Confession: I've never actually seen an episode of Cheers. However, I felt that it was fitting seeing the subject matter of my post.
Underground.
On the surface, it's a club/bar/not entirely sure of the correct table. But, looking past, it's much more. The owners told me that when they created the place, they wanted to make somewhere for foreigners that they could have a connection to - where they could feel like they could go and be a part of something (this wasn't said, but I think the implication was there, "Because often, this country can be really closed off to outsiders"). Obviously, when we think about belonging, we don't think loud drunk people (well, I don't), but there still is something really comfortable about that place.
Sunny and Daehee have definitely shown that not everyone in this country is closed off to outsiders. They have gone out of their way to welcome us and to make sure that we do have a place here. Daehee has become one of my best friends here. Despite language barriers, we've found countless things to talk about and laugh about.
If you ever end up in the Suji area, definitely go find Underground. You'll have a great time, and you'll make a ton of friends - Korean and foreign alike (admittedly, much more of the latter - however, the locals who do go there go for the purpose of mingling with foreigners, so there isn't that line of separation that normally exists at such places).
Friday, July 2, 2010
Friday, June 18, 2010
"Sameness"
I'm not sure if this blog is insanely racist, or the complete opposite.
This week, our discussion and group project dealt with multi-racial children. My students and I talked about kids at their schools who were not 100% Korean. A handful of my students had one "non-Korean" at their school. Oddly, most had Korean dads and American moms, which confused me at first, but then some person (totally forgot who it was, but they are most likely much more sensible than I am) pointed out that if it were a Korean mom, then the family would probably live wherever the father was from.
Hopefully discussing discussion topics isn't like revealing any deep Chungdahm pedagogy secrets..
So all of the talk got me thinking about my own place here. Suji is in no way near as diverse as Seoul. There are foreigners here, but only a small handful, and we're all teachers. It is diverse enough that we don't really get the stares. Well, I do, but usually it's because I'm sitting and knitting, and I think Koreans are watching me because I'm doing something strange, not just because I'm white(ish). When I think about it, it's sometimes strange living in such a homogenous culture. A friend of mine and I talked about the "sameness" - he's not a fan of it, coming from one of the most diverse parts of America, but I've gotten to the point that I don't even notice.
I'm trying to figure out the point in which I stopped looking at my students and thinking "Asian" and just thought "hmm...he looks like he might be in fourth grade...got that impish look of a troublemaker". I don't really notice it in adults, either. I can remember a time in which Asian features really jumped out at me, but now, I don't really notice. I think this is a good thing - I've never been one to rely on stereotypes, but I'm a huge fan of any experience that allows me to see who people really are outside of the framework designed by their culture.
I remember when I first took this job I was afraid that I would fail because I wouldn't be able to understand the kids. I don't know what's wrong with me, but I have a really hard time getting used to new speech patterns, and accented English always throws me through a hell of a comprehension loop. I don't even notice it anymore - the "F"s as "P"s, the blending of "G" and "K" (did you know that the "G" and "K" sounds are actually insanely similar?). I was definitely worrying over nothing (hey, that sounds familiar). I don't even notice a difference in my kids' pronunciation, which is good, because now I'm paying more attention to what they're actually saying..
So, back to this whole idea of "sameness". I don't know if I entirely agree. Yes, there is a lot of similarity, but that doesn't mean this culture is lacking in individuality. I remember one of the big statements in the argument over school uniforms is that it will force students to express themselves in ways other than clothing, and I think that is happening here. In America, it's much easier to judge a person at face value (yes, I did say "judge"). American sub-cultures are largely defined by music - in many cases, it influences clothing styles and attitudes, so it's really easy to look at someone and figure out where they belong. Not saying that's the case all the time. In Korea, everyone looking alike forces you to talk to people to figure out who they really are. Yes, there are still things you can see immediately - I still maintain that a person who is an absolute jerk exudes that from their pores.
This week, our discussion and group project dealt with multi-racial children. My students and I talked about kids at their schools who were not 100% Korean. A handful of my students had one "non-Korean" at their school. Oddly, most had Korean dads and American moms, which confused me at first, but then some person (totally forgot who it was, but they are most likely much more sensible than I am) pointed out that if it were a Korean mom, then the family would probably live wherever the father was from.
Hopefully discussing discussion topics isn't like revealing any deep Chungdahm pedagogy secrets..
So all of the talk got me thinking about my own place here. Suji is in no way near as diverse as Seoul. There are foreigners here, but only a small handful, and we're all teachers. It is diverse enough that we don't really get the stares. Well, I do, but usually it's because I'm sitting and knitting, and I think Koreans are watching me because I'm doing something strange, not just because I'm white(ish). When I think about it, it's sometimes strange living in such a homogenous culture. A friend of mine and I talked about the "sameness" - he's not a fan of it, coming from one of the most diverse parts of America, but I've gotten to the point that I don't even notice.
I'm trying to figure out the point in which I stopped looking at my students and thinking "Asian" and just thought "hmm...he looks like he might be in fourth grade...got that impish look of a troublemaker". I don't really notice it in adults, either. I can remember a time in which Asian features really jumped out at me, but now, I don't really notice. I think this is a good thing - I've never been one to rely on stereotypes, but I'm a huge fan of any experience that allows me to see who people really are outside of the framework designed by their culture.
I remember when I first took this job I was afraid that I would fail because I wouldn't be able to understand the kids. I don't know what's wrong with me, but I have a really hard time getting used to new speech patterns, and accented English always throws me through a hell of a comprehension loop. I don't even notice it anymore - the "F"s as "P"s, the blending of "G" and "K" (did you know that the "G" and "K" sounds are actually insanely similar?). I was definitely worrying over nothing (hey, that sounds familiar). I don't even notice a difference in my kids' pronunciation, which is good, because now I'm paying more attention to what they're actually saying..
So, back to this whole idea of "sameness". I don't know if I entirely agree. Yes, there is a lot of similarity, but that doesn't mean this culture is lacking in individuality. I remember one of the big statements in the argument over school uniforms is that it will force students to express themselves in ways other than clothing, and I think that is happening here. In America, it's much easier to judge a person at face value (yes, I did say "judge"). American sub-cultures are largely defined by music - in many cases, it influences clothing styles and attitudes, so it's really easy to look at someone and figure out where they belong. Not saying that's the case all the time. In Korea, everyone looking alike forces you to talk to people to figure out who they really are. Yes, there are still things you can see immediately - I still maintain that a person who is an absolute jerk exudes that from their pores.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
친구 - it's been ages =p
Yeah, I never post anymore...
New term has started. Even though I was hired to teach the higher-levels, I have a ton of lower levels again. However, I'm different from many of the teachers - I like the lower-level ones. Prepping is easier, and they are so cute! And usually say things that make me laugh so hard :) My "token child" this term is a self-proclaimed dancer. So far, all of the sentences he has to construct during "Let's Talk About You" have been about dancing. My favorite was the "is different' from": "Teacher's dancing is different from my dancing" (then he stood up and did the hula). I'm also teaching the Level 2 (higher level) IBT prep class, which isn't as painful as I thought (I'm owing all of that to the kids and their insanely awesome personalities - not sure how much actual work we'll get done.....), and 2 Alba Listening classes (higher level). The Alba kids are quiet as ghosts - probably because all of the outgoing ones are in the IBT class. My branch does higher levels on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and why they are offering the Level 2 IBT electives on the SAME days as the regular reading and listening classes is beyond me. I'm hoping that it's just first-day shyness and that they'll open up a bit more in the coming weeks. Didn't help that our Critical Thinking Project totally blew (sorry CDI, but the Track B Lesson 1 CTP STTIINNNKKKSSS - but, don't worry, in true good-teacher fashion, in class I pretended it was the coolest thing on the planet).
Went on another total shopping spree today with my "man-friend" Tim. Spent way too much money; however, I have like 4.5 million won saved so far. Intensives are coming up, and that little egg is going toward The Future. But I digress - let's talk more about the shopping because, face it, it's a lot more fun =p. Went to The Gap (partially because I am frightened that I still don't fit in Korean-store clothes....and partially because I am currently coveting some of their summer line) and I bought replacements for 2 shirts I purchased a month ago that are now too big. God, I love it. Put an asterisk here - I'm coming back to this idea*. I know that I probably could've taken out my shiny new sewing kit (<3 u, Lotte Mart!!) and taken them in, but I think I'm going to cut them up and do a t-shirt deconstruction project. Man I wish I'd brought my copy of Generation T: 108 Things To Do With A T-Shirt; however (don't you love these contrast transitions???), I did find this cute shrug pattern which may prove promising :).
Okay, back to that asterisk I know you _all_ placed. If you're reading this because you followed my blog here from Aclipse and/or found through a search engine because you are coming to Korea soon and are like me and wanted to read about everyone's experiences (INHALE), here's something you need to know: be prepared for your weight to fluctuate. I don't own a scale, but I know I've lost like 2 pants sizes here. Now, that may not prove true for everyone - I was like insanely overweight when I got here, so, really, it didn't take much for all of it to fall of. BUT (circle!!) I will guarantee that _all_ of your clothes will stretch with washing because Korea doesn't have dryers. (You get a drying rack - really makes you appreciate how easy it was to do your laundry back home.) I am probably not really a medium, but I buy most of my clothes from American stores here (yes, like The Gap) in a medium because they stretch out. Hence why I had to buy 2 new shirts (still, looking forward to turning the old ones into shrugs...especially seeing that this country isn't a giant fan of the tank top).
Also, I will buy dinner for the person who comes over to my apartment to tell me *where* I can put more clothing storage.
Related, Jessi, I owe you dinner (this is from like a month ago, but I'm just now confirming). Keep a tally and you can cash in when I come back :)
I realize that this whole entry has been about shopping and clothes. I'm not sure if it's me growing up, or this country, but I have become so vain! Before, washing my face was like a 30 second process - now, I'm running out of room in my bathroom for all of my facial products!!! Not entirely sure it's made my skin clear up, but I *can* see a difference in the clogged pores on my nose. Future expats (if you're still reading), don't worry about bringing a ton of products to Korea. You can't walk down the street without running into 5 or 6. Million. Plus, on weekends, they are constantly trying to lure you into their stores with free stuff - take advantage of the competition and score it all! If I need like 3 things, I will go into three different stores just so I can get the 3 different free gifts :)
Family who are reading this: don't worry, I'm not spending all of my money. I barely scratched the surface of my savings, and it was fun. I promise I only do this like once a month (if that) AND my shopping partner is moving back to America in August.
New term has started. Even though I was hired to teach the higher-levels, I have a ton of lower levels again. However, I'm different from many of the teachers - I like the lower-level ones. Prepping is easier, and they are so cute! And usually say things that make me laugh so hard :) My "token child" this term is a self-proclaimed dancer. So far, all of the sentences he has to construct during "Let's Talk About You" have been about dancing. My favorite was the "is different' from": "Teacher's dancing is different from my dancing" (then he stood up and did the hula). I'm also teaching the Level 2 (higher level) IBT prep class, which isn't as painful as I thought (I'm owing all of that to the kids and their insanely awesome personalities - not sure how much actual work we'll get done.....), and 2 Alba Listening classes (higher level). The Alba kids are quiet as ghosts - probably because all of the outgoing ones are in the IBT class. My branch does higher levels on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and why they are offering the Level 2 IBT electives on the SAME days as the regular reading and listening classes is beyond me. I'm hoping that it's just first-day shyness and that they'll open up a bit more in the coming weeks. Didn't help that our Critical Thinking Project totally blew (sorry CDI, but the Track B Lesson 1 CTP STTIINNNKKKSSS - but, don't worry, in true good-teacher fashion, in class I pretended it was the coolest thing on the planet).
Went on another total shopping spree today with my "man-friend" Tim. Spent way too much money; however, I have like 4.5 million won saved so far. Intensives are coming up, and that little egg is going toward The Future. But I digress - let's talk more about the shopping because, face it, it's a lot more fun =p. Went to The Gap (partially because I am frightened that I still don't fit in Korean-store clothes....and partially because I am currently coveting some of their summer line) and I bought replacements for 2 shirts I purchased a month ago that are now too big. God, I love it. Put an asterisk here - I'm coming back to this idea*. I know that I probably could've taken out my shiny new sewing kit (<3 u, Lotte Mart!!) and taken them in, but I think I'm going to cut them up and do a t-shirt deconstruction project. Man I wish I'd brought my copy of Generation T: 108 Things To Do With A T-Shirt; however (don't you love these contrast transitions???), I did find this cute shrug pattern which may prove promising :).
Okay, back to that asterisk I know you _all_ placed. If you're reading this because you followed my blog here from Aclipse and/or found through a search engine because you are coming to Korea soon and are like me and wanted to read about everyone's experiences (INHALE), here's something you need to know: be prepared for your weight to fluctuate. I don't own a scale, but I know I've lost like 2 pants sizes here. Now, that may not prove true for everyone - I was like insanely overweight when I got here, so, really, it didn't take much for all of it to fall of. BUT (circle!!) I will guarantee that _all_ of your clothes will stretch with washing because Korea doesn't have dryers. (You get a drying rack - really makes you appreciate how easy it was to do your laundry back home.) I am probably not really a medium, but I buy most of my clothes from American stores here (yes, like The Gap) in a medium because they stretch out. Hence why I had to buy 2 new shirts (still, looking forward to turning the old ones into shrugs...especially seeing that this country isn't a giant fan of the tank top).
Also, I will buy dinner for the person who comes over to my apartment to tell me *where* I can put more clothing storage.
Related, Jessi, I owe you dinner (this is from like a month ago, but I'm just now confirming). Keep a tally and you can cash in when I come back :)
I realize that this whole entry has been about shopping and clothes. I'm not sure if it's me growing up, or this country, but I have become so vain! Before, washing my face was like a 30 second process - now, I'm running out of room in my bathroom for all of my facial products!!! Not entirely sure it's made my skin clear up, but I *can* see a difference in the clogged pores on my nose. Future expats (if you're still reading), don't worry about bringing a ton of products to Korea. You can't walk down the street without running into 5 or 6. Million. Plus, on weekends, they are constantly trying to lure you into their stores with free stuff - take advantage of the competition and score it all! If I need like 3 things, I will go into three different stores just so I can get the 3 different free gifts :)
Family who are reading this: don't worry, I'm not spending all of my money. I barely scratched the surface of my savings, and it was fun. I promise I only do this like once a month (if that) AND my shopping partner is moving back to America in August.
Monday, May 17, 2010
May, In Review
My dad pointed out to me that my last entry was a month old, oops! The silence doesn't mean that nothing new has happened (hence the blog's title "Audrey's Adventures.....") - actually, quite the opposite. So much has happened that I'm a bit intimidated about updating *^^*
During the Great Silence, I went from one side of the country to the other. The weekend of the first, our academy directors took us northeast to see Seoraksan. On the way, we stopped by the Goseong Unification Observatory, which is the eastern most point of the DMZ. It is a less popular place because it is just a lookout, but we did get a lot of pictures of North Korea. Looking back through my photos, I focused a lot on this one building that we kept referring to "Kim Jong Il's Not-So-Secret-Hideout" (which started as a joke that it was his hiding-in-plain-sight summer home; in reality, it's probably just some abandoned building).
After buying icecream, we got back into the Chungdahm bus and headed to Seoraksan. The plan was to take a cable car to the temple at the top, but the Wind Demon prevented us from fulfilling those plans. Instead, we walked around the base and went to the temple there. Our director, in her fantastic sense of humor, found these two rocks close together and said that if you could pass between them, you were in good health. A few of my coworkers tested her theory before she started laughing and said, "No, I'm kidding - I have no idea what these are for!" However, some Chinese tourists had watched us walk between the stones, and when we left, they started to copy us. Our director laughed again - the whole thing reminded me of Hayden's tour-guide act in Connecticut (the short version: they were bored, so he put on a fake European accent and stared making up stories about the surrounding areas...one of the stories resulted in the best holiday ever, Aveomas).
At Seoraksan, I was totally fascinated by the wishing stones. There were stacks of these flat stones that represented people's wishes. As I was concerned about a since solved matter, I made more than one wish. My greedyness was rewarded when, on my third round, the entire pile collapsed beneath my tiny stone. My coworkers laughed and said that I destroyed everyone's wishes. I know you get seven years bad luck for breaking a mirror - I can't wait to see what's in store for me for ruining dozens of wishes...
The accompanying picture post, which I am just now mentioning, will also include shots of silkworm larvae. Those little buggers (literally!) are chock-full of protein - good for mountain climbing!
The following week brought May 5, which in Korea is Children's Day. That week was IBT testing (the test they take to move up to the next level), so a handful of kids had to take a test on a day devoted to their happiness! We had class early and were out by 4, which meant that we had time to go to Seoul to celebrate an equally important holiday: Cinco de Mayo! I figured Dos Tacos would be packed with foreigners, but we were lucky and got a table right away. I miss Mexican food so much! Actually, anyone reading this who happens to be in the Seoul area, drop me a line and we will go :)
That weekend, May 8-9, I joined Anna and Laura and we ventured south to Busan to visit Christi, who had just returned to Korea. Busan is just like southern California! It was a completely different world than Seoul - much more laid back, and with a relaxed style that Seoul just couldn't do. Christi's place is amazing - her apartment is three times the size of my tiny villa and she lives insanely close to almost anything a person could need.
The beach was a much-needed getaway from Suji/Seoul. The Koreans were completely fascinated with us, despite Busan being such a foreign destination. We kept getting approached by people asking us where we were from - some even wanted to take our pictures with them. According to Jen, in the summer, every inch of sand is covered with umbrellas. The Koreans flock to the beach, but avoid the sun because pale skin is considered to be more beautiful.
Rounding out this month of awesomeness (which isn't anywhere near over) was a trip to Caribbean Bay, the water park attached to Everland. Jen's birthday is coming up soon and that is what she wanted to do! She chose a fantastic weekend, too - it's off season, so the park wasn't too crowded, and the weather was beautiful. If you go, expect to find rules that are a bit different from American water parks. Learn from our mistakes: You don't have to get a life jacket to go in the wave pool if you don't go past the red line. The waves break after the red line, so it's more fun in front of it anyway =p. We bodysurfed and slammed into poor, unsuspecting Koreans like champions! Also, bring a hat. They won't let you into the wave pool without one (something about keeping the water clean?).
The boomerang slide was by far my favorite of the few that were open. It starts off like a regular tube ride, but at the end, you're shot up this giant wall of water, and then slingshot back down into the pool. This trip was all about relaxing and being away from responsibility, but I think next time I go, I will do that ride multiple times! Stella, like a champion, let go of the tube and held up her arms at the very top - I was too busy screaming to do anything similar to that braveness ;)
During the Great Silence, I went from one side of the country to the other. The weekend of the first, our academy directors took us northeast to see Seoraksan. On the way, we stopped by the Goseong Unification Observatory, which is the eastern most point of the DMZ. It is a less popular place because it is just a lookout, but we did get a lot of pictures of North Korea. Looking back through my photos, I focused a lot on this one building that we kept referring to "Kim Jong Il's Not-So-Secret-Hideout" (which started as a joke that it was his hiding-in-plain-sight summer home; in reality, it's probably just some abandoned building).
After buying icecream, we got back into the Chungdahm bus and headed to Seoraksan. The plan was to take a cable car to the temple at the top, but the Wind Demon prevented us from fulfilling those plans. Instead, we walked around the base and went to the temple there. Our director, in her fantastic sense of humor, found these two rocks close together and said that if you could pass between them, you were in good health. A few of my coworkers tested her theory before she started laughing and said, "No, I'm kidding - I have no idea what these are for!" However, some Chinese tourists had watched us walk between the stones, and when we left, they started to copy us. Our director laughed again - the whole thing reminded me of Hayden's tour-guide act in Connecticut (the short version: they were bored, so he put on a fake European accent and stared making up stories about the surrounding areas...one of the stories resulted in the best holiday ever, Aveomas).
At Seoraksan, I was totally fascinated by the wishing stones. There were stacks of these flat stones that represented people's wishes. As I was concerned about a since solved matter, I made more than one wish. My greedyness was rewarded when, on my third round, the entire pile collapsed beneath my tiny stone. My coworkers laughed and said that I destroyed everyone's wishes. I know you get seven years bad luck for breaking a mirror - I can't wait to see what's in store for me for ruining dozens of wishes...
The accompanying picture post, which I am just now mentioning, will also include shots of silkworm larvae. Those little buggers (literally!) are chock-full of protein - good for mountain climbing!
The following week brought May 5, which in Korea is Children's Day. That week was IBT testing (the test they take to move up to the next level), so a handful of kids had to take a test on a day devoted to their happiness! We had class early and were out by 4, which meant that we had time to go to Seoul to celebrate an equally important holiday: Cinco de Mayo! I figured Dos Tacos would be packed with foreigners, but we were lucky and got a table right away. I miss Mexican food so much! Actually, anyone reading this who happens to be in the Seoul area, drop me a line and we will go :)
That weekend, May 8-9, I joined Anna and Laura and we ventured south to Busan to visit Christi, who had just returned to Korea. Busan is just like southern California! It was a completely different world than Seoul - much more laid back, and with a relaxed style that Seoul just couldn't do. Christi's place is amazing - her apartment is three times the size of my tiny villa and she lives insanely close to almost anything a person could need.
The beach was a much-needed getaway from Suji/Seoul. The Koreans were completely fascinated with us, despite Busan being such a foreign destination. We kept getting approached by people asking us where we were from - some even wanted to take our pictures with them. According to Jen, in the summer, every inch of sand is covered with umbrellas. The Koreans flock to the beach, but avoid the sun because pale skin is considered to be more beautiful.
Rounding out this month of awesomeness (which isn't anywhere near over) was a trip to Caribbean Bay, the water park attached to Everland. Jen's birthday is coming up soon and that is what she wanted to do! She chose a fantastic weekend, too - it's off season, so the park wasn't too crowded, and the weather was beautiful. If you go, expect to find rules that are a bit different from American water parks. Learn from our mistakes: You don't have to get a life jacket to go in the wave pool if you don't go past the red line. The waves break after the red line, so it's more fun in front of it anyway =p. We bodysurfed and slammed into poor, unsuspecting Koreans like champions! Also, bring a hat. They won't let you into the wave pool without one (something about keeping the water clean?).
The boomerang slide was by far my favorite of the few that were open. It starts off like a regular tube ride, but at the end, you're shot up this giant wall of water, and then slingshot back down into the pool. This trip was all about relaxing and being away from responsibility, but I think next time I go, I will do that ride multiple times! Stella, like a champion, let go of the tube and held up her arms at the very top - I was too busy screaming to do anything similar to that braveness ;)
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Here comes the 신부
The sole bright spot of certain drama illuminated over two new friends: the couple who own Underground - Sonny and...Sonny's Wife. For those not in Suji, that's a club/bar we frequent on Friday nights when we're out celebrating our two-day pause from Chungdahm. Two weekends in a row, they've "kidnapped" me and taken me out to dinner with them and another one of their friends (yes =p). Sonny's Wife has declared us "good friends" (to the point that at her wedding, she kept calling my name for me to go over to her - and then when I left, clasped my hand and wouldn't let go), yet I have absolutely no clue what her name is. Sonny referred to her as "my fiancee" and Baekhyun calls her "Sonny's Wife", so..... I'm contemplating naming her "Cher".. .
Anyway, Sunday was their wedding. Tony, Kevin, Jen, and I attended. It was held in this giant tower of electronics; before Sunday, I was like, "what?......." but getting there, we found that it was actually this area set up for weddings. It was insanely nice and had this beautiful chandelier that I couldn't stop staring at.
This Korean wedding was pretty similar to an American wedding. The biggest difference were the guests: people talked throughout the whole thing! And they didn't dress as nicely as guests to American weddings do - most men were there in jeans. Afterwards, there was this fantastic buffet! No wonder Korean weddings cost so much!!
No dancing - that seems to be a pretty western thing.
Completely unrelated: anyone else notice that Koreans aren't big on having their shocks, brake pads, or CV joints worked on? Every time a car passes by my window, I cringe! yet they're all about keeping their cars clean.....go figure =p
Anyway, Sunday was their wedding. Tony, Kevin, Jen, and I attended. It was held in this giant tower of electronics; before Sunday, I was like, "what?......." but getting there, we found that it was actually this area set up for weddings. It was insanely nice and had this beautiful chandelier that I couldn't stop staring at.
This Korean wedding was pretty similar to an American wedding. The biggest difference were the guests: people talked throughout the whole thing! And they didn't dress as nicely as guests to American weddings do - most men were there in jeans. Afterwards, there was this fantastic buffet! No wonder Korean weddings cost so much!!
No dancing - that seems to be a pretty western thing.
Completely unrelated: anyone else notice that Koreans aren't big on having their shocks, brake pads, or CV joints worked on? Every time a car passes by my window, I cringe! yet they're all about keeping their cars clean.....go figure =p
Friday, April 16, 2010
Gloves!
So this has nothing to do with teaching or South Korea, but I am such an irresponsible knitter that I get way too excited when I finish a project..
I cast off with *way* too small of a needle on the left one, so I need to go back and redo them if I have any hope of being able to do things like open my fingers. I also haven't tied off or woven in any of the loose ends - despite that, I'm totally wearing them to work today :D
I taught my EC4 kids the word "scandalous" when we were reading the Anna Marker story (at the end - when Mike gives Karen the ring), and now every time there's the hint of a love story between characters, my students go, "Teacher, scandalous!" This is totally the face that goes with that:
Don't call them hobo gloves (this means you, Lisa). They are not hobo gloves =p My grandmother said that they were for golfing and asked if I was playing again.
Also, I have this obnoxiously bright hot pink color...and I'm totally open for ideas with it (only one ball, so nothing too big and fancy =p)..
I cast off with *way* too small of a needle on the left one, so I need to go back and redo them if I have any hope of being able to do things like open my fingers. I also haven't tied off or woven in any of the loose ends - despite that, I'm totally wearing them to work today :D
I taught my EC4 kids the word "scandalous" when we were reading the Anna Marker story (at the end - when Mike gives Karen the ring), and now every time there's the hint of a love story between characters, my students go, "Teacher, scandalous!" This is totally the face that goes with that:
Don't call them hobo gloves (this means you, Lisa). They are not hobo gloves =p My grandmother said that they were for golfing and asked if I was playing again.
Also, I have this obnoxiously bright hot pink color...and I'm totally open for ideas with it (only one ball, so nothing too big and fancy =p)..
Monday, April 12, 2010
But Not Quite Ready to Leave....
As promised, I am going to write a list of the things I will miss about Korea. Which, actually, as this has only been 3 months, maybe I should call it, "The Top 12 Great First Impressions Provided by Korea"?
1. My students
I know, gag me with a spoon, but I love how competitive they are. I have one class who treats the critical thinking project like they are guarding state secrets. They get so competitive - even going out of their way during the post-presentation discussion to argue why theirs is the best. I also like talking with my older, more fluent students - they understand some of the cultural differences, so we're able to talk more about abstract concepts, and it's so amazing how smart they are.
2. The food
Just when I think everything is how-would-you-like-your-bulgogi-and-rice-and-red-pepper-paste-arranged, I eat something that's absolutely fantastic that...just can't happen in the states. Like my mistaken-not-really-bulgogi-dapbap. And kimbap. And kimchi mandu. I feel that in America, they'd find some way to deep fry both and just ruin them..
3. The foreigners
Now before you, "What?!" this one, let me explain.. Korea is a place where you form connections with people just because they happen to speak English, and I've found that I've become really good friends with people who I wouldn't have hung out with at home. That sounds a bit backhanded, so I'm going to clarify that I am so excited that being this minority has given me the chance to meet all of them. I've definitely learned a lot about myself and branched out with the person that I am (stop me before this gets too Hallmark).
4. Lotte
Yeah, had to do a u-turn after that last one =p. I love just wandering around Lotte and people watching. It's a lot like being at Target, but different - mostly because I don't spend the insane amount of money (because I'm not a Korean size in anything =p). I love the combinations of things they put together as sales, too - like the cream cheese and chapstick bundle from last week. It's such a neat combination of eastern and western cultures, too - like even though it is the Korean version of a Super Target, there's still a bit of that at-the-marketplace culture, with the workers trying to get you to buy something, or show you something, or help you choose an item.
5. The fashion
Again, a shallow idea that runs a bit deeper. I love the way Koreans - both men and women - dress. There's something about it that is insanely fashionable, but still tasteful - a concept that I think we're lacking in the US. I love that I haven't had to tell a preteen male to pull up his pants - something that I had to say at least twenty times a day while teaching in America. I love that the girls don't put their developing cleavage on display. I love that everyone dresses constantly to make an impression - there's no way a site like "People of E-Mart" could exist. But, they do all of this without sacrificing the art of looking good. America's Next Top Model is starting to scrape the bottom with it's overseas trips (Hawaii, anyone?) - Seoul would be such a fantastic destination. But, then we'd have Tyra Banks here. Not sure how I'd feel about that one...
6. The efficiency
I was talking about my students with this one - Koreans just make everything easy. Sometimes, I feel like America goes out of it's way to make things complicated just because they can. In class, I referenced the sloped conveyer-belt-people-mover at the back of Lotte so that you can take your cart upstairs without having to push it up some ramp. I'm sure that those exist in America, but not in any stores I visited. I'm sure after I post this, I'll think of some fantastic example - so think of the Lotte one as a place-holder =p
7. The Korean boys
I don't think an explanation is necessary =p
8. Indecision corner and restaurant alley
Every night when we go out to dinner, we always head to the same spot, then stand in a circle and do the, "Okay, where are we going to eat tonight?" Eventually, Aaron will look at one of us and say, "______, it's your special day - where do you want to eat?" and we all echo with, "Yeah, it's your special day..". We always end up at one of the same four places, and I always order the same thing, but for some reason, it doesn't seem repetitive (at least not to me).
9. Kimchi at pork-bone-soup and that one place I went that Aaron knows the name of
My first week in Korea, the coworkers took me to this place that served only pork bone soup - literally, soup with a big pork bone in it. I wasn't a big fan - it was kinda oily, and I had a hard time picking the meat pieces off of the bone. However, that place had some of the *best* kimchi I've ever had, and have since been on a hunt to find some that I like just as much but at a restaurant that served....not pork bone soup. I found it! But I have no clue what the place is called! I went there at like 3 in the morning with the owners of Underground (who, by the way, are completely awesome and the sweetest people on the planet) and was served....I have no clue what it was, but it was good. And, looking back, I really should've eaten more kimchi..
10. Pickled radishes!
Thinking about kimchi reminded me of this one. For those in America, when you go to a Korean restaurant, they usually bring you out these side dishes/appetizers of various simple foods. My *favorite* are the yellow pickled radishes. I have been known to eat all of them before my dining companions could have their turn.
11. The crazy drivers!
"Crazy" is probably not the right word. South Korea is a pretty crowded country - especially in the cities (where everyone lives). In America, we have pretty bad stereotypes for Asian drivers, but there's no way Americans would be able to perform the maneuvers that these Koreans do on a daily basis. I have a game on my iPhone called "Unblock" (the idea is that you have to shift around the blocks so that you can create a path), which is what the parking around the library reminds me of - yet there are never any dings or scrapes, which is what would happen if Americans tried the same thing. Traffic laws are also a bit different here - Koreans are more into the U-turns than Americans (which is so fun to watch at intersections - a bunch of cars just turning around in unison). Red lights seem to be more of a suggestion than a law - especially for busses, taxis, and scooters. The horns on cars are also less obnoxious - not the loud blast like in America, but a softer tone.
This one is getting two paragraphs =p. I appreciate the drivers because of something I mentioned waaaaaaaaay long ago - Koreans have insane road rage, but they also have something that Americans don't: the ability to forget. They'll honk like crazy at each other, but it ends there. There's no worry that one will follow you 20 blocks out of their way just to get out of the car and yell at you (or worse) because of something you did to make them mad 15 minutes ago.
12. Subway shopping
Many subway stations here are set up like little shopping centers once you exit the turnstyle. The rule of thumb to shopping in Korea is don't go to stores (with my Lotte addiction, we know I don't follow this rule =p). Street vendors and subway shops have much less overhead so they're able to keep their prices down. I bought a scarf for 5000 KRW (like $5), and want to go back for more *^^*. Still have yet to start buying clothes here - I'm kind of afraid to start...
Bonus! 13. Dr. Fish!
I know you can find the doctor fish in other countries, but since this is the first place in which I visited them, I view the experience as something Korean. I want to go back! Also, the last time I went (when Laura arrived), I totally braved the "big-fish" tank and decided I like them much better :)
When talking about this entry to a friend of mine, his first reaction was, "You're planning on leaving already?!" Want to clarify that one: No! As I said, this is probably just the top 12 good first impressions that Korea gave me. I'm sure a year from now, the things on this list will change (and you all will be subjected to another list entry!).
1. My students
I know, gag me with a spoon, but I love how competitive they are. I have one class who treats the critical thinking project like they are guarding state secrets. They get so competitive - even going out of their way during the post-presentation discussion to argue why theirs is the best. I also like talking with my older, more fluent students - they understand some of the cultural differences, so we're able to talk more about abstract concepts, and it's so amazing how smart they are.
2. The food
Just when I think everything is how-would-you-like-your-bulgogi-and-rice-and-red-pepper-paste-arranged, I eat something that's absolutely fantastic that...just can't happen in the states. Like my mistaken-not-really-bulgogi-dapbap. And kimbap. And kimchi mandu. I feel that in America, they'd find some way to deep fry both and just ruin them..
3. The foreigners
Now before you, "What?!" this one, let me explain.. Korea is a place where you form connections with people just because they happen to speak English, and I've found that I've become really good friends with people who I wouldn't have hung out with at home. That sounds a bit backhanded, so I'm going to clarify that I am so excited that being this minority has given me the chance to meet all of them. I've definitely learned a lot about myself and branched out with the person that I am (stop me before this gets too Hallmark).
4. Lotte
Yeah, had to do a u-turn after that last one =p. I love just wandering around Lotte and people watching. It's a lot like being at Target, but different - mostly because I don't spend the insane amount of money (because I'm not a Korean size in anything =p). I love the combinations of things they put together as sales, too - like the cream cheese and chapstick bundle from last week. It's such a neat combination of eastern and western cultures, too - like even though it is the Korean version of a Super Target, there's still a bit of that at-the-marketplace culture, with the workers trying to get you to buy something, or show you something, or help you choose an item.
5. The fashion
Again, a shallow idea that runs a bit deeper. I love the way Koreans - both men and women - dress. There's something about it that is insanely fashionable, but still tasteful - a concept that I think we're lacking in the US. I love that I haven't had to tell a preteen male to pull up his pants - something that I had to say at least twenty times a day while teaching in America. I love that the girls don't put their developing cleavage on display. I love that everyone dresses constantly to make an impression - there's no way a site like "People of E-Mart" could exist. But, they do all of this without sacrificing the art of looking good. America's Next Top Model is starting to scrape the bottom with it's overseas trips (Hawaii, anyone?) - Seoul would be such a fantastic destination. But, then we'd have Tyra Banks here. Not sure how I'd feel about that one...
6. The efficiency
I was talking about my students with this one - Koreans just make everything easy. Sometimes, I feel like America goes out of it's way to make things complicated just because they can. In class, I referenced the sloped conveyer-belt-people-mover at the back of Lotte so that you can take your cart upstairs without having to push it up some ramp. I'm sure that those exist in America, but not in any stores I visited. I'm sure after I post this, I'll think of some fantastic example - so think of the Lotte one as a place-holder =p
7. The Korean boys
I don't think an explanation is necessary =p
8. Indecision corner and restaurant alley
Every night when we go out to dinner, we always head to the same spot, then stand in a circle and do the, "Okay, where are we going to eat tonight?" Eventually, Aaron will look at one of us and say, "______, it's your special day - where do you want to eat?" and we all echo with, "Yeah, it's your special day..". We always end up at one of the same four places, and I always order the same thing, but for some reason, it doesn't seem repetitive (at least not to me).
9. Kimchi at pork-bone-soup and that one place I went that Aaron knows the name of
My first week in Korea, the coworkers took me to this place that served only pork bone soup - literally, soup with a big pork bone in it. I wasn't a big fan - it was kinda oily, and I had a hard time picking the meat pieces off of the bone. However, that place had some of the *best* kimchi I've ever had, and have since been on a hunt to find some that I like just as much but at a restaurant that served....not pork bone soup. I found it! But I have no clue what the place is called! I went there at like 3 in the morning with the owners of Underground (who, by the way, are completely awesome and the sweetest people on the planet) and was served....I have no clue what it was, but it was good. And, looking back, I really should've eaten more kimchi..
10. Pickled radishes!
Thinking about kimchi reminded me of this one. For those in America, when you go to a Korean restaurant, they usually bring you out these side dishes/appetizers of various simple foods. My *favorite* are the yellow pickled radishes. I have been known to eat all of them before my dining companions could have their turn.
11. The crazy drivers!
"Crazy" is probably not the right word. South Korea is a pretty crowded country - especially in the cities (where everyone lives). In America, we have pretty bad stereotypes for Asian drivers, but there's no way Americans would be able to perform the maneuvers that these Koreans do on a daily basis. I have a game on my iPhone called "Unblock" (the idea is that you have to shift around the blocks so that you can create a path), which is what the parking around the library reminds me of - yet there are never any dings or scrapes, which is what would happen if Americans tried the same thing. Traffic laws are also a bit different here - Koreans are more into the U-turns than Americans (which is so fun to watch at intersections - a bunch of cars just turning around in unison). Red lights seem to be more of a suggestion than a law - especially for busses, taxis, and scooters. The horns on cars are also less obnoxious - not the loud blast like in America, but a softer tone.
This one is getting two paragraphs =p. I appreciate the drivers because of something I mentioned waaaaaaaaay long ago - Koreans have insane road rage, but they also have something that Americans don't: the ability to forget. They'll honk like crazy at each other, but it ends there. There's no worry that one will follow you 20 blocks out of their way just to get out of the car and yell at you (or worse) because of something you did to make them mad 15 minutes ago.
12. Subway shopping
Many subway stations here are set up like little shopping centers once you exit the turnstyle. The rule of thumb to shopping in Korea is don't go to stores (with my Lotte addiction, we know I don't follow this rule =p). Street vendors and subway shops have much less overhead so they're able to keep their prices down. I bought a scarf for 5000 KRW (like $5), and want to go back for more *^^*. Still have yet to start buying clothes here - I'm kind of afraid to start...
Bonus! 13. Dr. Fish!
I know you can find the doctor fish in other countries, but since this is the first place in which I visited them, I view the experience as something Korean. I want to go back! Also, the last time I went (when Laura arrived), I totally braved the "big-fish" tank and decided I like them much better :)
When talking about this entry to a friend of mine, his first reaction was, "You're planning on leaving already?!" Want to clarify that one: No! As I said, this is probably just the top 12 good first impressions that Korea gave me. I'm sure a year from now, the things on this list will change (and you all will be subjected to another list entry!).
Adding....
I lied - we're going to make this a 12 point list...
11. American barbecue
There's something I say wrong when I order bulgogi dabap that results in me getting something that's.....not bulgogi dabap. But I like it more *^^*. However, it really makes me miss Sonny's - not that it tastes like Sonny's, but there's something about it that reminds me of the barbecue pulled pork. Oh man.....pulled pork sandwiches on garlic bread with those creamed corn fritters. If Sonny's served tater tots, I would be in *heaven*
12. Cars that puddle dodge
I think this is the only one I'm putting on here in anger. In America, cars definitely swerve around puddles to avoid splashing people on the sidewalks, but in Korea, they just zoom on by. I've been hit by a torrential tidal wave (possibly a slight exaggeration) every time it rains.
Since I wrote 12 about America, I'm going to write 12 about Korea. It's only fair :)
11. American barbecue
There's something I say wrong when I order bulgogi dabap that results in me getting something that's.....not bulgogi dabap. But I like it more *^^*. However, it really makes me miss Sonny's - not that it tastes like Sonny's, but there's something about it that reminds me of the barbecue pulled pork. Oh man.....pulled pork sandwiches on garlic bread with those creamed corn fritters. If Sonny's served tater tots, I would be in *heaven*
12. Cars that puddle dodge
I think this is the only one I'm putting on here in anger. In America, cars definitely swerve around puddles to avoid splashing people on the sidewalks, but in Korea, they just zoom on by. I've been hit by a torrential tidal wave (possibly a slight exaggeration) every time it rains.
Since I wrote 12 about America, I'm going to write 12 about Korea. It's only fair :)
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Homesick?
Last week, I got homesick for the first time. I had a godawful week and just wanted to escape anything related to work - I was talking to Jessi about this and she said, "See, this is the kind of weekend that I'd convince you to come down to Orlando. I'd bribe you with Universal and sushi!"
I almost started crying. This weekend would have been a *perfect* Orlando weekend.
The weekend actually turned out pretty well, but it got me thinking about things here that we just don't have at home. To keep this from going on and on, here are the top 10 things that I miss about America...
1. Drinkable tap water
In St. Augustine, I went through a pretty long phase in which I only drank bottled water - not because the tap water was unsafe, but just because I didn't like the taste. I got over that phase when I realized how much trash I was generating, and started drinking the tap water (which wasn't all that bad when I thought about it). Here, I'm sure the tap water tastes fine, but it comes with a really awesome side effect: massive sickness. It's annoying because you constantly have to have bottled water on hand..
2. Steak n Shake and Village Inn
I can probably live without the terrible food, but I miss what these places represented: my friends. These were our default late-night places where we'd order something absolutely terrible for us, and spend hours just talking and laughing. They were where we went when awful things happened and just needed to escape - because nothing bad can happen when you've got a frisco melt or coconut cream pie.
3. Italian food
Red sauce here is the equivalent of ketchup. Most cheese is insanely processed. I miss all forms of Mediterranean food like crazy! On May 15, Chris and I are having our America Day in Itaewon, and I might just convince him to find some good Italian food there (that isn't ketchup and a few spices!).
4. Gay Clubs
Dancing is my favorite form of exercise, and there are plenty of clubs here. The problem is, when I go out, there's usually alcohol involved, which then makes me *so much* more aware of the opposite gender. Gay clubs at home, for me, were all about the fun of dancing with complete strangers without any of the mess that goes along with dancing with straight guys.
5. Dryers
I think part of the reason my clothes are too big is that they don't have that opportunity to shrink back up in the dryer! I've also made the mistake of leaving paper in pants pockets, which breaks up in the wash and gets all over my other clothes - and is an absolute *pain* to get out. I've learned that once lint is washed in, it is *staying* there for good! I miss the way my clothes -especially my socks - feel after coming out of the dryer, though it is nice that none of them have faded since I've gotten here. Plus, laundry now takes a day and a half instead of a few hours..
6. Shopping
I love Korean fashion. I hate that my hips are too big for the clothes. I hate that my feet are too big for the shoes. Again, America Day...Itaewon ;) I have started to develop a few accessory habits, which I'm sure will grow while I'm here.
7. Chick-fil-A
Of course this one made it to the list - I was an addict in America :). I don't just miss the food, I miss how that place was run. Everyone was so friendly (at least at the St. Augustine franchise). Not to say that people aren't friendly here - they definitely are, and insanely helpful especially seeing as there's this huge communication block - but there is a lack of warmth.
8. Anastasia Athletic Club / My old morning routine
I miss charging up the mountain on the elliptical, and then talking with the old ladies in the dressing room. There's a path here, but it's not the same. I miss going backwards =p I miss the steam room afterwards. I miss Gail, who used to give me free makeup, and Karen who used to try to sell me condos.
9. Vilano
One of my favorite "Me" things to do was go to Vilano Beach and hunt for sharks teeth. I had quite a collection going - which Mom of course took in an effort to incorporate them into jewelry. It was so peaceful - just me. And when I would feel like I'd searched the whole beach and there were none left, I'd always end up finding one. Even though the big ones were impressive, I liked the small ones the most because they were the most challenging to find.
10. Being in the same time zone
I've been such a bad friend/daughter/granddaughter here. Lately, I've been so down (because I have this secret emo side that I'm trying desperately to shed), and just haven't felt like connecting with *anyone*. This time difference sucks! By the time I am done with all of my stuff in the morning, it's too late to call...and when I come home at night (late morning there), I'm too tired to talk to anyone.....plus, they are all at work.
Reading back, this was an insanely negative entry, but I guess if I'm going to talk about the things I miss at home, there's no way to put a positive spin on it. Next time, I'm going to write the top 10 things I will miss about Korea when and if I come home. Yes, even though I just spent all that time writing about these things I miss about America, I really don't miss living there. The other day, I figured it out: living in America is like living with divorced parents. There are two sides in power, and they don't get anything productive done because they are too busy arguing with each other. When one side comes up with a good idea that will help move things forward, the other side disagrees just because it wasn't their idea/program. Instead of helping them improve it, or working to reach a compromise, they just sit back and point out only the negatives and put exaggerated spins to bury any positives. It's not healthy.
I almost started crying. This weekend would have been a *perfect* Orlando weekend.
The weekend actually turned out pretty well, but it got me thinking about things here that we just don't have at home. To keep this from going on and on, here are the top 10 things that I miss about America...
1. Drinkable tap water
In St. Augustine, I went through a pretty long phase in which I only drank bottled water - not because the tap water was unsafe, but just because I didn't like the taste. I got over that phase when I realized how much trash I was generating, and started drinking the tap water (which wasn't all that bad when I thought about it). Here, I'm sure the tap water tastes fine, but it comes with a really awesome side effect: massive sickness. It's annoying because you constantly have to have bottled water on hand..
2. Steak n Shake and Village Inn
I can probably live without the terrible food, but I miss what these places represented: my friends. These were our default late-night places where we'd order something absolutely terrible for us, and spend hours just talking and laughing. They were where we went when awful things happened and just needed to escape - because nothing bad can happen when you've got a frisco melt or coconut cream pie.
3. Italian food
Red sauce here is the equivalent of ketchup. Most cheese is insanely processed. I miss all forms of Mediterranean food like crazy! On May 15, Chris and I are having our America Day in Itaewon, and I might just convince him to find some good Italian food there (that isn't ketchup and a few spices!).
4. Gay Clubs
Dancing is my favorite form of exercise, and there are plenty of clubs here. The problem is, when I go out, there's usually alcohol involved, which then makes me *so much* more aware of the opposite gender. Gay clubs at home, for me, were all about the fun of dancing with complete strangers without any of the mess that goes along with dancing with straight guys.
5. Dryers
I think part of the reason my clothes are too big is that they don't have that opportunity to shrink back up in the dryer! I've also made the mistake of leaving paper in pants pockets, which breaks up in the wash and gets all over my other clothes - and is an absolute *pain* to get out. I've learned that once lint is washed in, it is *staying* there for good! I miss the way my clothes -especially my socks - feel after coming out of the dryer, though it is nice that none of them have faded since I've gotten here. Plus, laundry now takes a day and a half instead of a few hours..
6. Shopping
I love Korean fashion. I hate that my hips are too big for the clothes. I hate that my feet are too big for the shoes. Again, America Day...Itaewon ;) I have started to develop a few accessory habits, which I'm sure will grow while I'm here.
7. Chick-fil-A
Of course this one made it to the list - I was an addict in America :). I don't just miss the food, I miss how that place was run. Everyone was so friendly (at least at the St. Augustine franchise). Not to say that people aren't friendly here - they definitely are, and insanely helpful especially seeing as there's this huge communication block - but there is a lack of warmth.
8. Anastasia Athletic Club / My old morning routine
I miss charging up the mountain on the elliptical, and then talking with the old ladies in the dressing room. There's a path here, but it's not the same. I miss going backwards =p I miss the steam room afterwards. I miss Gail, who used to give me free makeup, and Karen who used to try to sell me condos.
9. Vilano
One of my favorite "Me" things to do was go to Vilano Beach and hunt for sharks teeth. I had quite a collection going - which Mom of course took in an effort to incorporate them into jewelry. It was so peaceful - just me. And when I would feel like I'd searched the whole beach and there were none left, I'd always end up finding one. Even though the big ones were impressive, I liked the small ones the most because they were the most challenging to find.
10. Being in the same time zone
I've been such a bad friend/daughter/granddaughter here. Lately, I've been so down (because I have this secret emo side that I'm trying desperately to shed), and just haven't felt like connecting with *anyone*. This time difference sucks! By the time I am done with all of my stuff in the morning, it's too late to call...and when I come home at night (late morning there), I'm too tired to talk to anyone.....plus, they are all at work.
Reading back, this was an insanely negative entry, but I guess if I'm going to talk about the things I miss at home, there's no way to put a positive spin on it. Next time, I'm going to write the top 10 things I will miss about Korea when and if I come home. Yes, even though I just spent all that time writing about these things I miss about America, I really don't miss living there. The other day, I figured it out: living in America is like living with divorced parents. There are two sides in power, and they don't get anything productive done because they are too busy arguing with each other. When one side comes up with a good idea that will help move things forward, the other side disagrees just because it wasn't their idea/program. Instead of helping them improve it, or working to reach a compromise, they just sit back and point out only the negatives and put exaggerated spins to bury any positives. It's not healthy.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Continued....
Going to add a bit to that entry about Norebang and laryngitis (e.g., the whole tribute to the Chicago Trib advice column)
Don't be impatient with the samgyeopsal. It will be just as good if allowed to cook that extra necessary minute - plus, you will avoid the week of not being able to keep anything down.
Korean boys are just as untrustworthy as American boys.
Clean your tiny apartment. It'll look bigger. Making your bed on a daily basis helps with this, too - especially if your place is all one room.
Despite the fact that being a hagwon teacher is an extension of college/the frat party, try not to get totally wasted every weekend. Your skin will thank you. As will your stomach and your brain.
Related to the above, find a sober hobby.
Scooter drivers don't play dodge-the-person - they play Red Rover. You will lose. Sidewalks are not just for people.
Get lost in Lotte - preferably during free sample time. The workers will be entertained that you come back for more - be sure to smile each time.
Leave your hair dryer at home. They sell them at E-Mart and Lotte for the same price as a power converter. They also sell hair straighteners, and every skin and hair product known to man. Seriously - save the suitcase room for sheets and pillows.
Bring your own pillows.
Don't censor your music collection. Out here, it's not only okay, it's actually kind of cool to like bad American pop.
After the laryngitis, go back to norebang. Be sure to choose one of those terrible American pop songs. Belt it without shame - we both know you know the lyrics ;).
But, seriously, wait until the laryngitis is *over*
----
This weekend brought a few lessons, and a whole lot of awesomeness. Finally met up with a few people I've been talking to for various periods of time. The first was a knitting group of foreign teachers. They showed me this one expensive yarn shop (totally forgot the location, which is probably a good thing), and then the Dongdaemun Market. Bought some of the ugliest yarn for 2000 KRW a ball and plan on making insanely awesome fingerless gloves with it :D. Also bought some very expensive, but very pretty, yarn that will also become a pair of fingerless gloves.
Left the group for lunch with Tim, which is always a great time. This time, we discussed how, thanks to CNBlue, Koreans know how to start counting in English. Unfortunately, also thanks to CNBlue, they run the risk of thinking that the number that comes after 7 is "tonight". Seriously, on behalf of Tim and The Beck, ask a Korean what comes after 7 - they will tell you either 1, "tonight", or "to nine". I hate that I love that song.
Ended the day with round two of meet-a-stranger-I-met online - in a much less creepy sounding intro, I finally met Chris! To the family members who are probably reading this and worried that I am meeting strangers from the internet, don't worry - he's a Chungdahm teacher whom I started talking with before I left America while I was reaching out to people over there who weren't serial killers. We did a few loops around Hongdae (I have yet to actually go clubbing in that place despite having been there a few times) and went to a fantastic chicken galbi place for dinner that was much cheaper than the one in Suji. We decided that May 15 is going to be our America day, which we will spend (appropriately) in Itaewon (Land of English menus, XL sizes, and corn-free pizza :)).
Actually, we need to discuss that link that I just snuck in there: Roketship is this fantastic webcomic done by an American teacher in Korea. Everything that man has written is so true about this place: the kids are insanely busy with academies, they complain about being hot but won't take off their jackets, there are trucks that drive around making apocalypse-sounding announcements but are really just advertising sales, and the weirdest things come packaged together at grocery stores (today it was chapstick and cream cheese). Also, gun-line-square-batman-sideways t-batman equals not only lunch, but also dinner :). I was so inspired that I emailed the guy and told him about "shiver" popping up on my Memory class's vocabulary list (pretend you're a Korean 6th grader...now say it....yeah, that's exactly what they said, too ;)).
Don't be impatient with the samgyeopsal. It will be just as good if allowed to cook that extra necessary minute - plus, you will avoid the week of not being able to keep anything down.
Korean boys are just as untrustworthy as American boys.
Clean your tiny apartment. It'll look bigger. Making your bed on a daily basis helps with this, too - especially if your place is all one room.
Despite the fact that being a hagwon teacher is an extension of college/the frat party, try not to get totally wasted every weekend. Your skin will thank you. As will your stomach and your brain.
Related to the above, find a sober hobby.
Scooter drivers don't play dodge-the-person - they play Red Rover. You will lose. Sidewalks are not just for people.
Get lost in Lotte - preferably during free sample time. The workers will be entertained that you come back for more - be sure to smile each time.
Leave your hair dryer at home. They sell them at E-Mart and Lotte for the same price as a power converter. They also sell hair straighteners, and every skin and hair product known to man. Seriously - save the suitcase room for sheets and pillows.
Bring your own pillows.
Don't censor your music collection. Out here, it's not only okay, it's actually kind of cool to like bad American pop.
After the laryngitis, go back to norebang. Be sure to choose one of those terrible American pop songs. Belt it without shame - we both know you know the lyrics ;).
But, seriously, wait until the laryngitis is *over*
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This weekend brought a few lessons, and a whole lot of awesomeness. Finally met up with a few people I've been talking to for various periods of time. The first was a knitting group of foreign teachers. They showed me this one expensive yarn shop (totally forgot the location, which is probably a good thing), and then the Dongdaemun Market. Bought some of the ugliest yarn for 2000 KRW a ball and plan on making insanely awesome fingerless gloves with it :D. Also bought some very expensive, but very pretty, yarn that will also become a pair of fingerless gloves.
Left the group for lunch with Tim, which is always a great time. This time, we discussed how, thanks to CNBlue, Koreans know how to start counting in English. Unfortunately, also thanks to CNBlue, they run the risk of thinking that the number that comes after 7 is "tonight". Seriously, on behalf of Tim and The Beck, ask a Korean what comes after 7 - they will tell you either 1, "tonight", or "to nine". I hate that I love that song.
Ended the day with round two of meet-a-stranger-I-met online - in a much less creepy sounding intro, I finally met Chris! To the family members who are probably reading this and worried that I am meeting strangers from the internet, don't worry - he's a Chungdahm teacher whom I started talking with before I left America while I was reaching out to people over there who weren't serial killers. We did a few loops around Hongdae (I have yet to actually go clubbing in that place despite having been there a few times) and went to a fantastic chicken galbi place for dinner that was much cheaper than the one in Suji. We decided that May 15 is going to be our America day, which we will spend (appropriately) in Itaewon (Land of English menus, XL sizes, and corn-free pizza :)).
Actually, we need to discuss that link that I just snuck in there: Roketship is this fantastic webcomic done by an American teacher in Korea. Everything that man has written is so true about this place: the kids are insanely busy with academies, they complain about being hot but won't take off their jackets, there are trucks that drive around making apocalypse-sounding announcements but are really just advertising sales, and the weirdest things come packaged together at grocery stores (today it was chapstick and cream cheese). Also, gun-line-square-batman-sideways t-batman equals not only lunch, but also dinner :). I was so inspired that I emailed the guy and told him about "shiver" popping up on my Memory class's vocabulary list (pretend you're a Korean 6th grader...now say it....yeah, that's exactly what they said, too ;)).
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