PEOPLE. I can't even tell you what a difference the sun FINALLY coming out makes. I had a serious case of the winter blues and I think I can finally get rid of them. I have never been in a cold climate like this for so long and the Korean winter was bitchin. Ugh, it was so terrible. I have no idea how people live in places where winter lasts forever. And it didn't even snow that much here..not like in some other places. Like stupid Wyoming..it snowed when I was there in June! Anyway. Point is, I hate the cold and it makes me miserable. But nooowwwww, it is finally getting warm and life is good again.
Things are still crazy go nuts at school, but it's amazing how much easier it is to deal with kids when you're not dragging yourself around like a zombie. Don't get me wrong, they are still quite the handful. This year's kids are WAY rowdier than last years, so it's a whole new set of problems. For instance, yeseterday, one of my kids pooped in his pants. That never happened last year. Luckily, I was not the one to clean him up, but I was the one that had to sniff him out. Oh man, totally ridiculous. He was too embarassed to admit it, but I couldn't let him just sit there! Anyway, that's gross, so lets not talk about it anymore.
Lots of other craziness going on. But, I don't think anyone cares, so I'll just sum up.
School is crazy...everyday is a hectic mess, but it's still so fun. One of my little girls motioned for me to come closer the other day and whispered in my ear: "Jacky teacher, I love you." Oooh my, heart melting. Another little boy gives me kisses all the time. They are in strange places, like my thigh and stomach, but he's so cute because he sneaks them in all quick...like ninja kisses. I had another little girl singing Bieber's "Baby" the other day, which made my life because I totally did not teach it to her. However, I found out there is a KPop cover of it, so maybe not as special as I thought. Oh well. I'll try to post the video later...it's still pretty cute.
For other videos, you should watch Psy's new video "Gentleman" if you haven't already...and then search for his Beyonce "Single Ladies" cover on YouTube, because it is one of the most fantastic things I have ever seen. EVER. I just love Psy so much, I can't stand it. In Korea, it's pretty normal for guys to dress up as woman and do random shit...for the sake of comedy. Koreans find it hilarious. I usually think it's kind of weird, but Psy dressed as Beyonce is pretty fabulous. But the best is that Koreans are like, yeah, ok, this is totally not weird at all. I love cultural differences...they are so fun.
But for the best news...I am going home in A MONTH!!!! I can hardly stand it. I am so excited to see my sister get married! Also, FOOD. And, the BEACH. Oh my, I am so pumped. Oh, and shopping!!! I shop a lot here, but it's different. For one thing, I have to get the biggest size in most stores here, which is a bit depressing. Also, they don't always let you try things on here, and that's annoying. And lastly, there are always so many people anywhere you go, so it gets to be a bit much. I have mini anxiety attacks if I'm not prepared for it. IE: I haven't eaten enough food. So yeah, anyway, looking forward to less stressful shopping.
Ok, well I will try to put up photos and other fun things soon. Don't hold your breath, I have to go enjoy the sunshine.
Dream big people!
27 April 2013
03 April 2013
On The Up
Ok, well things have improved a little bit in the last few week. Got a little worse in some ways, but overall, I think things are finally on the up and up.
I finally started teaching Zumba! It is actually much harder than I was hoping. I knew it was going to be hard, but it's something I really want to do. Mainly because I love it and there are no classes in my area. So I had to do it myself. However, being the person everyone follows instead of just being a follower in class is hard! First off, I am not a naturally great dancer. I don't have the best rhythm and latin style dancing is definitely not my dance forte. Actually, I don't think I even have a dance forte. I just like to do it. It's a lot of choreography to remember! Plus it's just really nerve racking to have all eyes on me. Sometimes I'll like, fix my hair or wipe my brow and everyone does it! So weird. I still get pretty nervous right before class, but it's been really fun so far. I hope the people in my classes are having fun. No negative feedback yet, so I guess so!
I canceled this weeks classes, though because whatever sickness I have is just NOT going away. I think it's just allergies gone horribly wrong, but I can't shake. I finally went to the doctor this week and got like, 8 different pills so I'm hoping one of them works. The last few weeks I've tried being Korean and just powering through, but I think I just need some rest...along with 8 different pills. Feeling a bit better today (Wed) but nowhere close to being 100%. Hoping pizza and sleep will help that tonight. Fingers crossed.
Oh, and for anyone freaking out about North Korea...don't! It is literally not even a thing here and not one South Korean gives a shit. This happens all the time and everyone knows NK is all talk, no action. And, if they were to be any kind of action, they would be shut down so fast by like, 10 different countries. Basically, it'd be suicide for them. So, yeah. Don't worry, it's all business as usual over here.
In other news, are people still against gay marriage? Hard to believe that is still a thing. People and their ridiculous opinions against it make me sick. I really can't understand at all. I am just hoping people come to their senses soon and just let people live their lives whatever way they want. Please and thank you.
Nothing else too exciting going on. Really looking forward to going home and stuffing my face with tons of delicious food. I am trying to lose weight now so I can gain it all back at home, but still fit in my clothes. Good plan, eh? The pizza tonight probably won't help that. Oh well.
Ok, well that's all for now. Have more to say, but I don't think anyone reads this anymore.
Dream big people!
I finally started teaching Zumba! It is actually much harder than I was hoping. I knew it was going to be hard, but it's something I really want to do. Mainly because I love it and there are no classes in my area. So I had to do it myself. However, being the person everyone follows instead of just being a follower in class is hard! First off, I am not a naturally great dancer. I don't have the best rhythm and latin style dancing is definitely not my dance forte. Actually, I don't think I even have a dance forte. I just like to do it. It's a lot of choreography to remember! Plus it's just really nerve racking to have all eyes on me. Sometimes I'll like, fix my hair or wipe my brow and everyone does it! So weird. I still get pretty nervous right before class, but it's been really fun so far. I hope the people in my classes are having fun. No negative feedback yet, so I guess so!
I canceled this weeks classes, though because whatever sickness I have is just NOT going away. I think it's just allergies gone horribly wrong, but I can't shake. I finally went to the doctor this week and got like, 8 different pills so I'm hoping one of them works. The last few weeks I've tried being Korean and just powering through, but I think I just need some rest...along with 8 different pills. Feeling a bit better today (Wed) but nowhere close to being 100%. Hoping pizza and sleep will help that tonight. Fingers crossed.
Oh, and for anyone freaking out about North Korea...don't! It is literally not even a thing here and not one South Korean gives a shit. This happens all the time and everyone knows NK is all talk, no action. And, if they were to be any kind of action, they would be shut down so fast by like, 10 different countries. Basically, it'd be suicide for them. So, yeah. Don't worry, it's all business as usual over here.
In other news, are people still against gay marriage? Hard to believe that is still a thing. People and their ridiculous opinions against it make me sick. I really can't understand at all. I am just hoping people come to their senses soon and just let people live their lives whatever way they want. Please and thank you.
Nothing else too exciting going on. Really looking forward to going home and stuffing my face with tons of delicious food. I am trying to lose weight now so I can gain it all back at home, but still fit in my clothes. Good plan, eh? The pizza tonight probably won't help that. Oh well.
Ok, well that's all for now. Have more to say, but I don't think anyone reads this anymore.
Dream big people!
12 March 2013
Bah
So things went from good to shitty pretty quickly. I mean, things, overall, are ok, but lots of frustrations happening these last few days and I just want to crawl in a hole for a while.
I'm back to being super tired all the time. Not sure what is going on, but I am aiming to go to bed by 10:00 tonight. Last night it was more like 12, so I'm going to try reallly hard. But, even when I do manage to get to sleep, I usually don't sleep well and have some REALLY wack ass dreams. What is going on?!
Also, I got my new class last week and it is a MESS!! These kids are MUCH rowdier than my last group of angels AND my new co-teacher has no idea what is going on, ever. And sadly, I usually don't know what to tell her because the role of the Korean teacher is really different than my role...so I'm not much help. We also have a new assistant teacher who doesn't really seem to be on top of things either, so we are basically falling apart in Cherry class. It's going to be a funnnnn year. We are also already getting "helpful suggestions" from moms..should also be super fun. Most of the kids are cute, but they don't seem that interested in being well behaved. Last year they had a healthy fear of getting punished, and I'm just not really seeing that this year. Good times.
Anyway, lots of other bullshit going on as well, but oh well. I am trying to figure out ways to de-stress myself because I have a really hard time just chilling the fuck out. Suggestions welcome. Preferably that don't involve alcohol because weektime drinking usually makes my life worse. I'm hoping things settle down soon and I find some energy. I'm also hoping this stupid winter will actually end soon and I can get some sunshine and happiness back in my life.
Oh, and I'm super tired of the majority of people in my life being super lame, awkward and just overall buttfaces. So, if you could just cut all that nonsense out, almost everyone, I would appreciate it. Seriously, why do people suck so bad?
For some good news, I bought my plane ticket home! It was cheaper than I thought and it's actually a decent itinerary too! I have flown enough to finally realize the cheapest way is not always the best way. I bit the bullet and opted for the more expensive ticket with shorter travel time. I'm not sure why any airline thinks a 15 hour layover is an acceptable thing to offer people. My beef with airline companies is for another day. Back to the good stuff, I'll be home May 28-June 17 so I hope to some people! Lots of stuff going on then...a wedding, 10 year high school reunion and LOTS of sitting on the beach time. Come join me on the beach!
That's all fro now. It's almost my bed time.
I'm back to being super tired all the time. Not sure what is going on, but I am aiming to go to bed by 10:00 tonight. Last night it was more like 12, so I'm going to try reallly hard. But, even when I do manage to get to sleep, I usually don't sleep well and have some REALLY wack ass dreams. What is going on?!
Also, I got my new class last week and it is a MESS!! These kids are MUCH rowdier than my last group of angels AND my new co-teacher has no idea what is going on, ever. And sadly, I usually don't know what to tell her because the role of the Korean teacher is really different than my role...so I'm not much help. We also have a new assistant teacher who doesn't really seem to be on top of things either, so we are basically falling apart in Cherry class. It's going to be a funnnnn year. We are also already getting "helpful suggestions" from moms..should also be super fun. Most of the kids are cute, but they don't seem that interested in being well behaved. Last year they had a healthy fear of getting punished, and I'm just not really seeing that this year. Good times.
Anyway, lots of other bullshit going on as well, but oh well. I am trying to figure out ways to de-stress myself because I have a really hard time just chilling the fuck out. Suggestions welcome. Preferably that don't involve alcohol because weektime drinking usually makes my life worse. I'm hoping things settle down soon and I find some energy. I'm also hoping this stupid winter will actually end soon and I can get some sunshine and happiness back in my life.
Oh, and I'm super tired of the majority of people in my life being super lame, awkward and just overall buttfaces. So, if you could just cut all that nonsense out, almost everyone, I would appreciate it. Seriously, why do people suck so bad?
For some good news, I bought my plane ticket home! It was cheaper than I thought and it's actually a decent itinerary too! I have flown enough to finally realize the cheapest way is not always the best way. I bit the bullet and opted for the more expensive ticket with shorter travel time. I'm not sure why any airline thinks a 15 hour layover is an acceptable thing to offer people. My beef with airline companies is for another day. Back to the good stuff, I'll be home May 28-June 17 so I hope to some people! Lots of stuff going on then...a wedding, 10 year high school reunion and LOTS of sitting on the beach time. Come join me on the beach!
That's all fro now. It's almost my bed time.
01 March 2013
Jumba!
Well well, turns out no one really reads this so I'm not sure why I keep posting, but I've committed now, so whatever.
Like always, SO busy these days. Maybe a little too busy...which I can't even believe I would every say that but I'm losing my mind just a little bit. This week we had graduation AND orientation and it was just a bit too much. I had to say goodbye to my babies (even though I'll see them around school next year) and had to say hello to new ones. Which wasn't bad, and I have some cute ones. It was just weird to have new kids in my class, doing the same things I did with last years. Also, my new co-teacher is brand new, and wasn't there to help me (she had commitments to another job) so I was on my own with orientation. Luckily, I'm an old pro now, so everything was fine. However, it's still awkward to have the moms stand around and stare at me while I have to give a lesson to their kids. And then not have a teacher to translate for me.
ANYWAY. Should be an interesting year. In other news, day one of two day Zumba certification is over! It was a LONG ass day, but lots of dancing and lots of fun. And lots of Korean! Most of the class was Korean, so it kind of sucked to sit through a lot of Korean talking, but whatever. It also kind of sucked to sit and listen to an hour long business ploy to get you to pay more money to join a Zumba instructor club type thing. It would be worth it if I was going to make this my job, but I don't have time for that! The instructor is from Colombia, so at least when he was talking it was a fun accent. Looking forward to tomorrow!
So that's my life. Going to bed at like, 9 today. Exhausted! But happy!
Dream big people!
Like always, SO busy these days. Maybe a little too busy...which I can't even believe I would every say that but I'm losing my mind just a little bit. This week we had graduation AND orientation and it was just a bit too much. I had to say goodbye to my babies (even though I'll see them around school next year) and had to say hello to new ones. Which wasn't bad, and I have some cute ones. It was just weird to have new kids in my class, doing the same things I did with last years. Also, my new co-teacher is brand new, and wasn't there to help me (she had commitments to another job) so I was on my own with orientation. Luckily, I'm an old pro now, so everything was fine. However, it's still awkward to have the moms stand around and stare at me while I have to give a lesson to their kids. And then not have a teacher to translate for me.
ANYWAY. Should be an interesting year. In other news, day one of two day Zumba certification is over! It was a LONG ass day, but lots of dancing and lots of fun. And lots of Korean! Most of the class was Korean, so it kind of sucked to sit through a lot of Korean talking, but whatever. It also kind of sucked to sit and listen to an hour long business ploy to get you to pay more money to join a Zumba instructor club type thing. It would be worth it if I was going to make this my job, but I don't have time for that! The instructor is from Colombia, so at least when he was talking it was a fun accent. Looking forward to tomorrow!
So that's my life. Going to bed at like, 9 today. Exhausted! But happy!
Dream big people!
22 February 2013
Heartache
Guys, my heart has been wrenched out once again. Another one of my favorite boys quit the school without a goodbye. My littlest one, my precious Joshua! I am SO sad! I am so so busy these days so I don't have as much time to mourn over him (like I did Ray), but it is still a very sad Cherry Class without him.
The worst part is that his mom is basically just being a crazy lady because Joshua placed into the B class for next year, instead of A. I am mad at her...I wasn't mad at Ray's mom because she was bullied out, but Joshua's mom is just being crazy pants and it's annoying. I mean, ok, whatever, maybe you think the school is not doing him any good if you want him to be at the top. But, really? There were only FOUR days left in the school year when he quit..just let him finish it out! I wonder what she told him...sorry, no more friends for you. And, wtf...it's really unfair to me and my co-teacher to not let us say goodbye. We've spent a year with him! We love him! We want to say goodbye. Ugh, crazy bitch.
Maybe I get too attached, but how could you resist this?
The answer is no. You would fall in love with this child because he is precious and is even more precious in person. Too bad he was born out of a devil woman.
Sigh. Sad jacky teacher.
Dream big people.
The worst part is that his mom is basically just being a crazy lady because Joshua placed into the B class for next year, instead of A. I am mad at her...I wasn't mad at Ray's mom because she was bullied out, but Joshua's mom is just being crazy pants and it's annoying. I mean, ok, whatever, maybe you think the school is not doing him any good if you want him to be at the top. But, really? There were only FOUR days left in the school year when he quit..just let him finish it out! I wonder what she told him...sorry, no more friends for you. And, wtf...it's really unfair to me and my co-teacher to not let us say goodbye. We've spent a year with him! We love him! We want to say goodbye. Ugh, crazy bitch.
Maybe I get too attached, but how could you resist this?
Sigh. Sad jacky teacher.
Dream big people.
20 February 2013
Oh My!
My kids new favorite words: Oh My! It's fantastic.
Also fantastic: the amazing sing-a-long we had in class today. It was seriously the best. I used a duster as a microphone and we just jammed. I loved it so much. I seriously CANNOT believe the year is over next week. I am honestly super sad to see the end of my precious Cherry Class. I got SO unbelievably lucky with this class. I LOVE LOVE LOVE my babies so much!!! Not everyone in Korea feels this way, so I've heard, so I am just so happy that things turned out so great for me. I just can't say enough good things about my experience with them. They are so cute, so smart, so hilarious and they make me so excited to go to work every day.
Enough gushing. More later. For now, I'm super tired. I've been getting up at 6 every day and it sucks real bad. In other news, I've been SUPER busy. You know me, I love being busy but I'm learning that I do NOT like being busy when it's freezing cold outside. When it's super cold, all I want to do is sit in my bed and be a lady of leisure. This is not an option, so for now, I'm just getting through one cold ass day at a time. When I'm outside, I just have to force myself to keep moving and tell myself I just have to get my destination and there will be warmth. It works, but I'm still pretty miserable. Sometimes I make weird noises and say cuss words outloud, so sorry to any passersby.
Ok, cold meds are kicking in. Oh, did I mention I'm getting sick again? Hooray! Those 1000 mgs of Vitamin C are not doing their job. Pull it together! Make me healthy!
So yeah, more later. Life is great, getting better all the time but I need it to be warm soon.
Dream big people!
Also fantastic: the amazing sing-a-long we had in class today. It was seriously the best. I used a duster as a microphone and we just jammed. I loved it so much. I seriously CANNOT believe the year is over next week. I am honestly super sad to see the end of my precious Cherry Class. I got SO unbelievably lucky with this class. I LOVE LOVE LOVE my babies so much!!! Not everyone in Korea feels this way, so I've heard, so I am just so happy that things turned out so great for me. I just can't say enough good things about my experience with them. They are so cute, so smart, so hilarious and they make me so excited to go to work every day.
Enough gushing. More later. For now, I'm super tired. I've been getting up at 6 every day and it sucks real bad. In other news, I've been SUPER busy. You know me, I love being busy but I'm learning that I do NOT like being busy when it's freezing cold outside. When it's super cold, all I want to do is sit in my bed and be a lady of leisure. This is not an option, so for now, I'm just getting through one cold ass day at a time. When I'm outside, I just have to force myself to keep moving and tell myself I just have to get my destination and there will be warmth. It works, but I'm still pretty miserable. Sometimes I make weird noises and say cuss words outloud, so sorry to any passersby.
Ok, cold meds are kicking in. Oh, did I mention I'm getting sick again? Hooray! Those 1000 mgs of Vitamin C are not doing their job. Pull it together! Make me healthy!
So yeah, more later. Life is great, getting better all the time but I need it to be warm soon.
Dream big people!
08 February 2013
Fancy First
This week has been SO busy, it was crazy times! But, really good. Lots of good stuff going on and I somehow managed to make it through. I've been feeling a little run down lately, but this week wasn't bad, even after a rough weekend. Oddly enough, not much drinking involved except for a few glasses of wine with dinner on Friday.
Now it's Friday again! This post has taken me all week to try and write! Things are crazy go nuts here! The year is winding down at school and TONS of other stuff going on!
Saturday I took a Zumba class and it was AWESOME. It was super high intensity and dancey and fun and just awesome. I have been trying to get a Zumba class going in my area (most of them are in Seoul) and we finally found a teacher and a place. But after that, everything turned into a mess. The teacher and I were not on the same page about class content or money and the gym wasn't either and it was just a mess. So frustrating. So anyway, it was great to just go dance and have a good time. Plus the instructor was SUPER nice and invited me to him and his girlfriends place, where I got Krispy Kreme AND A BATH. It was so fantastic. Bathtubs are rare here...I think the last time I had one was at the hotel in Thailand. I'm not a huge bath person, but sometimes you just wanna soak, ya know? And soak I did. It was glorious. Oh, and I signed up to get certified to teach Zumba next month so I can make my own classes! Wooo! Will be so awesome!!
Anyway, the real highlight of last weekend was the First Birthday Party I went to. Ok, so Korean first birthdays are a BIG deal. I'm not sure why, but it's huge and they throw big parties for it. I wasn't aware of just how fancy of an affair this was going to be, so I was not appropriately dressed and I looked like a bum among the fancies. Ok, not that extreme but I was def wearing jeans and Toms. Which was stupid for so many reasons...like it started snowing and I was wearing TOMS. Damn.Fail. Also, most other people were wearing very nice clothes and I felt silly. Also, my hair looked terrible, pretty much like it always does here in Korea. It wouldn't have been so bad if I could just sit and enjoy the party and go unnoticed, but no. They asked all the foreigners to come on stage and sing "Happy Birthday" to the baby. Why? I have no idea. So, not only did everyone at the party get to see my bum self, but it was also videoed and many a photo was taken. Awesome. But, whatever, it was hilarious plus we got gifts! Again, no idea why, but so lovely.
This party was seriously like a wedding reception. Full food buffet, flowers pictures and decorations everywhere and soooo many people. I don't think anything that fancy has ever been thrown in my honor! The big highlight is the choosing of the future. The baby chooses one of a couple different objects and that decides what he's going to be in life. He can choose from a stethoscope, a microphone, money and some other random things I couldn't see. Baby Westin chose the microphone, which means he will grow up and be a singer or entertainer! Yay! He'll be famous and I'll be all, I WAS THERE WHEN THIS HAPPENED! There is video proof, haha!
So yeah, the party was fun/awesome/awkward/hilarious/sweet. I need to meet some more Korean babies because I want to go to more! And now I know how to dress so I'll be ready!
Also started some side projects this week so I've been having some looong days.
Whew. I am sick of this post because I've been trying to finish it for a week now.
Quick summary:
Last month with my kids! :O
Got packages in the mail!! :D
It's sooooooo fucking cold here! >:,,,(
Other than that, things are great!! :)
Dream big people!
Now it's Friday again! This post has taken me all week to try and write! Things are crazy go nuts here! The year is winding down at school and TONS of other stuff going on!
Saturday I took a Zumba class and it was AWESOME. It was super high intensity and dancey and fun and just awesome. I have been trying to get a Zumba class going in my area (most of them are in Seoul) and we finally found a teacher and a place. But after that, everything turned into a mess. The teacher and I were not on the same page about class content or money and the gym wasn't either and it was just a mess. So frustrating. So anyway, it was great to just go dance and have a good time. Plus the instructor was SUPER nice and invited me to him and his girlfriends place, where I got Krispy Kreme AND A BATH. It was so fantastic. Bathtubs are rare here...I think the last time I had one was at the hotel in Thailand. I'm not a huge bath person, but sometimes you just wanna soak, ya know? And soak I did. It was glorious. Oh, and I signed up to get certified to teach Zumba next month so I can make my own classes! Wooo! Will be so awesome!!
Anyway, the real highlight of last weekend was the First Birthday Party I went to. Ok, so Korean first birthdays are a BIG deal. I'm not sure why, but it's huge and they throw big parties for it. I wasn't aware of just how fancy of an affair this was going to be, so I was not appropriately dressed and I looked like a bum among the fancies. Ok, not that extreme but I was def wearing jeans and Toms. Which was stupid for so many reasons...like it started snowing and I was wearing TOMS. Damn.Fail. Also, most other people were wearing very nice clothes and I felt silly. Also, my hair looked terrible, pretty much like it always does here in Korea. It wouldn't have been so bad if I could just sit and enjoy the party and go unnoticed, but no. They asked all the foreigners to come on stage and sing "Happy Birthday" to the baby. Why? I have no idea. So, not only did everyone at the party get to see my bum self, but it was also videoed and many a photo was taken. Awesome. But, whatever, it was hilarious plus we got gifts! Again, no idea why, but so lovely.
This party was seriously like a wedding reception. Full food buffet, flowers pictures and decorations everywhere and soooo many people. I don't think anything that fancy has ever been thrown in my honor! The big highlight is the choosing of the future. The baby chooses one of a couple different objects and that decides what he's going to be in life. He can choose from a stethoscope, a microphone, money and some other random things I couldn't see. Baby Westin chose the microphone, which means he will grow up and be a singer or entertainer! Yay! He'll be famous and I'll be all, I WAS THERE WHEN THIS HAPPENED! There is video proof, haha!
So yeah, the party was fun/awesome/awkward/hilarious/sweet. I need to meet some more Korean babies because I want to go to more! And now I know how to dress so I'll be ready!
Also started some side projects this week so I've been having some looong days.
Whew. I am sick of this post because I've been trying to finish it for a week now.
Quick summary:
Last month with my kids! :O
Got packages in the mail!! :D
It's sooooooo fucking cold here! >:,,,(
Other than that, things are great!! :)
Dream big people!
23 January 2013
Good Things
....happen when you don't feel like death. Finally getting over my cold (and my hives, yay!) and today I drank Korean coffee at like, 2 in the afternoon! Woo, I have been a productive machine since then. It was probably a terrible idea and I will probably get zero sleep but whatever, I'll just drink more coffee tomorrow.
Lots of good stuff going on! First off, I emailed my new life hero, Rita Golden Geldman, who is a writer. My class is OBSESSED with her children's book, "More Spaghetti, I Say!" It's a super fun book and the kids never ever ever get tired of it. Seriously, they read it every day. Out copy is in tatters, but it doesn't matter because most of them have it memorized. Also, when we have spaghetti day (every 5th Friday), the kids are so excited because they get to yell out, "more spaghetti, I say!" when they want more. It's just a little too precious for words. Anyway, I was doing research on her to teach the kids for Author's Month this month, and I found out she's super awesome. She has been a self proclaimed "female nomad" for the past 20 years or so and literally just travels around the world, writing and being awesome. THAT IS MY DREAM PEOPLE. She is living my dream!!! Anyway, she has an adult book, "Tales of a Female Nomad," which I finished yesterday. Great read, if you need something. I was so inspired that I wrote her an email. AND GUESS WHAT HAPPENED? She wrote me back!!! How awesome is that?? I told her about my kid's love for her book and she offered to send a signed copy to the school! I mean, so fantastic, right? This lady is clearly awesome. Go to www.ritagoldengeldman.com if you would like more information and to see for yourself.
In other news, I recently acquired a bottle of Modge Podge and am getting ready to glitter the hell out of literally, everything, in my apartment. It's going to be a huge glittery mess of awesomeness. I have already done a glass bottle (see fb) and attempted my phone case, but that didn't turn out so great. Never fear! Going to try again soon.
I also recently got some side jobs that are making me some extra money and I am SUPER excited about that. Especially since I'll be flying home in the summer and I looked at ticket prices today and cried a little bit. SO EXPENSIVE. Will focus on that later when my strength is fully restored.
Today at the gym, I made some new friends and actually had a productive workout. Usually I just wander around until my squash lesson starts and just pretend to do stuff. Today, I actually did stuff! Before and after! Crazy! It's a good thing though because I have recently become a hungry monster and ate my weight in candy today. Also ate a quesadilla even though it was straight up disgusting and am still currently starving while typing this post.
Oh, and when I came home from the gym, I made myself study Korean for like, 30 minutes. This is about 20 minutes more than ever before. I know the vowels! And some other consonants Off to a good start, I suppose. Only took a year. Gonna be fluent in no time. Get ready.
So that's that. It really is amazing what some energy does for you. Yesterday and Monday I legit felt like death and now I'm ready for anything! Let's do this!
Dream big people! Yay Korean coffee!!!
Lots of good stuff going on! First off, I emailed my new life hero, Rita Golden Geldman, who is a writer. My class is OBSESSED with her children's book, "More Spaghetti, I Say!" It's a super fun book and the kids never ever ever get tired of it. Seriously, they read it every day. Out copy is in tatters, but it doesn't matter because most of them have it memorized. Also, when we have spaghetti day (every 5th Friday), the kids are so excited because they get to yell out, "more spaghetti, I say!" when they want more. It's just a little too precious for words. Anyway, I was doing research on her to teach the kids for Author's Month this month, and I found out she's super awesome. She has been a self proclaimed "female nomad" for the past 20 years or so and literally just travels around the world, writing and being awesome. THAT IS MY DREAM PEOPLE. She is living my dream!!! Anyway, she has an adult book, "Tales of a Female Nomad," which I finished yesterday. Great read, if you need something. I was so inspired that I wrote her an email. AND GUESS WHAT HAPPENED? She wrote me back!!! How awesome is that?? I told her about my kid's love for her book and she offered to send a signed copy to the school! I mean, so fantastic, right? This lady is clearly awesome. Go to www.ritagoldengeldman.com if you would like more information and to see for yourself.
In other news, I recently acquired a bottle of Modge Podge and am getting ready to glitter the hell out of literally, everything, in my apartment. It's going to be a huge glittery mess of awesomeness. I have already done a glass bottle (see fb) and attempted my phone case, but that didn't turn out so great. Never fear! Going to try again soon.
I also recently got some side jobs that are making me some extra money and I am SUPER excited about that. Especially since I'll be flying home in the summer and I looked at ticket prices today and cried a little bit. SO EXPENSIVE. Will focus on that later when my strength is fully restored.
Today at the gym, I made some new friends and actually had a productive workout. Usually I just wander around until my squash lesson starts and just pretend to do stuff. Today, I actually did stuff! Before and after! Crazy! It's a good thing though because I have recently become a hungry monster and ate my weight in candy today. Also ate a quesadilla even though it was straight up disgusting and am still currently starving while typing this post.
Oh, and when I came home from the gym, I made myself study Korean for like, 30 minutes. This is about 20 minutes more than ever before. I know the vowels! And some other consonants Off to a good start, I suppose. Only took a year. Gonna be fluent in no time. Get ready.
So that's that. It really is amazing what some energy does for you. Yesterday and Monday I legit felt like death and now I'm ready for anything! Let's do this!
Dream big people! Yay Korean coffee!!!
21 January 2013
Stupid Monday
I know how to start a week off right. It's raining, it's freezing, my nose will not stop running and I have an itchy rash all over my body! Heck yes, what a great Monday it has been!
Apparently I had an allergic reaction to something I ate. I thought it was from the cold medicine I took, but the doctor thinks it was food. I don't remember eating anything unusual, but I'm staying away from dairy for the next few days. Which is hard, and somewhat depressing. Cheese is so good. I did eat some sour cream that was a little questionable in terms of freshness, so I'm hoping that was it and once it's thrown away, I won't have to worry about it anymore. I REALLY hope so, because this itchy rash business is no fun at all. I have medicine to take and was directed to take it "after meals," so now I'm just debating if popcorn and jelly beans counts as a meal. Thoughts? I'm guessing no so I'll probably make a sandwich soon. I really don't want to make anything, but the kimbap store is too far to walk to in the rain. Sad times for me.
Anyway, nothing else exciting going on. Had a weird weekend..I just wanted to sleep but I had a lot to do Saturday so I was running around all day. This is usually how my life works. When I have nothing to do, I'm bored and wishing the opposite, which is the majority of the time. The few times I have a busy weekend schedule, I feel like nonsense and want to spend the day in bed. Anyway, I had to work in the morning...it was like an orientation type thing for new students that are coming next year. Normally I don't really mind doing extra work, but I heard that our PSA is the only branch to do a Saturday orientation and now I'm angry. One, why at 10? That is too damn early..and two, why not in the afternoon like all the other schools? Our school is the smallest branch in the company so sometimes I think it has little man syndrome and feels like it has to prove itself all the time. No no school, you are doing just fine, let's chill out a little bit.
These things are always kind of awkward because the parents are there and it's like the foreign teacher show. It's always fine, in the end, but I always feel uncomfortable acting like a goober in front of 1. kids that are super shy and don't want to participate (probably because they have no idea what I'm saying and 2. parents that also show little to no enthusiasm (also because they don't know what I'm saying). I've learned to just tune everyone out and just try to have fun. I'm sure I look like a crazy person but whatever. The school already made us wear these ridiculous giant bows so I looked stupid by default. Might as well go with it. There was one really bad kid, but the rest were ok. It's also hard to discipline when the parents are right there. You can't be too harsh, and I kept thinking the mom would get him under control, but no, she just sat there in her mink coat and looked unaffected. There were one or two kids that participated and the other 6 just sat and stared. Good fun.
Anyway, hoping I don't have the punk kid in my class next year, but we'll see. My fingers are crossed...cross yours as well please. Also cross your fingers that this allergic reaction chills out..I'm over it.
Dream big people!
Apparently I had an allergic reaction to something I ate. I thought it was from the cold medicine I took, but the doctor thinks it was food. I don't remember eating anything unusual, but I'm staying away from dairy for the next few days. Which is hard, and somewhat depressing. Cheese is so good. I did eat some sour cream that was a little questionable in terms of freshness, so I'm hoping that was it and once it's thrown away, I won't have to worry about it anymore. I REALLY hope so, because this itchy rash business is no fun at all. I have medicine to take and was directed to take it "after meals," so now I'm just debating if popcorn and jelly beans counts as a meal. Thoughts? I'm guessing no so I'll probably make a sandwich soon. I really don't want to make anything, but the kimbap store is too far to walk to in the rain. Sad times for me.
Anyway, nothing else exciting going on. Had a weird weekend..I just wanted to sleep but I had a lot to do Saturday so I was running around all day. This is usually how my life works. When I have nothing to do, I'm bored and wishing the opposite, which is the majority of the time. The few times I have a busy weekend schedule, I feel like nonsense and want to spend the day in bed. Anyway, I had to work in the morning...it was like an orientation type thing for new students that are coming next year. Normally I don't really mind doing extra work, but I heard that our PSA is the only branch to do a Saturday orientation and now I'm angry. One, why at 10? That is too damn early..and two, why not in the afternoon like all the other schools? Our school is the smallest branch in the company so sometimes I think it has little man syndrome and feels like it has to prove itself all the time. No no school, you are doing just fine, let's chill out a little bit.
These things are always kind of awkward because the parents are there and it's like the foreign teacher show. It's always fine, in the end, but I always feel uncomfortable acting like a goober in front of 1. kids that are super shy and don't want to participate (probably because they have no idea what I'm saying and 2. parents that also show little to no enthusiasm (also because they don't know what I'm saying). I've learned to just tune everyone out and just try to have fun. I'm sure I look like a crazy person but whatever. The school already made us wear these ridiculous giant bows so I looked stupid by default. Might as well go with it. There was one really bad kid, but the rest were ok. It's also hard to discipline when the parents are right there. You can't be too harsh, and I kept thinking the mom would get him under control, but no, she just sat there in her mink coat and looked unaffected. There were one or two kids that participated and the other 6 just sat and stared. Good fun.
Anyway, hoping I don't have the punk kid in my class next year, but we'll see. My fingers are crossed...cross yours as well please. Also cross your fingers that this allergic reaction chills out..I'm over it.
Dream big people!
14 January 2013
New Year
Oh me, oh my, two weeks into 2013 and no post! My life has been pretty boring as of late, so nothing too exciting to say about the New Year.
My 2013 started off pretty shitty, but things have improved. I'm hoping it's not a sign of things to come, but I'm thinking not, since it was mainly due to drunken misunderstandings and jerks. Contrary to popular belief, I don't really get drunk enough for misunderstandings that often. And I plan to weed out the jerks, so other than that guy, life is currently jerk-free.
Anyway, I can't believe I've almost been here a year! Next month will be my "Koriversary" and I will have gone through all the seasons in this lovely country. It has gone by so unbelievably fast! I have decided to stay another year, so I'm really excited about that. Obviously, I really like it here and am going to stay at my school and all that jazz.
It blows my mind how far my precious Cherry class as come. I am actually a little nervous for next year because I'll have to start all over with kids that don't speak any English! I know I can do it, but it is going to take some serious readjusting since my class is so smart and wonderful now. But that can be discussed further when the time comes.
For now, I am just focusing on getting through this winter. It has been a struggle! Luckily, it hasn't snowed in a few weeks, but there are still piles of snow all over the place! It's too cold for them to melt! Insanity! At home, the rare times it does snow, it comes and goes within a few days. I wish that were the case here. Mainly, I am getting tired of wearing the same wintery clothes ALL the time. I mean, I wear different shirts and stuff, but it really doesn't matter because always wearing the same jacket. I have one heavy duty winter jacket and one or two pea coat type things. Sometimes I get crazy and wear the pea coat, even though it's still heavy duty jacket weather. Obviously, I pay for it, but sometimes I just can't handle wearing it another day. Also, I have been wearing leggings under my jeans most days and that sucks a lot...makes me feel like I put on 10 pounds over night. Again, sometimes I convince myself it's ok not to wear them and by the time I get to work (a 10 minute walk), I am regretting that decision. Same with shoes. I am so sick of my winter boots, but I've learned the hard way that tennis shoes, TOMS and basically any other shoe doesn't really keep out the cold. Even when you're hearing thick socks. Damn.
So yeah, that's pretty much my life now...figuring out ways to stay warm and not look completely frumpy and horrible while doing it. Usually I just give up and frump it up because it is just too damn cold. The highest high this week is 39...above freezing at least...but the lowest low is 15, so I'll guess I'll be sticking with the frump master look for now.
That's it for me. Excited because I have a busy week ahead of me. Yall know how I love/have some weird desperate need to always have plans. Or maybe you didn't, haha. Oh well.
Dream big people!
My 2013 started off pretty shitty, but things have improved. I'm hoping it's not a sign of things to come, but I'm thinking not, since it was mainly due to drunken misunderstandings and jerks. Contrary to popular belief, I don't really get drunk enough for misunderstandings that often. And I plan to weed out the jerks, so other than that guy, life is currently jerk-free.
Anyway, I can't believe I've almost been here a year! Next month will be my "Koriversary" and I will have gone through all the seasons in this lovely country. It has gone by so unbelievably fast! I have decided to stay another year, so I'm really excited about that. Obviously, I really like it here and am going to stay at my school and all that jazz.
It blows my mind how far my precious Cherry class as come. I am actually a little nervous for next year because I'll have to start all over with kids that don't speak any English! I know I can do it, but it is going to take some serious readjusting since my class is so smart and wonderful now. But that can be discussed further when the time comes.
For now, I am just focusing on getting through this winter. It has been a struggle! Luckily, it hasn't snowed in a few weeks, but there are still piles of snow all over the place! It's too cold for them to melt! Insanity! At home, the rare times it does snow, it comes and goes within a few days. I wish that were the case here. Mainly, I am getting tired of wearing the same wintery clothes ALL the time. I mean, I wear different shirts and stuff, but it really doesn't matter because always wearing the same jacket. I have one heavy duty winter jacket and one or two pea coat type things. Sometimes I get crazy and wear the pea coat, even though it's still heavy duty jacket weather. Obviously, I pay for it, but sometimes I just can't handle wearing it another day. Also, I have been wearing leggings under my jeans most days and that sucks a lot...makes me feel like I put on 10 pounds over night. Again, sometimes I convince myself it's ok not to wear them and by the time I get to work (a 10 minute walk), I am regretting that decision. Same with shoes. I am so sick of my winter boots, but I've learned the hard way that tennis shoes, TOMS and basically any other shoe doesn't really keep out the cold. Even when you're hearing thick socks. Damn.
So yeah, that's pretty much my life now...figuring out ways to stay warm and not look completely frumpy and horrible while doing it. Usually I just give up and frump it up because it is just too damn cold. The highest high this week is 39...above freezing at least...but the lowest low is 15, so I'll guess I'll be sticking with the frump master look for now.
That's it for me. Excited because I have a busy week ahead of me. Yall know how I love/have some weird desperate need to always have plans. Or maybe you didn't, haha. Oh well.
Dream big people!
31 December 2012
A Very Japanese Christmas
Woooo, I went to Japan for Christmas. My life is so awesome, I seriously just can't even stand it. Christmas. In Japan. Amazing. Of course, some of my friends here are posting their bathing suit pics of themselves in Thailand or somewhere warm...but whatever, they can suck it. :)
Anyway, I met up with my awesome friend from LA who was the best tour guide ever. Not only did she bring me goodies from the States, but she can also speak Japanese and had lived in Osaka before, so there were no issues trying to figure out how to do things. It was fantastic. Plus, she knew all the good eating spots so we had some amazing food. Of course, I don't remember the names of anywhere we went or what we ate (for the most part), but everything was fabulous and delicious. Oh, I do know we at okonomiyaki, which is an Osaka specialty (which I've been told they have in Korea), and went to Kyoto and Nara. So that's something.
I hate to say it, but I think I like Japanese food more than Korean food. I know! I feel like such a traitor, but I am part Japanese, so maybe I'm just genetically disposed to it. Also, there isn't really any spicy food in Japan and yall know I like my food bland. Korean food is a gamble because all Koreans say, "oh, it's not spicy!" and then laugh as my lips catch on fire. Anyway, I pretty much ate tofu rice balls and potato sticks every day for breakfast, which may sound unappealing, but you don't know what you're missing. I forgot what the tofu things are called in Japanese and I don't know how to spell it in Korean (uboochubap is what it is phonetically), but they are delicious. And hopefully nutritious because I ate at least 50 of them while I was there. Every lunch was something fantastic...gyoza (Japanese dumplings of delciousness), ramen, okonomiyaki, etc, etc. And dinner was always amazing as well. Except for Christmas Eve..we were supposed to eat KFC (that's what all the Japanese do) but my friend fell asleep so I ate candy in the hostel instead. But, the next night, for our Christmas feast, we had sushi and it was fabulous. We also got some "fried cheese" and I'm pretty sure they just threw any random western looking food they could find on the plate, because it came out with lemon, popcorn and a tomato on the dish. So random. Our Japanese friends even found it strange. Whatever, it was totally delicious.
Christmas day was spent trying to take Christmasy Japanese photos, and I got some good ones. I tried to find the most Japanese looking things I could. I could have done better, but I was embarrased to be taking so many pictures. In Korea, they are all about taking pictures of everything, all the time, but not in Japan, so I felt out of place, haha. It was also interesting to see the differences in Japanese and Korean culture. They are similar in a lot of ways, but soooo different in a lot as well. Koreans are much more conservative in how they dress, hair styles, etc. I also personally feel the Korean men are better looking...the Japanese men are a little smaller and some of them have some crazyyyy hair styles. I saw so many mullets, it was a little ridiculous. I wish I had gotten more photos, but I was too stunned. Also, wonky teeth seem to be the norm there...not sure if there are any orthodontists in Japan. I did see some cute guys, though. None with mullets, though. Take a hint, friends.
There were other random things I noticed about the differences in the two countries, but I'm guessing no one cares. I just find it interesting because a lot of people at home lump Asia all together and that is not the case. A lot of people do it with Europe as well, and it's also not true.
Anyway.
Another night we met up with our Japanese friends we met in LA (they were students at my school there) and had a great time. Oddly enough, we ate at a Korean restaurant since all the Japanese ones they wanted to go to were too busy, but it was a lot of fun. I drank soju...no sake this trip..weird...but it was gross because here they always have cider but there they only had club soda and tomato juice. YUCK. I got it down but it was rough. We also did karoke and wandered the streets laughing at Japanese mullets. A good time.
Thursday I spent most of the day in the airport, but it was quite entertaining. We did some shopping, wandered around, did a lot of people watching (more mullets!) and ate sushi..where I witnessed the most fantastic restaurant situation of my life. Behold:
Right???!!! It's an express train! TO YOUR TABLE!!! Sooooo awesome. First off, they have sushi that is just cruising around the restaurant on a conveyor belt and you just grab off whatever tickles your fancy. And if that isn't cool enough, you can use the COMPUTER at your table to order things from the kitchen. Then, they put it on the express train and zoom it out to your table. Fantastic. I thought nothing was cooler than the call your waiter button at Korean tables, but this wins for sure.
Anyway, I had a great time in Japan and did tons of shopping. I was never much of a shopper before but lately, I've been losing my mind in stores. Maybe because it's cheaper, or I have more money, or I'm just getting old, but I love shopping now. Kinda lost my mind in Japan, but hey...how often do you go to Japan? Ok then. Plus, a lot of the stuff was gifts. Even though, I ended up keeping one (or three) things that were meant as gifts. Whoops...sorry friends. Next time!
Pictures are coming soon! My internet is on the fritz and the wifi isn't strong enough to support picture uploading. My apologies, I'm sure yall are dying.
So now it's time to ring in 2013. Insanity! Can't believe this year is over and 2013 is here. Time flies when you're having fun! My resolution: to use all the Kakao and WhatsApp emoticons. There are tons of them and in WhatsApp especially, they are suuuuper random. I don't know if I'll be able to use them all in context but I'm going to do my best. One of them is a syringe! When does that come up in conversation? We'll see...I have a year. And my theme for 2013? "Don't stop me now, cause I'm having a good time!" Thank you, Queen! It's also my new go-to norebang song. It's a crowd pleaser AND fun to dance to. Woo!
Happy New Year everyone! Hope your year was as fantastic as mine and I hope next year is EVEN BETTER! I'm pretty confident it will be. It's all about the meals you start/end the years with. This year started with Waffle House and this one will start with Korean BBQ. Good things are coming in 2013. So go welcome 2013 with something delicious!
Dream big people!
Anyway, I met up with my awesome friend from LA who was the best tour guide ever. Not only did she bring me goodies from the States, but she can also speak Japanese and had lived in Osaka before, so there were no issues trying to figure out how to do things. It was fantastic. Plus, she knew all the good eating spots so we had some amazing food. Of course, I don't remember the names of anywhere we went or what we ate (for the most part), but everything was fabulous and delicious. Oh, I do know we at okonomiyaki, which is an Osaka specialty (which I've been told they have in Korea), and went to Kyoto and Nara. So that's something.
I hate to say it, but I think I like Japanese food more than Korean food. I know! I feel like such a traitor, but I am part Japanese, so maybe I'm just genetically disposed to it. Also, there isn't really any spicy food in Japan and yall know I like my food bland. Korean food is a gamble because all Koreans say, "oh, it's not spicy!" and then laugh as my lips catch on fire. Anyway, I pretty much ate tofu rice balls and potato sticks every day for breakfast, which may sound unappealing, but you don't know what you're missing. I forgot what the tofu things are called in Japanese and I don't know how to spell it in Korean (uboochubap is what it is phonetically), but they are delicious. And hopefully nutritious because I ate at least 50 of them while I was there. Every lunch was something fantastic...gyoza (Japanese dumplings of delciousness), ramen, okonomiyaki, etc, etc. And dinner was always amazing as well. Except for Christmas Eve..we were supposed to eat KFC (that's what all the Japanese do) but my friend fell asleep so I ate candy in the hostel instead. But, the next night, for our Christmas feast, we had sushi and it was fabulous. We also got some "fried cheese" and I'm pretty sure they just threw any random western looking food they could find on the plate, because it came out with lemon, popcorn and a tomato on the dish. So random. Our Japanese friends even found it strange. Whatever, it was totally delicious.
Christmas day was spent trying to take Christmasy Japanese photos, and I got some good ones. I tried to find the most Japanese looking things I could. I could have done better, but I was embarrased to be taking so many pictures. In Korea, they are all about taking pictures of everything, all the time, but not in Japan, so I felt out of place, haha. It was also interesting to see the differences in Japanese and Korean culture. They are similar in a lot of ways, but soooo different in a lot as well. Koreans are much more conservative in how they dress, hair styles, etc. I also personally feel the Korean men are better looking...the Japanese men are a little smaller and some of them have some crazyyyy hair styles. I saw so many mullets, it was a little ridiculous. I wish I had gotten more photos, but I was too stunned. Also, wonky teeth seem to be the norm there...not sure if there are any orthodontists in Japan. I did see some cute guys, though. None with mullets, though. Take a hint, friends.
There were other random things I noticed about the differences in the two countries, but I'm guessing no one cares. I just find it interesting because a lot of people at home lump Asia all together and that is not the case. A lot of people do it with Europe as well, and it's also not true.
Anyway.
Another night we met up with our Japanese friends we met in LA (they were students at my school there) and had a great time. Oddly enough, we ate at a Korean restaurant since all the Japanese ones they wanted to go to were too busy, but it was a lot of fun. I drank soju...no sake this trip..weird...but it was gross because here they always have cider but there they only had club soda and tomato juice. YUCK. I got it down but it was rough. We also did karoke and wandered the streets laughing at Japanese mullets. A good time.
Thursday I spent most of the day in the airport, but it was quite entertaining. We did some shopping, wandered around, did a lot of people watching (more mullets!) and ate sushi..where I witnessed the most fantastic restaurant situation of my life. Behold:
Right???!!! It's an express train! TO YOUR TABLE!!! Sooooo awesome. First off, they have sushi that is just cruising around the restaurant on a conveyor belt and you just grab off whatever tickles your fancy. And if that isn't cool enough, you can use the COMPUTER at your table to order things from the kitchen. Then, they put it on the express train and zoom it out to your table. Fantastic. I thought nothing was cooler than the call your waiter button at Korean tables, but this wins for sure.
Anyway, I had a great time in Japan and did tons of shopping. I was never much of a shopper before but lately, I've been losing my mind in stores. Maybe because it's cheaper, or I have more money, or I'm just getting old, but I love shopping now. Kinda lost my mind in Japan, but hey...how often do you go to Japan? Ok then. Plus, a lot of the stuff was gifts. Even though, I ended up keeping one (or three) things that were meant as gifts. Whoops...sorry friends. Next time!
Pictures are coming soon! My internet is on the fritz and the wifi isn't strong enough to support picture uploading. My apologies, I'm sure yall are dying.
So now it's time to ring in 2013. Insanity! Can't believe this year is over and 2013 is here. Time flies when you're having fun! My resolution: to use all the Kakao and WhatsApp emoticons. There are tons of them and in WhatsApp especially, they are suuuuper random. I don't know if I'll be able to use them all in context but I'm going to do my best. One of them is a syringe! When does that come up in conversation? We'll see...I have a year. And my theme for 2013? "Don't stop me now, cause I'm having a good time!" Thank you, Queen! It's also my new go-to norebang song. It's a crowd pleaser AND fun to dance to. Woo!
Happy New Year everyone! Hope your year was as fantastic as mine and I hope next year is EVEN BETTER! I'm pretty confident it will be. It's all about the meals you start/end the years with. This year started with Waffle House and this one will start with Korean BBQ. Good things are coming in 2013. So go welcome 2013 with something delicious!
Dream big people!
22 December 2012
Merry Christmas Baby
I can't believe it's almost Christmas!! This year has FLOWN by and it just keeps getting better and better!
I'll admit, I had a little break down earlier today because being away from family on Christmas is hard. I love it here but my family is not here and it hit hard today. After a nap and some candy canes, I'm feeling better and am now excited because I leave for JAPAN TOMORROW!!!! AHHHH!!!!
Woooo, life is so damn awesome. Plus, the last few days have just been so great. We had our Christmas party with the kids on Thursday and Santa came! They were so cute and excited! One of my girls whispered to me, "Jacky teacher, Santa is soo cute!" Love it. I told her to tell him and maybe he'd give her some extra presents. She was too nervous, but it was still funny. The kids also said goodbye to our elf, Patty and we watched How the Grinch Stole Christmas, which they loved! It was an extremely hectic and tiring day, but they were all so excited about Christmas, it was cute. I'm not going to lie, though, I was a bit on the sad side because I only got a Christmas card from one student! Maybe some of them aren't big on Christmas, I don't really know..but oh well. My one card was lovely, so at least I got that.
Friday was our teacher's Christmas party and that was a lot of fun as well. There were no students there Friday so at lunch our principal ordered pizza and had wine for us. My friend and I declared ourselves the party planning committee, so we decorated and organized a white elephant for the lunch. It was actually a lot of fun and everyone had a great time! I am was very happy because I get upset when people aren't enthusiastic about things I plan, but this worked out great! There were some sad and awkward moments though. All the assistant teachers at our school left (long story, contractual disputes) so it was sad to say goodbye to all of them...they are all so nice and the whole situation was just a mess. Also, the new assistant teachers that are taking their places were all there, which was awkward. Mainly because no one told the party committee so we didn't have enough gifts for them to participate in the white elephant exchange. It would have been really easy to grab extra gifts for them (they were all from the dollar store), but we didn't know so they just has to sit and watch. Weird, right? Oh well. I just hope they don't think it was my fault and all hate me now since I was the one running it.
That night was a special friends birthday so about 12 of us celebrated with sushi and soju. I finally got rid of my huge bottle of soju!! I was petty happy. I drank a little too much of it, but nothing too crazy happened. Some of us went to noreabang (karoke) after and it was a blast, as always. I'm just going to assume that it's a requirement to sing "Creep" at every norebang session because someone always sings it. It's a downer, but I guess I'll have to get used to it. On the way home I tried seeking revenge on my apartment complex by yelling in the courtyard, but that is about as crazy as things got. I am always getting woken up by people yelling and carrying on at random hours and even more random days. Hopefully I woke up one of the people that has woken me up before...that was my logic anyway. I'm sure I just angered random, very polite residents. Sorry Acrotel!
Well that's that. A good holiday season so far. Although I am just about out of Christmas spirit. School was just Christmas craft, stories, movies, songs, everything overload. I love Christmas more than the average person, I think, but I think I'm at the end of my holiday cheer rope. It was also a very DIY Christmas this year and I don't think I have it in me to make another card, craft or ornament. Just can't do it. I'm hoping someone can send me some Valentine cards because I'm not sure I can handle making those either. I don't know if I'll be able to cut paper again for quite some time.
Ok, JAPAN TOMORROW!!! Got some Yen yesterday and I'm super excited because it's really cool looking! Also, one bill s worth like, $12. Trying to convert from Won to Dollars to Yen is going to be interesting, but good thing I have my handy dandy smart phone!
Dream big people!!! And MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!!!
I'll admit, I had a little break down earlier today because being away from family on Christmas is hard. I love it here but my family is not here and it hit hard today. After a nap and some candy canes, I'm feeling better and am now excited because I leave for JAPAN TOMORROW!!!! AHHHH!!!!
Woooo, life is so damn awesome. Plus, the last few days have just been so great. We had our Christmas party with the kids on Thursday and Santa came! They were so cute and excited! One of my girls whispered to me, "Jacky teacher, Santa is soo cute!" Love it. I told her to tell him and maybe he'd give her some extra presents. She was too nervous, but it was still funny. The kids also said goodbye to our elf, Patty and we watched How the Grinch Stole Christmas, which they loved! It was an extremely hectic and tiring day, but they were all so excited about Christmas, it was cute. I'm not going to lie, though, I was a bit on the sad side because I only got a Christmas card from one student! Maybe some of them aren't big on Christmas, I don't really know..but oh well. My one card was lovely, so at least I got that.
Friday was our teacher's Christmas party and that was a lot of fun as well. There were no students there Friday so at lunch our principal ordered pizza and had wine for us. My friend and I declared ourselves the party planning committee, so we decorated and organized a white elephant for the lunch. It was actually a lot of fun and everyone had a great time! I am was very happy because I get upset when people aren't enthusiastic about things I plan, but this worked out great! There were some sad and awkward moments though. All the assistant teachers at our school left (long story, contractual disputes) so it was sad to say goodbye to all of them...they are all so nice and the whole situation was just a mess. Also, the new assistant teachers that are taking their places were all there, which was awkward. Mainly because no one told the party committee so we didn't have enough gifts for them to participate in the white elephant exchange. It would have been really easy to grab extra gifts for them (they were all from the dollar store), but we didn't know so they just has to sit and watch. Weird, right? Oh well. I just hope they don't think it was my fault and all hate me now since I was the one running it.
That night was a special friends birthday so about 12 of us celebrated with sushi and soju. I finally got rid of my huge bottle of soju!! I was petty happy. I drank a little too much of it, but nothing too crazy happened. Some of us went to noreabang (karoke) after and it was a blast, as always. I'm just going to assume that it's a requirement to sing "Creep" at every norebang session because someone always sings it. It's a downer, but I guess I'll have to get used to it. On the way home I tried seeking revenge on my apartment complex by yelling in the courtyard, but that is about as crazy as things got. I am always getting woken up by people yelling and carrying on at random hours and even more random days. Hopefully I woke up one of the people that has woken me up before...that was my logic anyway. I'm sure I just angered random, very polite residents. Sorry Acrotel!
Well that's that. A good holiday season so far. Although I am just about out of Christmas spirit. School was just Christmas craft, stories, movies, songs, everything overload. I love Christmas more than the average person, I think, but I think I'm at the end of my holiday cheer rope. It was also a very DIY Christmas this year and I don't think I have it in me to make another card, craft or ornament. Just can't do it. I'm hoping someone can send me some Valentine cards because I'm not sure I can handle making those either. I don't know if I'll be able to cut paper again for quite some time.
Ok, JAPAN TOMORROW!!! Got some Yen yesterday and I'm super excited because it's really cool looking! Also, one bill s worth like, $12. Trying to convert from Won to Dollars to Yen is going to be interesting, but good thing I have my handy dandy smart phone!
Dream big people!!! And MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!!!
17 December 2012
No Words
There are literally just no words for the horrific shooting that happened in Connecticut Just none. It makes me so damn sad to just think about it and pretty much anytime I see or hear anything about it, I just cry. I can't even imagine what friends and families are going through. Unbelievable.
As a teacher, I can't even comprehend someone coming in and harming my class. I couldn't take it. I also can't comprehend having and/or carrying a gun around with me in the classroom. The chances of something like that happening here are lower, as they have really strict gun control laws and pretty much no one has one. Of course there is violence, but nothing like what happens in the US.
In addition to being sad, I am truly shocked at the hatefulness, tactfulness and disrespect people have when making posts and/or commenting on it. People are disgusting and I am embarrassed for them. I had to defriend a load of people and force myself not to read and/or comment on what people say, on facebook and otherwise. I really don't think comments should be allowed on news stories. People are just awful. I don't really know stats and I don't really have a viable solution and I know I'm sounding naive, but I really really wish people would just BE NICE. And if you can't be nice, at least be respectful and show some tact. For instance, I have a lot to say about this entire situation and the way people have reacted to it, but I really try to avoid internet controversy. So for a positive note, it makes me happy to know there are also decent, amazing, wonderful, kindhearted people out there that would take a bullet to protect others. It hurts my heart to know some of those people are gone and that some of them were my age.
I am trying to just be respectful and sad instead of getting political But, in my opinion, if you think violence is going to be solved with more people having guns and more praying, you need a reality check real quick. That is all.
Wishing there was something more I could do than just hurt for the families, but some hurts can't be fixed.
Dreaming big with a heavy heart. And in the words of one of my favorite people, "Be kind to one another."
As a teacher, I can't even comprehend someone coming in and harming my class. I couldn't take it. I also can't comprehend having and/or carrying a gun around with me in the classroom. The chances of something like that happening here are lower, as they have really strict gun control laws and pretty much no one has one. Of course there is violence, but nothing like what happens in the US.
In addition to being sad, I am truly shocked at the hatefulness, tactfulness and disrespect people have when making posts and/or commenting on it. People are disgusting and I am embarrassed for them. I had to defriend a load of people and force myself not to read and/or comment on what people say, on facebook and otherwise. I really don't think comments should be allowed on news stories. People are just awful. I don't really know stats and I don't really have a viable solution and I know I'm sounding naive, but I really really wish people would just BE NICE. And if you can't be nice, at least be respectful and show some tact. For instance, I have a lot to say about this entire situation and the way people have reacted to it, but I really try to avoid internet controversy. So for a positive note, it makes me happy to know there are also decent, amazing, wonderful, kindhearted people out there that would take a bullet to protect others. It hurts my heart to know some of those people are gone and that some of them were my age.
I am trying to just be respectful and sad instead of getting political But, in my opinion, if you think violence is going to be solved with more people having guns and more praying, you need a reality check real quick. That is all.
Wishing there was something more I could do than just hurt for the families, but some hurts can't be fixed.
Dreaming big with a heavy heart. And in the words of one of my favorite people, "Be kind to one another."
06 December 2012
My So-Called Organized Life
Yall. I have no idea what has come over me this week but I have been crazy productive. I am quite proud of myself.
Today I reorganized my entire desk area, labeled all my materials, graded two books and am about 3 steps away from being finished with the book we have to make to have published. Self high five!
Yesterday, I went to the gym AND actually wen to the grocery store and cooked dinner. Whoa. Today was even crazier. I went to the gym, showered, washed clothes, cleaned my house and restocked all of my bags and purses. Um, what? So I am tad bit on the...weird? side, I guess. I don't what you call it. Either super organized and awesome or just strange. Anyway, I like to have all my bags (bookbags, purses, school bag, etc) stocked with anything I might need in a crisis situation while out on and about. This includes medicine, vitamins, tissues (dry and wet), make up, tweezers, stain remover, a mirror, chapstick, sunscreen, bandaids and hand sanitizer. So now all my bags, including my travel toiletries case, has everything I need. I am pretty much a walking pharmacy. Weird? Don't know, don't care. Of course, the times I need these things are always the times when I decide not to bring my bag with me. Luckily, there is a convenience store literally on every corner and in every subway station here so I can usually get what I need.
Anyway, like I said before, we started doing an Elf on the shelf type thing in my class. First off, my parents totally did that when we were younger so we were way ahead of the game. Second, no one here as heard of it so that's sad. But, this random elf looking thing randomly showed up in our classroom (seriously, I have no idea where it came from), but we named it Patty and she has started leaving notes for us. I don't think the kids completely get it, but they seem to enjoy it. Want to meet her?
That is Patty next to the super awesome Christmas countdown I made, and below are the letters my class wrote to her. Well, the dictated it and I wrote it, just to save time.
Anyway, there is still snow on the ground today which is depressing because it's still hard to walk AND even more depressing, it's supposed to snow more tomorrow. Make it stop!!! Unless they cancel school...in that case, bring it on! But stop on the weekend because I have things to do. Like go buy more winter clothes.
Oh yes, and here is further proof that I do not mess around when it comes to penny pinching:
Gotta save up for some Japanese Yen, yo!
Time to make dinner! Whaaa, I'm on a roll!!!
Dream big people!
Today I reorganized my entire desk area, labeled all my materials, graded two books and am about 3 steps away from being finished with the book we have to make to have published. Self high five!
Yesterday, I went to the gym AND actually wen to the grocery store and cooked dinner. Whoa. Today was even crazier. I went to the gym, showered, washed clothes, cleaned my house and restocked all of my bags and purses. Um, what? So I am tad bit on the...weird? side, I guess. I don't what you call it. Either super organized and awesome or just strange. Anyway, I like to have all my bags (bookbags, purses, school bag, etc) stocked with anything I might need in a crisis situation while out on and about. This includes medicine, vitamins, tissues (dry and wet), make up, tweezers, stain remover, a mirror, chapstick, sunscreen, bandaids and hand sanitizer. So now all my bags, including my travel toiletries case, has everything I need. I am pretty much a walking pharmacy. Weird? Don't know, don't care. Of course, the times I need these things are always the times when I decide not to bring my bag with me. Luckily, there is a convenience store literally on every corner and in every subway station here so I can usually get what I need.
Anyway, like I said before, we started doing an Elf on the shelf type thing in my class. First off, my parents totally did that when we were younger so we were way ahead of the game. Second, no one here as heard of it so that's sad. But, this random elf looking thing randomly showed up in our classroom (seriously, I have no idea where it came from), but we named it Patty and she has started leaving notes for us. I don't think the kids completely get it, but they seem to enjoy it. Want to meet her?
That is Patty next to the super awesome Christmas countdown I made, and below are the letters my class wrote to her. Well, the dictated it and I wrote it, just to save time.
Anyway, there is still snow on the ground today which is depressing because it's still hard to walk AND even more depressing, it's supposed to snow more tomorrow. Make it stop!!! Unless they cancel school...in that case, bring it on! But stop on the weekend because I have things to do. Like go buy more winter clothes.
Oh yes, and here is further proof that I do not mess around when it comes to penny pinching:
Gotta save up for some Japanese Yen, yo!
Time to make dinner! Whaaa, I'm on a roll!!!
Dream big people!
05 December 2012
Video Skills
And this is a video I made on my phone today:
Nevermind it won't load. Just enjoy the other one until I can figure out how to get this one.
All I Want for Christmas....
...are some Christmas Tree Cakes. And actually a million other things, but I am actually pretty good right now. Things are awesome here and life is fantastic.
Oh, except for one tiny thing. And that would be SNOW. UGH, I hate snow! It's not even winter yet! WTF is going on?!! And apparently it's in the 70s at home. Fuuuuck that. It wasn't so bad watching it come down in the classroom...mainly because they kids got super excited about it. But then my coteacher opened the window (because she's crazy pants) and it was ridiculously cold. I also got cold just thinking about my walk home. Luckily it stopped snowing before then, but it was still really slippery. Some parts were pretty, like this lovely tree...
...but I had to concentrate pretty hard on not falling the rest of the way home so I didn't notice much else. I did see one woman in heels, which I thought was hilarious. I was having a hard enough time in boots. They don't have a lot of traction, but I can't imagine heels! She was shuffling a long pretty slow, poor thing. But seriously, why not carry the heels in your bag if it is THAT important to wear them. People are weird.
I also want to invest in a ski mask. How do you keep your face warm without one? I am pretty ill prepared for this weather. I mean, I have some warm clothes now, but not enough. Also, I don't really know how to wear them properly. Actually, the problem is that I'm in denial that I have chosen to live in this freezing ass place, so I delude myself into thinking I don't actually need to put on long johns and 5 shirts. I mean, people don't actually do that, right? I have a hard time accepting it is really cold enough to wear two pairs of pants. It's going to take some getting used to. The worst part is, it has only just begun. Apparently it stays freezing until at least March. Dammmnnnn it.
Other than this weather, things are just dandy. I love Christmas time because I can make tons of crafts with the kids. The options are endless. Today I spent all of afterclub making a gingerbread house. It was out of paper and the goober student made it pink, but whatever. I also started doing and elf on the shelf kind of thing in my class with Patty the Elf. I don't think the kids totally understand what is going on, but it was fun anyway. Friday we are making stockings and next week we're having a Christmas concert. We're singing "Let It Snow," which is a terrible song but all the good ones were taken and we don't have enough time to learn "All I Want for Christmas is You." Sad, but true.
Anyway, that's it for now. Oh yeah, wanted to share this. Penny pinching at it's finest:
My mom would be so proud. But, by saving money on lotion, I can spend my money on some more winter clothes. Or food. Whatever.
Dream big people!
Oh, except for one tiny thing. And that would be SNOW. UGH, I hate snow! It's not even winter yet! WTF is going on?!! And apparently it's in the 70s at home. Fuuuuck that. It wasn't so bad watching it come down in the classroom...mainly because they kids got super excited about it. But then my coteacher opened the window (because she's crazy pants) and it was ridiculously cold. I also got cold just thinking about my walk home. Luckily it stopped snowing before then, but it was still really slippery. Some parts were pretty, like this lovely tree...
...but I had to concentrate pretty hard on not falling the rest of the way home so I didn't notice much else. I did see one woman in heels, which I thought was hilarious. I was having a hard enough time in boots. They don't have a lot of traction, but I can't imagine heels! She was shuffling a long pretty slow, poor thing. But seriously, why not carry the heels in your bag if it is THAT important to wear them. People are weird.
I also want to invest in a ski mask. How do you keep your face warm without one? I am pretty ill prepared for this weather. I mean, I have some warm clothes now, but not enough. Also, I don't really know how to wear them properly. Actually, the problem is that I'm in denial that I have chosen to live in this freezing ass place, so I delude myself into thinking I don't actually need to put on long johns and 5 shirts. I mean, people don't actually do that, right? I have a hard time accepting it is really cold enough to wear two pairs of pants. It's going to take some getting used to. The worst part is, it has only just begun. Apparently it stays freezing until at least March. Dammmnnnn it.
Other than this weather, things are just dandy. I love Christmas time because I can make tons of crafts with the kids. The options are endless. Today I spent all of afterclub making a gingerbread house. It was out of paper and the goober student made it pink, but whatever. I also started doing and elf on the shelf kind of thing in my class with Patty the Elf. I don't think the kids totally understand what is going on, but it was fun anyway. Friday we are making stockings and next week we're having a Christmas concert. We're singing "Let It Snow," which is a terrible song but all the good ones were taken and we don't have enough time to learn "All I Want for Christmas is You." Sad, but true.
Anyway, that's it for now. Oh yeah, wanted to share this. Penny pinching at it's finest:
Dream big people!
02 December 2012
500 posts of nonsense
WOOOO, 500 posts!! Confetti! Sparkles! Balloons! Fireworks!!!
That is what is going off in my head. And, I would put something festive on here, but I am too lazy to figure out how to put in those kind of graphics. So just imagine them with me, if you will.
I also have to apologize because I don't really have anything exciting to post. Things are just trucking along at school. We have been busy busy busy! We've started making Christmas decorations, which makes me super happy. One, I love decorating and two, it gives me easy things to do. Now I don't have to think of tons of projects, I just pick a random Christmas thing and away we go!
I decorated my apartment as well and I am just pleased as punch about it. It took a little hunting to track down everything, but I think I did pretty well.
I also have some lights in my window...I'm the only one in the apartment complex to have lights, which makes me kind of sad. However, you're welcome, Acrotel, for having some Christmas spirit. I'm sure I am bringing joy to everyone that sees them.
Some friends I met during my study abroad in Rome were visiting other friends here this week, so I got to see them, which was a lot of fun. I can't believe the last time I saw them was over 3 years ago! And that we did the study abroad almost 6 years ago! Time is flying by. Even more crazy, my 10 year high school reunion is next year! Insanity! Time really does fly when you're having fun. I think I'll be one of about 3 people that aren't married with kids from my graduating class, but oh well. Maybe I'll take a Korean baby back with me and tell everyone I adopted it with my super hot Korean boyfriend that couldn't make it.
I could take Ray!! Haha, I had another Ray Day today and it was fantastic. I just love that little booger so much! I am so glad I got to see him again. And he is doing very well in his new school, so I am really happy. Apparently he is one of the smartest ones in the class. Hooray for Ray!
The rest of the weekend was spent watching the last two Twilight movies and eating Taco Bell. The movies are a total waste of time, because they are so ridiculous (I hate Bella), but totally necessary. I needed to see the last four to complete the series...I obviously couldn't go on with life without this happening.
Oh, and Thanksgiving came and went. Wasn't as depressing this year, being away from family. I guess it's not as bad when no one is celebrating and you have to go to work. Plus, my school bought us Thanksgiving dinner and all the foreign teachers stayed and ate together. The food came from the army base...the turkey wasn't bad but everything else was not so great. The mashed potatos were nonsense. But, it was super nice of our school to do, and I won't lie, I still ate a whole bunch of food. Stuffed myself like a good American. I also went to a potluck party with friends that was a lot of fun. I made an apple pie and have to say, it was pretty damn good.
Anyway, so that is what's been going on and now I have JAPAN to look forward to! These next few weeks of school are going to fly by, we have soooo much to do! But I am happy because it'll go fast and then it'll be Christmas and I'll be in Japan! Wooohooo! Life is good :)
Sorry this is not more exciting for a 500th post, but maybe when I have some motivation I'll do something cool.
Dream big people!
That is what is going off in my head. And, I would put something festive on here, but I am too lazy to figure out how to put in those kind of graphics. So just imagine them with me, if you will.
I also have to apologize because I don't really have anything exciting to post. Things are just trucking along at school. We have been busy busy busy! We've started making Christmas decorations, which makes me super happy. One, I love decorating and two, it gives me easy things to do. Now I don't have to think of tons of projects, I just pick a random Christmas thing and away we go!
I decorated my apartment as well and I am just pleased as punch about it. It took a little hunting to track down everything, but I think I did pretty well.
I also have some lights in my window...I'm the only one in the apartment complex to have lights, which makes me kind of sad. However, you're welcome, Acrotel, for having some Christmas spirit. I'm sure I am bringing joy to everyone that sees them.
Some friends I met during my study abroad in Rome were visiting other friends here this week, so I got to see them, which was a lot of fun. I can't believe the last time I saw them was over 3 years ago! And that we did the study abroad almost 6 years ago! Time is flying by. Even more crazy, my 10 year high school reunion is next year! Insanity! Time really does fly when you're having fun. I think I'll be one of about 3 people that aren't married with kids from my graduating class, but oh well. Maybe I'll take a Korean baby back with me and tell everyone I adopted it with my super hot Korean boyfriend that couldn't make it.
I could take Ray!! Haha, I had another Ray Day today and it was fantastic. I just love that little booger so much! I am so glad I got to see him again. And he is doing very well in his new school, so I am really happy. Apparently he is one of the smartest ones in the class. Hooray for Ray!
The rest of the weekend was spent watching the last two Twilight movies and eating Taco Bell. The movies are a total waste of time, because they are so ridiculous (I hate Bella), but totally necessary. I needed to see the last four to complete the series...I obviously couldn't go on with life without this happening.
Oh, and Thanksgiving came and went. Wasn't as depressing this year, being away from family. I guess it's not as bad when no one is celebrating and you have to go to work. Plus, my school bought us Thanksgiving dinner and all the foreign teachers stayed and ate together. The food came from the army base...the turkey wasn't bad but everything else was not so great. The mashed potatos were nonsense. But, it was super nice of our school to do, and I won't lie, I still ate a whole bunch of food. Stuffed myself like a good American. I also went to a potluck party with friends that was a lot of fun. I made an apple pie and have to say, it was pretty damn good.
Anyway, so that is what's been going on and now I have JAPAN to look forward to! These next few weeks of school are going to fly by, we have soooo much to do! But I am happy because it'll go fast and then it'll be Christmas and I'll be in Japan! Wooohooo! Life is good :)
Sorry this is not more exciting for a 500th post, but maybe when I have some motivation I'll do something cool.
Dream big people!
19 November 2012
Entertainment These Days
Nothing too exciting going on here lately in the ROK, so I'll just share some random happenings that I find amusing.
First off, I had posted this thing on Pinterest a long time ago about different ways to tie a scarf. I wanted to check it out today since it's cold as shit here now, and I currently only one way to wear a scarf. Anyway, the link was broken so I typed "different ways to tie a scarf" into google, and one from Women's Health magazine came up..."9 Stylish and Easy Ways to Tie a Scarf." It is literally the most useless article I have ever seen. The first option suggested getting a super skinny "scarf" with jewels on it so you look like you have a "rockstar necklace." This was the second option:
Umm, what the hell is going on here? First, who would EVER wear a scarf around their head like that? Second, maybe it's just me, but I want to know ways to wear the scarf around my neck since it is FREEZING outside and that is what scarfs are for...keeping your neck warm. Not your forehead. And last, seriously, wtf is going on with that denim shirt/vest. Heinous.
The third option was to tie it around your wrist. I don't know who is making these articles over at WH, but I think they are confused about what a scarf is. Or maybe it's me. My scarf collection is pretty limited, but no scarf of mine is small enough to be worn around my wrist. The next option was more useful, but the model was wearing a scarf with shorts and a t-shirt. What kind of weather would you wear such an outfit in?
Next was to wrap it around a belt, and after that, "tie a handkerchief around your boot, and voila, a brand-new mood!" Using the term "scarf" pretty loosely, I see. The next was another headwrap situation, telling you to make a casual, headache free headband. Then there was this...
No words for this one. The last one was even worse, something about wrapping two scarves around each other. Seriously, what is going on over at WH? Who thought these were helpful suggestions??
Anyway. That was my Monday night adventure. Very exciting. For some other entertainment, my class told me things they were thankful for today and the list was pretty hilarious. Sausage, koalas, Jesus, flight attendants and eating ham all made it on there. I love this job so much, it's ridiculous. The kids make me laugh so hard. I did paper hand turkeys at the ESL school in LA a few years ago and it was also pretty funny. An ESL Thanksgiving is always a good time.
So that's how I've been entertaining myself lately....scarf tying and 5 year old thankfulness.
Dream big people!
First off, I had posted this thing on Pinterest a long time ago about different ways to tie a scarf. I wanted to check it out today since it's cold as shit here now, and I currently only one way to wear a scarf. Anyway, the link was broken so I typed "different ways to tie a scarf" into google, and one from Women's Health magazine came up..."9 Stylish and Easy Ways to Tie a Scarf." It is literally the most useless article I have ever seen. The first option suggested getting a super skinny "scarf" with jewels on it so you look like you have a "rockstar necklace." This was the second option:
Umm, what the hell is going on here? First, who would EVER wear a scarf around their head like that? Second, maybe it's just me, but I want to know ways to wear the scarf around my neck since it is FREEZING outside and that is what scarfs are for...keeping your neck warm. Not your forehead. And last, seriously, wtf is going on with that denim shirt/vest. Heinous.
The third option was to tie it around your wrist. I don't know who is making these articles over at WH, but I think they are confused about what a scarf is. Or maybe it's me. My scarf collection is pretty limited, but no scarf of mine is small enough to be worn around my wrist. The next option was more useful, but the model was wearing a scarf with shorts and a t-shirt. What kind of weather would you wear such an outfit in?
Next was to wrap it around a belt, and after that, "tie a handkerchief around your boot, and voila, a brand-new mood!" Using the term "scarf" pretty loosely, I see. The next was another headwrap situation, telling you to make a casual, headache free headband. Then there was this...
No words for this one. The last one was even worse, something about wrapping two scarves around each other. Seriously, what is going on over at WH? Who thought these were helpful suggestions??
Anyway. That was my Monday night adventure. Very exciting. For some other entertainment, my class told me things they were thankful for today and the list was pretty hilarious. Sausage, koalas, Jesus, flight attendants and eating ham all made it on there. I love this job so much, it's ridiculous. The kids make me laugh so hard. I did paper hand turkeys at the ESL school in LA a few years ago and it was also pretty funny. An ESL Thanksgiving is always a good time.
So that's how I've been entertaining myself lately....scarf tying and 5 year old thankfulness.
Dream big people!
07 November 2012
Silliniess
People are totally ridiculous. Myself included, but elections really bring out the best kind of ridiculous. Seriously people, do you really think America is "DOOMED" with Obama in office for four more years? Seems a bit much.
Lately, I have tried to keep my mouth shut about political issues. Mainly because, for the most part, I really don't know what is going on. Most things I hear about the election come from fb, SNL or friends. I have other things to worry about. I realize this makes me a pretty terrible American and slightly ignorant, but luckily, I live and work in Korea, and the majority of people I interact with could care less about what is going on in America. Interestingly enough, I've had quite a few non-Americans ask/talk to me about the current election. I find this somewhat surprising since I could not tell you one single fact about Korean, Canadian or really, any other countries elections. This might be another testament to my ignorance, but I like to think it's more of a testament to America's impact around the world. Also, most of my international friends on fb seem pretty pleased about the outcome. I don't think I could even tell you the names of their presidents. :/
I don't have much to say about the results other than my original statement: people are ridiculous. I obviously can't speak for other people, but my life has improved drastically in the last four years. Is that because of Obama? Probably not...I'm just saying the last four years weren't so bad, I doubt he is going to have that much of an impact on my next four.
I realize a lot of people vote against him citing "economic policies," which I literally have no clue about. But I kind of can't get on board with people who put economics above the rights of people. Plus, I don't have enough money to be that concerned about economic policies. Maybe my idealistic views and naivety come from my lack of money, but I really believe there people are the most important part of the country. People need help, people should have the right to make their own decisions about their bodies and people should be able to marry whoever they want. Money comes and goes.
Actually, I guess have a lot to say about things. But, I'll stop. Ok, last thing. A friend posted this: "Republicans lose while many libertarian ballot measures win across the country. Time to drop the hate from your platform or risk extinction. Your move, GOP."
For real. Stop wasting so much time telling other people how to live their life and worry about other issues. Please and thank you.
In other news, I have started making a book for my class (it's a requirement) and I'm actually quite excited about it. The rough draft I've come up with is pretty cute. I am just hoping I can buckle down and do the work it's going to take to make it look great. It's going to take a lot of work but I'm hoping I can get it done.
Also, I decided tonight I don't think I'm ever going to be able to live in something that is bigger than a one room apartment. I feel like all I do is clean and I'm soooo sick of it and my "house" is legitimately the size of my mom's bedroom at home. Maybe smaller. I don't know how people keep normal sized houses and apartments clean. And how do parents do so much laundry? Eesh...a dryer probably makes things easier but doing the laundry of one person is enough to drive me crazy!
Oh! And I started playing squash at the gym. Thanks to years of tennis, I'm not terrible. I impressed many a Korean. I won't lie...I mainly did it to spend more time with the super cute guy that works at the gym. But my plan backfired since it turns out he's not the squash coach. So I guess now I'll just do it for exercise. Which is also good, though, because I freaking hate the gym and want to kill myself on the treadmill. Squash is actually fun and exciting, so I don't hate going as much now. Saying I look forward to going might be a stretch, but I've now gone two days in a row, so I think that's an improvement.
Anyway. Things are still fantastic here. The weather is currently bearable and I'm hoping it stays that way for a while. Oh, and feel free to send any Christmas goodies my way. Being away from family on Christmas is quite sad. Mail would ease my pain.
Dream big people!
Lately, I have tried to keep my mouth shut about political issues. Mainly because, for the most part, I really don't know what is going on. Most things I hear about the election come from fb, SNL or friends. I have other things to worry about. I realize this makes me a pretty terrible American and slightly ignorant, but luckily, I live and work in Korea, and the majority of people I interact with could care less about what is going on in America. Interestingly enough, I've had quite a few non-Americans ask/talk to me about the current election. I find this somewhat surprising since I could not tell you one single fact about Korean, Canadian or really, any other countries elections. This might be another testament to my ignorance, but I like to think it's more of a testament to America's impact around the world. Also, most of my international friends on fb seem pretty pleased about the outcome. I don't think I could even tell you the names of their presidents. :/
I don't have much to say about the results other than my original statement: people are ridiculous. I obviously can't speak for other people, but my life has improved drastically in the last four years. Is that because of Obama? Probably not...I'm just saying the last four years weren't so bad, I doubt he is going to have that much of an impact on my next four.
I realize a lot of people vote against him citing "economic policies," which I literally have no clue about. But I kind of can't get on board with people who put economics above the rights of people. Plus, I don't have enough money to be that concerned about economic policies. Maybe my idealistic views and naivety come from my lack of money, but I really believe there people are the most important part of the country. People need help, people should have the right to make their own decisions about their bodies and people should be able to marry whoever they want. Money comes and goes.
Actually, I guess have a lot to say about things. But, I'll stop. Ok, last thing. A friend posted this: "Republicans lose while many libertarian ballot measures win across the country. Time to drop the hate from your platform or risk extinction. Your move, GOP."
For real. Stop wasting so much time telling other people how to live their life and worry about other issues. Please and thank you.
In other news, I have started making a book for my class (it's a requirement) and I'm actually quite excited about it. The rough draft I've come up with is pretty cute. I am just hoping I can buckle down and do the work it's going to take to make it look great. It's going to take a lot of work but I'm hoping I can get it done.
Also, I decided tonight I don't think I'm ever going to be able to live in something that is bigger than a one room apartment. I feel like all I do is clean and I'm soooo sick of it and my "house" is legitimately the size of my mom's bedroom at home. Maybe smaller. I don't know how people keep normal sized houses and apartments clean. And how do parents do so much laundry? Eesh...a dryer probably makes things easier but doing the laundry of one person is enough to drive me crazy!
Oh! And I started playing squash at the gym. Thanks to years of tennis, I'm not terrible. I impressed many a Korean. I won't lie...I mainly did it to spend more time with the super cute guy that works at the gym. But my plan backfired since it turns out he's not the squash coach. So I guess now I'll just do it for exercise. Which is also good, though, because I freaking hate the gym and want to kill myself on the treadmill. Squash is actually fun and exciting, so I don't hate going as much now. Saying I look forward to going might be a stretch, but I've now gone two days in a row, so I think that's an improvement.
Anyway. Things are still fantastic here. The weather is currently bearable and I'm hoping it stays that way for a while. Oh, and feel free to send any Christmas goodies my way. Being away from family on Christmas is quite sad. Mail would ease my pain.
Dream big people!
05 November 2012
Excited Panda
Another good weekend! Started off a little rocky, but improved 100% when I bought a ticket to JAPAN!!!! Woooooo, that's right! Going back to the motherland for Christmas. So excited, it's going to be fabulous. Plus my friend from LA is going to be there and I am so so excited to see her!!!!
Whoa, let me back up. Haven't posted since Halloween and that was some good times. The party at school was super fun and, of course, the kids were precious in their costumes. All the girls were princesses, except for one, who was a cat. And most of the boys were superheros except for a power ranger, 2 wizards and a knight. There were two Captain Americas but one thought he was Superman so it turned out ok. It was a really exhausting day at school but the kids were really pumped about the my panda costume. "Jacky teacher is panda!" It was pretty funny. My coteacher surprisingly dressed up as well and she was kind of a strange looking pumpkin, that they also enjoyed. We watched the Charlie Brown movie about the Great Pumpkin that day as well. I had never seen it in it's entirety before, and I will be just fine if I never see it again. It was freaking weird! The kids had no idea what was going on but they thought some parts were funny, mainly when Snoopy is dancing around. But then it got weird when he started crying. I don't really know what was going on, but whatever.
Anyway, that night my friends and I all went out in our animal costumes (there was also a giraffe and a lion) and we ran into about 20 other people dressed up in animal costumes, including 2 other pandas. No Koreans were really dressed up, so we got some strange looks on the subway, but we fit right in at the foreigner bar. The panda suit is super warm and I am strongly considering using it as my new winter gear. I don't really like getting stared at, but if it gets cold enough, I don't think I'll care.
This weekend I went to the other big amusement park in Seoul, Lotte World. It was fun, but super crowded....as is everything in Seoul. We only went on a few rides, but the whole day was a lot of fun. It ended with dancing so I was happy. The weather was super nice as well. The next day was not as nice but I finally got to play tennis! I have been looking for a court/partner since I got here and I randomly met one on Halloween. He was actually dressed as a tennis player, so I asked if he knew where we could play. Lucky for me he didn't think I was a crazy person, even as a panda with a tiara on, so we played yesterday. My arm is sore today, but it felt really good to play again. I'm not sure if we'll be able to play much more since it's getting so cold, but I'm hoping to find an indoor court.
Other random stuff going, but I'm super tired so more about that later. Overall, another fantastic weekend. Really looking forward to Japan. I'm also really happy I booked that trip because now it means I won't be totally sad and lonely on Christmas. Being away from family on Christmas is tough stuff so at least this way I'll be with friends, and I'll be surrounded by my people, haha. They probably won't realize it, but I will!
Dream big people!
Whoa, let me back up. Haven't posted since Halloween and that was some good times. The party at school was super fun and, of course, the kids were precious in their costumes. All the girls were princesses, except for one, who was a cat. And most of the boys were superheros except for a power ranger, 2 wizards and a knight. There were two Captain Americas but one thought he was Superman so it turned out ok. It was a really exhausting day at school but the kids were really pumped about the my panda costume. "Jacky teacher is panda!" It was pretty funny. My coteacher surprisingly dressed up as well and she was kind of a strange looking pumpkin, that they also enjoyed. We watched the Charlie Brown movie about the Great Pumpkin that day as well. I had never seen it in it's entirety before, and I will be just fine if I never see it again. It was freaking weird! The kids had no idea what was going on but they thought some parts were funny, mainly when Snoopy is dancing around. But then it got weird when he started crying. I don't really know what was going on, but whatever.
Anyway, that night my friends and I all went out in our animal costumes (there was also a giraffe and a lion) and we ran into about 20 other people dressed up in animal costumes, including 2 other pandas. No Koreans were really dressed up, so we got some strange looks on the subway, but we fit right in at the foreigner bar. The panda suit is super warm and I am strongly considering using it as my new winter gear. I don't really like getting stared at, but if it gets cold enough, I don't think I'll care.
This weekend I went to the other big amusement park in Seoul, Lotte World. It was fun, but super crowded....as is everything in Seoul. We only went on a few rides, but the whole day was a lot of fun. It ended with dancing so I was happy. The weather was super nice as well. The next day was not as nice but I finally got to play tennis! I have been looking for a court/partner since I got here and I randomly met one on Halloween. He was actually dressed as a tennis player, so I asked if he knew where we could play. Lucky for me he didn't think I was a crazy person, even as a panda with a tiara on, so we played yesterday. My arm is sore today, but it felt really good to play again. I'm not sure if we'll be able to play much more since it's getting so cold, but I'm hoping to find an indoor court.
Other random stuff going, but I'm super tired so more about that later. Overall, another fantastic weekend. Really looking forward to Japan. I'm also really happy I booked that trip because now it means I won't be totally sad and lonely on Christmas. Being away from family on Christmas is tough stuff so at least this way I'll be with friends, and I'll be surrounded by my people, haha. They probably won't realize it, but I will!
Dream big people!
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