lAND oF tHE sHORT pEOPLE

2007-01-31T12:31:00.000+09:00

New pictures of Lady Freckle after she was groomed. Isn't she beautiful???

2007-01-31T12:29:00.000+09:00

New pictures of Lady. She is nice and groomed. Don't you think? She looks younger.

Life in Texas....with new friends

2007-01-27T14:50:00.000+09:00

So, I have been back in Texas for one month. Life has been rather busy and eventful. I moved into an apartment. Ok, i am living with my mom, but it has been cool. I finally started working. I have worked for the past week. I am the "permanent substitute" at a local high school. Basically, I fill in wherever they couldn't get a substitute. I have been doing odd jobs, from attendance to secretary to English to Math to computer to study hall. I personally enjoyed study hall. I had that today.

Well, one of the things I really wanted when I came back to america was a dog. I got one yesterday. Her story is rather sad. She was a stray, found by a friend at his mechanic shop. (She was just hanging out b/t the fence and the railroad.) So, he took her home last Tuesday. I found out about her on Wednesday. On Thursday, we took her to the feed store to get her shots and run some tests. The vet looked at her and guessed that she was about 5 years old. Later, she looked at her some more and said that she was probably a breeder b/c she is a good cocker spaniel. The vet guessed that "Lady Freckle" was at a puppy mill and when she couldn't have puppies anymore, she was let go. Obviously, she has had a hard life. SHe really wants attention, and is jealous when someone else gets my attention. She is really scared, but I think she is getting more comfortable. We are learning to communicate with each other. Last night, she insisted on sleeping right in front of my bed, so I put an old pillow down for her to sleep on. I will take her to get groomed on Sunday. Her fur is really matted. It is depressing to see a cocker spaniel look like she does. i think when she is cleaned up, she will be really beautiful. Here are some pictures of her....:D

Is this really me???

2007-01-12T17:05:00.000+09:00

Your Type is
ISFP

Introverted	Sensing	Feeling	Perceiving
Strength of the preferences %
22	25	50	33

ISFP type description by D.Keirsey
ISFP type description by J. Butt

Qualitative analysis of your type formula
You are:

slightly expressed introvert
moderately expressed sensing personality
moderately expressed feeling personality
moderately expressed perceiving personality

A moment of peace and quiet....and a cup of coffee

2006-10-06T20:09:00.000+09:00

Well, today is Chusuk. Lots of families are gone from my apartment building, so at least it is a little quiet here. The only thing missing today was a cup of coffee, and Starbucks is open today!!! So, I decided to venture out into the real world. (Of course Heather came over first....but she was only around for a short bit......but a nice time.....) Well, I got to Starbucks this holiday evening, and it was crowded. I thought to myself, shouldn't these people be with their families? Well, I got my coffee to go, and came home.....back to the real peace and quiet. I guess some days you just need to be a homebody. I am a homebody and proud of it.

Life after surgery in Korea

2006-10-01T19:27:00.000+09:00

Well, after five years of living in Korea, it is hard to find new things to do, but I did. I have now stayed over night in a Korean hospital. This past week, I had surgery. Shocking, I know. After tons of money and many doctor visits, I finally found out what was wrong with me...causing me severe stomach aches and stuff. I had gallstones. Well, apparently they were getting worse, so my dr. recommended that I see a specialist at the local hospital. They recommended surgery. So, last Wednesday, I had surgery. I stayed in the hospital from Tuesday night to Thursday afternoon. For the past 2 days, I have stayed home and rested. Today, I feel so much better. I don't have to work this week, so I think that I will be nice and strong when I return to work a week later. Well...that is all for my update......til next time!!!

short hair

2006-09-10T22:00:00.000+09:00

here is me with short hair.....

Life

2006-09-09T14:05:00.000+09:00

It is hard to believe that it is already September. Wow...has the year flown by. I have made lots of changes this year....some for the better I think. I have less than four months remaining in Korea. I really do not know what the future holds, but I am ready for a change. It will be sort of challenging returning to the States, but I am looking forward to being back in the familiarity of life. I am hoping that moving to the States will help me become healthier. I don't know if it is Korea or if it is just getting older, but I have faced more health related issues recently. I am just thankful that the Drs. finally discovered what is wrong with me.

Well....it is 2 in the afternoon, so I think it is nap time now.

I'm leaving on a jet plain.....

2006-07-31T08:12:00.000+09:00

Well, in less than an hour, I will be headed to the airport to get on another plane to head across the Pacific Ocean to reach my destination. (I just wanted to see how many times I could write "to" and get away with it....maybe I crossed my limits.) As I have said many times, I am looking forward to my time away from Korea. I hope that all goes well at the airport and that my bags are not too heavy. I will write a little about my trip when I am home......ta ta for now.

What city am I? I wish I was San Francisco....but....

2006-07-30T18:46:00.000+09:00

You Are Austin

A little bit country, a little bit rock and roll.
You're totally weird and very proud of it.
Artistic and freaky, you still seem to fit in... in your own strange way.

Famous Austin residents: Lance Armstrong, Sandra Bullock, Andy Roddick

What American City Are You?

another test

2006-07-30T18:38:00.000+09:00

You Communicate With Your Ears

You love conversations, both as a listener and a talker.
What people say is important to you, and you're often most affected by words, not actions.
You love to hear complements from others. And when you're upset, you often talk to yourself.
Music is very important to you. It's difficult to find you without your iPod.

How Do You Communicate?

my drink name

2006-07-30T13:57:00.000+09:00

You Are A Martini

You are the kind of drinker who appreciates a nice hard drink.
And for you, only quality alcohol. You don't waste your time on the cheap stuff.
Obviously, you're usually found with a martini in your hand. But sometimes you mix it up with a gin and tonic.
And you'd never, ever consider one of those flavored martinis. They're hardly a drink!

What Alcoholic Drink Are You?

how deep

2006-07-30T13:08:00.000+09:00

Your Personality Profile

You are dependable, popular, and observant.
Deep and thoughtful, you are prone to moodiness.
In fact, your emotions tend to influence everything you do.

You are unique, creative, and expressive.
You don't mind waving your freak flag every once and a while.
And lucky for you, most people find your weird ways charming!

The World's Shortest Personality Test

I'm boyish.....well...i knew that i wasn't a typical girl

2006-07-30T00:32:00.000+09:00

You Are 60% Boyish and 40% Girlish

You are pretty evenly split down the middle - a total eunuch.
Okay, kidding about the eunuch part. But you do get along with both sexes.
You reject traditional gender roles. However, you don't actively fight them.
You're just you. You don't try to be what people expect you to be.

How Boyish or Girlish Are You?

English language

2006-07-30T00:12:00.000+09:00

Your Linguistic Profile:

45% General American English

25% Yankee

20% Dixie

5% Midwestern

0% Upper Midwestern

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

Am I really Storm....she is my favorite

2006-07-30T00:07:00.000+09:00

You Are Storm

Exotic and powerful, Storm descended from a line of African priestesses.
Emotions can effect your powers, but you are generally serene.

Powers: controlling weather, creating winds that lift you into flight, generating lightning

Which of the X-Men Are You?

am i normal?

2006-07-30T00:03:00.000+09:00

You Are 55% Normal

While some of your behavior is quite normal...
Other things you do are downright strange
You've got a little of your freak going on
But you mostly keep your weirdness to yourself

How Normal Are You?

Personality

2006-07-29T23:56:00.000+09:00

You Are An INFP

The Idealist

You are creative with a great imagination, living in your own inner world.
Open minded and accepting, you strive for harmony in your important relationships.
It takes a long time for people to get to know you. You are hesitant to let people get close.
But once you care for someone, you do everything you can to help them grow and develop.

You would make an excellent writer, psychologist, or artist.

What's Your Personality Type?

2006-07-29T19:40:00.000+09:00

And it keeps getting shorter and shorter. I decided that I wanted it very short, and now it is very short. It was short before I got it cut, but now she cut off another inch at least.

I was a little shocked at the hair salon. When I first came to Korea, almost five years ago, a hair cut cost about $12 (and you don't have to tip!) Today, five years later, it costs $20!!! I was so shocked at how much the prices have gone up.

For the past few days, I have gone through a Friends episodes over and over. I am over halfway through season 2. The other day we watched season 5.

I think that I am avoiding the packing thing. I really need to pack......but I have been finding tons of things to do instead.

continued allergies

2006-07-26T18:11:00.000+09:00

Well....my allergies are still bad. I am a mess.....too much sneezing and itchy eyes. I think it is going to be just as bad in Texas. Oh well.....such is life. I am living on Benadryl these days....but it is making me sleep too much.

Two more days of camp!!! YEAH!!!!!!!! I am ready to go to America. I think that is a common theme in my posts these days.

Allergies

2006-07-24T17:32:00.000+09:00

Well....my pink eye is now just another allergy. I figured that it must be allergy related with all the sneezing I am doing these days. I am so ready to go to the US. One week and I will be on an airplane. I think that it will be really hard to return to Korea after three weeks. I can do it. It is only four more months. Hopefully they will go fast.

English camp is going well. Today, I took my students to the computer lab. We researched about dinosaurs in English. I think that they enjoyed it. I think that is going to be what I miss most about Korea. My students. I really enjoy my students.....for the most part. *sigh*

My Real Age

2006-07-16T00:06:00.000+09:00

So, I took this test a few days ago to find out my Real Age. Apparantly, with all my aches and pains, I am younger than my actual age. My actual age is 29.4, but my "real age" is 27.6! Shocking, I know. If you are interested in taking the test, go to www.realage.com . After taking the test, it gives you information on health and how to maintain a healthy life style.

well...tata. still itchy with pink eye here......

My inner dragon?

2006-07-15T18:19:00.000+09:00

I saw on my friend's blog that she took a inner dragon test. It sounded interesting, so I gave it a shot. Here are my results. You can try it if you want....

http://dragonhame.com/
and your inner dragon is a ....

Mist Dragon

In the war between good and evil, a Mist Dragon tends to walk the fine line of Neutrality.
When it comes to the powers of Chaos vs. those of Law and Order, your inner dragon walks a fine line between Law and Chaos.
As far as magical tendancies, Your inner dragon has the ability to conquer the world of magic, but it will not be easy.
During combat situations, a true Mist Dragon prefers to defeat opponents by the use of spells and other tactics.

Dragon Description:

The Mist Dragon is a highly magical being. It makes it's home in moist areas, but seems to have the ability to appear in any fog or mist in any climate. It is unclear as to whether these dragons follow mist, or mist follows these dragons.

The Mist Dragon is a grayish blue in color, and floats freely in air as though it were mist itself. The Mist Dragon never leaves tracks or traces of it's passing. These dragons move very gracefully and swiftly through their element.

Mist Dragons are very free in nature and seem to be very unpredictable personalities. They are outspoken, and often are harbingers of great changes or happenings.

This Dragons favorite elements are: Willow Trees and Blue Agate.

Pink Eye

2006-07-15T17:50:00.000+09:00

So.....I was sitting in my apartment last night, and suddenly my left eye got all red and watery. I thought I was overcome with allergies. I couldn't help but scratch it.....I know that was not wise. It got really puffy.

Well, I went to the eye dr. today. I have pink eye. He didn't know that term, so he gave me the scientific term. Apparantly, it is going around these days. I have never had pink eye before......I really need to leave Korea soon.

Long time

2006-07-15T17:36:00.000+09:00

So, it has been a while since my last post. What is new. I have been sick for the past few weeks. I went to Japan at the beginning of this month. Well, after my first day of being there, I got sick. I couldn't keep any food down. As I flew back, I felt so awful. No food and little liquids for three days! The first thing I did when I returned to Korea was go straight to the Dr. I was rather dehydrated. For the following two days, I had to continue to go to the Dr. Slowly I regained my strength. I think Korea and stress has really messed up my digestion. I can't wait to return to the States. How many more months? Not too many I hope.

Chinese Zodiac Sign

2006-06-07T13:10:00.000+09:00

THE SNAKE
Snakes are romantic and charming. They are deep thinkers and always mysterious. Snakes are graceful and soft spoken. They love a good book and appreciate all of the arts. They lean towards all of the finer things in life. Snakes trust themselves above all others and are seldom wrong; but behind a sophisticated front,Snakes are very superstitious!
Snakes are good with money and don't have to worry about finances. Somehow, when money is needed, it appears. In spite of their good luck with money, Snakes should never gamble. They could suffer big losses if they did, but Snakes learn fast. Once they have made a mistake,they never repeat it. They also never forgive you if you break a promise. By nature they are skeptical beings but keep their suspicions to themselves. They are very private and not concerned with the business of others. Idle gossip is not for them.
Snakes can be possessive in their relationships with others.They are passionate but jealous lovers. You can never tell how far Snakes will go to achieve their aims. They are relentless and their computer-like brains never stop plotting.When you anger them, you feel their icy hostility instead of hearing any sharp words. They will bide their time for revenge, so watch out! Snakes are elegant dressers, well-mannered, and always discrete. They always appear quiet and docile, but watch out, they never betray their true feelings. Their moves are planned out well in advance and they will hold their position to the bitter end. They can be evasive, and just when you think you have them, they slip away.
Snakes make good politicians since they can negotiate just about anything. Snakes also have a great sense of humor, and even in a crisis situation, they can lighten the atmosphere. They never lose their spark even when weighed down by trouble themselves. Being pillars of strength,they always maintain their presence of mind during confusion or crisis.
Snakes have beautiful skin. They possess a cool and classic air about them. They love expensive things,too. Snakes save for the real thing rather than buy an imitation. Snakes admire power and surround themselves with successful people. Their many talents and natural abilities make them sought-after as leaders. People admire and support Snakes even if they don't understand them.
Whatever happens, Snakes always strike out for themselves. They know how to use people and situations to their advantage. They are destined for fame and fortune.

Evolution of Dance

2006-06-07T09:57:00.000+09:00

If you want a laugh, check out this web site. It is funny.....enjoy. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMH0bHeiRNg&feature=Favorites&page=1&t=t&f=b

Bum's

2006-06-05T21:46:00.000+09:00

Here is a picture of my co-worker Linda and me next to the sign for Dr. Bum's eye clinic. Just where I want to go...hehehehehe.....

I don't have to work tomorrow. Watch out Korea. Here I come.

Braids pictures.....

2006-05-31T00:03:00.000+09:00

Here is a side view of my controversial braids. I think they look fine.....Are they really influential in a negative way?

So, I have a little white in my hair. What is the difference between this and ribbon or a bow? I think Koreans, or maybe just my school, is a afraid of something different. Maybe that is the issue here. Just a thought.

So, here is a view of the back. What do you think of them? I really like the braids. I am sad that I had to take them out. But, I guess it is only hair. I shouldn't make a big deal over hair....There are more important matters to dwell over. I am still frustrated.

braids 2

2006-05-29T09:51:00.000+09:00

Ok.....I feel guilty for being angry. I must keep reminding myself that this is not America where you have freedom of expression. To make a long story short, I think it is best if I remove my braids. Threatening to quit is not good......I really don't want to leave just yet. But, it sure makes my desire to leave Korea stronger. What if I left at semester? Now, that is a thought. No, I can make it to the end of the year. I am strong.

*****sigh*****

Braids

2006-05-29T08:44:00.000+09:00

So, I got some braids yesterday. I think they look good.....they are scattered throughout my hair. They wove white synthetic hair throughout.

Well, I was a little nervous about what my school would say. I was right. The school did not like it. They told me to take them out. I said that I would not take them out. Ok, I was a little angry. We will see what happens as the day progresses.

Why can't I just express myself? They don't look bad....

hair

2006-05-26T21:05:00.000+09:00

For those who know me, they know that I constantly like to change my hair. Well, it is that time again. However, I don't know what I want to do this time. I am planning on going tomorrow and getting it done. We shall see....I am thinking about getting some small braids. I thought about getting some extensions, but I decided against that.

This semester has been so busy, that I haven't had much time to blog or anything like that. I hope that soon my schedule begins to lighten.....

I am looking forward to a short trip home in about two months. Before that, I am planning on spending a weekend in Japan. That will be fun.....

well.....ta ta for now

Shakespeare's Insults

2006-05-02T10:42:00.000+09:00

Revenge! About! Seek! Burn! Fire! Kill! Slay! Let not a traitor live!
Julius Caesar: 3.2.204-205

Another Shakespeare's Insult

2006-04-24T08:37:00.000+09:00

Have you not a moist eye? A dry hand?
A yellow cheek? A white beard?
A decreasing leg? An increasing belly?
Is not your voice broken?
Your wind short? Your chin double?
Your wit single? And every part of you blasted with antiquity?

--The Second part of King Henry the Fourth: 1.2.171-175

Shakespeare's Insults

2006-04-17T08:36:00.000+09:00

A gentleman...that loves to hear himself talk, and will speak more in a minute than he will stand in a month.

--Romeo and Juliet: 2.4.139-140

Bogged Down

2006-04-04T08:34:00.000+09:00

OK, I know. It has been way too long since I last posted a message. Work has been really stressful this past month. I don't see it letting up any time soon either. I get cuaght up, only to fall behind again. I clear off my desk, only to find it full of more work to do. The best part of my job is the students, yet at times, they can wear me out.

I am still getting actupuncture done. (Two times a week.) I am feeling much healthier these days. I am trying to avoid medincine....which has been hard when I have had a head ache.

I have more to share, but I will share it at a later date.....I can't shock my readers too much in one sitting!

Chinese Medicine

2006-02-20T21:24:00.000+09:00

Last week, one of my roommates left to go back to the States. On her last night in Korea, we decided to go to a "Chinese" doctor (who is actually Korean). I went for my stomach problems, and she went for her sore back. So, we go in and she pokes at us and asks us questions. Then, she recommends acupuncture. (This is my second time to do it.....I never thought I would do it again, but I did.) We are put in two beds, next to each other, but we have a curtain closing us off from others. So, I am lying in my bed....quiet as can be, and I hear noises from the next bed. Christa, my roommate, is making all kinds of noises and comments. It was rather funny. After some treatments, the Dr. comes by and puts the acupuncture needles in. (She puts them in my back, neck and the back of my head. Scary!) All of a sudden, my friend asked me if I needed a picture of this. I laughed and said of course. Fortunately for her, she left the following day. Unfortunately for me, I have been back several times and still have to go back for more acupuncture. Lucky me.....

Dream Interpretations

2006-02-09T22:00:00.000+09:00

I had a dream the another night about my roommate. In my dream, I dreamt that I was buying a turtle, and she was helping me. She told me what I needed to care for my turtle; however, my blue turtle was not the nicest turtle. It had a tendency to bite.

So, tonight I told my roommate about my dream. She said that according to Korean tradition, dreaming about turtles means several different things, including luck. She said that since it was biting, there is a chance that someone in my family or a close friend will have a baby. So, I am wondering which of my friends is due to have a baby? I am pretty sure that it is not my sister or sister-in-law, so it must be a friend. Anyone want to clue me in.

It is also said that Koreans sometimes joke about "buying" good dreams, so if you want to buy my dream let me know and we can negotiate a good price.

ER in Korea

2006-02-05T16:57:00.000+09:00

In my four years of living in Korea, I have seen and experienced many things. However, Friday night was a new experience for me. I spent the night in the emergency room. I am not sure if you are familiar with Korean hospitals, but the main difference I found was the nurses. In the States, the nurse cares for the patient, but that is not true of Korean hospitals. Family members and friends are encouraged to stay at the hospital in order to care for the patients. So, my roommate had the honor of accompanying me to the ER. The hospital shirt buttons in the front, and tends to gape, if you are not sitting in the best position. The beds are rather narrow, and uncomfortable. Luckily, the ER was not too crowded; however, it wasn't fast either. I arrived at the hospital around 11 pm. I didn't go home until about 5 am. They ran several tests, but it wasn't anything serious. However, I must return to the doctor tomorrow, Monday. Doctors are notorious for prescribing only 3 days of medicine, asking you to return again for another prescription. I am not looking forward to getting into the rut of going to the doctor every three days. Furthermore, I am not a fan of taking 5 different pills that I don't know what they do. *sigh*

Here's to health.

Renovation

2006-02-02T20:51:00.000+09:00

We started back to work on Wednesday. Of course, I was not ready to go back to work. Who would be after 5 weeks of vacation (of course I worked for 2 weeks during this break, but whose counting?). On Wednesday, our new director decided to make change known, so we changed the desks in our office. It is rumored that these desks have not been moved for the past 10 years, so it wasn't too surprising to see the dirt and filth found under the desks. We removed two of the desks to another part of the office, for work space. We then positioned two desks (that were near the wall/windows) so that they were facing each other. Now we have 3 desks facing another three desks. We then took the other desk that was facing the window and turned it so that it would be next to the two desks that were facing the wall. So, we now have three rows of three desks. It is different. I am positioned next to my teaching partner, so this will help communication.

A Bit of Culture

2006-02-01T21:57:00.000+09:00

So, I thought that I would add a bit of culture to my life this week. I attended a musical/opera on Monday night. This musical/opera was in French. On the side, they had screens with Korean subtitles....since my reading of Korean is rather limited and I don't speak French, I didn't really understand much. The name of the musical/opera is the Hunchback of Notre Dam. Unfortunately, I am only familiar with the Disney version of this story....it is on my books to read soon. So, basically I understood that all the characters were in love with Esmeralda, but she was in love with Phoebus who was in love with another woman. I will not give the ending away, for those who wish to see it.

I was rather amazed with the dancing. I didn't realize that one's body could bend into those positions. Several of the male dancers are skilled in gymnastics b/c they were doing flips on the stage. Impressive.

English Camp

2006-01-21T20:09:00.000+09:00

Well, it has been a while. I know....I will try to do better......I guess I have lost my groove for writing.

From January 2-15, I took part in an English camp.....Wow! Surpisingly, I survived....The day started at 9:15 in the morning.....and activities took place until about 10 at night. It was a long day, but I enjoyed the hour and a half lunch and dinner. I also looked forward to hip hop class because this gave me time to prepare for my classes. I am not sure if my students learned anything or not.....They were rather low. But, we had fun. The hardest part of the camp was the fights between students and the smell of my 11 boys who liked to take off their shoes. I had 11 boys and 1 girl.....This made life rather exciting, hence the fighting.

We sang verse one of Under the Sea for our performance. If I hear that song again, it will be too soon.

At school, I was promoted to 3rd and 4th grade. I will be teaching both grades this year. I will definitely let you know how that goes.....Maybe it will be more exciting then 2nd grade.

tata for now.....

Korean Drum

2005-11-30T07:56:00.000+09:00

Last week, we celebrated Thanksgiving week. On Friday, we had a special service. Believe it or not, I was part of the team. A couple of us Westerners played the traditional Korean drum for the service. I am including some of the pictures from the service. It was a rather fun experience. I am by no means and expert, with only two weeks of practice, but it sounded rather good.

Here are the pictures!

School gets ATM

2005-11-17T08:48:00.000+09:00

As I walked into school this morning, I didn't notice the change that occured in our school lobby (aka robby). However, I shortly heard this rumor that there is an ATM in the school lobby/robby. The convenience of an ATM, associated with our bank, at my work place is great. We are excited, especially with pay day right around the corner. Apparantly, it takes a lot to get an ATM. Something about needing lots of people going in and out of the building. But, I don't think there will be a problem with all the teachers using this bank, plus all the parents! Furthermore, there is the church crowd on Sundays as well. In Korea, most churches have ATMs in the lobby/robby.

Ok, so I should explain why I am using the word robby. It is kind of a joke here in the English office. It really isn't very nice....and I should be nice, but it is kind of funny. Many Koreans, Asians for that matter, have difficulty differenicating between "l" and "r", so lobby comes out sounding like robby.

I will try to do better and write more often. I have been busy here....and my computer was gone for a few days. I now have a computer in English. For some reason, though, Blogger still comes out in Korean. I can't understand half of the menu options, so I am constantly just pressing buttons.

That's Life...

2005-10-27T15:33:00.000+09:00

I haven't really written much about my students. Sometimes they say the cutest things, and I forget to write about it. Well, not today. I am going to write this before I forget about it.

In my advanced English class, we are reading the Magic Tree House series. Right now, we are reading Number 13, Vacation Under the Volcano. In the book, it says "'This must be the dining room,' said Jack. 'People from Roman times lay down on couches while they ate. Did you know that?'" My student commented to this by saying, "That's life", crouching down in his chair. It was so cute and well put. He then said "TVand eating, that's life." It was great. I don't think any of my other students caught what he said, but we enjoyed it in the English office.

Well, I am playing the guitar for my students on Monday and Tuesday. I am kind of nervous, since I haven't played the guitar for almost 2 years. My fingers are sore from practicing.

That's Life!

Differerence between Baptist and Catholic

2005-10-20T13:31:00.000+09:00

A little boy was walking down a dirt road after church one Sunday afternoon when he came to a crossroads where he met a little girl coming from the other direction. "Hello," said the little boy. "Hi," replied the little girl. "Where are you going?" asked the little boy. "I've been to church this morning and I'm on my way home," answered the little girl. "Me too," replied the little boy. "I'm also on my way home from church." "Which church do you go to?" asked the little boy. "I go to the Baptist church back down the road," replied the little girl. "What about you?" "I go to the Catholic church back at the top of the hill," replied the little boy. They discovered that they were both going the same way so they decided that they'd walk together. They came to a low spot in the road where spring rains had partially flooded the road so there was no way that they could get across to the other side without getting wet. "If I get my new Sunday dress wet my Mom's going to skin me alive," said the little girl. "My Mom'll tan my hide too if I get my new Sunday suit wet," replied the little boy. "I tell you what I think I'll do," said the little girl. "I'm gonna pull off all my clothes and hold them over my head and wadeacross." "That's a good idea," replied the little boy. "I'm going to do the same thing with my suit." So they both undressed and waded across to the other side without getting their clothes wet. They were standing there in the sun waiting to drip dry before putting their clothes back on when the little boy finally remarked, "You know, I never did realize before just how much difference there really is between a Baptist and a Catholic."

link

2005-09-07T13:45:00.000+09:00

My friend sent me this interesting link. The song changed my life.....enjoy!
http://www.milkandcookies.com/links/7452

Bus in Korea

2005-09-01T16:50:00.000+09:00

Funny Feeling on the bus.....I was standing on the bus with two Canadians, me in the middle. Suddenly I looked up and noticed that I was rather short next to them. My head barely touched the bottom of the hand bar hanging down from the top of the bus, that you hold onto while the bus is racing to it's next destination. My friends towered over me, making fun of my shortness. I confirmed in my heart that I do have the right name for my blog.

Korea

2005-09-01T15:20:00.000+09:00

Life has been rather busy here in Korea. Upon arriving back in Korea, I have been busy working and traveling. My first weekend back in Korea I traveled down to the Southern tip of Korea to Pusan. My roommate and I spent most of our time at the beach. This is the less crowded beach. According to the guide book, it is the serene beach.

Here is a picture of my roommate and I wearing our "Chusok" hats. We were trying to protect our heads from the delicate sun. We might of got a few stares for wearing these hats in public, but who knows.

We decided to continue my dream to become an artist, so we bought sketch books and began sketching pictures of our trip. This is a picture of me sitting on the rocks, sketching the ocean and boats on the horizon.

Last weekend, we continued with the theme of traveling and went to Kyung-ju. However, I did not have time to enhance my art skills. I went with my co-workers and we joined with another school.

Now my days are filled with work. Starting next week, I will be taking an art class. This class is for sketching and water coloring. I am a little nervous because I know that my skill is really low and that I will be the only foreigner in my class, so I have a language barrier. Maybe now I will understand how my friends felt when they studied in a second language. I know that this will be a challenge, but I am looking forward to it. Maybe I will include some pictures of my art work on my blog. I am thinking about taking a dance class. I am not sure what is wrong with me. I think that I am realizing that I will be turning 30 soon, so I need to do some things before then. The past few years I have been lazy. I haven't really dabbled into anything exciting for a while. I took guitar lessons when I first arrived in Korea. Maybe I should start again. That is a thought....maybe later. I will wait until after I checked out about the dance classes.

Road Trip

2005-08-18T08:46:00.000+09:00

A couple of weeks ago, a friend of mine decided to take a short adventure down to the capital of Texas. We were sure of our way to Austin, just not when we got there. Driving up and down the streets of Austin, we find a parking place somewhat near the capital building. After searching for something to eat, we walk up and down the street looking at the interesting signs.

Then we headed to the capital building. This was my first time to go to the capital building. Texas, the proud place that it is, has Texas written in the most interesting places. The door henges have Texas written on them. The light fixtures have either Texas or are in the shape of a star.

After looking at the capital building, we attempt to water color the capital. My friends, the lighter of the two turned out rather well. Mine, the darker one, looks like this mosque in Pakistan.

I decided that I need more classes, so I will work on that.

We also went to the Alamo. Later I will share pictures of the Alamo and my attempt at watercoloring it. I had several complements from children and a few "what's that?" I felt like the artist as I sat there. It was rather fun.

Now I am back in Korea. It is good being back. Today is my first official day back to work. The past few days I played, put pictures on my computer, etc. I will aslo share pictures of my trip to Pusan, Korea.

Well.....back to work.

Texas

2005-08-05T07:33:00.000+09:00

no no no no, I am still here. For the past few weeks, I have been away from my computer, so I haven't had a chance to post or anything. It has been rather nice to not be attached to the computer all the time. I have enjoyed some freedom. Life is nice back here, but I am about ready to go back to Korea. That is hard to believe.

Right now, I am downloading music to my I-river juke box. (similar to an I-pod....) About to go and watch X-Files. I miss X-Files. oh, the good old days.

School's out for the Summer

2005-07-17T22:54:00.000+09:00

School's out for the Summer! Yeah.....school is finally out. Now it is time to relax and play.....but I am busy. I have 4 days til I go to America. Tomorrow, I am going on a day trip with some of my students. I think that this will be fun. I am not sure what I will do on Tuesday and Wednesday. I guess I will run some errands. Well, I am off to bed....good night.

Red Eye

2005-07-12T09:05:00.000+09:00

I am sick. My throat hurts, I have a runny nose, I am dehydrated, and my eye is red. I might of had a little fever as well.

So, I went to the dr. yesterday. A good way to get drugged here in Korea. I am now taking four or five pills, some cough syrup and some eye drops. Someone asked me if I drank too much and that is why my eye is red. I said, NO. In my professional opinion, the red eye is because of allergies. The good thing was that I could go home early and sleep. I think that is the best medicince. Sleep. That is what I needed.

It is supposed to be getting hot here. Hot and humid. Just 9 more days and I am back in America. Not sure which is worse. Texas or Korea. Yuck!

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

2005-07-07T13:13:00.000+09:00

So, is Willy Wonka's character, played by Johnny Depp, based on Michael Jackson? In an article, the question was raised: "Don't have the stomach for Michael Jackson and the Chocolate Factory?" The best line in the article, according to my friend, is: "Wrong or no, the suspicions abound. At that press conference, Lee says the Jackson question came up "a lot."
Lee, for one, is more willing to give the benefit of the doubt to the filmmakers, perhaps because he's seen the movie in its entirety. 'The nature of the character Willy Wonka is not Michael Jackson,' he says. 'Willy Wonka hates children--that there sets him apart from Michael Jackson.'" The article is from Jacko and the "Chocolate Factory" by Joal Ryan found at http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=794&e=2&u=/eo/20050707/en_movies_eo/16884 .

Korean Movies

2005-07-07T12:35:00.000+09:00

So I watched two Korean movies last night. The first one was rather cheesy. It is called MY BOYFRIEND’S TYPE B. It is about a girl who meets this guy with blood type of B. According to the movie, and many Koreans, blood type is a great indicator of personality. Type B guys are supposedly the self absorbed, selfish types. I thought the guy was a big jerk and that she was stupid to go out with him in the first place. The best part of the movie was the sister who sabotaged her to keep her from seeing the guy. The second movie I saw was called Malaton (marathon). It is a bout a boy who is autistic. It deals with the struggles the mom faced in raising an autistic boy. This true story shows how Chon-won develops a passion for running. This movie, unlike the first movie we watched, was touching. I liked it much better.

Bennegins

2005-07-06T09:51:00.000+09:00

I went to Bennegins last night with my friend, and all the servers were strange, especially our waitress. Usually when we go, they are friendly, but they don't say too much to us. They just go about their business. However, our last waitress was different. We were friendly to her. Maybe that was our problem. So, she took her time to explain the process of being at Bennegins, for example "And now I am going to go and prepare your bread for you." I think we were wanting to go and spend some time alone, without being bothered that we were surprised by the over-friendliness of our waitress. All was good. It was the best burger I have had at Bennegins since coming to Korea. We did have a little confusion with our waitress. I was trying to explain to her what we wanted in my broken Korean and she was trying to converse with us in her broken English. Luckily, we were able to communicate and we got what we wanted.

15 days and I am home in America!

link

2005-07-05T12:59:00.000+09:00

ok, so you might of seen this on the Today show or something, but I thought it was funny. Here is a link. Have your earphones or speakers ready becasue without the music, it is rather boring.
http://www.jeffiscool.com/numanuma.html

Bye-Bye Party

2005-06-28T15:53:00.000+09:00

So we said good-bye to two of our teachers last night. We went to a nice restraunt and ate way too much meat, but it was good. It is hard to believe that another year has passed and two more people are leaving. It is really strange for me, since I have seen them both come and leave. I am really thankful for what they both brought to the office, and I look forward to seeing what happens to them next.

This is a picture of us at the restraunt, after stuffing ourselves to the gills.

Rugby

2005-06-25T20:33:00.000+09:00

Well, I saw my first official Ruby game today. Too bad it was on TV, but it was still exciting to watch. This sport is quite different from any other sport I have seen. Unlike American Football, the clock keeps running when the ball touches the ground. The players are not weighed down with padding, so I can only imagine the bruises they walk away with. However, there was only one or two injuries during the match. We watched the first of three games between the New Zealand All Blacks and the British Iris Lions. The score was All Blacks 21 - Lions 3. Part of me wanted to cheer for the Lions since they were playing so poorly, but the other part of me wanted to cheer for the All Blacks, since they had the cuter players. I think I want to see the game next week as well.

I think I prefer this sport to American football any day.

Travel Agents

2005-06-21T15:24:00.000+09:00

What can I say? I think that I am in a state of shock. I am rather frustrated with travel agents here in Korea. One minute, they tell you that your ticket is fine, and the next you find out that there is a problem. Basically, I am having trouble getting back to Korea from the States. My ticket was confirmed to the States and back to Japan, but I was on a waiting list from Japan to Korea. Fine....I asked later what my chances were for getting a ticket on the desired date. "Not good." she said. What? Not good! Why didn't she tell me that in the first place. I would of changed my date. So, at that moment (at the end of May) I asked her to change my ticket to an earlier date. "All is good." she said. I called this morning to check on the price of my ticket. "There is a problem with your ticket." she told me. I was so confused. I thought all was good. The computer said that one hour in Japan for a lay over is fine, but the air line said there must be 2 hours, so I can not have this ticket. Of course this is the cheapest ticket available, so the best price ticket.

I called several travel agents looking for a ticket, but to no avail. I still have two reservations, but they are more expensive then this other ticket. One ticket, twice as much, has better dates and is a direct flight. The other ticket, a little cheaper, has a conflicting date. I tried to change that date, but I was unable to find a ticket for a later date.

I am really beginning to wonder if it is worth coming home. It is so stressful that I am not sure if it is worth it. All I can say is that I am really frustrated with this process.

I really miss home....so I want to come home, but is it worth me paying so much?

Mosquitos

2005-06-17T19:14:00.000+09:00

So, I awoke the other day with seven mosquito bites on my leg. The same morning, my roommate had a big mosquito bite on her arm. I think I was dinner and she was dessert. All I can say is painful. So now, I sleep with this poison in my room.....this poison scares away those nasty mosquitos. I really don't know which is worse, pesty mosquitos or yucky poison.

100% Texan

2005-06-14T10:24:00.000+09:00

A kid and his mom were walking on the sidewalk in Dallas.The kid, being 100% Texan, upon seeing some cowboys, said,"Hey Maw, look at them thar men with them thar bowed laigs."She said that if he didn't start speaking correct English,she was going to send him to a Shakespearean English school.A little furtyher along, they saw some more cowboys. "Heymaw! Look at them thar men with them thar bowed legs!" hesaid.So, true to her word, she sent him off to a ShakespeareanEnglish school to learn correct English.He came home several months later on vacation. As theywalked together down the sidewalk, they saw some cowboys."Hark!" he said, "What manner of men are these who weartheir legs in parentheses?"

No offense to those Rednecks out there....

2005-06-13T10:14:00.000+09:00

Got this from a friend. I thought it was funny, then again I am not Irish, English, nor Red neck. Sorry if it is offensive to some.....read with an open mind.

An Irishman in a wheel chair entered a restaurant near afternoon and asked the waitress for a cup of coffee. The Irishman looked across the restaurant and asked, "Is that Jesus sitting over there?" The waitress nodded "yes," so the Irishman told her to give Jesus a cup of coffee on him. The next patron to come in was an Englishman with a hunched back. He shuffled over to a booth, painfully sat down, and asked the waitress for a cup of hot tea. He also glanced across the restaurant and asked, "Is that Jesus over there?" The waitress nodded, so the Englishman said to give Jesus a cup of hot tea, my treat. The third patron to come into the restaurant was an Alabama Redneck on crutches. He hobbled over to a booth, sat down and hollered, "Hey there, sweet thang, how's about gettin' me a cold glass of Coke!" He, too, looked across the restaurant and asked, "Is that God's boy over there?" The waitress nodded, so the Redneck said to give Jesus a cold glass of coke, on my bill. As Jesus got up to leave, he passed by the Irishman, touched him and said, "For your kindness, you are healed." The Irishman felt the strength come back into his legs, got up, and danced a jig out the door. Jesus also passed by the Englishman, touched him and said, "For your kindness, you are healed." The Englishman felt his back straightening up, and he raised up his hands, praised the Lord and did a series of back flips out the door. Then Jesus walked towards the Alabama Redneck. The Redneck jumped up and yelled, "don't touch me......I'm drawin' disability!!!!!"

Sweet Potato Queens Book of Love

2005-06-07T20:25:00.000+09:00

Currently ReadingThe Sweet Potato Queens' Book of LoveBy JILL CONNER BROWNE

Overall, this is a rather funny book. By the end of the book, I did get tired of reading it. One of my favorite parts is the description of the Queens. "Women with Big Hair talk with it the way Italians use their hands. They send messages with it and use it for punctuation. Their heads swivel like owls'. Women with Not Much Hair do not whip their heads about in the violent manner espoused by women with Big Hair. When desiring to look at something on the opposite side of the room from where we are currently gazing, those of us without Big Hair make a single, simple, discreet movement, one that does not disarrange our hair nor create strong wind currents that could endanger others. Big Hair Women, on the other hand, making the same turn will first duck her chin, then abruptly jerk it up and around, causing her massive mane to be lifted up and out in an alarming fashion, actually standing, for a moment, straight out from her head before collapsing and swirling about her head and face. Consequences to others depend on the length of said hair and the position of the hair in relation to its surroundings. Innocent bystanders can suffer lacerated eyeballs if they are not alert." (23-24).
"For the first few years, we were a democratic lot. Basically, anybody who had balls enough to put on a green ball gown from Goodwill and a tiara and perch on the back of a pickup truck, wave, and throw sweet potatoes was welcome to join the ranks of the Sweet Potato Queens. There were not has many takers as you might imagine. There's a whole passel of folks in this world who are content just to spectate, and to them we say "God love you!" because we do so love an audience, and the bigger, the better."

Age

2005-06-03T13:16:00.000+09:00

What:
MacArthur High School Class of 1995
Talking about the good ole days, laughter, and drinks!
Where:
Fire Water Bar and Grill
10261 Technology Blvd. Dallas, TX
Loop 12 and Northwest Highway….near the AMC Grand.
When:
Friday, June 24 at 8:00 p.m. No cover if you arrive before 8:30 p.m., After 8:30 p.m. $5 cover charge.
Pass this on to everyone and anyone in our class! This event is Pre-Reunion Celebration!

I guess it is official. I am getting old. Who would of thought that it has been ten years since I graduated high school. What have I done with my life? Where did the time go? I will say this: this is not what I expected out of my life ten years ago. I have accomplished some things, college, seminary, living in a different country; however, there are so many other things that I expected to do before now. I guess I will have to do them in the next ten years.

At least I have a good excuse not to go to my reunion. I live too far away, and I cannot get off work to fly to the U. S.

Reasons why the English language is so hard to learn

2005-05-27T14:06:00.000+09:00

One of my co-workers ran accross this. As an English Language Teacher, I found it interesting.

Reasons why the English language is so hard to learn:
1) The bandage was wound around the wound.
2) The farm was used to produce produce.
3) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.
4) We must polish the Polish furniture.
5) He could lead if he would get the lead out.
6) The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.
7) Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present.
8) A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum.
9) When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.
10) I did not object to the object.
11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid.
12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row.
13) They were too close to the door to close it.
14) The buck does funny things when the does are present.
15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.
16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.
17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail.
18) After a number of injections my jaw got number.
19) Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.
20) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.
21) How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?

Let's face it - English is a crazy language. There is no eggin eggplant nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple. English muffins weren't invented in England orFrench fries in France. Sweetmeats are candies while sweetbreads, which aren't sweet, are meat.

We take English for granted. But if we explore its paradoxes, we find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square and aguinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.And why is it that writers write but fingers don't fing, grocers don't groce and hammers don't ham?

If the plural of tooth is teeth, why isn't the plural of booth beeth? One goose, 2 geese. So one moose, 2meese? One index, 2 indices?

How can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same, while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites?

If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a humanitarian eat? Sometimes I think all the English speakers should be committed to an asylum for the verbally insane. In what language do people: Recite at a play and play at a recital? Ship by truck and send cargo by ship? Have noses that run and feet that smell?

You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language inwhich your house can burn up as it burns down, in which you fill in a form by filling it out and in which, an alarm goes off by going on. English was invented by people, not computers, and it reflects the creativity of the human race, which, of course, is not a race at all. That is why, when the stars are out, they are visible, but when the lights are out, they are invisible.

PS: Why doesn't "buick" rhyme with "quick"?

Baby Got Book

2005-05-25T21:05:00.000+09:00

I was looking at my friends blog, and I found this. I thought I might share....for those of you interested who do not look at Shanon's blog. I went to the cite and watched the video clip.....that is the best part of this. Check it out....with an open mind....it is funny.

Baby Got BookCopyright 2004, Dan Smith

Intro
Oh my goodness, Becky, look at her BibleIt is so bigShe looks like one of those preacher guys girlfriendsBut... you know... Who understands those preacher boysThey only talk to her because she looks like Mother Teresa, ok?I mean her Bible... it's just so bigI can't believe it's so hugeUgh! It gross!Look, she's just so... righteous

Verse 1
I like big Bibles and I can not lieYou Christian brothers can't denyThat when a girl walks in with a KJVAnd a book mark in ProverbsYou get stokedGot her name engravedSo you know that girl is savedIt looks like one of those large onesWith plenty o' space in the marginsOh baby, I wanna read witchaCause your Bible's got picturesMy minister tried to console meBut that Book you got makes ("M-m-me so holy")Ooh, momma-miaYou say you want koinoniaWell, bless me, bless meAnd teach me about John Wesley
I saw her prayingWhile I was DJingShe got grace...pretty faceShe ain't goin' down to the bad place
I'm tired of heathen guysSayin' they like pocket-sizeAsk the average Christian to take a lookShe's gotta pack much Book
So...Fellas (Yeah), fellas (Yeah)Has your girlfriend got the Book (Oh yeah!)Well, read it (Read it!), read it (Read it!), read that Holy BookBaby got Book

Chorus
(NIV with a ribbon bookmark)Baby got Book(NIV with a ribbon bookmark)

Verse 2
I like 'em leather and boundIt's 50 poundsI just can't understandHow it is, some weenieWants the Bible on CDShe wanna get you savedAmen! Double up! A-men!I ain't talkin' about a paraphraseCuz Paul wouldn't use those anywaysI like 'em real thick and red-letteredYou can't find nothin' betterSouthpaw's in loveBibles that big are unheard ofSo I'm sittin' here thinkin' "What if...I find me a girl that shows midriff?"You can have those bimbosI'll keep those chicks that do devosA word to the Christian sistasI can't resist yaI'll do God's time witchaBut I gotta be straight when I say I wanna prayTil the break of dayBaby, got it goin' onLike the wife in Pro-
verbs 31We just might get engagedWhen we finish reading this pageCuz it's worn and it's tornAnd I know this girl's reborn
So ladies (yeah), ladies (yeah)Do you wanna save people from Hades (yeah) Then read it...'til the pages fall outEven white preachers got to shoutBaby got Book

Chorus
(Thompson Chain with big red letters)Baby got Book
Yeah babyWhen it comes to a good bookStephen King's resume just can't compare39 + 27 = 66 booksAnd if you're Catholic...there's even more

Verse 3
So your girlfriend quotes Bill HybelsBut does she got a big Bible?Cuz that little things she's got won't start a revivalMy Bible study don't want none,Unless you got Book, hun...You can read Clancy or GrishamBut please don't loose this BookSome brothers wanna play that hard roleAnd tell you that Book's too oldSo they toss it and burn itAnd I pull up quick to just learn itSo your girl likes paperback?Well I ain't down with thatCuz my girlfriend's hot her Bible's rockin'And she's got good doctrineTo the atheist chicks who try to disYou ain't it Miss PrissGive me a Christian, I'm insistin'And I'll greet her with some holy kissin'Some pervert tried to chaseBut he didn't make it past first baseShe's quick to resist temptationAnd she loves a new translationSo ladies who were lost and foundIf you want the triple-six thrown downDial 1-800-READS-A-LOTAnd teach me about those PsalmsBaby got Book

Chorus
(NIV with a ribbon bookmark)Baby got Book(Thompson Chain with big red letters)(Bible college knowledge but she still got Book)

To see the video go to:
http://www.whiteboydj.com/home.html

Buying Tickets

2005-05-23T10:10:00.000+09:00

Most of the time I really enjoy living in Korea. But sometimes, the little things anoy me. For instance, travel agents. For some reason, they cannot quote you the price of a ticket when you ask for it. It seems that the prices are not released until right before you buy the tickets. I had one under reservation, on the notion that it was this one price; however, as I called today, I realized that the price would be 300 more then I expected. I don't know about you, but I do not have 300 lying around. So, I am back to the old drawing board and looking for another ticket. I was happy because I thought I could have a direct flight. But, I cannot afford to pay an arm and a leg.

The other annoying thing, that I can quickly get over, is that Star Wars has yet to come to Korea. It was released worldwide, except in Korea and Japan. However, on a positive note, it comes to Korea sooner then it does to Japan. I will be released this Thursaday. I plan to see it on Saturday.

Who knew that buying tickets could be so frustrating.

Chelsea? Suwon?

2005-05-21T16:00:00.000+09:00

Last night I went to a soccer game with some friends. Chelsea, England verses Suwon, Korea. Supposedly, Chelsea is the best team in England and Suwon is the best team in Korea. Half of our group cheered for Suwon and the rest of us cheered for Chelsea. Surprisingly, it was a rather close game. Chelsea won, 1-0. I really do not know much about soccer, but I enjoyed the atmosphere. The tickets were not that expensive. The stands were rather crowded. We sat at the top of the stadium. There is nothing like a good game, with cute players, and a fun group to hang out with.

At the end of the game, they showed a famous Korean actor (Kwan Sung-woo). We usually refer to him as the Face shop guy. He use to be one of my favorite Korean actors, until recently. However, like most Korean actors, he does not appear manly. In some of his posters, he is crying. Of course, I have these posters hanging in my room. They add character to my room.

Misthy teacher

2005-05-16T12:00:00.000+09:00

Yesterday was Teacher's day. I got a card today from my students. They misspelled my name, so now I am Misthy teacher. I think the homeroom teacher wrote it. It is rather cute.

Nothing too exciting today. My special needs student was my groomer today. He kept pushing my hair back and looking at me. I am getting fashion tips from a second grader. What is this world coming to? Do I really look that bad? I think my hair is at that stage--the in between stage. You know what I am talking about....the stage where it is too short to do anything with, but not short enough....it has a mind of its own, so it sticks out in some places but sticks in in others. Sigh!!!

Beautiful weather, park benches, and ice coffee

2005-05-15T19:53:00.000+09:00

There is nothing better then beautiful weather, park benches, and a cup of ice coffee. This has been a trend that my friend and I have started. For the past two Sundays, we have gone to Starbucks, along with everyone else in the city, got some coffee and walked to the nearby park. Today the park was crowded with everyone else who did not go to Starbucks. There is nothing better to do on a Sunday afternoon then spend it at the park (besides taking a nap).

Yesterday, I went to Seoul. After going to "little America" and enduring beauty pain, my friend PK and I went for a short adventure. We heard that there was an international food market near there, so we went exploring. After exiting the subway stop and being in the middle of nowhere, we found where we needed to go. It wasn't too hard. Walking into the store, the first thing we saw was Cheetos. My heart leapt for joy at the sight of a food that I have been craving. Many of the items we can find in other parts of Korea...the black market. However, this place had a large selection of items all together in one place. Of course, many of the items are over priced, but what do you expect when you live in a foreign country. At least now I know where to go. Just think, it only took me three years to find out.

Pop tarts, cheetos, flour tortillas, pita bread, and a few other things
that I can't live without. What more could you ask for?

Start of a morning

2005-04-28T08:42:00.000+09:00

My morning routine is becoming habitual. After arriving at work, one of the first things I do is make my coffee. I must confess taht I have been a bit unfaithful for about a year or two. I started drinking instant coffee. I know, this is a huge sin. However, this year I re-conformed. I started using my french press at home. After tasting real coffee again, I decided I needed a personal french press for the office. So, I bought one with my Birthday money. Every morning I heat the water, scoop out the coffee, and drink my way to a good morning. My co-workers know when I have not had my coffee. I guess I am dependent. I don't function the same if I do not have my coffee. Some of my students ask me how many cups of coffee I have drunk that day. I like giving them a random number.

Here is to good coffee. French Press....it is the way to go.

Life and elephants

2005-04-21T08:43:00.000+09:00

Ok, I know. It has been a long time since my last blog. This is my problem with journaling. I start out strong, but finish weak. I guess it is because I have been so busy with work that I have not had the time to think strait. Work is hectic these days. We have a parent causing lots of trouble at my school, so it has been a little stressful here.

So, apparently all my friends are getting married. At least I still have Kaori.

Nothing exciting has really happened here in Korea. I was taking Korean classes, but I decided to stop because it is too expensive. Well, I will try to think of something exciting to write about. Something like six elephants escaping the parade and going to a restraunt in Seoul. Wait, that has already happened. I saw it on the news this morning.

What is this world coming to when we aren't even safe from a pack of elephants.

Armadillos

2005-03-21T08:46:00.000+09:00

Last week, I was teaching my students about Noah. We asked the pairs to draw pictures of animals Noah took onto the ark. In three of my four classes, there was a pair of armadillos. I thought to my self two things. One, I am glad that God saved the armadillo. Two, I am glad that my students learned something last year.

The longer I stay in Korea, the more I think of myself as a teacher. This is scary, yet satisfying. Scary that I am teaching young children, yet satisfying because I am part of something important. I am helping to mold these young children. This gives me something to reflect on.

Teaching, the art of molding and shaping young minds.

Betta Fish

2005-03-04T17:35:00.000+09:00

I went shopping yesterday, when I saw them. Betta Fish. I knew that I had to have them. I wanted fish, but I didn't want to buy an expensive aquarium that required the oxygen. I am now the proud owner of two betta fish. I have one male and one female. I am keeping them in a small aquarium that has a divider so that they do not fight. About once a week, I am supposed to let them see each other and fight. I decided to name them Hwe (Korean for Sushi) and Sashimi. I think they are wonderful names!!! They seem to like their names. I told my other flat mate that she needs to get a pet now. I have fish, and one of my flat mate's has turtles, so the other one needs a pet.

School has officially started. I think that it is going to be a good
year. I have good students and new fish!

2005-02-23T21:53:00.000+09:00

5's a crowd!

2005-02-23T21:51:00.000+09:00

Bums!

Staff Retreat

2005-02-23T21:50:00.000+09:00

I had a staff retreat for the past few days. Believe it or not, it was rather fun. We had about 10 people to a suit. Each suit had three rooms, a kitchen, a living room and two bathrooms. Imagine sharing two bathrooms among 10 women. They separated the English teachers, putting three together. It was a good opportunity for us to interact with the Korean teachers. Unlike most retreats, we had a lot of free time to enjoy the facilities. Since it was so cold, I elected to take a nap.

On Tuesday, we went to a famous mountain in the area. They kept telling us that we would climb the mountain; however, we arrived an hour late. Instead, we rode a gondola to the top. Since this is Korea, we were crammed inside the car. It was beautiful. At the top of the lift, we were able to walk around and take pictures. However, it was rather crowded. Below are some more pictures from that day.

On the way to the mountain, we picked up a rider. It was strange. All of the sudden a stranger was on our bus. It was like an info-commercial on the bus. She was selling books about oriental medicine. As she was talking, she took one of the teachers hands and poked it. Apparently this is good for indigestion. When she was finished, she just left the bus. The trip ended when we reached the beach.

It was rather strange to see snow on the beach. I tried to get a picture,
but the snow quickly evaporated.

2005-02-23T21:38:00.000+09:00

Co-workers getting ready to go up the gondola!

2005-02-23T21:37:00.001+09:00

Beautiful scenery!

2005-02-23T21:37:00.000+09:00

From the gondola

Brown Ajah

2005-02-18T15:08:00.000+09:00

The following is based upon a series of books I have read ("Wheel of Time" by Robert Jordan). My friend told me about a test I could take to see wich character I related to the most. Here are my test results:

You scored as The Brown Ajah.

You are best suited for the Brown Ajah. Dreamy eyes, and ink stained fingers are the mark of this Ajah. These Aes Sedai are the historians, librarians, scientists, and engineers of the White Tower. They are in charge of the Tower Libraries and as such are usually more negotiable than probably anyone else. These Aes Sedai are usually so caught up in their studies and research projects that they are oblivious to current events in the world.

The Brown Ajah
85%
The Blue Ajah
80%
The Green Ajah
70%
The Red Ajah
65%
The Yellow Ajah
60%
The Gray Ajah
55%
The White Ajah
55%
The Black Ajah
50%

http://quizfarm.com/test.php?q_id=2263

Orange hair

2005-02-15T21:57:00.000+09:00

For about an hour today, I had orange hair.....it was quite scary.

A month ago, I dyed my hair a dark reddish color....this was a mistake! The tips of my hair had a greenish tint. So, today I went to the salon. I showed her the color I wanted, but she said that it would not work. I was sad when she pointed to a darker color. So, despite her better judgment, she colored it lighter. My hair turned orange! After staring in the mirror for 5 minutes as she did someone else's hair, I convinced her that orange was not my color and we chose the original one....a darker brown. However, my hair did not change to that color because of the red. The color is similar to the original color, without the greenish tint at the ends. I guess I had better like this color because I should keep it til for the next month.

I can now say with confidence, I do not look good with orange hair.

Valentines Day!

2005-02-14T17:30:00.000+09:00

Happy Valentines Day!

I thought that this holiday was bad in the States, but that is nothing compared to Korea. This holiday is expanded here in Korea. Today, Feb. 14, is the day where the girl pours out her soul to her man. The man, on the other hand, reciprocates on March 14, which is known as White Day. Black Day, aka singles day, is April 14. On singles day, the singles are to eat "black spaghetti." This is a Chinese noodle covered with a black sauce. In Korea, they will try anything to get you to buy something. It's just a marketing ploy. Walking down the streets of Seoul, I was bombarded with chocolate.

To those who are out there, I do hope that you are having a better Valentines Day then me. At least work filled my day.

Yesterday, I enjoyed going to Seoul, until the cold air hit me and the crowds of people. Kyobo was too crowded....as always is the case on Sundays. After a bit of shopping, my friend and I enjoyed Ben & Jerrys ice cream. Although we are in the middle of winter, Ben & Jerrys was still crowded with people.

Sometimes we need good things in life, and Ben & Jerrys is just good.

Vacation

2005-02-11T23:33:00.000+09:00

Well....my long vacation is coming to an end. After this weekend, I must return to work. Although I really didn't do much this break, I kept rather busy. In Korea, the school year begins in March, so I don't begin teaching right away. It will be nice, going back to work without the stress of classes. This year, I have been promoted to second grade. I am excited to teach the same students; however, my opinion might soon change. Before coming to Korea, I was envied by my friends for being able to teach "well behaved Korean children." Anyone who has visited South Korea would agree with me when I say this is far from the truth. Two of the four words are true. They are Korean and they are children. In many cases, it seems that parents are scared to discipline their children, so the children do not understand proper boundaries. This is leading to areas that I really do not want to address at this moment. Despite the fact that I have some rowdy children, I do like it here.

*sniff* My "holiday" is over.....*sigh*

Welcome!

2005-02-10T23:50:00.000+09:00

Hi! This is my first attempt at keeping a blog. I hope that it goes well.....maybe in the future, I shall attempt to be more creative.

Yesterday was Chinese New Year (AKA Lunar New Year). In Korea, that means everything is dead. It is a three day holiday where most shops and restraunts are closed. Today was rather crowded and the theatres were full. Whenmy roommate and I arrived at the theatre, we had to meet our friends. One of my friends has a cell phone, so I didn't really worry about meeting her. Two others came by bus, and they did not have a phone. We didn't really specify where we were meeting, so we were waiting out front. Finally, my friend and I decided to go upstairs to check on ticket availability. Getting onto the elevator took more effort then expected.....we ended up going down before going up to the 8th floor, where the theatre is. When we finally made it to the 8th floor, we found our friends. I had to call my roommate, who was waiting downstairs, to let her know that the others were already there. Luckily, our friends were able to get tickets. Someone reserved 5 seats, but did not show up in time to claim the tickets. So, the five of us watched Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events. This was an interesting movie. I really enjoyed parts of the movie, but I can't imagine anyone ever being so cruel to children.

Happy New Year to you!!!