Sunday, November 15, 2009

my downstairs of the house

the downstairs from my garage to the living room, kitchen, masterbedroom, dining room, and office. its pretty much amazing.

Tour of my house

So I am back in USA and have been enjoying the good house. As such, I thought it would be good to give a tour of the resident...since i gave a tour of a Korean home---lets compare! Here's just the upstairs, I'll upload teh downstairs next!

Thursday, November 12, 2009

The aftermath...

Hello hello back from Korea.

I arrived in USA on tuesday, 11.10 4pm into Charlotte and right away observed major differences. Haha, don't think me shallow but we must do something about our current eating habits! Texas is home to the largest people...and it was so true :( Its tragic too because that was what i first saw (which means waht most asians see...) and it made me sad! It doesnt happen overnight, but gradually..I can notice the ones that its from drinking coke with dinner, or eating fried food, too much starch...its in the arms, in the pudgy skin with a small amt of pink redness...body saying i'm a balloon, change diet and i can deflate! But so its really the first thing I urge all of us to really explore better eating habits! Koreans don't exercise at all...only walking! Which proves to me its all in the food! Some are getting bigger as they consume more McD and such...and its apparent its a direct correlation! So again, just I hope that can be addressed.../end

After arriving for 2 hours...long enough to throw my bags down, unpack a second and take a shower, i headed right back out to Steve Fee concert at charlotteone. It was funny to have left seeing him, and now returning and seeing him. It proved to me even more that nothing has changed. It kinda makes me sad at how little things have changed! I'm sure as I look closer things will b different..but as of now, i feel an itch that i can't scratch, an urge for more...certainly not able to settle here in charlotte with the present situation. God has bigger plans, something more for me...i know it. So, the number one question i've been asked is "Are you here for good, or what's next?" and the answer truly is: I don't know. But it also is leaning toward that this is far from my last stop...thats where i appreciate my youth and ability to move about wherever. i have no car, no home, nothing (i got a prepaid fone...ask me for it) so why SHOULD i settle for less? There's countless reasons and blessings to why I traveled, why i will continue to travel.

Speaking of travel...Philippines and Hong Kong. Wow what an AWESOME trip! I can honestly say that was my favorite trip EVER (sorry dad)!!! Reason one? I paid for it all and it was soooo cheap! And upon going ot Cebu i feared i had made a mistake as it looked so poor and yea, dirty..but when i got to bohol...alona beach, i quickly realized that u must go thru the filth to get to the paradise. and what a wonderful world!



And of course it was made sooo much better traveling with great company! At different parts of the trip i enjoyed MJ...a philipino from korea, and then a chinese guy Jim i met to get a chance to exchange cultural exp! And Hyesung to really share and grow in our experiences of fantastic times! Really can't tell you enough how much they all made this trip! As much as i planned, i still know its not what u do...its who u do it with! The helper was www.couchsurfer.com check it out, u can see who's a local to where you're going, save a few dollars, sleep on their couch and usually they're very interested in making your impression of their country a good one! Jim gave us coconut curry breakfast and showed us around local restaurants (yes, thats all i care about) and some local places, awesome times! Pictures to come on fb soon...

The fish and food there was so delicious I don't even know where to begin!!! Just that it is asia's best kept secret! It reminded me of Cozumel when we started taking the Ferry...and then even more so as the people were SO helpful and how it really felt like...my private beach. Only about 50 people were staying there total and no doubt the people instantly knew who we were...(I was the only YOUNG white guy there..) haha, so I became an interesting topic for the locals...cuz sadly most of the foreigners are old europeans looking to retire/marry a young philipino and yea, kinda gross but hey, they worked hard they deserve a little joy? Point being, for only 5bucks i got a fish meal that would EASILY cost more than $20 in america...even mexico! So yes, I'll be back...

Hong Kong was another great adventure, I got to see Alvin Wong! hahaha, I hadnt seen him in a decade! Now that was scary! Facebook helped it all happen. He moved to HK 6 months ago and thats when it started to try to plan a trip to see him. He was from Florida, my school there. He's actually my brother's friend but eh, he's mine now! haha. So his friend and him showed hyesung and i on our return flight home for all of 6 hours in HK. Wow, the Temple Market st. had toooo much goodies! We bought and talked and quickly realized i spent all my HK dollar (its very expensive and yea, $50 gets you very little...heh) so cheers to Alvin for helping with a few extra dollars! Now its to repay him when he comes to...Korea or USA for me to pay it forward! But yea, again the people...MAKE IT! If you're trying to soak up the culture/the REAL side of a country, not just the tourist sites, tehy'll tell u the local low down. And so i'm very pleased to say i now know a section of the cities...places...and look forward to sharing stories. Boy the stories i have...ahha, but those will come in convo. For now, its time to unpack and upload these pics! So feel free to leave any questions of this year, what an adventure, and now to explore "What's next"!

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

50 posts in a year

So today is the 20th of october. Perhaps my last post while still employed at Avalon.

It has been a few ups and downs these past two weeks...having 3 major events happen all at once. Please pray with me for my great(est) aunt, cousin, and a praise that my dad has already found a job! But these events really shook the fabric of what is important and who matters and what we call home can be defined as. So as such, I am taking a much needed vacation to some tropical island and I wanna hear Capt. sparrow ask "Why's all the rum gone?" ok, so i'm actually thinking of my original plan and taking a much shorter but...much needed trip to the philippines! I hope it will be fantastic and will remind me of how good life is and that no matter how crappy life is...its always better with a beach!

Hmmm, so yes, after a lot of trouble and making them mad at me..I made a fair agreement that i'd stay an extra week (my official last day is now set in stone, October 30th) and will travel until November 10th

Again, November 10th is when i will return to AMERICA. so look out ren fest, look out deer, look out turkey, i'm comin home guns a'blazin!

In a review, last week was an exciting experience to reconnect with a dear friend from Ireland! Aya, a japanese exchange student at DCU with me, flew out to visit me from Japan. I believe it was amuch needed R&R trip for her and it was my pleasure to return the favour of really just taking all my experiences and traveling in Seoul and being her tour guide. Feel it was a good day and certainly grown up over this year...traveling by subway use to scare me now its like i'm a natural...who woulda known? Not to mention knowing local hang outs and favorite eats...thank you to those that blessed me with such knowledge. so, the weekend was for me, a recaption of the year and all its joys...and able to see it through a new pair of eyes! yes, I'll treasure walkin down insadong and snaking along dongdamun narrow halls and finish with a bite to eat in the nightlife. It always facinates me in comparing countries---aya coming from japan and visiting ireland gave us quite a lot of topics! And of course that which is most important...

That brings me to the week before...
i went to busan and had a blast as always...I really feel at home there with the people. its true that some people are "from the south" just as some are "redheads" no matter what culture or nation. people are people. As such, i am dearly impressed and will forever be touched by a random traditional korean tea house that just embodied what i treasure most in korea...home.

What is home to you? How do you build it and what can destroy it? Is it established in a tangible place or is it a state of mind? Home, as i wrote in a poem in 8th grade "home is where the fat cat is"

So folks, its been my pleasure sharing my pains, growths, and experience of well...another "adventure in odyssey!"

May the road always rise up to meet you.

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

So its been amore days in the works...

Hey so the last few days have been quite hard to get everything lined up and working! ugh.

Here's what i have been planning and its all but official...

My contract ends Oct. 23rd and i promised to work until Dec.... well, change of plans because its no longer fine and dandy at work (just sick of management)... so i told them monday that yes, i want to quit now...and now the rollercoaster of makng things work. essentially my boss tried to tell me "u can't quit, we need you" well of course u do...but if i had gotten swine flu or anything...well, suddenly they wouldn't need me! So i'm in the works of tryin to make this final.

What this means for you? I reallywant to travel...and its looking like philippines is my destination. i'd go until nov. 9th then fly home nov. 10th... thats the plan but hey, that's all i can hope for! so no promises on all this...its going to b a very busy month!

thisweeknd is busan, next i have a friend from japan coming, then its quit and go to philippines! not much time left!

get it get it!

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Korean Everland and Caribbean bay!

Wow, i look back at my photos from the 19th and 26th and of course i havnt updated! i've been traveling and playing like a champ!

First, caribbean bay is wayyy better than any waterpark i've been to. Carowinds would b put to shame! I have a few photos from it and you'll see...its made for anyone. u wear a lifejacket and have to wear a "cap" (so i bought an awesome pirate kinda swimcap) and the slides were stellar! of course teh lazy river also was the best part! going in a cave, around hte whole park, under a waterfall, yah...that's just a few things. and you can have it all for $45 for 2 people! That's a real deal!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2017784&id=105600042&l=a8b0841bf0

So that was an adventure of the weekend. I also went to see Hyesung's univ. Seoul National Univ. The best univ of korea. Most people try 2 YEARS to get in! talk about difficult. of course she got in first try, lol. But it was quite high class. I loved teh business building and they had just opened a multimedia (computer animation films) major. The first difference i saw on campus was lockers! I felt like i was in highschool with so many lockers...but you need it because no one lives on campus! some people even travel hours to get to school. talk about devotion! They have a few dorms for foreigners and for those that must live there....but of course they charge a LOT of money. And the caf and other foods are just simply pay money! for cheap! I was quite jealous...seeing as my college charged me $9 per meal...breakfast lunch and dinner. Robbery! But so that's that. Had the best katsu-ju (the Musashi restaurant in charlotte) just next stop in gangnam for a mere 5,000won! I loooove food way too much. Thought about going there this weekend cuz we loved it so much. Ah, i'm starting to miss charlotte and its random things. Tacos, avacado, soybeans, hummus!! and other fine food...and i guess driving but we all know i hate driving.

Hmm, SOOO the NEXT weekend i went to Everland. Its right next door to Caribbean bay (2 hours outside of Seoul by bus...a pain getting there) but yep, and again with credit card deals its cheaper (but i had to pay full price: 30,000won= $25!) Went and it was october/halloween celebration! So of course i got lots of pictures of animals (Monkies!) and the cool ball room u can shoot everybody with nerf balls! haha...they think of everything! And the white water rafting waterpark thingy...(log tube? in disneyworld....miss disney!!!) and we avoided the HUGE lines for rollercoasters. Went to this fantastic rose garden and watched fireworks, ahah, too romantic. then did a ferris wheel to end the night. of course thats just how i roll.

I really have been enjoying my final weeks here. Its chusok (korean thanksgiving) this weekend so i get friday off! I tried to go to busan one more weekend but...no train seats or bus seats or plane flights. they all go friday and come back monday. almost too many people traveling...last year it took 12 hours to get to busan by bus (normally 4) sooo...maybe its better i will just stay at home and relax for 2 days.

And why am i OK with this?

That news will come tomorrow...it has something to do with my future, traveling, and making people angry. Let the party begin!

until next time....

Well, that's been the best

Saturday, September 12, 2009

September rolls by

First off happy Bday to my Mom on Sept 5th

I had an MBA tour event in Seoul that day and got to meet the director at UNC business school. It was funny because i instantly knew it was her among the panel! i asked some good questions about my future endeavor and feel confident in my resolve...just the steps gettin there aren't so solid. As such, i know many of you have perhaps stopped reading this blog as the year has progressed and that is fine, it has more become a journal of sorts in time of my growing and changing through an experience in teaching in korea.

I would encourage others to travel abroad and do agree it is a good experience to learn and get paid well for a temporary "transition" stage. although i have not fully bloomed, i am confident this year has given me a wealth of knowledge and friendships and experiences that will surely unfold into more! so, now that i have not really been fair to my readers, just all is well and I have been trying to figure out teh future.

anyway, its been a month so i'm not sure all that happened since last update...i haven't supported R&B since they fired doug because they've been open 1 month and he literally MADE it work...but korean didnt need him so get rid of him. and also means there has been a LOT less drama since i've disassociated myself with the other foreigners...who knew? just finished watching Nodame...a japanese music school drama that was quite beautifully done. haha, there is one new thing and that is that hyesung is learning how to swim now. its quite exciting to see, haha, and i continue to notice that i really am good at just opening foreigners up to talk...weird stuff to see but a gift i suppose. i'm sure all of this is just ranting so i'm going to close with something good.

See u in christmas!

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

the final chapter...

I kept those that only read this blog in a MAJOR suspension...sorry about that.

I have been quite busy in making radical decisions and figuring out future career/focus/getting the most out of life! Intensive has given LITTLE time to really decide things...and timing was the worst! But I've survived and now onto the goods!

I've really enjoyed it here in Korea and know I feel more close to these people than my stay in Ireland. Perhaps its the mystery...but I think its more the unspoken gestures and raw emotion that i find kinship in. No man can contain it in words of a communal mindset...and the true essence of an ajuma or old woman. old men also just could make you melt when it comes to caring about their younger "brother". a society truly focused on working to become something better...to not settle, to not back down. i know i could never support the hagwon job personally...but its given me a solid job in my time of organizing... As such i've come to find some beautiful memories and life lessons all thrown together in bim bim bap. Without it all...I would not be the man God has in store for me. So here's to a challenge to not take the easy path...the simple...not even the comfortable.

As many should know by now.. I have decided to stay until December 11th. It is longer than October (and I"m sad i'll miss the ren fest and thanksgiving) but I am unsure when I will have another chance to make money along with it lets my contracts (phone bill, internet) time to expire! Only 1 extra month but the benefits far outway the negatives.

My future career is being a Foreign Exchange Director at a University.

I have really learned that not only am I good at welcoming people and making them feel comfortable in a foreign country (in college i did that, now here my fellow english teachers, and even students with me a foreigner) i also really enjoy the challenge and growth seen in each person's eyes! The experience keeps me always feeling like a newborn, gives me hope for building bridges, and ultimately sharing His purpose of joy. So yes, I understand everyone's questions and concerns about how it all will work...and I just know it will.

First few steps!

I need to study for the GRE and sign up for a date sometime directly after my return. I Have 4 months to study...and let it begin! So, now the only thing i need...a ride home from the Airport?

Sorry for the delay! QUestion: What Graduate school is your favorite?

Monday, July 27, 2009

What a busy Intensive (Summer Vacation)

Just the name is ironic... there's no school for the kids...and instead of going out and enjoying some sunshine and life...tehy're in my classroom studying all lengths of days!

YMCA camp was fun and let the kids be KIDS...this is just torture. if only they knew how we do...

but eh, that's how it is. so i've been swamped...will finish the 22nd of august. so hey at least it means extra money! but it also means i start up at 10am and leave around 7pm... maybe.

well, i've also been VERY angry and tried not to rant and rave about things...namely the swine flu and how much of a hog it is on work. I cannot go to indonesia for vacation (july 29th to the 4th) because i "might get it" which we have 13? 33? keeps growing cases right here in bucheon! so yes, we're soooo going to get it....ha. its going to be a kid. and then its going to just have to run it course. point being, i'm not really worried and there r many things going on beside that.

All that i really wanted to say was yes, i'm still alive...its intense and i hope tomorrow i will go camping in the country side! we found cheap tents for 1 person and all that jazz! so if we master that...i think we'll really have some great stuff! might have a few pics from it with my new camera too!

Oh and i had an old old friend, Jenna Winton, back from St. John's...all the way back to Florida contact me rannndoomly on facebook asking about korea and she might come over here, haha. what a wild story she has too over the last...10 years?
Well, so its been sort of boring...sort of busy? We have a new teacher too, he's a lot like Joseph Brown from college and thats why probably he and i will go camping and it'll b good.

I know i should update more often but its difficult to catch the time. I also am recording/editing the video of each teacher...its been a major job that i didnt ask for (i just had a cable they needed............now i'm doing the work!? how does that make me qualified!?)

hm, well, contract is ending october 26th...so i'll keep u suspended on....


THE DECISION!

j

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

New!! Skype me!



Skype me: Mightyolive
I have it up and running and look forward to hearign from you!

So there's been nothing majorly new going on recently. past 2 weeks have just been me laying low. I am trying to save money for this huge month! July is full every weekend (so i'll b busy...might cause me to update!)

Only things worth mentioning are...last weekend i got to touch a game of Halo! haha...and that was about as active as i got. I also saw transformers wednesday night! midnite showing!

So this weekend I went to the Avalon presentation competition for my "son" Andrew Hux Oliver. Yep, that's his name. He's totally the coolest kid ever! I met his parents on teh bus and laughed as we played NDS games and helped him prepare for his speech. he didnt place but certainly learned a lot from talking in english all day. that was worth it just in itself! Pictures and video of his presentation maybe later.

well, so we had VIPS (like fancy restaurant) and buffet and wow, still can eat 6 huge plates...i tell ya. so nothing new here...how about you? Mightyolive Skype it!
j

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

A foreign exchange

So i know its been a while and I dont know where to begin with events and drama and experiences.

Lets just see what comes to mind. I am at work at the moment and been slammed with meetings after meetings because we've lost (or not gained) new students so somehow meetings will make us happier that we have to come in early to finish our work?? but so, i also have started swimming in the mornings and (trying) to study korean so i've missed out on some bloggin to those curious minds.

So, wow, 3 weeks...a lot (or nothing) has happened. Just for those that dont know, its been busy dealing with drama and facebook's ...power should not be underestimated. and that honesty is golden. and that friends are amazing. and i needed another growing experience apparently. haha. so thats all done, i'm back on my show and if not...well...obviously i can handle whatever is thrown my way! Just dont hate me if you dont like what you're given!

So that june 1st i just sat home all weekend reading my book and keeping to myself. Week of work...drained away. 2nd weekend went out just enough to make better friends with Daniel because he might not be the brightest at teaching...but he's got a pretty good mind at video games! so thats been a change..from being very busy to have a boring but bachelor's life.

This past weekend.. the 13th had a fun experience that i will now talk about.
So i went to Catholic church with Holly (my new floormate and "older sister") she helped talk to me about some issues, along with i helped her! Instant friends. lol, so church was great and unique...loads of africans in seoul! I had no idea! And it is always an international experience. In some ways church is better because of it...because only one thing ties us all together prefectly- Christ.

Afterwards her friend and 2 of us went to get AMAZING mexican food! Enchiladas and burritos! (and it was STILL a combo #26) hhahahaah. and wow was it delicious!
must return "los amigos"

Well so i also saw pelham 123...ok movie. some heroes still in NYC... but also what a sad world we live in. Well, things still keep going on. contract is ending of October 24th. some prayer on what my future holds would be great!

live the dream!

Tuesday, May 26, 2009


So things have been very busy this past week. Thursday i was told to move out of my apartment...into a new apartment by friday night. Luckily i was given until Monday and stayed up until 5am every night getting things organized, ready, and set!

after all the efforts of 6 amazing korean teachers and the help of Alex, the legend of all resourceful Canadians... I got blinds put in, a fixed refridge, a fixed bathroom, and even felt on the upstairs to keep it darker than a cave! its like my very own tree fort!

enjoy...

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

First bday out of the Country!

MY BIRTHDAY!!!! So friday is Daniel's bday, not too cool...totally got a cake and the picture and all that...stole my thunder :( but went out to eat dinner, surprised him kind of...and then he drank loads didnt sleep until 8am. haah, hye kinda confused me but whatever, went saturday to walk around with Deb and watch Angels and Demons. Had some fascinating points....love to discuss with Jerm. basically do wish some changes could be done with "religion" and it is true---religion is flawed because man is flawed. accept it for what it is, not what u expect. Good times, went to Outback for dinner! Had a great meal with coworkers and friends and even had one teacher bring his baby and wife! What an honour! haha, first time taking the baby out :-D

Went back home...gave up on really going out afterward cuz the day was packed and ended up playing chess with Alex until 3am and it was good just spending quality time with him. Not big into partying, just quality time talking and chillin :)
He bought me guinness too, so that always makes me grand.

Sunday was a day of recahrging after such a big 2 days! So i played video games for 3 hours and watched a movie and TV shows (had some weird missing "home" from ridding in a family's car and otehr random moments) so smallville and scrubs hit the spot! silly how they take me there and back again. Had a simple evening, went to homeplus for a few things, ate dinner? saw people and on my way home...i found a BICYCLE in a puddle! it was obviously abandoned...and brakes r brokne sooooo...
MINE!

hm, so now my project is getting it fixed and riding for a little...great times!
and the reason i blogged all this time? if i hadnt found the bike, i wouldnt have encouraged jerm to meet his pappa figure in korea...which urged me to get the act...so i now am investing my money with korea and china mutual funds! BOOM BABY! and then also cuz so excited...i went to R&B met a guy got a drink, he works at busan university---just where i was trying to research about! So i picked his brain! Lots of info to think about!

Bucheon University:

2.3mil
paid housing (same) and key deposit.

16hours a week teaching.

2x 50 minute class. Earliest is 9am. Latest is 8pm. Never both extremes.

prepare = chapter and minor worksheets.

pension 1mil.

Overtime tutoring professors.

40 students, finish early is ok and motivated to learn/finish/WORK!

start interview in december. Hire for March... paid vacation. 2 months in summer= 2 weeks camps also and get month paycheck on TOP of paycheck if do camp...


Bottom line: i need to get my paperwork in order and weigh my options!
Now just need guidance ><

Ahnyah ka sayo Parents!

my parents left monday May 4th.

A lot has happened since then! let me tell you!

First...great time with them...but loved having may 5th (children's day) all to myself---with Deb to go play...actually as crazy as this was-i went to DINNER with her parents! yah, totally just met and walked around shopping and laughing and made a sticker at a photo booth (aw sappy) then wanted to eat pizza and watch a movie---why not at her house? scrap the movie, her parents invited me to a homecooked korean meal. and it was delicious! and i got to see a korean home, what a surprise! Its in a 10 story building...but it felt just like my florida home! 1 story, 3 bedrooms, big kitchen (3 refridgerators, haha, 2 for kimchi) and an actual laundry room/patio to just...store stuff or see a view of the awesome little pond they have in their complex.

funny too cuz its 705. i'm 905. yep, easy to remmeber. so i loved her mom's kimchi pizza (have to show u a picture...kinda like batter, kimchi onions, and seafood...of course its delicious) and other side dishes. and her dad fed me cuz it was from "a father's warm heart" lol, what can i say? parents love me. so of course this is just silly fun wild crazy (the parents were so nervous cuz they had no idea what i liked, just that i was deb's friend) bottom line: kept it short, was polite, ate a lot, helped her little sister with college english homework, left before 10pm. yep, golden. Interesting facts: no family photo on the wall, eat on the floor table, had a dog named mary---that responded to konglish commands (some korean, some english commands). mother dresses young and very health concious!

Well so that was a great day off...
the week went smooth, had lots of testing....weekend i took it easy. actually i'm sure i did something but its 4am so give me a break. OH! yah, on Sunday i went to Hongdae w/ hyesung---in plans to go to the Dj Festival in Seoul and went to so many fantastic bars to waste time until angela and alex showed up...! i really learned a lot of great places to go and loved watching people...basically an enjoyable evening with good company. Didnt go to the concert, Ang got there at 11pm---too late for me to stay out all night with that. So we went to more bars. 1 with a cat and indie music, 1 made to look like a bathroom, even 1 that played 80s and 90s korean music. and all were so....special! ah, great.

Sunday i just caught up on house chores (finally cleaned after my parents ...) then deb's parents invited me to a special dinner of raw fish. ooo what a variety! haha, things i STILL dont know what they were...some i would never want to eat again! others i loved. the raw flounder was heaven, and the crabs were divine. There was this guk (soup) that really had a spicy seafood yummy mushroom veggie taste. The father again made all over me, really wanted me to open a mutual fund account with him and really loved to learn about American customs vs korean (like we hate seeing squid eyes...so they cut them off, lol) and we just enjoyed culture! Went back home (they drove me in their car...laughed cuz i said i feel like i'm kidnapped and he asked deb "does he feel kidnapped?" at the same time) and slept like a charm...

another week of testing u.u It was horrible, it sounds like a breeze---but i have to interview each kid one at a time same question...hard questions and grade them hard. gross. Next big entry...
BIRTHDAY BASHHH

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Seoul Train

And this brings us back to Seoul.

My parents returned friday and were exhausted but why stop? They hadtoo much fun in Jeju and saw a LOT of things...can't stop now! so friday night i a little party thrown by angela for them...
a lot of people showed up and she made homemade salsa, hummus, and other foods. kimbap, mandu, fruits, cake.

so what a great evening of hanging with good friends and laughing and destressing from teh week too. all together pleasant evening. had some serious convos but that also is expected with life. just take it in flows.

saturday was a day of real korean culture! deb took us out to the heart of seoul. we went to all the markets and places i hadnt been to yet even. traditional korean things and my mom loved shopping for all these great items. we had the BEST and i mean BEST traditional korean style meal and such for lunch. everything. the best fish, all these side dishes of kimchi, green onion, kimchi pancake (always funny), soup, beef, seafood, pork, and then finished with tea and rice cakes.

so fantastic shopping and looking and exploring. we certainly had a wonderful day despite a little rain. (kept the crowds small.) We then had a whole chicken with ginseng inside and it was soo delicious. and they truly believe it keeps u healthy. Then we saw the oldest catholic cathedral in Korea. 1898 i believe... it was built and had the great art and all. someone practicing the organ too. ah, glorious. came back to bucheon and said goodnight. interesting phone call but its what what. and thats another day that was too good!

Sunday...the last day for my parents! It was celebrated by a hilarious production by Nanta. A sensation of light, sounds, and smells. They cook food on stage and use only kitchen tools to make awesome music. Like Blue man group or Stomp. A sensational adventure! Very well done and only had a few words...in english and in korean and even then u understood "oops, take it!" etc.
Afterward, we returned to Insadong to buy tradional fans and boxes and other korean historical things.

The banks were closed so we couldnt get cash out and so i owe a LOT to my korean friends for their more than giving spirit in me owing them. it makes me happy to see just how...genuine and true these people are. Wonderful. And that night...again with Danny and Heather..had duck and beef and pork and another truly fantastic dinner. One of the best beginning meals and ending meals...spent with my favs korean "uncle"! That's my Danny!

This country is as a shirt i saw read, "the best kept secret of Asia".

BUSAN BABY!

First off. I missed the beach. A lot. 2nd, I LOVE BUSAN!

quick story. We wake at early 9am to take KTX train friday. we're rushed, no time for anything, we get on the train thinking there will be food. oops, no food. its a 3 hour train ride. don't panic, we'll just eat the little amount of food Angela brought and we all will share---then i notice the 2 boys beside me are playing Nintendo DS. I pull out mine and next thing you know i'm playing Mario Kart with them, like a little kid again, they're speaking english i'm exclaiming in korean...its great! The mom tells them to eat and they'r like "aw mom, just one more game!" and wow...i say, no eat...and the mom gave us a whole plate full of kimbap (korean sushi) and strawberries and apples! it was like totally korean hospitality and homemade and delicious and thats when you'll fall in love with these people.

Ok so NOW busan!
we visited the largest Fish market in korea....Pusan is a Port after all. We enjoyed eating raw flounder, grilled flounder, raw sea urchins, and shellfish and conch. so delicious and unique. unbelievable how smooth it all went. went to the markets and shopped some more and i bought a lot of things it was funny. i love to haggle. lots of various things... I certainly enjoyed the different ...subtle fashion difference in korea. And the accent. And it was Budda's birthday festival so we enjoyed being total torists in that event. again it was just a peaceful day. we take the train to the beach and hotel...it starts to rain. We found the place sooo perfectly. Love paris baguette---has always taken care of me (they pointed us in the right direction of the hotel). Hmm, we enjoyed gettin there...we leave angela to find herself a hotel...with great success! (in the rain, what a champ) My parents and i want something unique...i think of shabu shabu (like...fondu boiling soup instantly cooks thin pieces of meat) and the ajuma feeds us! She doesnt have to but just because we're the only customer and the taxi got lost finding them and it was almost toooo special! Like kings and queens again. She loved to feed us and told her she didnt have to but "my pleasure". they love redhair lol. so awesome meal, we sleep like babies that night after listenin to the ocean for a little bit.

The next morning breakfast was fit for a king. western and eastern styles, all u can eat, its all about service here. and the view was not even 20 feet from the waves. after eating, we hit up the beach. last night's rain had scared away the crowd but the sun shown bright for us. silly college girls got a picture with us, haha. we just walked and talked...its only about a mile long beach. then had beautiful outback lunch/dinner at 4:30! hyesung met up with us and ah, like kids we all splashed in the waves again. haha. she left shortly, parents and i tried another stab at good food. Choge gooyie (shell fish on grille) and this time we were the only foreingers in a HUGE tent space and it was THE place to eat! everyone was surprised we were there....the waitor---a guy who knew the most english i imagine, showed us how to cook it and made it for us and it was delicious and funny and my dad tried it all...that was good. After dinner we met up with angela and alex and shared a drink. Laughed at the adventures we did that day...learned a lot. Just relaxed. Another perfect day.

Sunday, wow...so i got my dad to plan the hotels in jeju before they all get booked...not a good idea to b stranded! So excellent...and then we went to a buddist temple!

Being's budda's bday it was going to be jam packed. we met a foreigner from CDI hagwon, funny how u can kinda tell they work tehre by how they act... another story. But he showed us how to get tehre much easier than me (he was showing his family and was actually from busan). so we take pictures and explore....do a hike to a temple off the path. Such luck as it may be....a random girl that looked my age asked if we would like to have tea. she was an english teacher and comes here regularly to have tea with the monk. We accept and he is so excited to speak english with foreigners. He tells us about buddist and the way he lives, felt like a college dorm. a workout bench, his bed, loved to draw and meditate and tea and plants. all in that one room. Monks dont eat meat and believe in living very simple lives. so we totally rocked his day. as he said upon leaving him "i will never forget you" Awesome times. the girl walks back with us... we actually take a taxi down because we're late...but who cares!? we met a monk and had tea (grown from his garden!) and he drew a picture for us... We found out she was 37, that was wild (seriously looked like 24).

We parted ways with the girl and were late but met up with angela and alex and hyesung to go back to bucheon. due to time, we decided to have a great dinner at an indian restaurant. yum! before getting our seats, we ran to this bar "rock and roll" i believe and had a pint overlooking the ocean on the top floor (10th). quite nice. dinner was excellent, just like...home? haha, the lamb, the curry, the nan...except no basmati rice :(

We rush to the train station...thought we'd b late... enjoyed the budda parade and concert? and lantern festival i imagine. slept the whole train ride back.

My parents stayed in busan and went to jeju the next morning. That is an adventure I have yet to be completely told myself... We had not a single day of just doing nothing...is that good? is that bad? it certainly was a lot to in a small time!

They returned Friday morning....To find some more drama of my life. as said, they saw more in teh time they come than the months i've been here. Good? Bad? Molla.

Pics: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2015900&id=105600042&l=37a4b1a6d4

SEOUL COMING SOON...

Parents...came to Korea?!

So as most know. My parents came to korea April 18th until May 4th. that means they were here 2 weeks. They got to breathe, eat, live kimchi---i mean Korea. It was quite a jam packed visit...no? We had drama, we had emotion, we had good and bad and everything between! We've even got it all on film! or...836 on the cannon and who knows how many on dad and mom's camera. Though Dad's camera broke in Jeju... i digress.

So first they arrived in Korea at Avalon..what a journey! they were so tired..but we still managed a glass of wine and moving a couch upstairs to sleep on. great, 4 am...next day we head to Seoul to catch the last cherry blossom losing its pedals... What an adventure of so many new sights and sounds and smells! they couldn't believe how...just everything! we had a relaxing day at the park...watching people and their styles and how we're different but alike. hmm...they met danny and heather that night! they introduced them to the best kalbi (rib meat) and other delicious things Korea has to offer. Mind you 3 REALLY nice gifts just for visiting korea. Like honoured king and queen. Enchanting..

That sunday lunch they ate at R&B and got to see just how fun that place could be? or the remains at least.

Monday until Thursday youll have to ask them what they witnessed...as i had to work! I would stay up late talking with them...we went to eat...beef/pork with Deb tuesday for kalbi and yum yum. Stayed up real late with important situations and encounters.

Wednesday...not sure what exactly we did. i was exhausted so we just ate and slept and they got paris baguette sandwiches in the morning.

Thursday was delicious kalbi again and the guy even gave my mom his shirt! i've been wanting it all this time! not cool! It was after work we ate with angela and alex to prepare for busan and eat and enjoy and take care of tickets. major preparing! and work was stressful to add to it ><

This living together for a week after being apart for so long. 1 shower, 1 room, and only truly comfortable for a couple or a single person...oh it made for one quick adjusting. haha. all the goodies they brought me too were quite somethign! my shoes already are instant success...same with the candies and toys with the kids. Who knew starburst were SOOO popular. they love fruit--makes sense. And thats about all...

Next Blog:

BUSAN!!!

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Ah, what a week! some of the best and worst memories of korea all in one week!
first just um, boss have a hard job. When do u b hard on someone...when is it the right time to point out a problem?

i was late on wednesday because well...swimming? but more just me goofing around. so i got lectured, it really soured the day :(
so that night i felt stressed and it started to stack..

thursday i had agnes (NOT) watch my class. that was unneeded stress---especially since she didnt come!! and then...

Friday! HB middleschool worst students because a) they speak the LEAST amount of english...and don't want to learn! b) they are middleschool rebels! VERY rude to teachers and parents. Put this all together...i had a complete weekend of just me and destressing and getting away from everyone... and had a pleasant surprise at a lot of things! I feel anew! so here is something i jotted down in my time of just...being at peace!

We all could remember the importance of being STILL and knowing "I AM!".


Come find me
In the love of Him
Stand by me
Every mortal, all men

Abide in this
This truth and light
No reason to fight
The feeling of utter bliss

Remove each dirty rag
Wash in the water of joy
And burn off the slag
Come every girl and boy

Give yourself away
Let it go
Each trouble and what if
Forget about every rainy day

Open up your heart
And then all can start
The warm embrace
Of God’s ultimate grace.

4-11-09

have a fantastic Easter! (my poetry's back!!!)

Monday, April 6, 2009

quick little recap!

know its been forever...and want you to know that i'm still alive. i've written some stories...but kept them in a different area cuz they're for me!

lets see. so last 2 weeks.
first friday we went to shabo shabo...yummy beef dipped in boiling soup to cook! its so delicious that you must try it! avalon paid for it all too...we opened the new building and its a major success! We've almost doubled in size!

um, went shopping at new place savezone...fun place, cheap clothes. always good times.

played mario kart on sunday with new people on the Wii at R&B. it really is like a living room...and korea still Definitely feels like college. maybe even more so? like jerm lives on the 3rd floor of my building haha. so just walk downstairs and to his apt and then go swimming every tues and thurs now. that's a good routine---keeping my muscle toned (would u believe my shoulder is STILL messed up from that fracture back when adam got baptized?? haha that was june last year!)

hmm, had fun eating bbq chicken the korean way. so delicious---anohter dish my parents will try whent hey come here april 18th! what what!

now this most recent weekend... went to a Garten Beir? def mispelled! A Beer Garden and wow was it the greatest idea! The table has a dish in it made of copper...and its kept at a freezing 4C! so u put ur drink in there and it stays cold and fresh! so smart...only in korea!

walked around the park and had a blast! loved how the little kids couldnt contain themselves---would just blurt out "ohma! wagukin!" mommy, foreigner! lolol...i said back "hanguk!" haha, korean! little boy was scared and i laughed. anyway, so just relaxed the weekend int he sun...such a beautiful weekend i doodled a little, talked and yah, set up plans for my parents coming april to may 8th?

jerm met a really rich old man and went to his house and tutored his children, hahaha, soo crazy! and the dinner was soo good, i'm jealous. but so we're having fun meeting random koreans. its nothing like america...not that i'm a celebrity here, but certainly the white man is NOT a bad thing to be at all.

well, just realize that anything u do (like walk around barefoot in the park) eyes r on u in korea!

thats all folks!

Sunday, March 22, 2009

fish markets!

Time for that update on the life of the mighty olive.

things have been smooth with the routine of work. start hard monday...then its down to 3 classes thurs and friday, makes it for a nice downhill glide. friday though, whoah... whoah.

3 things to look out for when it comes to teaching middle school classes at a hagwon.
1. middle school is NOTHING like elementary school kids. If its beginner level, it means they've failed...multiple times. they only attend because parents beatthem into submission.
2. the class size is outrageous... how can u cover only about 5 pages of material in 80 minutes with 18 students? they dont want to talk or if they do...its in korean, and then they start to pick on eachother or chatter, ah, so you finish the lesson in 10 minutes just to find they didn't understand... so its like teaching a lesson 8x.
3. they are not elementary, where stickers and candy work, u can't bribe them, u cant scare them with detention, u cant even blink an eye without them trying to usurp your throne of power. oh whats to be done. regardless this is my only "beginner's" class and oh, make that #4
4. when u teach them only 1 time a week it really ruins my flow...i forget their names, i feel unprepared, ah it spells disaster.

so, maybe this week a lot did happen---i realized how good i am with elementary kids and how middleschool is NOT worth the stress. so after all that stress i have my favorite class of elementary students! so bright and happy and love me. always makes for the start of a good weekend!

Saturday the boys...haha...cuz the girls had to work/workout (role reversal!) we went on the town---shopping/exploring. we ventured all over bucheon, no camera, but something remarkable to witness. street markets are by far exciting and an adventure well worth spending a day at. we walked up a street that was easily half a mile of just shop after shop. my favorite was the pig head, live octopus, eel, and then of course hanging chickens. i just want to know how the competition thrives...soooo many people selling the same thing!

few things great about being a foreigner
1. everywhere you walk is 'new' and people can easily think u a tourist.
2. ahjuma women (older women) LOVE young (especially 3) men. i bought peanuts and she gave me more than i asked for...which i had to carry around the rest of the trip >.> but such good fun!
3. everyone smiles and laughs when ur trying to speak their language. everyone tries to help and friendship begins quickly.

ah, well, so we explored, had a fantastic time climbing a mountain---hill. seeing some men totally rock at archery (they shot targets 245m away!!!) and that means u have to think about wind and angle...just whoah. well, 7 hours later we made it back to watch twilight. good movie...but i can tell te book is better.

sunday hyesung and i enjoyed simple fun walking around... had lunch at the place i had the very first morning i arrived here... funny how much i've "grown". then dinner with ang and alex for the pork and foods and a movie. successful weekend.

well thats olive i've got to say!

Sunday, March 15, 2009

St. Patrick's day!

Well, its a bit early...but Saturday was the party for every teacher in korea. Itaewon korea...the army base and certainly where every foreigner goes to b back in america. its got all the regular places like KFC, quisnos, subway, tacobell (on the base), among other classic american gross places. either way, we went, had a blast celebrating at an irish pub---it was wayyy too packed. nothing like ireland, but still some good craic. I was saddened to see so many souls weak and drunk...just disgusting! nothing attractive about it. ireland they didnt abuse it, but it was definitely a joyous occassion---the trad sessions, etc.

Itaewon didn't have any of that. just the bad parts of st. paddy's. owell, its what happens. america takes something good and commercializes on it and ruins it. ah, well i got a great T that is irish authentic writing... and such. but ah, how it did make me miss ireland and her beauty.

no matter where u r, what u do, memories r still the best gift. :)

Yongsan and newbies

Well its been 2 weeks since the update.

Last week we had to train 2 new teachers. Its been very demanding... jereme and daniel. We'll talk more about that later... just we're now underway with the new semester it was major stressful with training them (ya, by the way, lol) and then starting our own classes and making sure we dont have any kids drop... oh the fun

but we survived, its going to be a long, long, and busy semester. not cool too because my parents come april 25th? so thats the only real news. its been fun seeing korea through a "new person's eyes" haha. omg, all the lights! wow, this is so cheap food! wait, you get all these side-dishes for free?! you have a keypad for your door? thats sooo cool! hahaa...

yongsan also was entertaining, reminded me of my first time. wanted to buy everything just because tehre's soo much! well, thats that. we got jereme a R4 so he can join me in gaming..haha, not that hyesung is too happy about that :-x

just remember kids, games r escapism...unless u share 'em! then its fun!

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Ul wang lee Beach!

this weekend we did something that is a must for most floridians and busanians...give into that itch for the beach!

the pics are great...sunset stellar...another coast where the sun sets over the water. only 3rd place i've seen that... well, its a new semester this week!

we tried this new dish (for both of us!) u cook mussels and other shellfish over a grille and they open up and u pluck the meat out...so delicious! pictures r on facebook. keep on keeping on!

nee bah (ready) desceyo (is it..?)

Monday, February 23, 2009

Sick #2

Missed last week so...I split it into 2 entries. Yesterday and Saturday I was sick with a sinus infection? Not sure exactly…just loads of the green stuff and a cough to boot. They don’t have nitquil here …but they have these amazing 2 blue and white pills that cost $2 for a pack of 10 and I’ve never been so drowsy and giddy and slept so good!!! Still amazes me how cheap pills are here…and how effective they’ve been. Yet again Hyesung has been an angel in taking care of me! Even fixed me a delicious homemade beef dinner Friday night after work!

I got sick from a sunflowerseed going up my nose (ha…you knew I was three) or angela gave it to me. I gave her some Sudafed to help her…she ended up getting an ear infection! Sooo…its been rough this whole week in that sort. This semester ends the 27th so we’re also just winding down…its going to get very busy next week… And then its going to be a busier semester I fear---no holidays! -.- And its not cool cause parents come then and they won’t get to see me as much.

Owell, can't get upset about me having a job!!!

Major buzz about North Korea and its declare on wanting to launch a missile. No idea what the plan is... Maybe a satellite? Doubtful. But i also see a cry for help...they have little food, little hope, its a last stand for a dying nation. like a wounded dog cornered.
U can read more at http://english.chosun.com/
its a korean newspaper in english... find it very informative.

Well, remember, the economy is hitting worst time ever... the korean won just hit 1,500 W : 1 usd. That's worst for past 11years. cant get any worse, ya?

"when going through hell, keep going." - Churchill

Saint Valentine got confused in Korea.

Valentine’s Day. Alex’s birthday?

So mainly the weekends r the only time things happen. I worked the week…smooth, suppose to have the boss watch my class…didn’t have time. All good, so planning for the Vday was interesting. I decided to have some fun with it since I am told the GIRL is suppose to buy the GUY chocolate. How awesome is that? So I got some chocolate (still havn’t opened it..yah) and this awesome lotion stuff that I was needing. Get this, I even got spoiled with thai for dinner! How does the guy get spoiled so much? Why? Because on White Day (march 14th) the guy does it all… 3x bigger! Ooops. Haha, but we’ll have fun… I also did this SUPER cheesy poem like a little kid would write…what can I say, I’m a child :-D So here’s to a happy little valentine with Hyesung.

The afternoon was just watching this great show “How I met your mother” since she had to work and then we got this exciting idea to go to Hongdae to shop since we were undecided about going to Alex (angela’s boyfriend’s) bday there….do 2 things at once! Major success. I found this fantastic Japanese black long coat that really feels good. And some skinny jeans that she insisted look really great on me…most I’ve ever paid for jeans -.- but hey, I admit sometimes I dress like a snob. Ok, so that’s that. Party was a success. Simple cheers, and a night of dancing---I love how the Koreans dance but don’t. boys and girls hardly touch, so you have this side by side dancing and try to mimic each other and its def more flirtatious than…other “dancing” I’ve seen such as grinding and rap. So that made me happy. Just seeing different cultures can always make me smile to myself.

“That’s about all I have to say about that.” – F. Gump

I am CRAVING the beach!!! Soon…

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Post on Payday

Week at a glance.

Well after Japan things have been quiet. Had a nice simple week of teaching, feels great to have no more intensive! I can teach and not be tired! Only problem now is just trying to figure out what I want for dinner and when I should go to bed. I’m trying to get a schedule of swimming each morning…found a place that’s 4,000won per swim…guess where it is? The YMCA! Haha. And its like literally 2 buildings away. So keep me to it! At least randomly just to not become jelly. Certainly feels like I just work and sleep and on the weekends actually walk more than 10minutes.
Today is PAY DAY!!! Exciting, I get paid intensive bonus for the extra 24classes and then ah, it feels great to be a millionaire! At this rate I’ll soon become a billionaire! :-O
I know I won’t reach my financial goal (especially as the won continues to get weaker) but I’m certainly enjoying the time! Can you believe its already been almost 4 months??? I arrived October 24th… 10-24 it is now 2-10. 9-1 to 12-14 I was in Ireland. So I have now been in Korea for the longest time abroad. Feels great. Its taken the bucket list to a whole different level.
Still no idea what I want to do with my life, this economic situation is only getting worse! Here’s an article from the BBC on Charlotte. Know it’s big when it’s the front page of business in America from a foreign news. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7880283.stm
OH! This weekend I shaved my head then went shopping for some Korean style clothes. I did great! I got fitted pants, a fitted dress shirt, and my favorite---the Korean style p-coat with 6 buttons in front. Ah its glorious. I still might get another one (this one is blue) that covers the neck and up to your nose. Looks really cool… that def will be in black. And with the season getting warmer, I’ll get it on sale too! So after buying all that, Alex and I happen to see Big Bang! A music band that is MAJOR famous in korea. Check them out! So Hot is a good song. Wonder girls is another band--- Nobody – Wonder girls. Check those two bands out and be amused and cultured! Well, 2 great shopping malls/train stops. Coax and dong day moon!


Man, i hate tax.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Japan! for 5 days

Japan:


Friday
Osaka!
We checked into the Raizen hostel. Fantastic! Own private rooms, twin size bed, fridge, tv, and public baths = 25 usd. We stayed there 3 nights, would gladly do it again! So that night…we met up with Risa and her friend. She took us to the BEST sushi and sake! I still can’t believe how she spoiled us! By far best sushi I’ve had (the strips of fish on top of rice..) and then had tasty foods ---and she paid for it all! Ahh, I love having great friends, I thank her so much for making this trip fantastic! We even had a lava cake! Haha, I almost laughed when it came out---her favorite Japanese dessert and its probably made in America. ;)


Saturday
Tanjori (sp?) temple in Osaka. Pictures on Angela’s camera… I met this guy from…no joke…Charlotte, NC. His name is Johnny and he has to go to a foreign country to graduate in International relations. Chose probably the most expensive at this time, but hey, he’s making it work! So we laughed that we even know the same people and hope to meet up once I return to charlotte. He lives in Waxhaw and might in fact teach in Korea after hearing how fun it is. At the temple there was this elderly lady…quite old and tiny, adorable. She was trying to come into the temple and I leaving…she was sooo polite and kept saying “gominosai” = I’m sorry/excuse me, and that I was so kind and it made me happy. I didn’t need to know all the words…just the look was so raw and real! That’s what I like best about language barriers---the human body can have a LOT of communication. Well, fun times and walking a lot more…we had a gorgeous lunch (these 2 older ladies were so intrigued by us, we talked to them for a bit, laughed, not every day they see 4 foreigners that don’t know any Japanese) After, we walked and shopped in these great shopping towers! Like 8 floors of clothes and stuff. Angela went total girl mode---bought shirts and jewelry. Us guys found a manga store and an arcade room. Ah, you’ve never seen so many games and spending coins like its nothing…it’s a whole different world.
After shopping, went out to eat with pretty much the entire foreign group from the hostel, the greatest curry! Then sleep.


Sunday
Kyoto! Risa was able to find time and was excited to treat us to an adventure! After getting a bit lost, and seeing the Kyoto temple…quickly, we saw monkies! Saw this amazing Japanese garb (guy’s kimono…) and wanted it but I couldn’t get the price down. I gave up, came back later---it was already sold! I was sad the whole train back… we ate and I got Katsu-ju (breaded pork stacked on top of an egg and rice)! Just like in Musashi’s at charlotte, and it tasted JUST like it! Like scary how I found a place that’s very true to its taste. After eating, we go our separate ways…and I got surprised by Risa---she bought me the kimono!! Ahhh, it made my day. Aya and I grabbed a Japanese special sake only in Japan (ryokai? No idea…) and I got to travel the Japanese train alone. First time taking a train alone. Ever. Haha, made it back safe, of course, watched an AWESOME sumo wrestling match on TV and then planned the next day.


Monday
Osaka castle. We first checked into our hotel – Sheradon (that’s how they spell it) and ate a cheap rice ball (so yummy and simple) and then made for our 2km walk. Took a while, but worth it! This castle had a moat that was HUGE! And inside was fun to see all the things… and then the view from the top! It was a great clear view, yet again Angela has the pictures. Johnny came with us again, we enjoyed---haha, we did a hand stand in front of the castle---we got quite a crowd of Japanese with that picture, oh my. Then we enjoyed a nice….Italian restaurant? We went looking for good food, and good price, we decide on that one---then realize its Italian. I got tempura shrimp and a niiice piece of steak and rice (instead of noodles). Haha, trying to say “substitute” was quite …difficult to explain. I’m so just glad they have like plates of fake food on display! Asia is so smart in having food on display so we can just point! Johnny had never taken the train…EVER so after dinner we pointed him in the right direction and away he went.
After returning, we called it an easy night of just waking up early to shop some more and then take the plane back.

Tuesday we just went shopping for about an hour---the shopping was horrible around the sheradon, either really expensive or non-existent. We ate some fresh bakery bread and sorts, grabbed the “limousine” bus to the airport and enjoyed just relaxing…I literally spent all my money down to 1 cent! Was awesome trying to buy some socks…the lady paid a few pennies she knew I was trying so hard! Ah, the Japanese people we met were very friendly and very inviting. I would say go and enjoy, just make sure you’ve got deep pockets!

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

To Osaka, Japan!

I have been quite busy this past week.

Had some meetings at work and planning vacation... Had one with boss, i'm a bad boy ...lol, i threated to "throw my shoe" at a student like the middle eastern reporter did at Bush. apparently students tell only half the story to their parents: "my teacher takes his shoes off in class" blahh. lol, maybe i shoulda just hit the kid then they'd gotten the REAL picture. ;)

Friday and Saturday was spent relaxing watching movies and being cheap...
Saturday night i had an amazing Thai dinner! We got pad thai, red curry, and kaprawl! Certainly in an odd way felt like home food (charlotte's thai house, sigh)... that was a good time.
Sunday we had a boiling bowl of soup u cook your meat in. its great.

all this was to talk about Angela, Alex, and I going to Japan for lunar new year!

Friday we leave at 9am... play around Osaka with a friend i met at my semester in Dublin City University and enjoy sights and then new years!
we'll be staying at:
Raizan Hotel...

http://www.raizan.com/raizan-english/location.html

and then the sheridan, this place has a hot tub and the works! Its all about going cheap, then go big! so we'll b having a good time. more to come! just remember. its not the money you will remember...but hte memories you made!

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Duck!!!

So nothing much happened this past week while i recovered from... FOOD POISON! I got my computer at yongsan, came back and ate "take out" at my place. yum, i could never order in korean on the phone...hyesung certainly helps me there! haha. so monday we went to emart to buy something and grabbed dinner at that "cafeteria" kinda like walmart grade mall asian food. i thought it was safe and tasty...i ordered beef and rice and seaweed. oh how i regret. After we finished i went to sleep quite soon and woke and went to work. At work, lunch time, i was soo pale and felt like i got shot in the stomach. i managed to puke, then it went all downhill...it had already entered my system. i had to leave early (and if someone subs for u...u have to pay them! not cool!) so i went home and hyesung (oh angel, haha) bought me meds and i was on teh road to recovery ....after a night of around 104 fever and massive leakage. i kept hydrated, my other friend got dehydrated same week and had to get an I/V for water. ah, so i went to work Wednesday with major weakness ( ihadnt eaten for about 24 hours) and then got off work and ate a little..finally. Thursday i ate more...and then Friday i devoured kalbi!!! never tasted so good! i got to meet some good people and we laughed about oh the couples and singles differences... co-worker carrie and her bf mainly was the new fun friends. it was an early night after all the tireing and no sleeping. Saturday ...went to Mark's bday and had fun... hyesung works 6 days so way exhausted and i just called it early too.

Sunday was great. Danny was free and came to see justin and i! We went to see transporter! ah, always good action! so he also....was just like a dad and i was just like a kid! haha, he bought my ticket...and popcorn...and then this little action figure of naruto i wanted! i wasn't going to buy it because eh, its money...but then he goes and buys before i can say no! :) silly fun it really is great how a simple little 5 buck item makes me happy and how it also just...he's changed my perspective on a lot of how friends should be! so we watched, then went to find a place to eat duck. he has this amazing red sport car so after watching the movie...we're a little racing mood haha, but we get there and eat some great meat! duck, ribs!!!! (i did it southern way, got down and dirty while they used plastic gloves and were nice and neat about it) and some sausage and pouridge, it was quite good.
after that just simple night...just went home to prepare for work! OH! hyesung got a guitar saturday! and i havnt seen it yet but its yellow---i think it should b called little miss sunshine! but eh...

now its testing so i've been writing while they test! time to finish.

things to remember---don't buy cheap beef! eat at your own risk!
meds cost only 5$ here...and they work!

let people take care of u...they're ur real friends! :)

New Year!

Welcome 2009!

So, 2 days of work then new years! we worked hard, then went direct to R&B for a concert by the rocktigers. The lead singer wore a dress that looked like Dorthy from wizard of Oz...and the guitarist looked like elvis. oh it was fun. then we brought in the new year! it was a great way and just relaxed the next day...for we had to work on friday :(
friday finished work at 7:30 and then Avalon paid for us to go to the greatest seafood restaurant for sure! Maris! just imagine... Tin Tin in Charlotte (chinese buffet).... times 5!!! The japanese sushi bar was 3 bars... the udon and soup bar was also its own room. then the korean, american, american pizza and pasta...just whoah. huge. and as such... i spent the next 2 hours gorging on ...REAL ramen, sushi sushi sushi (blowfish!!! can kill 30 men if cut wrong..), tandori chicken, salmon, herb chicken, steak, crab legs, shrimp (with heads on too!), cous cous, pinnaple, these mangos (sooo cool...like a smoke bomb shell, etc. frozen), they had pizza and other foods but i went after the goods. they shut down at 10 and kicked us out...we then went to a noribang to sing songs for a co-worker's bday! that was good fun. sure laugh at how quick they get tired and go to sleep...but thats ok, some had to work in the morning! yuck! i went and played some darts with a friend that lost his job (long story...miscommunication...he'll get another one but still frustrating) and then went to sleep for a happy celebration.

Saturdaywas nothing...just relax i believe. Sunday hyesung and i went to buy my computer! that brings us to the previous update. as u see it was jam packed of party and happy memories.
to bring in the new year!

huzzah!

Thursday, January 8, 2009

While at work...

Happy new year! ah the feast! Buffet at Maris! Then Noribang and R&B and ah what a great concert and toast!...

in fact i'll write a whole blog about that later each labeled...

Just was going to say i'm alive. I didn't update this past sunday because well, its been fun and such.

I bought a netbook! LG x110 fancy little toy.

160gig
1gig ram
1.6 atom proc
10"
2lbs

basically for work and travel. only 2.5 hours of battery use, bleh. but plug weighs so little too...

hm,so that was sunday... Then you have monday i ate some...beef from the cafeteria in E-mart (kinda like a...mall/walmart) and well, got food poison. bad. it wiped me out for the next day and had a huge fever that night, then barely jumped back on it and now i'm better. phew. glad to know i have some good people to take care of me :) and its true and rare that my recruiter is still willing to take care of me...not any extra pay or anything. came last night to see me and this other recruit...

Lots has been going on, i know i've been busy here trying to get "life" in order... on teh 2nd we started "intesives" means my schedule goes from 10am until 7pm sooo...that has ruined a few of my plans but opened up night life here! Now i need to take care of work.

Bottom line?

I had turkey for christmas.

glory.