Well 2009 is coming to a close very soon. I have mixed emotions on starting a new year. On one hand I am very excited. I am in a new exciting place and I love my job. I have always dreamed of traveling and teaching and at the moment I am doing both. This time last year I never would have guessed I would be teaching English in South Korea. So here is hoping 2010 continues as well as 2009 ended.
On the flip side, I miss my family and friends. However, with the greatness that is the internet and Skype I can keep up with everyone. I missed the birth of my niece which was a little hard to swallow, but I have been kept up to speed on everything. I can't wait to get back to the good ol' USofA to meet her. She is so amazingly cute, and that is just not me being the proud uncle that I am.
I am also sort of glad 2009 is coming to a close because it has been a hard year. So I am really looking forward to 2010 and getting the chance to start a new year fresh in a new place.
I hope everyone had a great New Year. I will be spending New Years Day on a little day trip up to Seoul. It will be my first time there, and I am really looking forward to it even if it is for just a few hours. I'll be sure to take some pictures and fill you in on my journey up north.
Happy New Year!
E
I want to leave you with one of my favorite toasts, even if it's a little long. I find these are powerful words that I have to keep going back to at times. I don't know who came up with it, but I heard it first in Jack Ingram song....
Here's to living everyday just like its your last.
Here's to loving just like your heart's never been broken.
Here's to always dancing just like nobody's watching.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Christmas in Korea
I have spent Christmas away from my immediate family before, but those years I always had my ex's family to spend it with. So this was a new experience for me. I am thousands of miles away from home and spent my first Christmas with no family around. I wasn't sure how it would go, but surprisingly it went by quickly. I think what helped was not being bombarded by Christmas for weeks in advance. Many Koreans celebrate Christmas but not to the point that we do back home. You don't see Christmas lights, Santas, Reindeer, or hear Christmas music everywhere you go. It is more of a surprise when you do see something relating to Christmas. So Christmas came and went before I knew it.
Koreans spend Christmas a little different that we do. They tend to spend the time with their significant other rather than family. Many of my students planned to go to a PC Bang and play video games all day long. There was not much mentioned of traveling to see family, or having a huge special family meal. They spend Christmas with their significant other, and New Year's with their family, just the opposite of what we do back home.
The foreign teachers at work and I tried to keep in good holiday cheer. I think it was harder for others than it was for me. Most are away from home for the first time ever this time of year. I tried to keep in the holiday spirit by making some Christmas candy. With my limited resources here, no oven and not much in the utensil department, I went with chocolate covered pecans. Pecans themselves are not big here. I had been searching hoping to find the ingrediants to make pecan pie and finally found some at COSTCO. They turned out quite good, and I think everyone at work enjoyed them. It wasn't quite like having divinity or date balls, but it did the trick.
We had decided to do a secret Santa gift exchange to keep in the holiday spirit as well. It turned out to be a good night after work on Christmas Eve. I recieved a great gift that will have me laughing for a long time. First of all, I got a Christmas toilet seat. This is absolute genius and has to be the best secret santa gift I have ever gotten. To add to that, I got some chopstick trainers (see pics below). It is well known here that my chopstick skills are lacking and I can't wait to sport my purple dinosaur chopstick trainers out one day next week for lunch. All in all it was a great night.
Christmas came and went pretty quickly. I got up and talked to my parents in the morning, went to the gym for a short time because I knew I was going to pig out later in the day, then went to join my fellow workers for a nice meal downtown. We had a nice Western style Christmas dinner of turkey, dressing, and mashed potatoes. The only hang up I had was the menu called for pumpkin pie, which I had been craving since Thanksgiving. Pies in general are difficult to find around here, except for walnut which isn't too shabby. Instead of pumpkin they served apple. I am sure it was good but I was really looking forward to pumpkin. All in all I had a great time at lunch and enjoyed the atmosphere. I have to admit I missed my mom's cornbread dressing and all the other goodies that are made every year. It was a good experience being in a foreign country for Christmas however. I really enjoy being here and look forward to more adventures.
Koreans spend Christmas a little different that we do. They tend to spend the time with their significant other rather than family. Many of my students planned to go to a PC Bang and play video games all day long. There was not much mentioned of traveling to see family, or having a huge special family meal. They spend Christmas with their significant other, and New Year's with their family, just the opposite of what we do back home.
The foreign teachers at work and I tried to keep in good holiday cheer. I think it was harder for others than it was for me. Most are away from home for the first time ever this time of year. I tried to keep in the holiday spirit by making some Christmas candy. With my limited resources here, no oven and not much in the utensil department, I went with chocolate covered pecans. Pecans themselves are not big here. I had been searching hoping to find the ingrediants to make pecan pie and finally found some at COSTCO. They turned out quite good, and I think everyone at work enjoyed them. It wasn't quite like having divinity or date balls, but it did the trick.
We had decided to do a secret Santa gift exchange to keep in the holiday spirit as well. It turned out to be a good night after work on Christmas Eve. I recieved a great gift that will have me laughing for a long time. First of all, I got a Christmas toilet seat. This is absolute genius and has to be the best secret santa gift I have ever gotten. To add to that, I got some chopstick trainers (see pics below). It is well known here that my chopstick skills are lacking and I can't wait to sport my purple dinosaur chopstick trainers out one day next week for lunch. All in all it was a great night.
Christmas came and went pretty quickly. I got up and talked to my parents in the morning, went to the gym for a short time because I knew I was going to pig out later in the day, then went to join my fellow workers for a nice meal downtown. We had a nice Western style Christmas dinner of turkey, dressing, and mashed potatoes. The only hang up I had was the menu called for pumpkin pie, which I had been craving since Thanksgiving. Pies in general are difficult to find around here, except for walnut which isn't too shabby. Instead of pumpkin they served apple. I am sure it was good but I was really looking forward to pumpkin. All in all I had a great time at lunch and enjoyed the atmosphere. I have to admit I missed my mom's cornbread dressing and all the other goodies that are made every year. It was a good experience being in a foreign country for Christmas however. I really enjoy being here and look forward to more adventures.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Christmas is Coming Soon
Christmas is less than 3 days away, and it really doesn't seem like it. There are very little decorations here in Korea aside from the random Santa in a small shop or a few decorations at large department stores. I can picture all the lights and decorations around town back home. I saw pictues of BLORA on Facebook recently too. That brings back a lot of good memories. For those who don't know, BLORA is a drive through Christmas light display back home in Texas. It makes for a good night driving slowly through the park, looking at lights with family and friends, while listening to Christmas music on the radio.
On the flip side, it is cold here and I am not used to haveing a cold Christmas. We got a little snow on Sunday, but it melted when it hit the ground. There is nothing like a white Christmas, but you have to play the hand you are dealt. In my case that is enjoying a cold snowless Christmas. I feel for those dealing with the blizzard that hit the northeast in the US. Below are a few pictures I got from my aunt and uncles back yard just outside of DC. I miss the snow, but they got more than you can deal with at one time.
Even though I won't be able to be with my family on Christmas, I am looking forward to it. I am looking forward to the dinner that the foreign teachers are going to. The menu is a western style meal and it sounds fantastic. Add in the good company I will have as well, and it should make for a good day. I guess I'll have to get my Christmas light fix through all the photos I see on Facebook.
On the flip side, it is cold here and I am not used to haveing a cold Christmas. We got a little snow on Sunday, but it melted when it hit the ground. There is nothing like a white Christmas, but you have to play the hand you are dealt. In my case that is enjoying a cold snowless Christmas. I feel for those dealing with the blizzard that hit the northeast in the US. Below are a few pictures I got from my aunt and uncles back yard just outside of DC. I miss the snow, but they got more than you can deal with at one time.
Even though I won't be able to be with my family on Christmas, I am looking forward to it. I am looking forward to the dinner that the foreign teachers are going to. The menu is a western style meal and it sounds fantastic. Add in the good company I will have as well, and it should make for a good day. I guess I'll have to get my Christmas light fix through all the photos I see on Facebook.
Till next time
E
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Cowboys or Cowgirls??
I can't seem to figure this team out. For the past 10 years or so, Dallas has laid egg after egg in December. This horrible streak they are on then continues into the playoffs where they haven't won a game in 13 years I think. So far they have lost 2 winable games in December and are in danger of missing the playoffs yet again because of a December swoon.
Then today happens, and they beat the best team in the NFC. An undefeated Saints team (who thought you would ever say that in December?) who have just destroyed opponent after opponent. I think everyone had written them off a few weeks ago in this game, but they showed they have a little heart. I didn't see the game, so I don't know how things played out. But winning in the Superdome over a team that 8 out of 10 times will probably beat you by double digits is something to get excited about. Or is it? Are they doing to let us down the last 2 weeks of the season vs. Philly and Washington? It is hard to say. From the looks of the box score the defense played great today. I still think this defense is good enough to get to the Super Bowl if the offense will allow them. Granted I am basing all of my thoughts off the box score, but it looked like we got back to playing football. Barber and Jones combined had over 100 yards rushing and it seems we have gotten away from the running game of late. Sure Romo threw for over 300 yards, but you still have to run to win. Maybe someone who saw game can chime in and tell me if I am off base.
I really hope this starts a winning streak and we get hot going into the playoffs. Then again I hope it doesn't save Phillips' job. We need new blood at head coach. I think the only way Wade is going to be back next year is if they get really hot and win a Super Bowl.
In other news, we got some snow in Daegu today. It wasn't much and it melted when it hit the ground, but it was snow. I don't think it snows much in the 'gu as I have heard it called. It has been very cold of late however. The past week we have seen highs in the 20's with no real change in site. I am excited about tonight. We are all going to celebrate one of the teacher's birthdays at an Indian restaurant. I had curry for the first time this week. It was really good but from what I hear it is nothing like I can get tonight.
Till next time. Stay warm.
E
P.S. I am trying something new out with this post. I am simply emailing a post. I hope it is as easy as it sounds.
Then today happens, and they beat the best team in the NFC. An undefeated Saints team (who thought you would ever say that in December?) who have just destroyed opponent after opponent. I think everyone had written them off a few weeks ago in this game, but they showed they have a little heart. I didn't see the game, so I don't know how things played out. But winning in the Superdome over a team that 8 out of 10 times will probably beat you by double digits is something to get excited about. Or is it? Are they doing to let us down the last 2 weeks of the season vs. Philly and Washington? It is hard to say. From the looks of the box score the defense played great today. I still think this defense is good enough to get to the Super Bowl if the offense will allow them. Granted I am basing all of my thoughts off the box score, but it looked like we got back to playing football. Barber and Jones combined had over 100 yards rushing and it seems we have gotten away from the running game of late. Sure Romo threw for over 300 yards, but you still have to run to win. Maybe someone who saw game can chime in and tell me if I am off base.
I really hope this starts a winning streak and we get hot going into the playoffs. Then again I hope it doesn't save Phillips' job. We need new blood at head coach. I think the only way Wade is going to be back next year is if they get really hot and win a Super Bowl.
In other news, we got some snow in Daegu today. It wasn't much and it melted when it hit the ground, but it was snow. I don't think it snows much in the 'gu as I have heard it called. It has been very cold of late however. The past week we have seen highs in the 20's with no real change in site. I am excited about tonight. We are all going to celebrate one of the teacher's birthdays at an Indian restaurant. I had curry for the first time this week. It was really good but from what I hear it is nothing like I can get tonight.
Till next time. Stay warm.
E
P.S. I am trying something new out with this post. I am simply emailing a post. I hope it is as easy as it sounds.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
My Students Make Me Laugh
So the other day in class my lower level kids were drawing Christmas pictures and coloring them when I noticed a new name on one of them. I walked up to her and asked if I had misspelled her name the whole time, knowing I hadn't. She started laughing and grabbed her eraser. Her name is Jenny but she had spelled it Jeeny on her paper. We both got a laugh out of it. I don't think they use their English name all that often so I won't give her too much slack. I just thought it was pretty funny.
E
E
A Nice Surprise
I got a surprise in the mail today. My parents sent me a package, or a parcel as the Brits at work call it. I really wasn't expecting anything, and honestly it doesn't matter what is in it. Sometimes it's just nice to know that someone is thinking of you even though you might be half way around the world. Plus lately I keep seeing everyone else at work get things, so when I arrived and saw the big box on my desk I was excited. I did notice on the customs form they filled out that the small box was candy. That got me very excited because I know my mom would have sent me my favorite Christmas candy, the pepermint Christmas nougats. They are only available this time of year, and they are the best.
After lunch I was greeted with an even better surprise. There was a card on my desk when I returned. My first Christmas card in Korea. It was a nice card, with a very nice note from my parents in it, but the part that made my day was the picture of my new niece in it. She was born my first day of work in Korea so I have not got the chance to see her. That is one of the drawbacks of coming. At the very least I won't see her until she is 1 year old. I know that doesn't seem like a long time, but it is to me. I have some amazing nieces and nephews, and since I don't have kids it is important to me to have a good relationship with them. I see too many people overlook the importance of family like I did when I was younger. Now I seehow fortunate I am to have a very supportive and caring family. Not to mention my close friends, who I usually refer to as my Texas family.
I have come to realize over the past few years how important family and friends are. Without them, I don't know how I would have gotten through my divorce. Without all their support I wouldn't have been able to make this move work. Christmas will be the hardest time of year to be away from home. Thankfully with the advent of some great technology, namely Skype, I will be able to speak to my family on Christmas. Add to that the fact I have some other foreign teachers to keep me company, it should be a good day. It won't be the same as being with my family, but it should be good none-the-less.
So wherever you spend the holiday season this year, don't forget those who mean most to you wherever they are. But enjoy the company of those you will be with and try to remember the true spirit of the holiday. It is more than ribbons and bows.
Merry Christmas.
E
Pictures of my new niece Abigail Elizabeth.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Donghwasa Temple
I love living in a big city. I love how I can catch a cab or bus within a block or so of my apartment and be anywhere in the city in a matter of minutes. It is a nice change from having to get in my car and drive to get anywhere back home. It does have its downsides though, mainly exhaust. The air here isn't exactly the cleanest so me and a few co-workers decided to get out of the city on Saturday for some clean crisp fresh mountain air.
Within a short distance (45+ mins by bus) is Mt. Palgongsan Natural Park. It's a nice big area with several tourists sites. The section we chose had both a very old temple and a cable car going up the mountain with great views. We started with the cable car, and it did not disappoint. The cable car took us about 900m above sea level and gave us a great view of the surrounding area. The weather was perfect too. It was just chilly enough to actually be enjoyable plus the sun was out. We took in the views of the surrounding town and hills and simply enjoyed breathing in some fresh mountain air. I do miss the mountains. I think I was spoiled the few years I spent in Denver. There is just nothing like breathing in cool mountain air. It refreshes the soul.
So after the cable car ride, we headed off to find Donghwasa Temple. The temple was built in 493 AD, and it was truely an amazing site to see. It is more than just one large temple where they worship, but more of a series of buildings. It was very peaceful there. Built back in the hills among the woods, the scenery was beautiful and peaceful. The architecture and colors used were simply amazing. Between the incense burning, to seeing people praying to Buddha, to watching a monk meditate I don't think I have ever been anywhere where I felt so at peace and enjoyed the quiet.
The temple was not the only attraction there however. Just a short walk away was teh Tongil-daebul Buddha Statue, which at 33m high and 16.5 m round is the largest in the world (according to our brochure). In the body of the statue are 2 pieces of Buddha's bones presented by the Myanmar government. It was completed in 1992 and was really a site to see. Surrounding the Buddha statue were various carvings, statues and pagodas.
It really opened my eyes to another culture, and I am very glad to have been there. It has also increased my desire to learn more about the Korean history and culture. I find it fascinating to see how others live, think, and pray. After the busy holiday season, a few of us from school might venture out for a temple stay. It sounds like a very interesting way to learn more about the Buddhist culture. You spend the night in a temple and have the chance to learn from them first hand about their religion, meditation, and other aspects of their culture.
Getting out of the city was a nice way to recharge with some fresh mountain air and learn a little something along the way. I can only hope to have more weekends like this in the future. Enjoy some of the photos below. There are many more on my flickr page.
The big Buddha statue
Longhorn Buddha?
There is a monk meditating in there. There were lots of people praying and meditating but I did not feel it was appropriate to capture that up close on film.
The communal drinking fountain.
What fun! A safety theme park.
View from up on top of the mountain.
Me up at the top of the mountain.
Within a short distance (45+ mins by bus) is Mt. Palgongsan Natural Park. It's a nice big area with several tourists sites. The section we chose had both a very old temple and a cable car going up the mountain with great views. We started with the cable car, and it did not disappoint. The cable car took us about 900m above sea level and gave us a great view of the surrounding area. The weather was perfect too. It was just chilly enough to actually be enjoyable plus the sun was out. We took in the views of the surrounding town and hills and simply enjoyed breathing in some fresh mountain air. I do miss the mountains. I think I was spoiled the few years I spent in Denver. There is just nothing like breathing in cool mountain air. It refreshes the soul.
So after the cable car ride, we headed off to find Donghwasa Temple. The temple was built in 493 AD, and it was truely an amazing site to see. It is more than just one large temple where they worship, but more of a series of buildings. It was very peaceful there. Built back in the hills among the woods, the scenery was beautiful and peaceful. The architecture and colors used were simply amazing. Between the incense burning, to seeing people praying to Buddha, to watching a monk meditate I don't think I have ever been anywhere where I felt so at peace and enjoyed the quiet.
The temple was not the only attraction there however. Just a short walk away was teh Tongil-daebul Buddha Statue, which at 33m high and 16.5 m round is the largest in the world (according to our brochure). In the body of the statue are 2 pieces of Buddha's bones presented by the Myanmar government. It was completed in 1992 and was really a site to see. Surrounding the Buddha statue were various carvings, statues and pagodas.
It really opened my eyes to another culture, and I am very glad to have been there. It has also increased my desire to learn more about the Korean history and culture. I find it fascinating to see how others live, think, and pray. After the busy holiday season, a few of us from school might venture out for a temple stay. It sounds like a very interesting way to learn more about the Buddhist culture. You spend the night in a temple and have the chance to learn from them first hand about their religion, meditation, and other aspects of their culture.
Getting out of the city was a nice way to recharge with some fresh mountain air and learn a little something along the way. I can only hope to have more weekends like this in the future. Enjoy some of the photos below. There are many more on my flickr page.
The big Buddha statue
Longhorn Buddha?
There is a monk meditating in there. There were lots of people praying and meditating but I did not feel it was appropriate to capture that up close on film.
The communal drinking fountain.
What fun! A safety theme park.
View from up on top of the mountain.
Me up at the top of the mountain.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Seomun Market
Last Sunday I ventured down to Seomun Market here in Daegu. Seomun has over 4,000 shops and is the largest Korean market in Daegu and one of the 3 largest in Korea. The market has items ranging from traditional clothing, to shoes, socks, and newer clothes, to various types of vegetables and meats, to live and dead animals such as chickens and rabbits. It reminded me of the First Monday Trade Days in Canton, TX, except it had a lot more crap. Most, if not all, of what is there is useless crap, although I am betting some of the food there is fantastic. I walked around for a few hours on the cold Sunday morning. The market is both indoor and out, and is just a huge maze of shops.
I have to say I was a little disappointed in that I didn't find much to purchase, but I was not disappointed in what I got to see. You don't see a cage of live chickens with dead chickens on top ot it often back home. I was curious how receptive they would be to taking pictures, so I quickly and slyly took a few of some interesting things (see below). I am glad I got to experience the market, but I am not sure I have a good reason to go back unless for some reason I need a live or dead rabbit in the future.
I have to say I was a little disappointed in that I didn't find much to purchase, but I was not disappointed in what I got to see. You don't see a cage of live chickens with dead chickens on top ot it often back home. I was curious how receptive they would be to taking pictures, so I quickly and slyly took a few of some interesting things (see below). I am glad I got to experience the market, but I am not sure I have a good reason to go back unless for some reason I need a live or dead rabbit in the future.
Monday, December 7, 2009
40 by 40
So I have been thinking about this for some time, and I have seen other similar things on other blogs/sites I read. I feel like I not really wasted my 20's but more so maybe that I didn't get all I could have out of it. Maybe that is part of the reason I am in South Korea now. I want to travel, see, and experience new things and cultures. I find living in South Korea fascinating. Add to that the conversations I have had so far with my fellow co-workers from the England, Canada, Scotland, and South Africa and I have a stronger urge to see and do more in my 30's. I wouldn't say I have a lot of regrets because I have lived a good life, I have great friends, and I couldn't ask for more when it comes to my family, but I feel there is more. So here is my take on my 40 by 40. Forty things I want to do before I turn 40 (just typing this makes me feel old), which is not that far off unfortunately.
1. See the Great Wall of China
2. See a World Baseball Classic game
3. See a World Series game
4. See 10 new MLB stadiums (can you tell I like baseball?)
5. Visit at least 5 of the 7 continents (3 to go)
6. Get a master's degree in History
7. Play a baseball game in a foreign country
8. Learn a foreign language (German perhaps)
9. Raise $10,000 for a charity
10. Volunteer at an orphanage
11. Ride the Trans-Siberian Rail
12. See the Pyramids
13. Visit the Grand Canyon
14. Go to Oktoberfest
15. Visit at least 10 new countries
16.. Eat a Kobe steak in Japan
17. See a baseball game in 5 foreign countries
18. Go to the Olympics
19. Go to the European Baseball Championships
20. See a football game at Darrell K. Royal Texas Memorial Stadium
21. Go to the Superbowl (at least join the festivities around the game)
22. Run a 5k Race
23. Volunteer at a soup kitchen
24. Get a small tattoo (ankle perhaps)
25. See a sunset in Key West
26. Throw out the 1st pitch at a baseball game
27. See a major college football bowl game
28. Go to the College World Series
29. Coach a baseball team in a foreign country for a game
30. Spend a week on a beach somewhere with no internet/TV/phone
31. Ride a motorcycle across the countryside of a foreign country
32. Visit Normandy
33. Visit a concentration camp
34. See the Northern Lights
35. Go to MLB spring training
36. Study Spanish in Central or South America
37. Take guitar lessons and be able to play at least 1 song
38. Visit Niagara Falls
39. Ice Skate at Rockefeller Center at Christmas time
40. See a basketball game in Madison Square Garden
So there it is. My 40 things I want to do before I turn 40. The clock is ticking so I better get cracking. If you have something similar, let me know. I would be interested in see what is on your to-do list.
In other news I have been tagged by Candice for the Tripbase Blog 3 best kept travel secrets. I will be posting my 3 secrets soon and will in turn tag a few other blogs. So look for that very soon.
Till next time,
E
1. See the Great Wall of China
2. See a World Baseball Classic game
3. See a World Series game
4. See 10 new MLB stadiums (can you tell I like baseball?)
5. Visit at least 5 of the 7 continents (3 to go)
6. Get a master's degree in History
7. Play a baseball game in a foreign country
8. Learn a foreign language (German perhaps)
9. Raise $10,000 for a charity
10. Volunteer at an orphanage
11. Ride the Trans-Siberian Rail
12. See the Pyramids
13. Visit the Grand Canyon
14. Go to Oktoberfest
15. Visit at least 10 new countries
16.. Eat a Kobe steak in Japan
17. See a baseball game in 5 foreign countries
18. Go to the Olympics
19. Go to the European Baseball Championships
20. See a football game at Darrell K. Royal Texas Memorial Stadium
21. Go to the Superbowl (at least join the festivities around the game)
22. Run a 5k Race
23. Volunteer at a soup kitchen
24. Get a small tattoo (ankle perhaps)
25. See a sunset in Key West
26. Throw out the 1st pitch at a baseball game
27. See a major college football bowl game
28. Go to the College World Series
29. Coach a baseball team in a foreign country for a game
30. Spend a week on a beach somewhere with no internet/TV/phone
31. Ride a motorcycle across the countryside of a foreign country
32. Visit Normandy
33. Visit a concentration camp
34. See the Northern Lights
35. Go to MLB spring training
36. Study Spanish in Central or South America
37. Take guitar lessons and be able to play at least 1 song
38. Visit Niagara Falls
39. Ice Skate at Rockefeller Center at Christmas time
40. See a basketball game in Madison Square Garden
So there it is. My 40 things I want to do before I turn 40. The clock is ticking so I better get cracking. If you have something similar, let me know. I would be interested in see what is on your to-do list.
In other news I have been tagged by Candice for the Tripbase Blog 3 best kept travel secrets. I will be posting my 3 secrets soon and will in turn tag a few other blogs. So look for that very soon.
Till next time,
E
Saturday, December 5, 2009
A Korean Wedding
So last night I had the opportunity to attend a Korean wedding. After talking to someone from work about what Korean weddings were like, I was very excited to be going. I mean what are the chances I have the chance to attend a Korean wedding again? So yesterday morning I set out downtown to do a little tie shopping. I don't know if I left my ties on accident or if they mysteriously disappeared during a bag inspection on my trip out here. I had gone to the department store nearest my apartment on Friday only to find the ties there ran around $80 US. I wasn't about to fork out that much money for a tie, so I headed downtown to search. I quickly found one to my liking for just a bit over $30 US, which was much easier to swallow. Now with tie in hand I was ready to go.
Now before I tell you about the wedding I attended, let me explain why I was so excited to be going. First of all, its a Korean wedding. Need I say more? Yes, okay I will. Earlier this week I was speaking to 2 of my co-workers who attended a wedding last year and to my surprise it sounded like a lot of fun. First of all, it sounded like a very nice ceremony. The bride and groom entered walking on an elevated walkway made of glass with flowers underneath. Now that sounds like an entrance! But what really caught my attention was what they said next. As the groom walked down the isle the theme from Star Wars played. Yes, you read that right, Star Wars. You know the greatest movie ever made, at least to my generation. I was so surprised I almost did not hear them talking about the strobe lights, smoke machines, and bubble machines that were also present. Now if that doesn't sound like a shindig worth attending, I don't know what does.
Okay so back to the wedding I went to. The reason I was invited, and I say "invited" loosely, was the bride was not only one of the school owner's daughters, but she worked in the middle school department of our branch previously and knew some of the teachers. In the end it was more of a requirement to go than an invitation. It started out as an invitation that myself and a few others jumped at. Then by about 10 to 10pm on Friday night (we get off at 10), it had gone from a its not required but we would like you to go, to a you must go scenario. I didn't mind as I was already planning on going.
So Saturday night we all met at work to take a taxi down to the Hotel Inter-Burgo, which is the only 5 Star hotel in Daegu. We arrived a little late and the ceremony was already going, which seemed to be okay. It was held in a large room in the hotel. I am guessing there were about 50-75 tables, maybe more, spread out in the large room filled with people. It was the largest wedding I had been to. Outside were even more people milling around during the ceremony, which seems to be normal here. We watched from the doorway and couldn't see much of the stage it was on, but never fear there were 4 large screens (see pic below) showing the proceedings on stage around the room.
It was a very elegant ceremony, but I am not sure if it was religious or not. The bride wore a Western style wedding dress, and the groom a tux. They were on an elevated stage that had a long isle running up to it lined with nice flower arrangements. It truly was a beautiful ceremony, even if I didn't understand a word they said. There was no Star Wars theme or anything like it. This wedding was a showcase, and they wanted everything to be top of the line which it was. Toward the end of the ceremony they did have smoke machines that started on stage and was actually quite nice. Then as the happy couple was walking down the isle as husband and wife, the bubble machines started in the ceiling.
There area lot of differences from what we are used to back home. There was no party afterwards. Everyone went to eat at the hotel buffet, which was amazing, but they also paid for it. Traditionally the guest pays for his/her own meal. They had tables set up where they collected money and gave the guest a meal voucher as they paid. The school paid for our meal, but I was told it is typically about 30,000 won or just under $30. Some other differences were that the bride and groom had already taken pictures together. Apparently long before the ceremony they go off somewhere and take their wedding photos, so there was a nice large portrait of the bride and groom as you entered the room. This means unlike back home the groom sees the bride in her dress before the ceremony. I think that almost robs the groom. That moment of seeing your future wife for the first time in her wedding dress as she is walking toward you might have been the best moment for me in my wedding. Again there was no reception afterwards. Everyone just ate and left, but all in all it was a very nice experience.
The buffet was amazing. They had everything there. It had sushi, sushi rolls, mandu (dumplings), salmon, crab legs, oysters, eel, octopus, all sorts of Korean and Chinese dishes, and so much more. It was an amazing spread. I filled up on all sorts of goodies and tried eel for the first time. They had snail as well but they must have run out before I could try it because when we went back looking for it, it was gone.
So all in all it was a great night. A very nice ceremony followed by good food and good company. You can't ask for much more.
A blurry pic of the walkway lined with flowers and candles.
The chandelier in the hotel.
The hotel Christmas tree.
An ice sculpture for the wedding.
You can see the bubbles coming down here.
More bubbles.
Now before I tell you about the wedding I attended, let me explain why I was so excited to be going. First of all, its a Korean wedding. Need I say more? Yes, okay I will. Earlier this week I was speaking to 2 of my co-workers who attended a wedding last year and to my surprise it sounded like a lot of fun. First of all, it sounded like a very nice ceremony. The bride and groom entered walking on an elevated walkway made of glass with flowers underneath. Now that sounds like an entrance! But what really caught my attention was what they said next. As the groom walked down the isle the theme from Star Wars played. Yes, you read that right, Star Wars. You know the greatest movie ever made, at least to my generation. I was so surprised I almost did not hear them talking about the strobe lights, smoke machines, and bubble machines that were also present. Now if that doesn't sound like a shindig worth attending, I don't know what does.
Okay so back to the wedding I went to. The reason I was invited, and I say "invited" loosely, was the bride was not only one of the school owner's daughters, but she worked in the middle school department of our branch previously and knew some of the teachers. In the end it was more of a requirement to go than an invitation. It started out as an invitation that myself and a few others jumped at. Then by about 10 to 10pm on Friday night (we get off at 10), it had gone from a its not required but we would like you to go, to a you must go scenario. I didn't mind as I was already planning on going.
So Saturday night we all met at work to take a taxi down to the Hotel Inter-Burgo, which is the only 5 Star hotel in Daegu. We arrived a little late and the ceremony was already going, which seemed to be okay. It was held in a large room in the hotel. I am guessing there were about 50-75 tables, maybe more, spread out in the large room filled with people. It was the largest wedding I had been to. Outside were even more people milling around during the ceremony, which seems to be normal here. We watched from the doorway and couldn't see much of the stage it was on, but never fear there were 4 large screens (see pic below) showing the proceedings on stage around the room.
It was a very elegant ceremony, but I am not sure if it was religious or not. The bride wore a Western style wedding dress, and the groom a tux. They were on an elevated stage that had a long isle running up to it lined with nice flower arrangements. It truly was a beautiful ceremony, even if I didn't understand a word they said. There was no Star Wars theme or anything like it. This wedding was a showcase, and they wanted everything to be top of the line which it was. Toward the end of the ceremony they did have smoke machines that started on stage and was actually quite nice. Then as the happy couple was walking down the isle as husband and wife, the bubble machines started in the ceiling.
There area lot of differences from what we are used to back home. There was no party afterwards. Everyone went to eat at the hotel buffet, which was amazing, but they also paid for it. Traditionally the guest pays for his/her own meal. They had tables set up where they collected money and gave the guest a meal voucher as they paid. The school paid for our meal, but I was told it is typically about 30,000 won or just under $30. Some other differences were that the bride and groom had already taken pictures together. Apparently long before the ceremony they go off somewhere and take their wedding photos, so there was a nice large portrait of the bride and groom as you entered the room. This means unlike back home the groom sees the bride in her dress before the ceremony. I think that almost robs the groom. That moment of seeing your future wife for the first time in her wedding dress as she is walking toward you might have been the best moment for me in my wedding. Again there was no reception afterwards. Everyone just ate and left, but all in all it was a very nice experience.
The buffet was amazing. They had everything there. It had sushi, sushi rolls, mandu (dumplings), salmon, crab legs, oysters, eel, octopus, all sorts of Korean and Chinese dishes, and so much more. It was an amazing spread. I filled up on all sorts of goodies and tried eel for the first time. They had snail as well but they must have run out before I could try it because when we went back looking for it, it was gone.
So all in all it was a great night. A very nice ceremony followed by good food and good company. You can't ask for much more.
A blurry pic of the walkway lined with flowers and candles.
The chandelier in the hotel.
The hotel Christmas tree.
An ice sculpture for the wedding.
You can see the bubbles coming down here.
More bubbles.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Tag You're It
So I was tagged by Candice to be part of the Tripbase Blog Tag. The basis is for each person tagged to give up 3 Travel Secrets and ask 5 others to do the same. Then all of the travel secrets get compiled into a nice list. So let's begin!
1. Take time to people watch. I have the luxury to live in a foreign country, so I get to see how people live on a daily basis. However, for my first few weeks here I did not notice many things because I did not take the time to just look around. I found if just take some time to look around you can learn a lot. So my tip is to take a few minutes, grab a coffee, tea, or your beverage of choice, and find a place to sit and relax to just people watch. I have found a corner Starbucks at a busy intersection where I can watch people not only walk down the street but I can also see them crossing the street. I think you can learn a lot by simply watching how people cross the street. Do they wait for the light to go? Do they run or walk slowly? Do they drag their children behind them? Do they bump into each other, or do they show some courtesy? This does not even take into account how they drive where you are. So take some time, chill out, relax, and learn a little. Too many people over look the simple things while traveling, and through simple things much can be learned.
2. If you find yourself in Korea on a cold day, go have a bowl of Gamjatang. This traditional spine soup is a great winter time meal. It is made with pork spine, vegetables, onions, peppers, and other tasty treats. Not only is it a good meal but it will warm you up on a cold day. Now spine soup may not sound that great, but believe me it is very good. Plus, most likely, you will get the chance to experience eating in a traditional Korean restaurant by sitting on the floor. Just don't forget to take your shoes off at the door. So kick off your shoes, sit back, relax, and enjoy a great traditional Korean meal.
3. Eat the bugs. When you find the chance, don't hesitate to eat the strange things offered in a new country. You normally won't be able to find items like scorpions, silkworm, ants, crickets, or whatever the local fare might be. They are not trying to make you sick. So step up and try something new. It will be something you remember forever, but don't just stick to the "bugs". There are many other items to eat that you don't easily find at home. Things like eel, octopus, squid, dog (okay I can see a few having issues with this and that is fine), and other items that might be popular overseas and not so much at home. You may never be able to get the "full" experience by traveling, but by trying new foods it will surely add to it.
So there is my list. Be sure to check out the Tripbase Blog where all the tips from the blog tag will eventually make it to.
Tagging these bloggers:
1. Erika of Is Kimchi For Me?
2. Kirsty of Nerdy Nomad
3. Emily of A Wanderlust World
4. Cali of Lady Livingston's Adventure Notes
5. Danielle of My Rose Colored View of This World
Cheers!
1. Take time to people watch. I have the luxury to live in a foreign country, so I get to see how people live on a daily basis. However, for my first few weeks here I did not notice many things because I did not take the time to just look around. I found if just take some time to look around you can learn a lot. So my tip is to take a few minutes, grab a coffee, tea, or your beverage of choice, and find a place to sit and relax to just people watch. I have found a corner Starbucks at a busy intersection where I can watch people not only walk down the street but I can also see them crossing the street. I think you can learn a lot by simply watching how people cross the street. Do they wait for the light to go? Do they run or walk slowly? Do they drag their children behind them? Do they bump into each other, or do they show some courtesy? This does not even take into account how they drive where you are. So take some time, chill out, relax, and learn a little. Too many people over look the simple things while traveling, and through simple things much can be learned.
2. If you find yourself in Korea on a cold day, go have a bowl of Gamjatang. This traditional spine soup is a great winter time meal. It is made with pork spine, vegetables, onions, peppers, and other tasty treats. Not only is it a good meal but it will warm you up on a cold day. Now spine soup may not sound that great, but believe me it is very good. Plus, most likely, you will get the chance to experience eating in a traditional Korean restaurant by sitting on the floor. Just don't forget to take your shoes off at the door. So kick off your shoes, sit back, relax, and enjoy a great traditional Korean meal.
3. Eat the bugs. When you find the chance, don't hesitate to eat the strange things offered in a new country. You normally won't be able to find items like scorpions, silkworm, ants, crickets, or whatever the local fare might be. They are not trying to make you sick. So step up and try something new. It will be something you remember forever, but don't just stick to the "bugs". There are many other items to eat that you don't easily find at home. Things like eel, octopus, squid, dog (okay I can see a few having issues with this and that is fine), and other items that might be popular overseas and not so much at home. You may never be able to get the "full" experience by traveling, but by trying new foods it will surely add to it.
So there is my list. Be sure to check out the Tripbase Blog where all the tips from the blog tag will eventually make it to.
Tagging these bloggers:
1. Erika of Is Kimchi For Me?
2. Kirsty of Nerdy Nomad
3. Emily of A Wanderlust World
4. Cali of Lady Livingston's Adventure Notes
5. Danielle of My Rose Colored View of This World
Cheers!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
People Watching
I have been in South Korea for just over 4 weeks now and I still do not have internet in my apartment. It should be hooked up today, but I won't hold my breath. It really hasn't been that bad though. I actually enjoy getting out of the house to go to Starbucks. They have a 2 floor store and the bottom floor is small and usually not busy. The best part of where I am is that it sits on the corner of a busy intersection so I get to do a lot of people watching which is always entertaining. Two days ago I was sitting here reading my blogs and surfing the net when a young boy came in with his mother. To get upstairs to purchase something from Starbucks, everyone must walk up the stairs next to the tables I sit at. I turned around a short while after they both entered and notice the young boy on the bottom step just staring at me. I am getting used to the stares, but I still find it amusing. About an hour or so later as I was packing up I turned around to find the young boy back staring again. I think sometimes the stares come from amazement of the strange foreigners, but sometimes I get another feeling. The older crowd here will many times stare at you as you pass them on the street. And they follow you with their eyes, in what seems like anger but probably isn't, long after you have passed them. I think some want to speak to the foreigner but are afraid of saying something wrong or getting shot down by the foreigner. Saving face here in SK is a big deal. They do not want to get shown up and made to look like a fool so they look for ways to save face. That's just one more of the culture differences I have run into.
I am finally starting to get over my head cold so I hope to venture out this weekend to the downtown market. I hear there are some interesting things to see and purchase so I am really looking forward to that. I don't know when I'll get the chance as I might have to work a few hours on Saturday afternoon.
In other news one of my favorite online authors, who recently became an associate editor over at Matador, has a new blog. Candice from That's Tangly, who has a writing style of reckless abandon which makes for interesting reading, released her new blog of Candice Does the World to document the planning of her future RTW trip. So check it out and enjoy some good travel writing. I also gotta say thanks to Candice for the link to my blog on her new site. Also, if you are not familiar with it, check out Matador, one of the premier travel sites on the web.
Till next time,
E
P.S. I also wanted to add that I added to my list a few of my co-worker's blogs. So if you are interested in learning about life in SK for foreigners, these will give you a few other perspectives. Is Kimchi For Me? and Lady Livingston's Adventure Notes. Also check out Emily's blog A Wanderlust World (a fellow Texan) about teaching in SK
My view of the intersection from Starbucks.
The other side of the corner view from Starbucks. To the left are the stairs to go up to the main section of Starbucks. This is in the corner of the Dong-A Department Store building and those are coats and clothes they are selling just outside.
View of the Starbucks I frequent from across the street.
I am finally starting to get over my head cold so I hope to venture out this weekend to the downtown market. I hear there are some interesting things to see and purchase so I am really looking forward to that. I don't know when I'll get the chance as I might have to work a few hours on Saturday afternoon.
In other news one of my favorite online authors, who recently became an associate editor over at Matador, has a new blog. Candice from That's Tangly, who has a writing style of reckless abandon which makes for interesting reading, released her new blog of Candice Does the World to document the planning of her future RTW trip. So check it out and enjoy some good travel writing. I also gotta say thanks to Candice for the link to my blog on her new site. Also, if you are not familiar with it, check out Matador, one of the premier travel sites on the web.
Till next time,
E
P.S. I also wanted to add that I added to my list a few of my co-worker's blogs. So if you are interested in learning about life in SK for foreigners, these will give you a few other perspectives. Is Kimchi For Me? and Lady Livingston's Adventure Notes. Also check out Emily's blog A Wanderlust World (a fellow Texan) about teaching in SK
My view of the intersection from Starbucks.
The other side of the corner view from Starbucks. To the left are the stairs to go up to the main section of Starbucks. This is in the corner of the Dong-A Department Store building and those are coats and clothes they are selling just outside.
View of the Starbucks I frequent from across the street.Monday, November 30, 2009
Interesting Question Posed
So I had an interesting questioned posed to me on a forum I visit. I was asked how do I enjoy living in such a different culture? To me that was part of the draw of coming here to South Korea. There was more than 1 reason why I came, and you hear different ones from others when you first arrive. That seems to be one of the initial questions when you arrive. They range from couldn't find a job, to wanted to travel, to wanted to save money, to wanted to experience a different culture, and I think most people here are here because a combination of those reasons including me.
So let me get back to the initial question of how do I enjoy living in such a different culture? It's actually quite simple. If you are one who is afraid of change or scared of new ideas, don't come. I think I used to be this way when I was younger. Now I am very much open to new ways of thought. I find it very interesting how Koreans live their lives and go about their business. It's the little things that I find most fascinating. Take for example, last week I decided to grow a goatee. I do this from time to time back home mostly out of boredom. I was aware that most Korean men do not grow hair like they can back home, but I was unaware that growing facial hair here was seen as an insult to the Korean men. I was politely asked to shave by my head teacher, which I did. Had I known this I would have shaved to begin with. It's these little things that just fascinate me. This is just one example of many I have seen or heard about here. Learning these little details is part of the draw to being here. You learn some of the little things along the way which makes each day more interesting.
So yesterday was payday, and last night when I went to the ATM I found it interesting to find I had over 1 million in my account. Sure it is not American dollars but its still over a million in cash in my account. It is the little things like that that just make me smile and laugh a little.
That is all for now. I am working on a few things for some new posts that hopefully I'll have soon.
E
So let me get back to the initial question of how do I enjoy living in such a different culture? It's actually quite simple. If you are one who is afraid of change or scared of new ideas, don't come. I think I used to be this way when I was younger. Now I am very much open to new ways of thought. I find it very interesting how Koreans live their lives and go about their business. It's the little things that I find most fascinating. Take for example, last week I decided to grow a goatee. I do this from time to time back home mostly out of boredom. I was aware that most Korean men do not grow hair like they can back home, but I was unaware that growing facial hair here was seen as an insult to the Korean men. I was politely asked to shave by my head teacher, which I did. Had I known this I would have shaved to begin with. It's these little things that just fascinate me. This is just one example of many I have seen or heard about here. Learning these little details is part of the draw to being here. You learn some of the little things along the way which makes each day more interesting.
So yesterday was payday, and last night when I went to the ATM I found it interesting to find I had over 1 million in my account. Sure it is not American dollars but its still over a million in cash in my account. It is the little things like that that just make me smile and laugh a little.
That is all for now. I am working on a few things for some new posts that hopefully I'll have soon.
E
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Korean Christmas Decorations at Local Department Store
Not much happened today (Sunday) since it is raining out. I have basically spent the day at either KFC or Starbucks hijacking a better internet signal. Right now I am at Lotteria (like a McDonalds) sitting eating some spicy chicken strips and surfing the web. I took a tour of Dong-A, the big department store by my apartment, to look at the new Christmas decorations that have gone up. They are very different than anything you see back home. No reindeer or santas around in Dong-A (although you can see them around town in some places), but instead they have weird sheep and monkey looking little characters. Of course the coup de grace is the large Unicorn. I posted a few pictures below. All the pictures I took are on flickr.
Korean Christmas Decorastions. A sheep and what I think is a monkey.
The Christmas Unicorn.
Korean Christmas Decorastions. A sheep and what I think is a monkey.
The Christmas Unicorn.Hopefully this week I will get over this head cold I have had. Monday is payday (wahooo) and I am going to join the gym this week. I met a few guys here that play baseball, and I would really like to get back into shape so I could go out and toss the ball around a bit when it warms up. Other than that I really need to find a few things to fill my days here. Any suggestions?
Have a great week.
E
I loved this sign in the food section of Dong-A. "Fish & Shellfishe" - It does smell a little "fishe" in there.
Have a great week.
E
I loved this sign in the food section of Dong-A. "Fish & Shellfishe" - It does smell a little "fishe" in there. Thanksgiving Abroad
So Thursday was Thanksgiving in America. The American teachers at my school tried to get by on having a few things that reminded us of home. A gracious teacher from upstairs in our middle school department made deviled eggs and brought them down. They were delicious. I tried for a few days to find a pie, but had little luck. I really wanted pecan, my favorite, but realized I had not seen a single pecan anywhere. With that hope dashed, I set my sites on a pumpkin pie. As it turns out pie is not a big deal here, making my quest that much harder. A few of us set out for Emart early on Thursday in hopes of finding one there, but to no avail. After searching my neighborhood thoroughly, I had to settle for a walnut pie. It wasn't pecan (or peekin as the Brits here pronounce it) but it was good none-the-less. The pie and the eggs helped a little in our efforts to remind ourselves of home and the big meals our families would soon partake in. I love Thanksgiving time at home. It is always a good day. Time for family, food, and football.
After work the American teachers plus one Brit went for dinner at a Korean BBQ place near work. Good food and good company always make for a great time. It wasn't quite home, but here half way around the world it would do. I have missed Thanksgivings before at home, but I have never missed a Christmas and I think if I am going to be homesick it will be then. We have plans already for a Western style meal somewhere that day, which will help a little, but not being with family will be hard on that day.
In other news, I am really enjoying my job so far. I started teaching on Tuesday and even though it has been less than a week, I really am enjoying it. The kids are great for the most part, and everyone at work is very helpful. I am really looking forward to a good year.
I have come down with something of late. A bug of sorts has been going around work, but I refuse to let it get me down. Tonight we are going out for a send off party for the teacher I am taking over for. It should be a good time and I am looking forward to getting out of the apartment for awhile. Nyquil has been my friend of late. Without it I am not sure I would have slept as good as I have the last few nights. Nothing else exciting has happened of late. I wanted to go hiking this weekend but do to my headcold I will postpone that for a week or so. I did find it interesting today when I went for a haircut. I walked in to the shop I was told about and tried to tell him I just wanted my neck shaved since my hair was still pretty short. But with Edward Scissorhands like speed, he was off to the races cutting away. It had to be the most thorough hair cut I have ever had. He cut then shampooed, then cut somemore. I felt like a sculpture. He would look closely at a section from a step away, then he was back cutting. He did an excellent job, and for only 8,000 won it was a great deal. To get them to cut and shampoo my hair like that back home is going to cost me $25 at the very least.
Well that is all for now.
E
P.S. It was a good football weekend. The Cowboys won and UT and Bama are both undefeated!
After work the American teachers plus one Brit went for dinner at a Korean BBQ place near work. Good food and good company always make for a great time. It wasn't quite home, but here half way around the world it would do. I have missed Thanksgivings before at home, but I have never missed a Christmas and I think if I am going to be homesick it will be then. We have plans already for a Western style meal somewhere that day, which will help a little, but not being with family will be hard on that day.
In other news, I am really enjoying my job so far. I started teaching on Tuesday and even though it has been less than a week, I really am enjoying it. The kids are great for the most part, and everyone at work is very helpful. I am really looking forward to a good year.
I have come down with something of late. A bug of sorts has been going around work, but I refuse to let it get me down. Tonight we are going out for a send off party for the teacher I am taking over for. It should be a good time and I am looking forward to getting out of the apartment for awhile. Nyquil has been my friend of late. Without it I am not sure I would have slept as good as I have the last few nights. Nothing else exciting has happened of late. I wanted to go hiking this weekend but do to my headcold I will postpone that for a week or so. I did find it interesting today when I went for a haircut. I walked in to the shop I was told about and tried to tell him I just wanted my neck shaved since my hair was still pretty short. But with Edward Scissorhands like speed, he was off to the races cutting away. It had to be the most thorough hair cut I have ever had. He cut then shampooed, then cut somemore. I felt like a sculpture. He would look closely at a section from a step away, then he was back cutting. He did an excellent job, and for only 8,000 won it was a great deal. To get them to cut and shampoo my hair like that back home is going to cost me $25 at the very least.
Well that is all for now.
E
P.S. It was a good football weekend. The Cowboys won and UT and Bama are both undefeated!
Monday, November 23, 2009
"Barocky Road"
This was such a funny email that I am posting it everywhere I can.
In honor of the 44th President of the United States, Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream has introduced a new flavor: "Barocky Road." Barocky Road is a blend of half Vanilla, half Chocolate, and surrounded by Nuts and Flakes. The Vanilla portion of the mix is not openly advertised and usually denied as an ingredient. The Nuts and Flakes are all very bitter and hard to swallow. The cost is $100.00 per scoop. When purchased, it will be presented to you in a large beautiful cone, but then the Ice Cream is taken away and given to the person who can't afford it in line behind you. Thus you are left with an empty wallet, no change, holding an empty cone, with no hope of getting any Ice Cream...The socialistic dream come true.
In honor of the 44th President of the United States, Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream has introduced a new flavor: "Barocky Road." Barocky Road is a blend of half Vanilla, half Chocolate, and surrounded by Nuts and Flakes. The Vanilla portion of the mix is not openly advertised and usually denied as an ingredient. The Nuts and Flakes are all very bitter and hard to swallow. The cost is $100.00 per scoop. When purchased, it will be presented to you in a large beautiful cone, but then the Ice Cream is taken away and given to the person who can't afford it in line behind you. Thus you are left with an empty wallet, no change, holding an empty cone, with no hope of getting any Ice Cream...The socialistic dream come true.
Are you feeling stimulated yet?
Poem
I don't know why I thought of this last night at work, but I did. It's an old poem that I remember from elementary school. I know it has several variations but this is the one I remember.
One bright day in the middle of the night,
Two dead men got up to fight.
Back to back they faced each other,
Drew their swords and shot each other.
A deaf policeman heard the noise,
And came to save those two dead boys.
If you don't believe this lie is true,
Ask the blind man, he saw it too.
I guess it just means you can't believe everything you read.
In other news, I am off to get a cell phone today. Rich from work gave me the card of a guy down near Camp Walker that should give me a deal, and he speaks English which is a huge plus. That's really all I have planned for today. I have already been up and out to the market to restock the shelves at home. If I get back in time from getting a cell phone, I need to go down and see about joining the gym.
E
One bright day in the middle of the night,
Two dead men got up to fight.
Back to back they faced each other,
Drew their swords and shot each other.
A deaf policeman heard the noise,
And came to save those two dead boys.
If you don't believe this lie is true,
Ask the blind man, he saw it too.
I guess it just means you can't believe everything you read.
In other news, I am off to get a cell phone today. Rich from work gave me the card of a guy down near Camp Walker that should give me a deal, and he speaks English which is a huge plus. That's really all I have planned for today. I have already been up and out to the market to restock the shelves at home. If I get back in time from getting a cell phone, I need to go down and see about joining the gym.
E
Sunday, November 22, 2009
A Good Weekend
This was a good weekend but it sure went by quickly. Friday night a few of the guys from work went out for barbeque, which is just fantastic here. Saturday was a busy day. Another one of the teachers and I went downtown to wonder around and do some shopping. We hopped on the bus and took off. The bus to downtown is pretty cheap (1500 won I think it was one way) but it took us a good 20-25 mins to get there. It's worth it though in the beginning. It allows me to get to see some of the city as we head downtown. Once we got downtown we started wondering around. There are a lot of shops and its seems we walked by them all. We checked out a huge department store downtown and wound up finding a really nice little coffee shop on the top floor. We stopped for a drink before heading out to do some more shopping. We found a bookstore with a few shelves of books in English and both picked one up. I got 1984 by George Orwell, and cant' wait to start it right after I finish the one I am reading now, The Street Lawyer by John Grisham. We walked all over downtown, and at one point got off the beaten path so to speak. We found a few side streets where the "locals" would shop which turned out to be quite interesting. They had everything from Army surplus stores to electronics and little cafes. I was on the look out for funny signs, well funny to me anyway. Some of the store names are very basic and are humorous to the English speakers. Check out my flickr page for the group titled Downtown Daegu for the pics of the signs I saw. We both wound up picking up a few gifts to send home and called it a day after about 5 hours downtown.
I don't know the going rate, but smiles are on sale!
I don't know the going rate, but smiles are on sale!After a long day of walking and shopping, I came back home, grabbed a little gin mandu, and rested for an hour or so before heading out again. Rich, one of the other teachers on my floor was having a poker night at his place. So I headed over there to meet up with a bunch of the Foreign teachers. I met several teachers from the other Avalon branch who were from Scotland and Canada. Several of the guys played a game of poker while me and some other broke out the Scrabble. This has to be my worst board game of all time, and of course I would wind up last in both games. Neither game was much of a contest as the resident Scrabble pro from California Erika wiped the floor with us. It was a lot of fun though as we hung out and chatted into the early morning hours. It was a long day but a good one so I headed home to crash.
Sunday has been a little more laid back. I went downtown to Gorilla Burger for lunch after hearing how good it was. It was good for Korean beef but did not compare to what I was used to at home.
After heading back home from downtown, I decided to head up to the 15th floor of my building to take some photos of the neighborhood. I got some good ones too. I tried getting up on the roof so I could get the whole area and the sunset, but all the doors leading up there were locked, so I was relegated to taking photos from the 15th floor.
All in all it was a good weekend. I want to go hiking next weekend as I think the weather is going to warm up a bit. I also start teaching this week, so that should be fun. I know I'll have to fumble through my first few days but I am looking forward to it. Anyway that is all for now.
'Till next time,
E
Sunday has been a little more laid back. I went downtown to Gorilla Burger for lunch after hearing how good it was. It was good for Korean beef but did not compare to what I was used to at home.
After heading back home from downtown, I decided to head up to the 15th floor of my building to take some photos of the neighborhood. I got some good ones too. I tried getting up on the roof so I could get the whole area and the sunset, but all the doors leading up there were locked, so I was relegated to taking photos from the 15th floor.
All in all it was a good weekend. I want to go hiking next weekend as I think the weather is going to warm up a bit. I also start teaching this week, so that should be fun. I know I'll have to fumble through my first few days but I am looking forward to it. Anyway that is all for now.'Till next time,
E
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Officially an Alien Now
I have been here for just over 2 weeks now. I am starting to adjust to things, and so far I am really enjoying it here. Next week I start to teach classes, and I am excited about that. I am still observing at work for the next two days, but I did have the chance to do a demo on Weds night. The demo didn't go as good as I had hoped, but I was rather nervous and I rushed things. I am very confident that I can do it, and that I will enjoy it. I got a lot of good feedback from the other teachers who I did the demo for which was good. I don't get nervous in front of the kids but I was in front of the other teachers. I was so nervous I even forgot Phil's name when I went to call on him in the demo. I have some good people helping and teaching me how things work, so I am confident I will get substantially better quickly.
In other news, I am officially an alien now. I got my Alien Registration Card yesterday. Now I can work on getting things set up like a bank account, cell phone, and internet in my apartment. It's just one more step of getting settled here.
The weather has been very cold of late. The daytime highs range from around 40 to the high 40's. This weekend should be nice with a high close to 50. Leaving work at 10pm it's very cold out. I am enjoying though. I miss having seasons and I like the cold as long as its dry. When it is cold and wet it gets miserable. Hopefully it will nice a sunny this weekend. I think it will be a nice time for a hike somewhere. Daegu seems to be a good place for hiking with the hills around.
I am still getting the chance to eat some really good food. The other day we went for lunch at a place that just opened up. I had a seafood stirfry and it was great. The only thing about it was the random baby octopus in it along with the assorted octopus tentacle. I did not try the baby octopus, although I plan to try it one day. I started with the tentacles and found it was similar to a chewy shrimp. Perhaps next time I'll take the plunge and try the baby octopus.
That's all for now. I am going to try and take a hike this weekend, and perhaps make a trip downtown. I'll be sure to take my camera along and show off my new home for the next year.
Till then,
E
In other news, I am officially an alien now. I got my Alien Registration Card yesterday. Now I can work on getting things set up like a bank account, cell phone, and internet in my apartment. It's just one more step of getting settled here.
The weather has been very cold of late. The daytime highs range from around 40 to the high 40's. This weekend should be nice with a high close to 50. Leaving work at 10pm it's very cold out. I am enjoying though. I miss having seasons and I like the cold as long as its dry. When it is cold and wet it gets miserable. Hopefully it will nice a sunny this weekend. I think it will be a nice time for a hike somewhere. Daegu seems to be a good place for hiking with the hills around.
I am still getting the chance to eat some really good food. The other day we went for lunch at a place that just opened up. I had a seafood stirfry and it was great. The only thing about it was the random baby octopus in it along with the assorted octopus tentacle. I did not try the baby octopus, although I plan to try it one day. I started with the tentacles and found it was similar to a chewy shrimp. Perhaps next time I'll take the plunge and try the baby octopus.
That's all for now. I am going to try and take a hike this weekend, and perhaps make a trip downtown. I'll be sure to take my camera along and show off my new home for the next year.
Till then,
E
Friday, November 13, 2009
An Uncle Again and Finally Start Work
So first of all is the big news of my niece being born on Wednesday. Abigail Elizabeth Bynum is the new addition to the family and I couldn't be more happier for my brother and his wife. I only wish I could have been there with everyone.
Well I started work this week. Wednesday was my first day and so far I am only observing and will be for another week before I start teaching. I think I am going to really enjoy working there. Everyone has been great so far, and the kids are a trip. I am still adjusting to the hours since I am still getting up way too early but hopefully that will change and I can get adjusted. It was nice to finally get to speak to some fellow English speakers after being here a week by myself. They also have introduced me to some really good food. Work usually starts off with lunch around 2:30 (I start work at 2pm) and the past 2 days they have taken me to some really good places. Thursday we went for Japanese food. I am still not sure what I was eating but it was really good. I know it had crab meat in it, along with rice and other goodies. It was good and spicey and very filling. It will definatley be a place to return to. That night after work many of us went for Korean BBQ. This was a treat. We ordered (I say we but really it was the other guys who did the ordering) some pork and beef and it was grilled on the table in front of us. Built into the table is a little grill where they bring hot coals and cook it in the middle of the table. The meat was fantastic but maybe even better was everything else that went with it. There was some red bean paste (very spicey and very good), along with some spicey kimchi, which seems to be a staple with every meal. Throw in some rice, bean sprouts, and other items that I am not sure what they were (but delicious none-the-less) and it was a huge meal. The best thing about it all is it's not that expensive. The Japanese place set me back about 5500 won which is $5 back home. There is no way you could get the quality of food back home for $5, not to mention the service.
Friday brought a new day and since it was raining most of us stayed in the building and went down stairs for some pasta. This is where I had the spiciest dish I have ever seen in my life (Al you would have loved it). It tasted great, but it was so hot I could not finish my dish. In fact, I ate very little of it. I figured if I eat the whole plate I will either pay for it later or just be sick all night long. So I opted to eat as much as I could without making myself miserable. A few of the ladies with me had a bite to try it and they could not believe how hot it was. Since I did not eat my entire meal, I was hungry later. So I decided to go with one of the girls from work on a little snack run. I had seen her eat this stuff before. It is like a little dumpling type thing. I still don't know what is in it but it was really good. I do not recall what it was called but if I remember right it was steamed and had some sort of meat (pork perhaps) in it with I believe some onion or something. It was really good and you got quite a few of them for only 2000 won which is really cheap. So in the past few days I have had some really good food, finally.
So that is really the update for the past few days. I don't really have any plans for the weekend. I want to go to a basketball game and thought they played at home tomorrow but it looks like I read the schedule wrong. So instead I might try and head downtown to see if I can catch some college football or something.
Till next time.
E
Well I started work this week. Wednesday was my first day and so far I am only observing and will be for another week before I start teaching. I think I am going to really enjoy working there. Everyone has been great so far, and the kids are a trip. I am still adjusting to the hours since I am still getting up way too early but hopefully that will change and I can get adjusted. It was nice to finally get to speak to some fellow English speakers after being here a week by myself. They also have introduced me to some really good food. Work usually starts off with lunch around 2:30 (I start work at 2pm) and the past 2 days they have taken me to some really good places. Thursday we went for Japanese food. I am still not sure what I was eating but it was really good. I know it had crab meat in it, along with rice and other goodies. It was good and spicey and very filling. It will definatley be a place to return to. That night after work many of us went for Korean BBQ. This was a treat. We ordered (I say we but really it was the other guys who did the ordering) some pork and beef and it was grilled on the table in front of us. Built into the table is a little grill where they bring hot coals and cook it in the middle of the table. The meat was fantastic but maybe even better was everything else that went with it. There was some red bean paste (very spicey and very good), along with some spicey kimchi, which seems to be a staple with every meal. Throw in some rice, bean sprouts, and other items that I am not sure what they were (but delicious none-the-less) and it was a huge meal. The best thing about it all is it's not that expensive. The Japanese place set me back about 5500 won which is $5 back home. There is no way you could get the quality of food back home for $5, not to mention the service.
Friday brought a new day and since it was raining most of us stayed in the building and went down stairs for some pasta. This is where I had the spiciest dish I have ever seen in my life (Al you would have loved it). It tasted great, but it was so hot I could not finish my dish. In fact, I ate very little of it. I figured if I eat the whole plate I will either pay for it later or just be sick all night long. So I opted to eat as much as I could without making myself miserable. A few of the ladies with me had a bite to try it and they could not believe how hot it was. Since I did not eat my entire meal, I was hungry later. So I decided to go with one of the girls from work on a little snack run. I had seen her eat this stuff before. It is like a little dumpling type thing. I still don't know what is in it but it was really good. I do not recall what it was called but if I remember right it was steamed and had some sort of meat (pork perhaps) in it with I believe some onion or something. It was really good and you got quite a few of them for only 2000 won which is really cheap. So in the past few days I have had some really good food, finally.
So that is really the update for the past few days. I don't really have any plans for the weekend. I want to go to a basketball game and thought they played at home tomorrow but it looks like I read the schedule wrong. So instead I might try and head downtown to see if I can catch some college football or something.
Till next time.
E
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Trip Downtown and Health Check
I have been lazy the past few days and not updated anything. It gets to be a pain to walk down to the internet cafe to do email, blog, etc.. Hopefully by the end of the week I'll have internet in my apartment which will make things easier.
So Sunday I decided I would go downtown to check it out. I set out looking for a restaurant that NET (I have learned this means Native English Teachers) hang out at. It's called the Holy Grill and many claim they have good Tex/Mex, even if it is run by Canucks. I didn't get to judge the food because I never found it. I made it downtown okay and was wondering around looking at all the shops and whatnot when it started to rain. After it started coming down a little too hard to walk in with no umbrella, I ducked into McDonalds for some lunch. I was curious how similar it was to what you get in the US, and found out it was very similar. I got a Big Mac and noticed no difference than that from the US. As I sat eating my lunch two guys sit down next to me and start talking to me. They are Korean and one knows a little English. He asks me the normal questions of where are you from, how long have you been here, etc... I can barely eat my lunch he is so inquizitive. After a short time it gets a little annoying and I move to make my escape.
The downtown area I went to was very nice. There were many shops of brands I reconize from the US as well as places like the golden arches, Burger King, and Bennigans. I didn't get time to look at too many of the shops with the rain but over all it was a good day.
Monday came and I awaited to see if I would do my medical check up that day. They told me Monday or Tuesday so I was unsure. Sure enough they come knocking on my door Monday to take me. I was taken to two seperate places. At one I did a blood and urine test. They check for things like AIDS and whatnot. At the other place they did a swab of my throat looking for the flu virus. They are very cautious of the swine flu here. Walking a few blocks you will see many people wearing the surgical masks out of fear of catching the flu. They seem to have done a good job controlling it however, but it is almost to panic levels it seems.
So I passed the health check and today is the end of my week long quarantine. I finally get to start work tonight which is exciting. I have only met 1 person I will be working with and that was very briefly on the street the other day. I still have not met any of the other foreign teachers, but that will come once I start work.
Well that is all for now. Till next time,
E
So Sunday I decided I would go downtown to check it out. I set out looking for a restaurant that NET (I have learned this means Native English Teachers) hang out at. It's called the Holy Grill and many claim they have good Tex/Mex, even if it is run by Canucks. I didn't get to judge the food because I never found it. I made it downtown okay and was wondering around looking at all the shops and whatnot when it started to rain. After it started coming down a little too hard to walk in with no umbrella, I ducked into McDonalds for some lunch. I was curious how similar it was to what you get in the US, and found out it was very similar. I got a Big Mac and noticed no difference than that from the US. As I sat eating my lunch two guys sit down next to me and start talking to me. They are Korean and one knows a little English. He asks me the normal questions of where are you from, how long have you been here, etc... I can barely eat my lunch he is so inquizitive. After a short time it gets a little annoying and I move to make my escape.
The downtown area I went to was very nice. There were many shops of brands I reconize from the US as well as places like the golden arches, Burger King, and Bennigans. I didn't get time to look at too many of the shops with the rain but over all it was a good day.
Monday came and I awaited to see if I would do my medical check up that day. They told me Monday or Tuesday so I was unsure. Sure enough they come knocking on my door Monday to take me. I was taken to two seperate places. At one I did a blood and urine test. They check for things like AIDS and whatnot. At the other place they did a swab of my throat looking for the flu virus. They are very cautious of the swine flu here. Walking a few blocks you will see many people wearing the surgical masks out of fear of catching the flu. They seem to have done a good job controlling it however, but it is almost to panic levels it seems.
So I passed the health check and today is the end of my week long quarantine. I finally get to start work tonight which is exciting. I have only met 1 person I will be working with and that was very briefly on the street the other day. I still have not met any of the other foreign teachers, but that will come once I start work.
Well that is all for now. Till next time,
E
Friday, November 6, 2009
New Photos of Neighborhood
I am still pretty tired from the previous 2 days, so this will be short and sweet today. Really all I have to update anyone on are some pics from my neighborhood. Check out the link to Flickr to the right of this post and see more of where I live. Oh and I did have some Korean BBQ last night. It was basically chicken (you order a whole or half chicken) that was breaded, fried, and covered in a sauce. I got the spicey and it was good, but I found it a little difficult to eat a chicken leg with chopsticks.
That's all for now. Not sure what I'll do today (it's only noon). I'll leave you with another one of my favorites.
...and now Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey
One thing kids like is to be tricked. For instance, I was going to take my little nephew to DisneyLand, but instead I drove him to an old burned-out warehouse. "Oh, no," I said, "DisneyLand burned down." He cried and cried, but I think that deep down he thought it was a pretty good joke. I started to drive over to the real DisneyLand, but it was getting pretty late.
That's all for now. Not sure what I'll do today (it's only noon). I'll leave you with another one of my favorites.
...and now Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey
One thing kids like is to be tricked. For instance, I was going to take my little nephew to DisneyLand, but instead I drove him to an old burned-out warehouse. "Oh, no," I said, "DisneyLand burned down." He cried and cried, but I think that deep down he thought it was a pretty good joke. I started to drive over to the real DisneyLand, but it was getting pretty late.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Another Day - Another Adventure
I am still trying to get my sleep schedule where it needs to be. This jet lag is still kicking my butt. I decided early this morning, and when I say early I mean 4am-ish, that I would try and venture down to the Emart in town. This is like a Walmart. I need things like an iron, hangers, etc...
Let the adventure begin....
I took a long look at the bus/subway system and figured out how to get there since it is a long way from where I am. The subway itself is about 3.5km away (that is 2.17479917 miles for all of you non kilometer knowing Americans - yes I had no idea either and figure only 2 people who read this will). So I set out on a really nice day to walk to the subway. It was a great day for a walk (60 degrees, sunny, light breeze). Little did I realize how hilly this city is. That 2+ miles was looooong. I stopped a way into the walk at a Crazy for Burger to get some lunch. Let me just say two things about Crazy for Burger. First, I am not crazy for their burgers. Second, I am not sure it was even real beef I was eating. On a side note, the french fries I have had here are really good. They are thin (like string fries) and not greasy at all. This brings me to side note numero dos (I figure if I can't speak Korean yet I can add in a little Spanish to make me feel somewhat bilingual). I am using the American Express slogan for Pepto Bismol now, never leave home without it.
And now back to the story....
It was a long walk but I have said I want to get out more, see the city, and losing a few pounds in the process would be nice. Along my walk I passed a Burger King and Popeyes Chicken. They are both on the bus route that runs by my apartment so if I need a taste of home I know where to go. So I made it to the subway station by following a bus route that I knew went there. Next time I'll just take the bus. Anyway, the subway was very nice. It is not very expansive but on the two lines it runs, its has plenty of stops. The cost was nice too. It only cost 1100 won one-way (or about .94c American or .9977 CAD for my lone Canadian reader - I hope I did that right) Anywho, it is a nice subway system they have and cheap for a one-way fare. After transfering and riding one of the lines almost to the very end, I reached Emart.
Emart is very similar to Walmart. They seem to have everything there. I was mainly in search of an iron, so I can look presentable next week when I start work. By the time I reached Emart, I was very tired so I didn't do as much shopping as I would have liked. I only picked up a cheap iron (and by cheap I mean about $15US or $16CAD). I hope it lasts me a year. I also picked up a little TV tray type table. The wooden type where the legs fold in. I have used them in the past before back home and they are very versitile. I wanted to pick up a few more things but was too tired to keep shopping. I did notice they have just about anything I would need. Fruit was very expensive. Bananas were about 4800 won for a batch of say 4-6. That is really high when back home they are what $1/lb? Anyway, I will be returning at some point so it is nice to know where it is.
The interesting part was the ride home. I waited for a cab (I was too tired to walk back to the subway carrying my newly aquired goods) and did not have to wait long to get one. Prior to leaving I had checked out Galbijim.com which has a lot of good info on SK (it has a really good wiki on Daegu here if you are interested in learning more about where I am) to get my barings and figure out what to tell the cab driver. Well the phrase I had written down did me little good. I was trying to tell him to take me to a large department store called Dong-A, which is right across the street from my apartment. Apparently they do things more by landmarks than by streets. The problem with this was there is more than one Dong-A. He had a cell phone and immediately called an interpretor to find out where to go. After a short while he calls again after realizing there is more than one Dong-A. The interpretor and I try and figure out which one I am going to and we are off again. I am getting to see a lot of the city which is nice but I have no idea where I am. A few minutes later, he calls again. He is still confused on where to take me and after a 3rd converstation with the interpretor we think we have it. He pulls a scary u-turn (it is common here for them to u-turn in the middle of the street at a red light). They are pretty crazy drivers here but not as bad as other places I think. A lot of honking goes on but not the lay on the horn honk that I would do back home when someone cuts me off. It is more of a short beep to let the other guy know you are either there or coming through. They are constantly changing lanes and driving in two and whatnot but not too hairy. So after a long round-about ride home, I finally make it and I am 17,000 won lighter (probably a 5-8k cost if he knows where I am going in the first place I am betting). It was another experience to say the least. I just knew I was going to get dropped off in some out of the way place nowhere near where I needed to be, but I got home safely.
So now it is about 4pm here as I sit in a huge room full of young Korean men playing computer games (they are REALLY into that sort of thing here). I have decided a few things today. First, no more KFC. I ate it again last night because I was too chicken to go try something new. It is intimidating ordering when you don't speak the language. If there is nothing to point to, it can be impossible I think. Secondly, no more Coca-Cola. I am making a commitment to eat better and try to lose weight, plus I need to experience new things. I used to be a stuck-in-the-mud never try anything new guy (some may think I still am) but I am learning. It seems after the divorce I have found myself open to new things. I mean who thought I would be in SK? So I have a place picked out I want to try. It seems it is some sort of Korean chicken place (the pics look like Chinese food type chicken dishes). I just hope it is open by the time I leave here. It was closed on my over as some of the local places only open late, but stay open very late. There is also a Korean BBQ place down the street I want to try. I hear the BBQ here is good (of course it will not be as good as say Whits or Clems or the greatness that is the Salt Lick) but I am excited to try it out.
I think tomorrow will be a slower day. My feet and legs hurt from all the walking, so I am going to take it easy I think. Do some laundry, iron maybe, and watch a movie. Just relax and try to get on a better sleep schedule. Hopefully I'll get out with my camera as well so I can show everyone my neighborhood and just how different it is than back home.
That's all for now. I will leave you with one of my favorite bits from SNL.
.....and now Deep Thoughts by Jack Handy
If trees could scream, would we be so cavalier about cutting themdown? We might, if they screamed all the time, for no good reason.
Let the adventure begin....
I took a long look at the bus/subway system and figured out how to get there since it is a long way from where I am. The subway itself is about 3.5km away (that is 2.17479917 miles for all of you non kilometer knowing Americans - yes I had no idea either and figure only 2 people who read this will). So I set out on a really nice day to walk to the subway. It was a great day for a walk (60 degrees, sunny, light breeze). Little did I realize how hilly this city is. That 2+ miles was looooong. I stopped a way into the walk at a Crazy for Burger to get some lunch. Let me just say two things about Crazy for Burger. First, I am not crazy for their burgers. Second, I am not sure it was even real beef I was eating. On a side note, the french fries I have had here are really good. They are thin (like string fries) and not greasy at all. This brings me to side note numero dos (I figure if I can't speak Korean yet I can add in a little Spanish to make me feel somewhat bilingual). I am using the American Express slogan for Pepto Bismol now, never leave home without it.
And now back to the story....
It was a long walk but I have said I want to get out more, see the city, and losing a few pounds in the process would be nice. Along my walk I passed a Burger King and Popeyes Chicken. They are both on the bus route that runs by my apartment so if I need a taste of home I know where to go. So I made it to the subway station by following a bus route that I knew went there. Next time I'll just take the bus. Anyway, the subway was very nice. It is not very expansive but on the two lines it runs, its has plenty of stops. The cost was nice too. It only cost 1100 won one-way (or about .94c American or .9977 CAD for my lone Canadian reader - I hope I did that right) Anywho, it is a nice subway system they have and cheap for a one-way fare. After transfering and riding one of the lines almost to the very end, I reached Emart.
Emart is very similar to Walmart. They seem to have everything there. I was mainly in search of an iron, so I can look presentable next week when I start work. By the time I reached Emart, I was very tired so I didn't do as much shopping as I would have liked. I only picked up a cheap iron (and by cheap I mean about $15US or $16CAD). I hope it lasts me a year. I also picked up a little TV tray type table. The wooden type where the legs fold in. I have used them in the past before back home and they are very versitile. I wanted to pick up a few more things but was too tired to keep shopping. I did notice they have just about anything I would need. Fruit was very expensive. Bananas were about 4800 won for a batch of say 4-6. That is really high when back home they are what $1/lb? Anyway, I will be returning at some point so it is nice to know where it is.
The interesting part was the ride home. I waited for a cab (I was too tired to walk back to the subway carrying my newly aquired goods) and did not have to wait long to get one. Prior to leaving I had checked out Galbijim.com which has a lot of good info on SK (it has a really good wiki on Daegu here if you are interested in learning more about where I am) to get my barings and figure out what to tell the cab driver. Well the phrase I had written down did me little good. I was trying to tell him to take me to a large department store called Dong-A, which is right across the street from my apartment. Apparently they do things more by landmarks than by streets. The problem with this was there is more than one Dong-A. He had a cell phone and immediately called an interpretor to find out where to go. After a short while he calls again after realizing there is more than one Dong-A. The interpretor and I try and figure out which one I am going to and we are off again. I am getting to see a lot of the city which is nice but I have no idea where I am. A few minutes later, he calls again. He is still confused on where to take me and after a 3rd converstation with the interpretor we think we have it. He pulls a scary u-turn (it is common here for them to u-turn in the middle of the street at a red light). They are pretty crazy drivers here but not as bad as other places I think. A lot of honking goes on but not the lay on the horn honk that I would do back home when someone cuts me off. It is more of a short beep to let the other guy know you are either there or coming through. They are constantly changing lanes and driving in two and whatnot but not too hairy. So after a long round-about ride home, I finally make it and I am 17,000 won lighter (probably a 5-8k cost if he knows where I am going in the first place I am betting). It was another experience to say the least. I just knew I was going to get dropped off in some out of the way place nowhere near where I needed to be, but I got home safely.
So now it is about 4pm here as I sit in a huge room full of young Korean men playing computer games (they are REALLY into that sort of thing here). I have decided a few things today. First, no more KFC. I ate it again last night because I was too chicken to go try something new. It is intimidating ordering when you don't speak the language. If there is nothing to point to, it can be impossible I think. Secondly, no more Coca-Cola. I am making a commitment to eat better and try to lose weight, plus I need to experience new things. I used to be a stuck-in-the-mud never try anything new guy (some may think I still am) but I am learning. It seems after the divorce I have found myself open to new things. I mean who thought I would be in SK? So I have a place picked out I want to try. It seems it is some sort of Korean chicken place (the pics look like Chinese food type chicken dishes). I just hope it is open by the time I leave here. It was closed on my over as some of the local places only open late, but stay open very late. There is also a Korean BBQ place down the street I want to try. I hear the BBQ here is good (of course it will not be as good as say Whits or Clems or the greatness that is the Salt Lick) but I am excited to try it out.
I think tomorrow will be a slower day. My feet and legs hurt from all the walking, so I am going to take it easy I think. Do some laundry, iron maybe, and watch a movie. Just relax and try to get on a better sleep schedule. Hopefully I'll get out with my camera as well so I can show everyone my neighborhood and just how different it is than back home.
That's all for now. I will leave you with one of my favorite bits from SNL.
.....and now Deep Thoughts by Jack Handy
If trees could scream, would we be so cavalier about cutting themdown? We might, if they screamed all the time, for no good reason.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
First day in SK
My gansta roll of won. It felt nice walking around with 350,000+ in cash.Well I am here. I am in my apartment (pics to come) and trying to settle in. I didn't get to see much yesterday. I got to Daegu about 11am and after being dropped off at my apartment, I went for a walk. I got some lunch at KFC (yeah I know stepping out on a limb there for my first mean in SK right?). It was surprisingly similar to the KFC in the US. Not sure why I was expecting something different. The one different thing was when I ordered it to go (and 1 of the 2 ladies working spoke a little English) they packed my small drink in a bag. Other than that it was just as good as back home. After that I took a shower and laid down. That shower felt so good since it had been a long time since my previous one, and all that travel time really didn't make me feel great. I intended to only take a hour or two nap and went to sleep around 3pm. I didn't awake till 3am. Oh how I needed that sleep. I didn't not sleep well on the plane at all and was exhausted by the time I got to Daegu.
So after a good nights sleep, I finally rolled out of bed around 4am to go grab a small bite to eat. Nearby there are a few 24 hour places (like a 7-11 which they do have here but I have not seen one nearby). I grabed a coke (still a little scared to try something new) and some sort of chocolate pastry which was very good. I sat around watching some English programing on the TV along with the replays of the Korean Baseball Championship which I believe just ended recently. I took another nap figureing I need to stay up much later tonight to get on a better schedule. I got up again around 8am and headed out for a walk around my neighborhood. This is where things got interesting.
I started out just walking down the main drag near me and before long I was lost. I knew the bus line that ran on the main street near me so I started looking for it. I walked for over an hour (felt I was lost for maybe 30+ mins) until I finally found that bus line again. I followed it down and found home again. Somewhere along the way I must have crossed it not knowing where I was. Most of the housing buildings look the same, except for the numbers (for instance I live in 301). It was a good walk though. I walked for over an hour and saw some interesting things. Next time I will have my camera with me. After I found my way back, I had breakfast at Dunkin' Donuts and then came to the internet cafe again to upload pics, check email, and post.
Till next time,
E
I uploaded all my pics so far onto flickr, so check it out if you like. I have included a few below as well.
My kitchen.
A random city in SK. This is what a lot of the housing looks like, including mine.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
A Stranger in a Strange Land
I made it after over 30 hours of travel time (15 of that in the air). I am very tired but could not nap until I saw my surroundings and its exciting. Within a few blocks is not only where I'll be working but hundreds of different businesses including a KFC, Duncan Donuts, and a Starbucks. I will update more later tonight or early tomorrow after taking a long nap. I have not slept much of late and need a few hours of good sleep. Pics are forthcoming as well.
Till then,
E
Till then,
E
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