangeable. For instance, once I am in Osaka I can take a cab, bus, train to the Korean embassy, a hotel, Nanba Station... where I then walk to any of the before mentioned places. I should eat during this time, so I am researching convenient stores, nearby restaurants, and McDonalds. I know the three closest McDonalds to the embassy.
However, even on this I had help. Teacher Michael suggested the train from the airport to Nanba. It is the cheapest and I stay on all the way there. He sent me a website where I could book a reservation at a hotel for free. This way I can pay in cash when I get there. I actually made my a reservation at a hotel in a foreign country. How cool is that!
I of course will be printing off maps and making sure I always have a place to be. I can't check in at the hotel until 4pm, so will have time to spend walking around looking at shops and being baffled over a new language and customs. It will be fun. I have a plan... with a back up plan :) And a good reservation :D
Then I have to plan. I need all my bases covered. If there is no one to help me, I have back up plans B, C, D, E, and a variety of spin offs of those plans. They are interchangeable. For instance, once I am in Osaka I can take a cab, bus, train to the Korean embassy, a hotel, Nanba Station... where I then walk to any of the before mentioned places. I should eat during this time, so I am researching convenient stores, nearby restaurants, and McDonalds. I know the three closest McDonalds to the embassy.
However, even on this I had help. Teacher Michael suggested the train from the airport to Nanba. It is the cheapest and I stay on all the way there. He sent me a website where I could book a reservation at a hotel for free. This way I can pay in cash when I get there. I actually made my a reservation at a hotel in a foreign country. How cool is that!
I of course will be printing off maps and making sure I always have a place to be. I can't check in at the hotel until 4pm, so will have time to spend walking around looking at shops and being baffled over a new language and customs. It will be fun. I have a plan... with a back up plan :) And a good reservation :D
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Translation - because it amuses me
Please note that
Failure in the press room (interior cleaning and parts replacement)
Rubbish that should not be used for a while
Available as early as Monday through Friday if we are late
Please note that
This is what I got out of it...
There is broken stuff in the press room that should not be used until fixed. They will be fixed next week.
how did you do?
Failure in the press room (interior cleaning and parts replacement)
Rubbish that should not be used for a while
Available as early as Monday through Friday if we are late
Please note that
This is what I got out of it...
There is broken stuff in the press room that should not be used until fixed. They will be fixed next week.
how did you do?
Thanksgiving Plans
About a week or two ago. Teacher Linda and I began planning our Thanksgiving meal. We talked about what to do and who should come. We decided to have us three English teachers and our Korean assistants be the ones there. We planned what to make and what we needed to buy. The top most thing being a turkey.
In order to even find half of what was on our list, we would have to go to Costco. Some of the items we would have to make ourselves... like dressing. Turkey is hard to find here, unless you go to a western-like store. That would be Costco. There are no buses, trains, or subways that go close to Costco, so we are reliant on Teacher Oh.
I asked Teacher Oh if he would take us. I got out a calender, showed when Thanksgiving was, and said we needed to go to Costco by that date. I explained we really wanted a Turkey, and a few other things. So he arranged between classes last Friday for us to go. We had fun picking out stuff for the Christmas party and hunting for our Turkey. And man did we hunt. We found a turkey but it was like $80. We wondered if that wasn't just a bit expensive and decided not to get it. We found turkey breast and almost bought that... but decided it was okay. We wouldn't get it. We did get our pumpkin pie, dinner rolls, and a few other things and told Teacher Oh we were really excited for Thanksgiving.
Monday night I went to E Mart to pick up fixings for a salad and to make my own dressing. I will have to bake some cubed bread for the dressing. I also plan to make mashed potatoes and gravy. We are all really excited to have an American styled Thanksgiving meal.
Today I got a message from Teacher Oh saying I shouldn't make plans for dinner on Nov. 24. Tomorrow. I asked if that was lunch or supper... because different people refer to it for different meals. He said supper. He would tell me when and where later. I sat there surprised. What about our plans? I talked to Teacher Linda. She told him we had plans. He asked if those plans were with the other foreign teachers (Michael and me). She said yes, they were made over a week ago. "Remember the turkey hunt?" He said next time we should make an appointment.
Communication isn't the best attribute at this school. It appears we might have to move our own plans to Friday. Not sure how this is going to work. I'm trying to shrug it off. But it is harder for the other two and I understand why. Just wish that there was better communication. Though I have to admit, they gave us better warning that they did last time.
In order to even find half of what was on our list, we would have to go to Costco. Some of the items we would have to make ourselves... like dressing. Turkey is hard to find here, unless you go to a western-like store. That would be Costco. There are no buses, trains, or subways that go close to Costco, so we are reliant on Teacher Oh.
I asked Teacher Oh if he would take us. I got out a calender, showed when Thanksgiving was, and said we needed to go to Costco by that date. I explained we really wanted a Turkey, and a few other things. So he arranged between classes last Friday for us to go. We had fun picking out stuff for the Christmas party and hunting for our Turkey. And man did we hunt. We found a turkey but it was like $80. We wondered if that wasn't just a bit expensive and decided not to get it. We found turkey breast and almost bought that... but decided it was okay. We wouldn't get it. We did get our pumpkin pie, dinner rolls, and a few other things and told Teacher Oh we were really excited for Thanksgiving.
Monday night I went to E Mart to pick up fixings for a salad and to make my own dressing. I will have to bake some cubed bread for the dressing. I also plan to make mashed potatoes and gravy. We are all really excited to have an American styled Thanksgiving meal.
Today I got a message from Teacher Oh saying I shouldn't make plans for dinner on Nov. 24. Tomorrow. I asked if that was lunch or supper... because different people refer to it for different meals. He said supper. He would tell me when and where later. I sat there surprised. What about our plans? I talked to Teacher Linda. She told him we had plans. He asked if those plans were with the other foreign teachers (Michael and me). She said yes, they were made over a week ago. "Remember the turkey hunt?" He said next time we should make an appointment.
Communication isn't the best attribute at this school. It appears we might have to move our own plans to Friday. Not sure how this is going to work. I'm trying to shrug it off. But it is harder for the other two and I understand why. Just wish that there was better communication. Though I have to admit, they gave us better warning that they did last time.
Translation for Today
I have a translation for you. Just got this and thought it would be fun for you to try to figure out what they are saying. ^_^
Already in the middle of this week, realize faster time halsuitneungeotdivorced are today operating on my middle school classroom curriculuminspection team will visit our school at 2:00 pm is a major feat for greetingsto the guests so that led us your lunch hour Subject to the trash will not make the map and ask your instructor to be good at classroom management. Iwish you a good day to ask: ^ * ^
To me this means:
We are already halfway through the week. Time sure flies. There will be guests visiting the middle school to inspect how classrooms are set up and run around 2pm. This is a really big deal and we want them to feel welcome here. So at lunch, help make sure that there is no trash laying around. Help keep our campus clean. Get the kids to help too. Have a good day!
Is that what you got?
Already in the middle of this week, realize faster time halsuitneungeotdivorced are today operating on my middle school classroom curriculuminspection team will visit our school at 2:00 pm is a major feat for greetingsto the guests so that led us your lunch hour Subject to the trash will not make the map and ask your instructor to be good at classroom management. Iwish you a good day to ask: ^ * ^
To me this means:
We are already halfway through the week. Time sure flies. There will be guests visiting the middle school to inspect how classrooms are set up and run around 2pm. This is a really big deal and we want them to feel welcome here. So at lunch, help make sure that there is no trash laying around. Help keep our campus clean. Get the kids to help too. Have a good day!
Is that what you got?
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Planning Japan
So today has been really busy. With the ES Visa information collected and approved by the Korean government, I am now ready for the next phase of my life here. Getting the V2 Visa. This requires going to Japan. How long can that take right?
Long enough surprisingly. Originally I would leave Sunday morning and come back Monday night. However, upon learning that you can't get the visa the same day you apply, that had to change. The Korean embassy isn't open on weekends you see. So I will be leaving here at 5am to get to a bus station in Daegu. I will ride to Buson and take a plane to Osaka, Japan. I will go straight to the embassy and apply for the visa. Then I can go find a hotel and crash or walk around. I want to sleep well that night, so more likely will walk around or something. Japan is super expensive so I won't be able to do much.
Then Monday I can hopefully get the interview out of the way, get my visa, and get back to the airport. Catch my plane back to Buson. Call Teacher Oh and let him know when my bus leaves. Climb on and get home in time to go to sleep. That is the plan. What actually happens... better be according to plan ;)
Long enough surprisingly. Originally I would leave Sunday morning and come back Monday night. However, upon learning that you can't get the visa the same day you apply, that had to change. The Korean embassy isn't open on weekends you see. So I will be leaving here at 5am to get to a bus station in Daegu. I will ride to Buson and take a plane to Osaka, Japan. I will go straight to the embassy and apply for the visa. Then I can go find a hotel and crash or walk around. I want to sleep well that night, so more likely will walk around or something. Japan is super expensive so I won't be able to do much.
Then Monday I can hopefully get the interview out of the way, get my visa, and get back to the airport. Catch my plane back to Buson. Call Teacher Oh and let him know when my bus leaves. Climb on and get home in time to go to sleep. That is the plan. What actually happens... better be according to plan ;)
Monday, November 21, 2011
Korean Version of Western Food
I bought a lovely case of macaroni just over a week ago at Costco. Not doing that again. I made some today. A late supper for all intents and purposes. I have to say, the noodle texture was rubbery and the taste... undiscribeable. So now I get to go find a Korean who might want it. I highly doubt any foreigners would.
This lead to some other disappointing experiences I have had since I came here. Their speghetti is sweet. Their garlic bread is sweet. The dill pickles are sweet. The mild ramen is not so mild. The pizza has corn on it. Their idea of western foods is not very western tasting. Thankfully there are still some things that do come from good 'ole America. Prego sauce being one of them :D
This lead to some other disappointing experiences I have had since I came here. Their speghetti is sweet. Their garlic bread is sweet. The dill pickles are sweet. The mild ramen is not so mild. The pizza has corn on it. Their idea of western foods is not very western tasting. Thankfully there are still some things that do come from good 'ole America. Prego sauce being one of them :D
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Week of Prayer
This week has been Week of Prayer. This means chapel everyday instead of just Tuesdays. Chapel is hard just like church because everything is in Korean. Our translators are only students. They get tired, confused, frustrated, and anxious while trying to listen to him, translate, and then tell us. Understandable.
So to have chapel everyday was taxing on them. However, it was surprisingly a blessing too. The stories the speaker had were good, for what parts we understood. He had been a missionary in several places including Japan. Turns out that he shocked the students with pictures of bathrooms in Japan. The bathrooms had a bathtub in them. The students had never seen the like. Now I know what to take pictures of back home ;)
Today was our last day with the speaker. Before Sabbath School, he came to the back row where we were sitting and asked us if we could understand his talks. We explained that the students translated for us. He asked if we liked them, and we said yes. He knows English because he is a graduate of this school and was a missionary in the Philippians. Nice guy.
Also learned that Koreans can't hear a difference between i and e. So keys and kiss sound the same to them. Yikes.
So to have chapel everyday was taxing on them. However, it was surprisingly a blessing too. The stories the speaker had were good, for what parts we understood. He had been a missionary in several places including Japan. Turns out that he shocked the students with pictures of bathrooms in Japan. The bathrooms had a bathtub in them. The students had never seen the like. Now I know what to take pictures of back home ;)
Today was our last day with the speaker. Before Sabbath School, he came to the back row where we were sitting and asked us if we could understand his talks. We explained that the students translated for us. He asked if we liked them, and we said yes. He knows English because he is a graduate of this school and was a missionary in the Philippians. Nice guy.
Also learned that Koreans can't hear a difference between i and e. So keys and kiss sound the same to them. Yikes.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Korea and foreigners with motion sickness?
So something of interest. The few foreigners I have talked to have found that things that used to not bother them do here. Buses cause one friend not to feel so good while traveling now. Another can't ride in the back seat or read a book in a car anymore. Me, I've not been able to read a book or be super crowded with packed stuff around me... but here takes it to a new level. I have to use all my focusing techniques I learned from past experiences to avoid getting sick, and even then I don't feel so good afterwards. It is another phenomena of Korea I suppose. Only trains seem to not have that affect that I can tell.
Fudgy the Bear
Okay so, I bought a big stuffed bear. Just thought I would say so right off the bat. Now the story.
We went to Costco today to do some Thanksgiving and Christmas shopping before they ran out of stuff. While we were there, we came across these huge big teddy bears. These guys are as tall and taller than most Korean. I'm about half a foot to a foot taller, but definitely not bigger around than it. You know I have a weak spot in my heart for these guys. And they were surprisingly cheap. I fell in love. And you guessed, bought one. They had light brown and dark brown. I went with the dark brown this time and Teacher Oh asked what I would name it. I suggested brownie. Teacher Linda pointed out that it was a fudge brownie because it is so dark. She then said she nicknamed it Fudgy. So Fudgy it is! I bet if I took that guy on a plane, they would charge an extra ticket! So he is probably staying here when the day comes where I return to the US. But that is at least a year away. For now I am super happy to have him!
We went to Costco today to do some Thanksgiving and Christmas shopping before they ran out of stuff. While we were there, we came across these huge big teddy bears. These guys are as tall and taller than most Korean. I'm about half a foot to a foot taller, but definitely not bigger around than it. You know I have a weak spot in my heart for these guys. And they were surprisingly cheap. I fell in love. And you guessed, bought one. They had light brown and dark brown. I went with the dark brown this time and Teacher Oh asked what I would name it. I suggested brownie. Teacher Linda pointed out that it was a fudge brownie because it is so dark. She then said she nicknamed it Fudgy. So Fudgy it is! I bet if I took that guy on a plane, they would charge an extra ticket! So he is probably staying here when the day comes where I return to the US. But that is at least a year away. For now I am super happy to have him!
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Get Out
I'm trying to figure out ways to be more active and get out more often. Not doing a very good job at it. However I am making a good basis from which to have more choices. On facebook, a friend got me invited to a group that gets together every now and then. Found another one that also does stuff. All of them are based out of Daegu. There is one that is hosting a Christmas Party overnight at facilities they have rented on Palgon Mountain. It is the 24th and 25th of December. They offer a variety of things for that trip: bonfire, paintball, all you can eat and drink, hiking, visit nearby temples, karaoke, etc.
I think that would be a fun way to spend some of my time. Hoping though to get a friend or two to come with me. From what I hear, it is safe enough but I'm still a bit on the shy side. Making new friends isn't my specialty. I'll have my next paycheck by then and have gotten money transferred to the states to take care of bills and such.
I'm also thinking about that time to ask Emma or Amalie or another Korean if they would accompany me to a jimjilbang. I really want to go to one but want someone to show me the ropes my first time there. It is basically a sauna type of place with different hot tubs, massage areas, sleeping areas, refreshments, and of course a variety of types of saunas. I think that would be a great place to relax and they are super cheap places compared to anything you would find in the states. Like $5-$8.
Waiting to see what else pops up for the end of December as the time gets closer. One thing I am definitely doing is a gift bag for orphans. You can't spend more than 20,000 won ($20), but you fill a bag they give you with toys and such for a child. They give each person who comes a profile of a child: name, age, and gender. Then you go buy gifts for them. I've been blessed so many times in my life. I can do this small thing for another.
I think that would be a fun way to spend some of my time. Hoping though to get a friend or two to come with me. From what I hear, it is safe enough but I'm still a bit on the shy side. Making new friends isn't my specialty. I'll have my next paycheck by then and have gotten money transferred to the states to take care of bills and such.
I'm also thinking about that time to ask Emma or Amalie or another Korean if they would accompany me to a jimjilbang. I really want to go to one but want someone to show me the ropes my first time there. It is basically a sauna type of place with different hot tubs, massage areas, sleeping areas, refreshments, and of course a variety of types of saunas. I think that would be a great place to relax and they are super cheap places compared to anything you would find in the states. Like $5-$8.
Waiting to see what else pops up for the end of December as the time gets closer. One thing I am definitely doing is a gift bag for orphans. You can't spend more than 20,000 won ($20), but you fill a bag they give you with toys and such for a child. They give each person who comes a profile of a child: name, age, and gender. Then you go buy gifts for them. I've been blessed so many times in my life. I can do this small thing for another.
Visitors
Today after lunch, my sophomore literature class started. They took the meaning test. It is not one I can really give or grade since they write the meanings of English words in Korean. So my Korean assistant Amalie is in charge of it. After that, I gave the kids a few minutes to study. I would from group to group double-checking and answering their questions. Then we started our test over the last story we did. Once that was done, I collected them and gave the students free time. They have worked hard over the last few weeks and not had much of a break. Two groups each started the famous game of Monopoly Deal.
I sat at a table and graded the tests. As I did, students stood around me asking why some questions were right and some wrong. They all did well and I am proud of them. After that I was talking with some of them when one girl asked where I had gone to university. I explained the difference between a university and a college, then drew a map of the US and showed her Texas... Oklahoma... Kansas... and then Nebraska. Then I pointed out where I lived and where I had gone to college.
As we were talking, long awaited friends arrived. Lon Gruesbeck is the amazing guy who recruited me for this job. He brought friends with him whom I was so glad to see. He introduced me to the Washington Conference President... my ears weren't working.... what? President!? The president looked at me and smiled, "Just call me John." Whew. I can handle John. Talked to them all for a few minutes, then rushed to get the materials I would need for my next class - Sophomore Culture.
I sat at a table and graded the tests. As I did, students stood around me asking why some questions were right and some wrong. They all did well and I am proud of them. After that I was talking with some of them when one girl asked where I had gone to university. I explained the difference between a university and a college, then drew a map of the US and showed her Texas... Oklahoma... Kansas... and then Nebraska. Then I pointed out where I lived and where I had gone to college.
As we were talking, long awaited friends arrived. Lon Gruesbeck is the amazing guy who recruited me for this job. He brought friends with him whom I was so glad to see. He introduced me to the Washington Conference President... my ears weren't working.... what? President!? The president looked at me and smiled, "Just call me John." Whew. I can handle John. Talked to them all for a few minutes, then rushed to get the materials I would need for my next class - Sophomore Culture.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Background Check
My background check finally arrived in the mail! So happy about that. It took the FBI 9 weeks to send a piece of paper saying I have never been arrested. I know they are super busy with thousands of background checks coming in everyday, but I wish it had come more quickly. At least it is finally here though.
Today I went to Jain to get official pictures for getting a visa taken. They come in sets of 10. I ordered one set, so that two of the pictures can go to the school. The other 8 are mine. Impromptu as going to town last minute was, I wasn't prepared for pictures. However I can proudly claim that I had straightened my hair the night before in order to look nice today. Not that it did much good. The straighteners here are not as hot. The air is evidently more humid as the peninsula is surrounded by ocean on three sides. So my straight hair gained a slight wave.
Tomorrow Teacher Oh is taking all my paperwork into Daegu to start the process for the visa. As soon as they get that done (optimistically 7 days... worse 4 weeks) I head to Japan. Hopefully it will be before the second week of December. Then I have to leave the country for a night or two. This is progress though and I am excited.
Today I went to Jain to get official pictures for getting a visa taken. They come in sets of 10. I ordered one set, so that two of the pictures can go to the school. The other 8 are mine. Impromptu as going to town last minute was, I wasn't prepared for pictures. However I can proudly claim that I had straightened my hair the night before in order to look nice today. Not that it did much good. The straighteners here are not as hot. The air is evidently more humid as the peninsula is surrounded by ocean on three sides. So my straight hair gained a slight wave.
Tomorrow Teacher Oh is taking all my paperwork into Daegu to start the process for the visa. As soon as they get that done (optimistically 7 days... worse 4 weeks) I head to Japan. Hopefully it will be before the second week of December. Then I have to leave the country for a night or two. This is progress though and I am excited.
Milk
In Korea, dairy products beyond eggs are rare and expensive. It is just not a part of their diet. This is reflected in what the cafeteria serves. We don't have milk or cheese often. Since I am sensitive to milk, cheese, and ice cream and must monitor how much of this I eat to avoid getting sick, this wasn't a problem.
However, I am finding on the rare occasions that I do drink milk, that I don't care for it much anymore. It tastes okay, I suppose. But smells absolutely rotten. I have to taste test all milk now to know if it is good or not because my sense of smell betrays me.
I still love cheese with my pasta, but I am using a lot less than I have in the past. I want the extra flavor it gives, but it is easier and easier to moderate how much.
My weakness is still ice cream. I decided I best not even stock it in my freezer. It is gone too quickly for me to be happy because I know it will show up on my waistline.
I don't mind these changes. I hope that I am a better person for it.
However, I am finding on the rare occasions that I do drink milk, that I don't care for it much anymore. It tastes okay, I suppose. But smells absolutely rotten. I have to taste test all milk now to know if it is good or not because my sense of smell betrays me.
I still love cheese with my pasta, but I am using a lot less than I have in the past. I want the extra flavor it gives, but it is easier and easier to moderate how much.
My weakness is still ice cream. I decided I best not even stock it in my freezer. It is gone too quickly for me to be happy because I know it will show up on my waistline.
I don't mind these changes. I hope that I am a better person for it.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Care Package
So my mom sent me a really big box. This time students didn't even attempt to bring it to me, I had to go get it. It was worth every single step up the stairs. Once safely in my office, I opened it up carefully savoring the joy and suspence. The first thing I found was a book I didn't know she could get so quickly, "Humble Hero" an adaptation of the Desire of Ages in today's language. I really wanted my own copy, and now I have it!
Then came stockings with their Christmas surprises! Oh the joy! I love Christmas so much and the colors of these stockers were the richest and more gorgeous of colors. By this time I'm feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to continue. Did I really carrying this upstairs?
I came across favorite candies and chocolates. I discovered why it weighed so much, blessed Linkettes were included. Though I forgot to mention it, there was even McKay's chicken styled seasoning! Now cooking will be so much easier!!
And the Christmas lights. There are boxes and boxes of gorgeous Christmas lights, a must for the holiday season. Granted, I'll need to go find a power converter and a plug adapter for them, but the joy when they light up my place!
I enjoyed reading the cards that they sent to me. Full of warm wishes and love. It was enjoyable to hear from them and the encouragement that flew through the miles straight to my heart. And then hiding inside of a box were my Swedish clogs. Since I am wearing a lot of red today, I am seriously tempted to change from my shoes to the clogs.
It was a very pleasant surprise, though when I saw how much it cost to mail, I was in bit of a shock. Yes, I'm celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year early, and I don't mind one bit.
Then came stockings with their Christmas surprises! Oh the joy! I love Christmas so much and the colors of these stockers were the richest and more gorgeous of colors. By this time I'm feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to continue. Did I really carrying this upstairs?
I came across favorite candies and chocolates. I discovered why it weighed so much, blessed Linkettes were included. Though I forgot to mention it, there was even McKay's chicken styled seasoning! Now cooking will be so much easier!!
And the Christmas lights. There are boxes and boxes of gorgeous Christmas lights, a must for the holiday season. Granted, I'll need to go find a power converter and a plug adapter for them, but the joy when they light up my place!
I enjoyed reading the cards that they sent to me. Full of warm wishes and love. It was enjoyable to hear from them and the encouragement that flew through the miles straight to my heart. And then hiding inside of a box were my Swedish clogs. Since I am wearing a lot of red today, I am seriously tempted to change from my shoes to the clogs.
It was a very pleasant surprise, though when I saw how much it cost to mail, I was in bit of a shock. Yes, I'm celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year early, and I don't mind one bit.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Never Be Lied to Again
I'm reading a book I borrowed about how to tell if someone is lying to you. I am rather naive and gullible, so I felt it would be to my benefit to learn some of the signs of a liar. This book explains what to look for and why. It is pretty neat. There is a lot of detail. I thought it would be fun to put some of the summaries that are throughout the book here.
Summaries:
1. If you are being accused of something, check how much the accuser is attacking you. It is probably a projection of how they see themselves.
2. If a person is telling the truth, he will be more focused on if you understood him instead of how he appears to you.
3. Third party views are likely to be absent from a liar's point of view.
4. In relating a story, the liar will leave out the negative aspects unless that is the main point or explanation for something.
5. Liars answer your questions, but asks none of their own.
6. Watch out for reactions that are not in proportion with the question.
7. Statements will sound similar to how a question would sound.
8. He will repeat your words back to you to make his point.
9. If you ask him something, he answers, but you don't give a verbal understanding, then he will keep going and going until you do.
10. He will depersonalize his answer when he gives his belief or opinion on something instead of giving a direct answer.
11. Implies an answer but never states it.
12. Moves away from his accuser, usually towards an exit.
13. Shift head or body away.
14. Place objects between himself and the person accusing him.
15. Timing off between gestures.
16. Timing and duration of emotional gestures will seem off.
This isn't even a third of the what the book has to offer. It is indepth and amazing. Hopefully the knowledge will help me be a better person. Why place it here? Because I want to share it!
Summaries:
1. If you are being accused of something, check how much the accuser is attacking you. It is probably a projection of how they see themselves.
2. If a person is telling the truth, he will be more focused on if you understood him instead of how he appears to you.
3. Third party views are likely to be absent from a liar's point of view.
4. In relating a story, the liar will leave out the negative aspects unless that is the main point or explanation for something.
5. Liars answer your questions, but asks none of their own.
6. Watch out for reactions that are not in proportion with the question.
7. Statements will sound similar to how a question would sound.
8. He will repeat your words back to you to make his point.
9. If you ask him something, he answers, but you don't give a verbal understanding, then he will keep going and going until you do.
10. He will depersonalize his answer when he gives his belief or opinion on something instead of giving a direct answer.
11. Implies an answer but never states it.
12. Moves away from his accuser, usually towards an exit.
13. Shift head or body away.
14. Place objects between himself and the person accusing him.
15. Timing off between gestures.
16. Timing and duration of emotional gestures will seem off.
This isn't even a third of the what the book has to offer. It is indepth and amazing. Hopefully the knowledge will help me be a better person. Why place it here? Because I want to share it!
Friday, November 11, 2011
Happy Pepero Day!
Today is Pepero Day. Not just Pepero Day, but Millennium Pepero Day. Pepero Day is on November 11. Due to this year being 2011, the date for Pepero Day is 11-11-11. The Koreans are celebrating with extra enthusiasm for it. They have momento bags, balloons, and who knows what else.
What is Pepero Day you ask? I will tell you. Pepero Day is very much like Valentines Day. Young people and couples give each other Pepero.
What is Pepero you ask? I will tell you. Pepero is a candy. It is a thin, tall pretzel-like stick covered usually in chocolate. There are many variations than before as now there are peanuts and chocolate, almonds and chocolate, and even sticks filled with chocolate. It is a pretty big deal.
I don't think there is even any classes today. The students are running wild throughout the building. I have already bought a big box filled with 40 smaller boxes of Pepero. I labeled names of my sophomore literature students on some of them to be given to them. I don't have to worry about the other ones though I have extra boxes in case students should ask. If they come and ask, I have to give. Well, don't have to. It is nice to though :)
I have already received several.
I have already given several.
The most momentous was when Teacher Michael and I each went to the teachers' room to give Vice Principle Kim a box of Pepero. It surprised everyone as they had not expected that of us. They were all laughing softly. It made him smile.
Then we got the nerve to knock on Principle Jun's office door and we gave him a box each of Pepero too. We made sure we gave with both hands and bowed. He returned the courtesy by shaking our hands. I should have worn slip on shoes. I bought some. I just didn't think ahead of time and put them on. You take your shoes off in his office :)
It has been an exciting day so far. Waiting to see what happens over the rest of the morning and afternoon.
What is Pepero Day you ask? I will tell you. Pepero Day is very much like Valentines Day. Young people and couples give each other Pepero.
What is Pepero you ask? I will tell you. Pepero is a candy. It is a thin, tall pretzel-like stick covered usually in chocolate. There are many variations than before as now there are peanuts and chocolate, almonds and chocolate, and even sticks filled with chocolate. It is a pretty big deal.
I don't think there is even any classes today. The students are running wild throughout the building. I have already bought a big box filled with 40 smaller boxes of Pepero. I labeled names of my sophomore literature students on some of them to be given to them. I don't have to worry about the other ones though I have extra boxes in case students should ask. If they come and ask, I have to give. Well, don't have to. It is nice to though :)
I have already received several.
I have already given several.
The most momentous was when Teacher Michael and I each went to the teachers' room to give Vice Principle Kim a box of Pepero. It surprised everyone as they had not expected that of us. They were all laughing softly. It made him smile.
Then we got the nerve to knock on Principle Jun's office door and we gave him a box each of Pepero too. We made sure we gave with both hands and bowed. He returned the courtesy by shaking our hands. I should have worn slip on shoes. I bought some. I just didn't think ahead of time and put them on. You take your shoes off in his office :)
It has been an exciting day so far. Waiting to see what happens over the rest of the morning and afternoon.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Nick Name
My sophomore conversation class is a very interesting class. Most days I want to yank my hair out, yank theirs out, and the roots too. However, every now and then they surprise me. A kind note or something sweet.
Today was no exception. Actually today went well all things considering. However an added twist to it made it most humorous.
In Korea, evidently calling someone by their first name is considered bad manners and poor taste if not downright rude. The Korean students have English names and I learned why we can call them by those names and be okay. Those are nicknames.
The students added the element today that in Korea (supposedly) you call people by a nickname. It is better that way. The boys had given me a nickname. I was no longer Teacher Mindy. One in particular told me to not be offended. It was okay here. I was now Teacher Minda.
To help you understand the humor, the other English teacher's name is Teacher Linda. I asked about her. What would her nickname be. They responded promptly with Teacher Lindy. They switched the vowels of our last names. (Yes, sometimes "y" is a vowel.) She and I bursted up laughing.
NOTE: I have permission from both the other teachers here to use their real names in this blog. I do my best to protect the identity of those who are not writing this, but sometimes things spill ;)
Today was no exception. Actually today went well all things considering. However an added twist to it made it most humorous.
In Korea, evidently calling someone by their first name is considered bad manners and poor taste if not downright rude. The Korean students have English names and I learned why we can call them by those names and be okay. Those are nicknames.
The students added the element today that in Korea (supposedly) you call people by a nickname. It is better that way. The boys had given me a nickname. I was no longer Teacher Mindy. One in particular told me to not be offended. It was okay here. I was now Teacher Minda.
To help you understand the humor, the other English teacher's name is Teacher Linda. I asked about her. What would her nickname be. They responded promptly with Teacher Lindy. They switched the vowels of our last names. (Yes, sometimes "y" is a vowel.) She and I bursted up laughing.
NOTE: I have permission from both the other teachers here to use their real names in this blog. I do my best to protect the identity of those who are not writing this, but sometimes things spill ;)
Monday, November 7, 2011
Care Package
So my wonderful and amazing twin brother sent me a box with much wanted book as well as things from our childhood.
I was walking back to the school building when some students yelled, "Teacher Mindy! Teacher Mindy!" They had a box... ooooh I ran and gladly took it from them and all but ran to the office of a friend. I was kneeling on her floor carefully using a pair of scissors to open the box. Then I started to pull stuff out. When I got to the Christmas stocking, I lost it.
In order to hide my face I bent over and let my long hair surround me. When I could decently control my features, I sat up and explored memories my twin and I have made together over the years. Christmas ornaments, zoid toys, and even toe socks.
Precious notes and letters were also included. I decided if I was having trouble not crying over items then I better wait until later to read the letters. It really made my day. I had no idea a few items would impact me like that. I had convinced myself I was superhuman in the emotion department and able to be stoic in anything. Nope.
When you are far away from loved ones, it will have an affect on you. You may not notice it in the same ways as others, but the changes are there. Keeping in touch is important.
I was walking back to the school building when some students yelled, "Teacher Mindy! Teacher Mindy!" They had a box... ooooh I ran and gladly took it from them and all but ran to the office of a friend. I was kneeling on her floor carefully using a pair of scissors to open the box. Then I started to pull stuff out. When I got to the Christmas stocking, I lost it.
In order to hide my face I bent over and let my long hair surround me. When I could decently control my features, I sat up and explored memories my twin and I have made together over the years. Christmas ornaments, zoid toys, and even toe socks.
Precious notes and letters were also included. I decided if I was having trouble not crying over items then I better wait until later to read the letters. It really made my day. I had no idea a few items would impact me like that. I had convinced myself I was superhuman in the emotion department and able to be stoic in anything. Nope.
When you are far away from loved ones, it will have an affect on you. You may not notice it in the same ways as others, but the changes are there. Keeping in touch is important.
Maintenance
Woke up this morning, took a shower, and was chilling until breakfast when I heard a pop sound from my bathroom. Thinking, "What now," I opened the bathroom door and looked inside. Without my glasses, I couldn't see anything. However I could hear a spraying sound.
Turns out a pipe like thing under my sink for the hot water had a hole in it somehow and was spraying everywhere. I sent a quick email and a friend came over and turned a valve that turned off the water. She told me that help would fix it later. Uh... I immediately began cleaning my little place so it wasn't a disaster zone.
I'm currently sitting in my apartment on my bed feeling very much awkward while two guys work on it. They wanted me here while they were in my apartment. I rather not be. Stranger shyness problems. Anyrate, they are good natured and it appears it is almost fixed. Glad about that since it means my sink/shower will be working again :)
Turns out a pipe like thing under my sink for the hot water had a hole in it somehow and was spraying everywhere. I sent a quick email and a friend came over and turned a valve that turned off the water. She told me that help would fix it later. Uh... I immediately began cleaning my little place so it wasn't a disaster zone.
I'm currently sitting in my apartment on my bed feeling very much awkward while two guys work on it. They wanted me here while they were in my apartment. I rather not be. Stranger shyness problems. Anyrate, they are good natured and it appears it is almost fixed. Glad about that since it means my sink/shower will be working again :)
Friday, November 4, 2011
Korean Driving
I noticed something since I have gotten here. I have never seen a car wreck or road accident. In America there are always accidents or what have you. Here, the drivers have to be so much more aware and skilled that there are just less wrecks. Kinda nice :)
Costco Trip
Today we finally went to Costco. I've been paid so I was eager to go see what I could add to my apartment. Particularly in the area of food.
A friend and I got a ride to Jain where we hopped a bus to the train station. Missed the train by two minutes because the bus had been late by 10 minutes. So we hung out until the next train came by... 45 minutes later. Hopped on and arrived 9 minutes later where we could more cheaply get a taxi to take us to Costco.
We ran into two Korean who knew English well. The older one talked to her while the younger one talked to me. She asked if we were mother and daughter... no, just English teachers. She was curious if I was from Hawaii (thanks to the Mauna Kea shirt I was wearing) but no, I am from Kansas. It was nice to talk to them and we parted happy. Turns out they are Jehovah's witnesses.
At Costco we start walking around. You know those stuffed animals that can unfold into pillows? They had those there... supersized! I wanted to get one so bad. Good thing I didn't, no room in the car of the person who picked us up.
Anyrate, got to the level where the food is at and started walking around. I was in heaven. Normal looking stuff! Then after a few minutes I exclaimed, "Wait! I can read everything! Well, everything but that." There are some Korean stuff there. Mostly though, ENGLISH!!!
Some of the things they had were the same brands and completely American. I got mashed potatoes though, and we are worried it is the Korean version. They like mayo in their potatoes. Also got my beloved Dr. Pepper. The ride back was less than smooth so I won't be opening any of the cans until tomorrow, which is a good thing since it is nearing bedtime.
Overall it was a great trip. Like the Costco back in the states, they lived up to their reputation in the food court. Same pizza (trust me, that is hard to pull off over here), same berry drinks, and sadly same about of oil floating on top ;)
We are happily back and tucked in. I have put everything away to some degree. My apartment doesn't have much in the way of shelves so I have a lot of it stacked on the table. You will find most Korean dwellings the same size as mine so now big. Did I mention I got Dr. Pepper?
A friend and I got a ride to Jain where we hopped a bus to the train station. Missed the train by two minutes because the bus had been late by 10 minutes. So we hung out until the next train came by... 45 minutes later. Hopped on and arrived 9 minutes later where we could more cheaply get a taxi to take us to Costco.
We ran into two Korean who knew English well. The older one talked to her while the younger one talked to me. She asked if we were mother and daughter... no, just English teachers. She was curious if I was from Hawaii (thanks to the Mauna Kea shirt I was wearing) but no, I am from Kansas. It was nice to talk to them and we parted happy. Turns out they are Jehovah's witnesses.
At Costco we start walking around. You know those stuffed animals that can unfold into pillows? They had those there... supersized! I wanted to get one so bad. Good thing I didn't, no room in the car of the person who picked us up.
Anyrate, got to the level where the food is at and started walking around. I was in heaven. Normal looking stuff! Then after a few minutes I exclaimed, "Wait! I can read everything! Well, everything but that." There are some Korean stuff there. Mostly though, ENGLISH!!!
Some of the things they had were the same brands and completely American. I got mashed potatoes though, and we are worried it is the Korean version. They like mayo in their potatoes. Also got my beloved Dr. Pepper. The ride back was less than smooth so I won't be opening any of the cans until tomorrow, which is a good thing since it is nearing bedtime.
Overall it was a great trip. Like the Costco back in the states, they lived up to their reputation in the food court. Same pizza (trust me, that is hard to pull off over here), same berry drinks, and sadly same about of oil floating on top ;)
We are happily back and tucked in. I have put everything away to some degree. My apartment doesn't have much in the way of shelves so I have a lot of it stacked on the table. You will find most Korean dwellings the same size as mine so now big. Did I mention I got Dr. Pepper?
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