"Thirty" Something.

Quest Physics

2010-11-27T17:23:00.000-05:00

Eat. Pray. Love.

I've read the book about 7 times. It's the type of novel that has splashes of wine, folded edges and a weathered cover. Her own journey reminds me so much of my own, just in different ways. Just watched the film. Not quite the emotional ride one gets from reading the book, but a pretty good job none the less. What matters most is what you take away from the message. The last few frames of the movie sums it up eloquently in what the writer calls Quest Physics. I lived it, and can only believe that it works.

Quest Physics: If you are brave enough to leave behind everything familiar and comforting which could be anything from your house to bitter old resentments and set out on a truth seeking journey either externally or internally, and if you are truly willing to regard everything that happens to you on that journey as a clue and if you except everyone you meet along the way as a teacher, and if you are prepared most of all to face and forgive some very difficult realties about yourself, then the truth will not be held from you.

Namaste.

Property Virgin?

2010-11-09T10:31:00.002-05:00

Everything has been finalized. I dove into the real estate market. I found the place I will call home for the next 30 years (or so says my mortgage). As the builder shook my hand and offered his congratulations; his smile spread from ear to ear. He paused a moment to notice that my facial expression was a little less smiley and a lot more of a panicky.

The plunge was thrilling, but as I signed my name away on the numerous contracts, documents and statements you can’t help but take a moment to truly ask yourself, “ Can I really do this?”.

“I can’t look at this as debt only as an investment”. I repeated this little mantra over and over as a simple reminder to indulge in the excitement. I’m hoping the elation will continue as I watch the dollar signs fly as I go about pricing appliances, furniture and all the stuff I need to actually put in the place. Last August, I freed myself of all my belongings— and now… in hindsight I probably should have kept just a few!

Besides the price tags, I am eager to move in and get settled. With only the notary left to go, I am officially no longer a property virgin.

30 Days Has September

2010-10-09T07:34:00.000-04:00

30 Days has September, and before you know it half of October is already gone. I never really realised how fast time really flies. I've been home for exactly I month and 9 days. This is the first opportunity, I've had to sit down to reflect and write. It's been quite a whirlwind returning home, from the reverse culture shock, to seeing all my friends and family, to eating all the food I missed so much being away. I'm missing Korea and especially my life long friends I made. In the Month and 9 days that I've been back on North American soil-- I returned to work, bought a car... and even bought myself a home. What better way to arrive home than in style?!

August Rush

2010-08-31T14:54:00.000-04:00

August rushed in faster than I ever expected. It's hard to believe that I've been adventuring for a whole year. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to follow my dreams and come half way across the world to teach English. I have tried my best to capture my experiences through my writing along the journey, but find it so difficult to really express everything that I have learned over the past year. I have met wonderful people and made lifetime friendships. I've been to places I had never dreamed of seeing. I've inspired students to continue learning and to always dream. I've learned a new language (although still a little rusty). I've deepened my understanding of another culture. I've realized that age really is a state of mind and that no matter where you are in life- it's exactly where you should be. I've done all the things I love to do-- all on my own. Teaching English in Korea has been the experience of a lifetime, and I will never forget the memories created here.

There are so many things I will miss about Korea, and of course a few things I won't.

Top 5 Things I Will Miss About Living in Korea

1. Anywhere you want to go in the city is less than a 10$ taxi ride away. From Downtown Daegu, my apartment is a 6 $ cab ride away. You can't beat that when you're out and about on the town.

2. Meeting and talking with just about anybody. All the ex-pats here, are just that... ex-pats. Doesn't matter where you go or who you bump into, there is always a perfect conversation starter for the still singles out there.Making new friendships or skinships is pretty easy.

3. Korean snacks and treats. I'll miss the mandu, and the bibimbap. You'll get a satisfying meal in Korea for under 6$. You'd never find that back home, unless you're doing a drive through.

4. Bars don't close (although this may not be such a good thing). For those of you who know me, I love to dance the night away, and when the music is great-- you'll often have trouble dragging me away. Drinks are cheap, a solid cocktail will run you about 4$ and you can even take them to the street, no questions asked.

5. Being busy every weekend. Exploring the city and beyond. Learning about Korean culture and experiencing life as close as you can. Korea has a lot of to offer, and I will miss the hustle and bustle of life in the city.

Top 5 Things I Won't Miss About Living in Korea

1. The obvious language barrier. Having to say the same word over and over with a different pitch, with still no results. Pulling out the cell phone dictionary or pocket translator just to get down the street, gets old really fast. The obvious, I am a foreigner and do not speak Korean look- and yet the person continues to rant off in Korean as if you understand.

2. The Korean Ajumas (elderly women) who punch and elbow their way through the crowds and have an overall lack of personal space. They will knock you over if you don't stand your ground.

3. The fishy smells that waft about the city. I don't really have a strong stomach, and absolutely hate fish- but for some reason no matter where you walk it hits you right in the face.

4. The overall lack of following any speed limits, red lights or pedestrian crosswalks. I've been nearly killed in a taxi (twice) as the cab exceeded speeds of 80 KM in a residential area. Motorbikes don't stop at red lights, and dodging is just another form of walking around here.Furthermore, people on the street don't hesitate to just walk right into you.

5. The head nodding and cut off conversations. Koreans generally don't close a conversation, so you're left hanging either on the phone or in person. They generally finish with a head nod, or a " Neeeeeeeee", which after a few minutes of standing there, you realize the conversation is over.

The Land of Smiles

2010-08-11T00:00:00.001-04:00

Over the past year, I've been on so many adventures. I made it to Korea, to Australia and now I'm making my way to Thailand. They call it the Land of Smiles.

I'm very much looking forward to spending my last few weeks in Thailand. It's been a wild ride here in Korea, and it will sure be nice to relax on the beach, explore and indulge in what Thailand has to offer. My friend and I are heading out for our last vacation before we both are homeward bound. We don't have much booked, but have some ideas as to what we want to see and do. We're both kind of taking a back seat, and hoping that once we get there we'll let the locals guide us. We'll be flying by the seat of our pants for this one, and hope to enjoy every minute of our last adventure, before our new one begins. Here's to some happy smiles!

Skinship

2010-08-10T20:00:00.000-04:00

"Konglish" is the use of English words in a Korean context. Any foreigner here in Korea has probably heard their fare share of re-interpreted words and expressions. A new one I heard last week was a colleague telling me she was going "eye shopping". I couldn't help but laugh out loud when it finally dawned on me that she meant "window shopping" as opposed to going out on the hunt for a glass eye.

Expressions like these are all the rage over here, and despite making it at times difficult for English teachers, some of them are frankly quite catchy. One of my new faves is "skinship" and I'll be bringing this one back home with me for sure. It essentially means a relationship that focuses on the exploration of another's skin ( I bet you can see where this is headed). It's origin comes from the closeness shared between mother and child. Nowadays in Korea, it basically means many forms of intimacy and sexual contact.

"Skinship" is the new term for casual sex. A non-relationship, based purely on skintimacy. If you're trying to define your "relationship" to a Korean friend, and you use the term casual sex- you'll receive a blank stare, raised eyebrows and utter confusion in return. However, if one uses the "correct" phrase, "skinship"-- you're bound to get a sly smile and head nod instead.

Despite, the idea that most people in this World are looking for a real relationship connection, here in Korea, whether you're an ex-pat or a Korean, skinships appears to be taking hold of the community. Everyone, it seems, is looking for just a little skintimacy.

I wonder if it's because as ex-pats we're moving in and moving out of the country. Really- who has time and energy to devote to establishing a real relationship within a limited amount of time? Maybe it's just easier to share in some skinship and get out. Or, is it that relationships for the younger generation are just evolving... or devolving-- however you wish to see it. Both (the younger) men and women seem to be searching for skinships rather than relationships. Have we gone back to the 60's era of free love and sex? Are committed relationships a thing of the past?

Whatever the case may be- if we're only here for a short while, why not have a little fun while we're at it? Having a little skinship never hurt anybody, and let me tell you it could just be the end-all cure for culture shock, as long as you're both on the same skintimacy page.

Charley Davidson

2010-07-29T01:41:00.000-04:00

I couldn't have asked for a better send off. I said good-bye to two of my guy friends this week, and despite the sadness we took the opportunity to have one last adventure together. My friends happen to live near the mountains in a small town called Yeongcheon. They also have bikes. Not the 5 speed variety, but of the 125 cc kind. The last time I mounted a motorcycle, I burned my leg on the exhaust and my speed demon driver almost ran over a dog... this time round was a completely different experience.

We geared up for the two hour ride, packed with the camera, some smokes, and an i-pod play-list. Besides our helmet's it was just going to be the two bikes and the road.

As we drove through the city and out into the mountains with the wind whipping our faces the air and the scenery around us was breathtaking. There was a haze of clouds as we set off to beat the sunset. The cool country air surrounded us as we climbed higher and higher throughout the winding roads. There are no words to describe being out on the open road, flanked by sweeping vistas. It reminds us that there is so much out there.

We made it to the top, just as the sun decided to peak through the burst of clouds. As we scanned the valleys below, you couldn't help but take a moment to appreciate the beauty before us. There was a moment, as the sun's rays glimmered, that I couldn't help but feel a sense of homecoming. That no matter what lay ahead, everything was going to be alright. We never know what life will bring next- and so for just a moment in time, you breathe in the majestic beauty and find solace in the knowing that whatever comes you just keep climbing.

As the sun began to settle in the late afternoon, we headed back down the mountain. Charley Davidson gave us a good ride. I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful afternoon with two guys, who have become like family during my adventure in Korea.

With the wind at our backs and the trees zooming by we were free. The setting sun splintered through the trees as we kept on driving home. You could feel nothing but the dewy air rushing full force against your body. It was the ride of a lifetime, the kind where you want to lift up your arms to the heavens and scream at the top of your lungs. My first choice words were, " my life is beautiful". Thank you Charles and Blair for the memories. You'll be missed until I can see you again on the road ahead.

Mudfest Madness

2010-07-26T04:41:00.001-04:00

Wallowing in Mud. Good times. This famous festival is on one of the top ten places to see before you're thirty. Well, I did it... just at thirty- one. The festival takes place in Boreyeong, South Korea, a small sea side town that hosts a mud festival every year.

We hopped on a bus headed to mud land with about 130 other foreigners hoping to frolic in the mineral mud. The 3- plus hour bus ride started at 8 am, and with pit stops and by-the-road pee breaks we finally arrived at noon.

The bus ride of course, would not have been complete without a little partying (drinking started at 9) and a some Bus Norebang (Karaoke). The selections included sing-alongs such as Brown Eyed Girl, Eye of the Tiger, Under the Sea and even Oh Holy Night (don't ask).

Once arrived, it was pretty clear that although this festival was originally intended for the Korean population, it turned out to cater to the hundreds of foreigners ready to mash it up in the mud.

We swamped through the jungle course, and played a very muddy tug of war. Honestly, it was one of the best times we've had so far in South Korea. For anyone who hasn't been... this is an absolute must do. Put it on your list and commit. There was live music, good food, and a great crowd. I'm sad I won't be around to wrestle in the mud next year, but I can say that I've done it once in my lifetime.

The 13th Mud Festival was a huge success and I'm happy to have done it with those I call family around here. It was definitely madness- but oh-so-worth it.

Summer Camps and Celebrity Status

2010-07-22T20:26:00.001-04:00

If you've ever wondered what it would really feel like to be a celebrity, just make your way on over to Korea and teach English. Foreign teachers are randomly asked to pose for a cell phone picture in the streets by teens and adults alike, but the real paparazzi frenzy happens in the midst of screaming child fans.

Summer Camp season is here. Basically, regular school has ended, and now the lucky students are enrolled in 3-5 day camps, where they ~~eagerly~~ await more English language instruction. Given that many of these students live below the poverty line, have grueling scholastic schedules and little time for fun- these camps are an opportunity for us teachers to show them that English can be their friend! Games, activities and of course, a little lesson action paves the way for language learning.

This weeks camp, I have elementary students, from grades 3 through 6. Its been so refreshing to teach the little ones, whose eagerness and enthusiasm make it a great joy to teach. It's a 360 turn around from my middle school students who'd rather sleep away the class and/or just stare at themselves in their pocket mirrors.

Once the camp is over and closing ceremonies have ended... pandemonium erupts. The students leap from their seats and begin taking cell phone snap shots like paparazzi pros. One after another, they push, shove and elbow their way through to get as many pics as possible of their Foreign teachers who taught them. I'll be honest, I'm not particularly photogenic and after the 60th snap you're pretty much done. Having figured, the photo-shoot session was over the four of us foreign teachers made our way out of the auditorium and were headed home. Outside, we were bombarded with the crowds of kids waiting for us. They shouted and waved, and called out our names. We had no idea what was going on! I know I am a pretty good teacher, but this was way out of anything I've ever experienced.

The kids swarmed us with paper and pens, and insisted we give them our autographs. We just kinda went with it. As we signed, the photo shoot continued, one after another. I'm not too sure what the significance is of having my signature is- I doubt it can be sold for any money. Perhaps, they are just so proud to have had an opportunity to learn with us? I'll never really know.

What I can tell you, is that being a celebrity is exhausting. The first autograph is thrilling and you can't help but feel your head swell a tad-- but after 30 minutes of signing your name away... you just want to run.

School's Out for Summer

2010-07-15T01:38:00.000-04:00

Today is the last day of regular classes around here. Summer Vacation officially begins tomorrow. It’s been quite a day, filled with a few tears. I’ve never really been very good with good-byes. These students have made a lasting impression, and I will forever be grateful to have had the opportunity to teach, guide and have fun with them. There are a few of my favorites that showered me with presents, cards and kisses. I really will miss them. They work so hard and have so much to give, if you open your heart and let them in.

For most of these students, the start of summer vacation isn’t much to talk about. Many of my students, continue to go to school even though they are on “vacation”. It’s basically a vacation from regular classes, and instead they get to go study somewhere else (YIPEE).

During the school year, my 13-15 year olds have school from 8:20- 4:20, they then rush off to another “hagwon” or academy where they will endure several more hours of instruction in the main subjects, such as, math, English, Science, Music. Their grueling schedule pains me. They sleep only a few hours a night, to get right back into the grind. They worry about their scores, and regular teenager fare.

I’m glad I had the opportunity to teach them about the World, that it is okay to laugh and of course have fun.
I will continue to pray that the Korean system changes it’s views on discipline and doctrine as these students have enough to deal with, without worrying about the looming threats of physical discipline. For god- sakes, they are only kids.

I’m looking forward to the next two weeks, where I will be spending my time at English Camp (essentially this is like our “day camps” back home except they are strictly educational). I’ll be teaching the wee ones, which in itself is an adventure! They are so cute, you just want to scoop them up!

Canada Day in Korea, Ehh!

2010-07-13T03:14:00.001-04:00

Last week the foreigners were out and about celebrating their homelands. First came the Canadians, then the Americans. A local (Canadian owned) restaurant here in Daegu offered up some wonderful meals and deals to celebrate Canada Day. On the menu: poutine and ceaser specials.

You just don't realise how much you miss the comforts of good ol' canadian staples until their placed right there in front of your face. I may not have indulged in the poutine (although I really really wanted to) but I did have a few ceasers. Whoever invented clamato juice deserves a good slap on the back. Even American Amy says a ceaser beats a bloody mary any day! Canada 1- America 0.

We rocked out to the hip, and watched the Canada Hockey Game. There was even a little time for a quick game of darts. Note the slew of red t-shirts in the background. One girl, came out with the Canadian flag shifted as a skirt. Now that's patriotism!

American Amy flying solo in purple. But she's started saying, "eh".

That counts for something!!

We celebrated our friends below beneath us on the weekend. Although there were no big parties to speak of, our friend Charles came up with a brilliant idea: bringing the fireworks to Busan!!

All in all, it was great celebration! It will be good to be back home next year, for the real deal, though!

Blind Date Nation

2010-06-29T05:18:00.001-04:00

Dating is complicated in any country or any culture. Two people meet, flirt and the dance begins or ends depending on how things progress. Okay- so this appears to be the same things that transpire in western cultures. Every human is just yearning to find "the one". So what's so different about Korea? Korea is a blind date nation. Every one of my single Korean friends (male and female) have been on a blind date. Typically, friends, mothers, grandmothers and even aunts play match maker for their single loved ones. Once the hook up is made, the match-maker or third wheel goes along for the date. Its not uncommon to sit down for dinner and count the tables where three people looking mighty awkward sit down for a meal or a cup of coffee. The match-maker sort of acts like a buffer. He/She will try and stimulate the conversation. Talk about awkward. If the mood is right and there is a likely match, the two singles will likely see each other again in hopes of sparking a relationship. If not, it all ends there, until the next blind date comes through. I hear that the match maker truly considers the two people's needs ~~and wants~~. My friends tell me that usually two people in Korea are set up based on professional status, social status and salary. I can't say that this is for every situation, but my friends have expressed that this is the typical set up situation.

Back in North America, blind dating is kind of unheard of, except for the select stories you hear floating around. I'm totally unaware of the success rate of this style of hooking up, but I guess it beats meeting people in a bar or on the internet. At least you have a middle-man who at least can take some responsibility for the match up in the first place. That way, you have someone to blame when it goes south or at least a pretty good toast at your wedding. Maybe, I'll put the word out to my friends back home to start keeping a look out-- but let's be honest, I'm looking for a little more than social status and salary... although six figures couldn't hurt.

Texting and everything in between

2010-06-22T04:06:00.007-04:00

Is texting really the new call? I've never really been one for texting. Okay- so its effective when arranging a time and place to meet- but having a full blown conversation over text messaging has always seemed such a nuisance to me. With all this technology out there, it seems that texting has become more popular than the age-old telephone call.

What I can tell you, that since being in Korea, I've never texted as much in the whole time I've carried a mobile. That's about 10 years (yikes). It's fast, to the point and pretty simple to navigate. I also believe that since being here, my social networks are of the 20 somethings that thrived on MSN messenger, facebook and texts for most of their teenage-hood. Although this may have accounted for my sudden interest in texting, I don't hesitate to pick up the phone to dial out.

It's all fine and dandy to send a quick text to a friend, a racy "sext" when the mood is right, but what about texting in the beginning stages of the dating scene? Is it good or bad? How does one go about asking someone out on a date nowadays. Call? Text? Who knows?!

Texting gives us an impersonal feel, and "out" shall I say. Quick, and painless. I still consider myself of the old generation, where chivalry still exists in the world. Man calls woman, woman returns call and voila, a conversation where intonation and emotions can guide you during the conversation. The person on the other end, usually, can feel the person out, gauge their words and assess. All three of these are so hard to read in a text message. Do people even remember what the person they are texting sounds like?

Although I still haven't come to a clear cut decision on texting with a person who you are interested in, what I can say is that there is a lot of room for mis-communication. Although, I won't be hanging up the keypad just yet, I still have some thinking to do and whether it is acceptable for two people to text when entering the dating scene.

Hot Nights

2010-06-21T20:01:00.000-04:00

Last year when I was asked to choose a city to teach in, I thought I had it all figured out. Daegu appeared to be a good fit for me, with its smaller- than - Seoul size, decent nightlife and much to do and see around town. One thing I didn't account for was the sweltering heat that I would be facing come summertime.

Summer swept in during the month of May, with increasing temperatures but still manageable. Since June, the temperatures have only risen steadily. The past three weeks have been an average of 31 degrees. And it gets worse. July will see temperatures around 36-38 degrees Celsius. Oh my. Back home in Canada, we do have some hot and humid days, but when the temperatures reach 30- it's considered a heat wave. Here in Daegu- it's just normal.

Turns out Daegu, South Korea is the hottest city in all of the South Korean peninsula! Daegu is surrounded by many high mountains, and because of this we're settled in a basin. It gets hot and sticky in the summer. Daegu is actually famous for their hot summers. Fabulous.

The rainy season should start soon, and I'm hoping that may bring some slight relief- but I'm not counting on it. The school is equipped with Air Conditioning units in the teachers lounge (and thankfully) in my English Classroom. Here's the thing: They will put the A/C on around mid-day and jack it up to a temperature of 27 degrees. Seriously, what is the point of even turning it on?? I'm happy to report that My classroom is a cool 24 degrees and my students are oh-so-thankful for the relief. Even better- my new apartment came with a A/C unit-- it's been on full blast for a week and I'm loving every second of it.

A different kind of discipline

2010-06-21T01:14:00.001-04:00

For those of you keeping up with me, I’m sure by now that you realized I’ve been having a great time and trying to experience as much as I can while I’m in the land of the morning calm. My posts are typically lighthearted and express exactly what I’ve been seeing and doing all around town. This one has been a work in progress for some time now, as it’s a more delicate topic but something I must share as it weighs heavier and heavier as each day passes.

Before I took off on this venture, I knew that I was headed into a Confucius country and was wholeheartedly open to culture learning. Coming from a Western country where physical discipline practices are frowned upon and illegal- it was to be seen how I would handle witnessing the punishment methods in Korea.

For the first few months, I witness physical discipline from teachers ( I told them I refused to use any sort of physical punishment in my classroom) in the form of pinching ear lobes, hitting their palms, putting them on their knees with their arms in the air and maybe a small whack to the back of the head. These practices were used for small offences such as fighting in class, and other misbehaviors, such as the length of students hair. Larger “offences” were treated by having the students engage in extra cleaning duties, homework and playing teacher’s gofers for the day. All in all, what I was seeing was as acceptable as it could be for me. Often, I would leave the teachers lounge if as student was being punished, as this upset me through the core. Despite the discipline being used, here in Korea as a Foreign teacher you do not stand up or say anything, as it is the teacher’s right to physically discipline their students. Heck, parents do it at home as well, my kids show up for school with marks and bruising which are atypical of playground bustle.

With the start of the new semester in March, came a new Physical Education teacher at my school. Within days, I could tell he and I were not going to see eye to eye. He implemented serious practices, including measuring girl’s skirt lengths, hair and just about every disciplinary action required. He soon became in charge of handing out the punishments.

Witnessing this tyrant’s actions against my students has been very emotional for me. It’s been trying to sit down and watch him exercise these severe disciplinary actions against children who are 14 and 15 years old. His behaviors have finally broke me, and this is why I need to rant about it now. His methods are harsh. Last month he punched a student so hard in the face that I saw the bruise welt within seconds, he then kicked the student in the leg. His offence: fighting another boy. I stood up, but was quickly told to sit back down. Two weeks ago he placed a boy in plank position, with his feet up on the window sill for 15 minutes. He then intermittently cracked his backside with a stick. His offence: Chronic tardiness. Girls are whacked across the face for the length of the hair and skirts. I could go on and on, but the thought turns my stomach. I've often sat at my desk and dreamed of cracking him back with his own stick- but I would probably be deported for standing up to a male teacher. .

In my own, classes, when I get close to the students, I see many of them flinch if I come down to their level in a swift movement. It kills me every time. It pains me to know what stresses these children go through with school alone, and now have to deal with harsh physical discipline on top of it. Korea is advanced in so many things, but they are still stuck in the 50s when physical discipline was widely accepted. I pray for my students every day that these practices will become illegal soon enough. In the meantime, I can only educate them to the best of my ability- and give them a small break when it comes to English class. It’s a hard enough life as it is.

Double Takes

2010-06-20T19:48:00.001-04:00

This one goes out for the ladies! Before I get into the details- let me remind you- what you are about to see is rarity in the place where I've been calling home for 10 months. Now don't get me wrong, amidst the people that make up Daegu- there are a selected few that indeed deserve a double take. This of course occurs more frequently within the male ex-pat community than of the Asian community- but there have been a couple of Korean men that have actually tuned my head.

The following photos were taken on our way to see Sex and The City 2 (how appropriate). The 5 of us were stopped dead in our tracks as we rounded the corner to come face to face with these beautiful boys. Normally, Korean advertising bombards you with flashing neon signs and girls dressed up in just-below-the-bum skirts dancing at boutique entrances- but this was a Daegu first- and let me tell you- it didn't really matter what they were advertising- whatever they were selling... I wanted in.

Turns out they were advertising for a new gym that was opening. I just may have to some research to find its exact location. Who wouldn't want to work out with these guys??

Red Devils

2010-06-19T21:06:00.001-04:00

South Koreans love their soccer, and with the FIFA World Cup happening right now, the hype is happening. Although I wasn't able to catch the game against Greece, I did however, catch the cheers and screams from the surrounding city through my apartment window! Their second game was Thursday night against Argentina and I made sure to watch the game- Korean style with some of my friends from school.

Decked out in devil red, we decided to head to a Hof (pub) to indulge in some treats and watch the game. What a better place to settle in for the evening than at an "Irish" bar. No place screams Korean soccer than Dublin's Hof!!

The place did sell Guiness-- but that's about as Irish as it got! We noshed on snacks and had a few pints as we geared up for the game. The place was packed by the start of the match and nearly everyone was dressed in the Korean colors in support of their team. Let's not forget that a slew of people also supported flashing red devil headbands.

You can't tell here, but the rest of the patrons were all wearing red shirts!

The game was a huge disaster against the almighty Argentinian team- but the spirits and beer were flowing throughout the match. I had no idea what they were cheering, but it matched the beat of the English version of "Let's Go (team) Let's Go!". The hoots and hollers continued well into the night, and when they finally scored the patrons cheered for the pub owner to give them free food or beer (I'm still not too sure on what they wanted)! They chanted, "Ser-vice-ca, Ser-vice-ca" to anyone who would listen but alas, no freebies came. (note: "Service" is a term used here in Korea which means complimentary, the added "ca" is a common addition to most English words spoken here).

Despite the loss, we had a great time - and I look forward to their next match! I might even get my hands on a red devil headband to really get into the spirit of things!

S-P-E-L-L-B-O-U-N-D

2010-06-18T20:59:00.000-04:00

This week I organized a spelling bee for my advanced ESL students. I had so much fun, and this competition was perfect for my Korean students who love to compete for just about anything!

This genius idea came from one of my friends (thank you Lisa) and I showed my students the film "Akeelah and the Bee" to get them motivated and geared up for the competition. The hilarious part of the whole this is that they were more interested in the American school system as seen in the movie! Despite the abundance of American culture questions they did in fact get excited about doing their very own Bee. I gave them word lists to study from (these were actually high level vocabulary words from U.S competitions). They had 5 weeks to study for the Bee!

Obviously camera shy- only a few showed their faces!!

The competition lasted two days and 22 students competed in the Bee. I was blown away by their abilities and their commitment to the competition! All in all, it was a great success and the students enjoyed every minute of it- plus, they learned a whack load of new vocabulary words!

Here are a few of the students!

Cooking for one in Korea: Ramen

2010-06-08T04:33:00.000-04:00

"Ra-meyon" or Ramen is a Korean diet staple. Known in North America as a University students' quick fix meal, here in Korea its actually considered a traditional dish. Before coming to Korea, when I needed to quench my saltiness fix I would boil up some water, throw in the sauce mix, noodles and presto you have a satisfying Ramen dish. But who knew that here in Korea it is just so much more?! With the addition of several ingredients, you can make a pretty satisfying meal.

When you ask just about any Korean child older than 5 years, they can tell you exactly how to cook this meal. I've been given several different ways to make it, including adding spam (eergh), hot dog, sausage and of course, kimchi. But I've adapted a little from all my sources, and here how I now make my Korean Ramen (note: this dish is a total heart attack waiting to happen... tread carefully).

Korean Style Ramen

Ramen package ( i like it hot)

Water

Egg

Green Onions

Oval Rice Cakes
Cheese

Start with a pot of water, and add some chopped green onions. Once the water is boiling, and add your Ramen noodles and rice cakes, about half way through cooking time, drop an egg into the water and add your spice mix.

Once your egg is poached hard, remove contents into a large bowl. Add a slice of cheese, and let it stand for a few seconds until cheese is melted. Then, let your chopsticks to the digging. Enjoy!

Touring Daegu

2010-06-04T20:03:00.000-04:00

With a mere three months to go, it's all about cramming in the things I want to do! Last week-end, the Deagu City Hall graciously invited foreigners to tag along on an -all day excursion to see the sites around Daegu. The trip was totally worth it, and if you have a chance you should get to these hot spots for a day of fun on your own!

Our first stop was at the Guam Farm. The Farm is nestled between mountains and has some beautiful scenery. You feel like you are settled in a an old time rural country village.

Guam Farm Tour

We experienced some hands on- seasonal activities, laughing the whole time. We got to see how egg baskets were made back in the day, using weaving.

Basket Weaving

I thought mine was way better... but now that I look at them...

I think Amy's a natural basket weaver!!

Harvest Time

Next we were off to experience harvesting crops. I was very much relieved that tending to the rice fields was not on the agenda but instead we were headed to pick tomatoes. After being loaded up on a huge tractor, we made our way down to the greenhouses.

We were carefully instructed on how to perfectly pick tomatoes and now have a new found respect for the farmers who must do this harvesting, because the temperature inside the greenhouse was about 45 degrees! I don't think I've ever picked so fast!!

The freshly picked tomatoes were delicious!

Rice Cakes

Next stop was learning how traditional rice cakes were made. My friend Dave was chosen to beat down the rice using a large mallet!

Dave was having quite a lot of fun with this!!

The cake is then dusted in powder, and cut into pieces

Herb Hillz

There is so much to do at Herb Hillz and if you're keeping track, check my earlier post where a bunch of us Zip Lined here! This tour included seeing the herb Garden, making natural herb soap and candles.

My friend Lia carefully mixing her candle.

Candle Expert!!

Yangnyeongsi Oriental Medicine Center.

The rest of the day was spent at the Yangnyeongsi Oriental Medecine Center. We learned how to cut and package herbs and this place has all kinds of interesting exhibitions (which are foreigner friendly). This place is perfect for a rainy day activity if you're looking for something to do in Daegu.

All in all, it was a great day, filled with all kinds of memories and laughter. If you're looking for some fun things to do in Daegu- you should check out these hot spots!

Cooking for one in Korea: A Lighter Alfredo

2010-06-04T04:23:00.001-04:00

I've been cooking up this dish for many years and it's a solid favorite of mine. Good news is I was able to find all the ingredients here in Korea. It's an inexpensive and quick meal and perfect for a post workout pick me up.

Chicken Alfredo

Spaghetti (but any pasta will do)

Chicken (cut in cubes)

Olive oil

Lemon juice and zest

Garlic

Parsley

Parmesan Cheese (back home I use fresh Parm/Regiano mix, but the Kraft Variety will do you fine)

Cook your pasta according to directions, and drain. Return pasta to pot.

About halfway during pasta cooking time, add about 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add about 1 glove garlic (more to taste if you like). When the oil is flavored and garlic is soft, add the chicken and stir fry. Sprinkle, salt and pepper to taste as well as parsley. Squeeze lemon juice over your chicken. Once finished, set aside.

In the pasta pot, drizzle about 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and remainder of lemon juice. Grate about 1 tsp of lemon zest and add. Sprinkle parsley all over and stir into the pasta. If you're a garlic lover, add some fresh garlic (about half a clove). Add more or less of any ingredient to taste. Add the chicken to the pasta, and generously pour the parmesan cheese into the pot. Stir and serve immediately.

I promise, this will become a weekly staple. Enjoy!

An Eco Adventure at Herb Hillz

2010-05-19T02:02:00.001-04:00

This place was a pretty cool find for something to do in Daegu! In just 30 minutes from the city center, you'll find yourself at the beautiful Herb Hillz park (at Daegu Station, hop on bus 704 heading towards the downtown area). There's loads of things to do, and if you bring some extra cash, you can even make your own herb soaps, plant herbs and browse the many boutiques nestled around the park.

There's a petting zoo, some rides and artistic grass sculptures scattered throughout the hills.

But the best part of all is that the park holds 5 eco adventure zip lining courses. For a mere 15,000 won you have access the park and the fee includes one zip line adventure course. If you're totally game, you can pay an additional 7,000 won to do another course, after you've completed the first one. We were pretty bagged and opted for a few cold beers rather than another course.

First things first, and you get all decked out in your gear. Including a very silly helmet that wobbles all over the place.

There's my friend Lisa tryingt o figure out what goes where!

Then you move on with an introductory lesson- where they give a pretty basic demo, ensuring you know what you're doing with the beanies. It's a condensed version of the real thing.

The guide (slightly annoyed with our group's lack of attention) gave us the go ahead for the toughest course out there- the Tarzan. Despite the temptation, we made an executive group decision, and decided on the King Kong Course, which was not the most difficult, but was the longest and most fun! Then off we went - we were on our own!

Geared up and ready to go, as I climbed to the top of the first station, I panicked a bit! Never knew I was scared of heights, but I think the fear was actually knowing that I was only connected by two beanies and a wire.

The Guide warned us that if we didn't catch the rope off our 60 -70 m zip line, we would naturally be carried back and would have to pull ourselves back just a few meters to the landing post. Obviously, my first go of the zip line ended in an adventure. Midway through the zip, my body turned and I scrambled to try and get my body aligned again to better land against the tree (by the way the tree at the end of the zip line has a measly mat attached to it) but failed to turn in time, and slammed into the mat/tree at high velocity, winding myself and getting zipped right back to the middle of the line. It didn't go much further than that!! So, I had to pull myslef backwards to make it to the landing-- and it was WAY more than a few meters!!

The course itself had some tough areas and some even scarier ones! We climbed, pulled, swung and even skateboarded across thin wires.

That's called real fear!

The course took the lot of us about an hour and 45 minutes and despite the bruises the next day, it was totally worth it! I'm still searching for my left leg and shoulder though.... and I suspect I may have left them back on the zip line course.

Chopsticks

2010-05-17T03:53:00.000-04:00

Getting used to the whole chopstick thing was, of course, a little challenging at the beginning. But now, I 'm an old pro. I'm by no means as experienced as my Korean colleagues; able to pick up the smallest grain of just about anything or dissect whole fish to the point only the fine bones remain-- but I'm pretty good. I've mastered eating chicken wings, cutting whole pieces of meat and even eating spaghetti with just my chopsticks.

I've put them in my hair when I ran out of elastics and once I even used a single chopstick to act as a screw driver and it actually worked. I've pretended to be a kick ass drummer while waiting for my food to arrive, but besides that, I never really gave much thought chopsticks being used for anything other than eating or quirky quick fixes.

Last week, I was given the opportunity to witness another major use of chopsticks. Who would have thought that you could pop open a cold one using a pair of chopsticks? I've seen men break a sweat trying to pop one without an opener. I've witnessed broken bottle edges and damaged lighters in heavy attempts to get the beer open. For the first time in my life, I saw a man crack open the bottle in one simple swoop. I was so astonished, that I made him do it again so I could verify what I had just seen.

Apparently, most Korean men are capable of doing just that- some say it's even a rite of passage. I think it's awesome, and as they handed over the sticks for me to try- I realized its not so simple as it looked. I fumbled for about 5 minutes and finally gave up. I'll be sure to master this little trick before I head home. Seriously, how cool would I be if everywhere I went I whipped out my chopsticks and opened men's beers?? Just a thought.

Sports Day: Take Two

2010-05-14T05:35:00.003-04:00

For those of you following me, you'll know that last year's sports day was disastrous for me (for a quick laugh at my expense see my post from October 23, 2009 before reading on). Slightly apprehensive this time around, I was desperate to find any excuse not to partake in the teacher's relay race this time. Unfortunately, the Vice Principal at my school can be quite persuasive and I'll admit, slightly scary. She ~~asked~~ informed me that I would indeed be running in today's race. Fabulous.

Sport's Day events here in Korea are quite the affair. Every school holds them twice a year, from elementary to high school levels. The students prepare for weeks for the main event. With the white tents up the day starts at precisely 09:00 am. First thing on the agenda: the 100 meter dash.

All students compete in the race, and boys and girls compete in the same heat.

First place winners are awarded a solid prize.

There's the hand-off to the first place winner in the girls heat.

The students are totally stoked to win the grand prize.

As with many things that are slightly strange here in Korea- so are some of the prizes they give out the kids. I heard through the native teacher grapevine that some of the prizes happen to be useful household objects. One school gave out rolls of toilet paper (and it wasn't even two-ply).

And there you have it- you are indeed seeing what you think! They gave out correction tape to the lucky lucky winners at our school!

Once the students have rested after their big efforts at the dash, we moved on to the second event: shoe throwing (there must be a better translation than that- but that's all I got). Essentially, each class of 40 or so students lines up together and on the count of 3, each student tosses one of their shoes toward a painted circle in the field. The student closest to the middle of the circle wins ( I think they handed out post it notes for this one).

Next comes the group skipping contest, followed by lunch. After eating, the students get geared up for the most anticipated event of the day: the relay race.

First they do a mock relay, where students must pick up random items (huge water jug, sand bag, and larger-than-life batons, some kids even had to take off and put on pants. Then it gets really serious. I didn't get to watch too much of the student's competition, because I was pulled aside by my Vice Principal and a male co-teacher who insisted we stretch out before our race. I had no choice but to comply (and here I thought the students were competitive!).

They also repeated more times than necessary that I was not allowed sliding in this year's relay race. With every stretch they muttered (in the most gentlest manner), "Cynthia- no sliding? Okay?" Yup. Got it. Okay. Okay.

... And then we were off! My Vice Principal started us off and I was the fourth one up! We didn't place first, but instead came in close second- a sad disappointment for my Vice Principal but a fantastic finish for myself for not haven fallen during the race.

Don't worry I beat her coming out of the turn.

The students and teachers celebrated my perfect run with cheers and laughter. Personally, I think they were all ecstatic that I didn't kill myself this time round.

A view from the top: Apsan Mountain

2010-05-12T07:54:00.000-04:00

Last week Korea celebrated a national holiday: Children's Day (also happens to be Cinqo de Mayo in Mexico). Children's Day is a day where children are free from school and get a chance to hang out with their parents for a little family time. As English teachers, we too of course a school free day! Having been in Daegu for eight months now- it amazes me just how much there is still to do in this city that we call home. One of the things on our Daegu to-do list was spend an afternoon at Apsan Mountain. Apsan means Front Mountain: a fitting name for the giant mountain. It's essentially the largest wilderness park in Daegu filled with peaks and valleys that once at the top has an expansive view of the whole city. Nestled in the valleys are museums and Buddhist temples.

You'd think being the largest park in Daegu it would be quite easy to get to. But this is of course is Korea! My friend and I attempted to hike it in the fall, with scratchy handwritten directions from one of her colleuges. After making a 45 min trek to find the park- we gave up.

Determined to find it again, this time around I got explicit directions to get there. The easiest way of course is to hop in a taxi and get dropped off at the base of the mountain. But we were eager to find it again by foot. Once again, a "5 or 10 minute walk" from the subway, turned out to be a 30 minute hike around the steep roads. After ~~asking~~ gesturing and attempting several pronunciations of Apsan later, we finally arrived at the entrance to the park. Exhausted from the hike to the base of the mountain we took a little breather before starting the uphill battle.

The trail eventually evened out for about a few kilometers, allowing both our breath and heart rate to catch up. The park is surrounded by trees, babbling brooks and of course the sounds of nature. It was a beautiful change from the bustling noises of the city below. We also had the rare pleasure of spotting a chipmunk! (Wildlife is not very commonly seen in Daegu and I think this was the first "wild" animal I've seen in eight months-- slightly different that the abundance back home in Canada).

If you weren't already exhausted from the trail hike up to the midway point, we spotted an outdoor gym where you could do cardio, lift weights and even hoola hoop! Only in Korea would you find a complete outdoor gym for free. We stopped to do a few power sets and moved on.

The glorious thing about Apsan Park is that you can cheat a little. Half way up the mountain there are a few restaurants and a sitting area, where you can put your feet up before doing the next leg.

Even better, was the gondola that takes you right up to the top. We of course, took the easier route and hopped on the gondola. For 5,500 won you get a round trip ticket. Pretty steep for Korea, but totally worth the view from the top. The gondola connects from a point 300 m above sea level to the top 600m above sea level.

At the summit is is the observation platform. Although it was a bit smoggy, the view of the city was spectacular. You are literally standing there, surrounded by wind and the elements. At the summit, you can even find the remnants of a fortress that once stood there hundreds of years ago.

As we made our way back down the mountain, we decided to reward ourselves for a day of hard hiking- we headed downtown (by the way we found a bus that drops you off right at the entrance of the park) and indulged in some delicious Mexican food to celebrate the other holiday. Nothing beats a reward of margarita's after a day of hiking!

Take me out to the Ball Game!

2010-05-07T22:30:00.005-04:00

Baseball is recognized as the all American sport. Turns out that this bat-and-ball sport is also heavily loved by Koreans. The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) is South Korea's professional baseball league. The teams are usually named after huge Korean companies that own them. Here in Daegu- it's the Samsung Lions that capture the fans.

I've never really been a huge fan of baseball, but for something to do I agreed to go to a Samsung Lions game a couple of weeks ago.

Standing amongst the large crowds gathered at the ticket gate, I was shocked to see the ticket price for the game. For a mere 6,000 won (that's approx $5.50 USD) you are given a ticket and the opportunity to pick a seat anywhere around the stadium. Back home, a ticket to any MLB game is roughly $50.00! Having come with plenty of extra money, I was eager to get in and hit the snack stands selling typical baseball fare: beer and hot dogs.

Turns out, here in Korea the snack stands flank the outskirts of the stadium. There are no beer guys hollering out to the stands! Instead, vendors line the streets with their make shift coolers filled with ice, where you can choose soda, water, beer and of course, the Korean drink of choice: Soju. You can purchase beer for about 2,000 won (that's $1.50).

As you walk the line, fried chicken fumes waft in the air. Food vendors sell fried chicken, ramen, roasted potatoes, chips, roasted larvae, fish sticks and fried squid. Yup, you read that correctly- the typical all American baseball staple is absent among the rows of vendors. Who goes to a ball game and chows down on fried squid?? Oh, right- the Koreans do! As we settled on some fried chicken and Soju we made our way into the park to catch the game.

Watching the game proved to be more of a social gathering for the handful of foreigners nestled in our seats at right center field. As the Lions dominated the game, we cheered and clapped with the entire crowd. The cheers sounded vaguely familiar, although, they too of course were in enthusiasticaklly sung in Korean! It took awhile for us to catch the tune, but we mumbled along with the lot of them!

As the fans cheered on we watched with enthusiasm and took some time outs to run back to the vendors to get a few more beers. The highlights of the game included watching the ~~cheerleaders~~ 4 Korean women dancing in skanky outfits (which they change every inning it seems) and holding our breath for a few of the home runs heading overhead.

From what I've heard it's become quite a tradition in America for people to head out to the ball game with their own glove, in hopes of catching themselves a souvenir.

The home run hits here in Korea appear to be few and far between, but nevertheless they do happen and as I was about to find out people go a little mad in an attempt to catch a ball off the bat of a pro.

Heading back up to the stands from the washroom, I caught a glimpse of the home run hit over my head. The ball landed with a thud about a meter away from me. Not being a huge baseball fan, it took a few moments to register that this was a game ball, and that I should really really want to pick this up, because that's what people do.

As I quickly snapped into action, my hands curled around the ball to pick it up. As I grasped the ball, a Korean man, lunged over me from behind and hip-checked me out of the way. He triumphantly grinned at me and sauntered off showcasing the ball "he" just caught to the crowds. As I glared at him while he took his seat again, I did not move. I instead, decided to stand there with narrowed eyes and stared at him. I may have shouted some obscenities, but in the heat of the moment I do not recall my actions that followed. In the end, I think my death stares worked, because he looked from me to the rest of my foreigner friends looking appalled in their seats (most of whom were of course men). Instead of tossing the ball back to me, still planted where I "caught" the ball, he threw it over to one one of my male friends in the stands. Slightly annoyed, I didn't truly care that much- let's face it- even if he had thrown it back to me (it's rightful owner) I would have probably given it up to the highest bidder. Either way, I took a photo opportunity to capture the moment of "catching" a ball off the bat of a Samsung Lions pro!

Cooking for One in Korea: Chicken and Zucchini Stir Fry

2010-04-26T22:37:00.003-04:00

Here's another quick and easy weekly night meal that I really enjoy. Over time, I've tweaked the sauce to get the flavor and heat that I love. Again, all the ingredients can be found locally at any Korean market- you can also throw just about any vegetables you want! Enjoy!

Chicken and Zucchini Stir Fry

1 chicken breast, chopped
1/2 zucchini, peeled and diced
1/2 red pepper
8 button mushrooms
4 green onions, chopped
1 glove garlic, minced
2 tsp freshly grated ginger
1/2 cup water or chicken stock
1 tbl spoon sesame oil
2 tsp chili flakes
1 tbl soy sauce
2 tsp cornstarch

Before chopping the vegetables, I chop the chicken and place in a bowl. I then sprinkle with salt and pepper and grate a few shavings of fresh ginger over the chicken, and mix by hand. Then let stand until you are ready to start frying.

For the sauce: Mix water, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, chili flakes, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth, and let stand. If you desire a thicker sauce, add a touch more cornstarch.

1. Heat the pan and stir fry chicken for a few minutes. I add about a tablespoon of the sauce to the chicken while frying. 2.When chicken is golden brown, remove and add a touch more oil to the pan. 3.Throw in your vegetables and stir fry for another few minutes until tender crisp. Add about a tablespoon more of the sauce mixture.
4. Add the chicken to the pan, and stir all ingredients together.

5.Slowly add the sauce micture and coat. Continue to stir fry a few more minutes, and serve over rice or ramen.

Time Flies

2010-04-25T20:40:00.001-04:00

It's hard to believe that today marks exactly eight months since I started teaching in Korea. It's even harder to think that my contract will over and I'll be heading back home in four! Today is the day the EPIK program requires you to decide whether you're staying or going. For some it's been a tough decision, but this adventure ends here for me. It had always been a one a year plan, something I'd always wanted to do and now that I've done it- it's time to return home.

Now, if were in my early twenties I would be renewing my contract without a doubt. The perks alone (money, extra vacation) are enough to keep you grounded. If you live within your means you can save enough to pay off your student loans and possibly even enough for a down payment for a home.

The experience has been truly amazing- and once you get into the swing of things you find yourself immersed in nothing but good times. I've met some wonderful people, seen some beautiful places and have also found a few more wrinkles that are a constant reminder of all our late nights having fun.

With less than a 125 days to go, it seems as though there is still so much to do and quite frankly so little time to do it all. I won't be renewing my contract- but instead will be making way for some new Native Teacher to take my place and indulge in the adventures that Dynamic Korea has to offer.

For more information on the perks of the EPIK program in Korea please visit this website: http://www.epik.go.kr/

Headbands and High Heels

2010-04-10T03:22:00.002-04:00

When in Rome do as the Romans do. This age old saying has its applications for just about any traveler anywhere in the world. I've succumbed to the chopsticks, the bowing and the soju, but there's just two things that I haven't been able to do is sport headbands and heels.

On Headbands: Korean women have an obsession with both being cute and sexy at the same time. This is all fine and dandy, most women want to appeal to the opposite sex in both a girlish and womanly manner- but when it means wearing mickey mouse ears at the ripe age of 25, in my opinion it just doesn't work.

When attending any amusement park in Korea, girls, teens and yes, adults wear ears. It's really big here. Headbands with bows and pointed prints can be spotted on just about every female. I've even witnessed a few adult males wearing them.

For picture purposes only, I tried on a pair. I was complimented beyond measure. Trust me, its the last time I'll be putting those on.

On High Heels: Every woman loves a fabulous pair of heels. As my girlfriend pointed out, here in Korea, the minute your foot slips in to the heel, the countdown begins. In Korea, you have to walk just about everywhere you go. The streets are uneven and there are times when you're walking for several miles- putting on heels just isn't an option. However, Korean women are all gussied up for just about any occasion and wearing heels it seems is their only option for footwear. They wear heels hiking, touring and even at amusement parks. It's ridiculous to me, but I guess when all these women are vying for couple-hood they have to put their best assets forward. Most of my ex-pat (male) friends love Korea for this sole purpose. The women here choose sex appeal over comfort every day of the week.

Yesterday, we attended a local amusement park here in Daegu. A total of 23 schools arrived with students in elementary, middle and high school levels. Some of the outfits I saw were, well, outrageous. They were at an amusement park for crying out loud. Mini skirts, false eyelashes and heels. I'm not sure about everyone else out there, but when getting ready for a day on the roller-coasters; heels and frilly dresses are not the first items to be pulled out of my wardrobe. But this is Korea, after all. Below are some high school students waiting at the park.

I guess the point is that when you are in Korea, try not to stare at the Koreans.

Korean Food Lables

2010-04-08T19:02:00.001-04:00

It constantly amazes me how Koreans remain so thin despite the large amounts of foods they eat. Granted, the Koreans are widely known for their many side dishes and many are chock full of healthy low-fat vegetables. Their meats are usually fried, sopped in oil and indulge in white rice three times a day. Yet- they still they remain as skinny as ever. From what I've seen over the course of the past few months is that they do eat small portions of meat and use a lot of tofu in their menus. They also of course, eat fish and seafood at almost every meal. Below is a typical lunch served for 6 people. The tables are usually filled to the rim with plates of side dishes.

Personally, I think they were just blessed with super genes. I, on the other hand need to work at watching what goes into my mouth and have to exercise to keep my metabolism kicking. When I first arrived in Korea, I definitely lost a few pounds, as I struggled to get accustomed to the new cuisine. One of the challenges I've had is that I do not eat any fish or seafood, which makes up primarily 90% of a Korean diet. I also have to tell you that I've tried the Kimchi- but can report that I am not a fan.

As I searched the markets and super stores, which I quickly discovered sold some "North American" staples (at a very high price of course). With my new found treasures, I relied mostly on the familiar products to enjoy cooking, the weight I had initially lost came back. To make matters worse, the public schools here in Korea provide a full course meal for lunch (served from prison trays). Given the limitations of my diet- I was mostly eating a larger- than -I'd- like- to portion of white rice everyday.

Last month, I put a stop to my Korean lunch buffets, and opted to bring my own lunch. I was healthier and at least enjoying the food I was preparing. I've definitely noticed a difference- since returning to my healthy lunches.

I've never been a calorie counter and have always enjoyed a good meal- but I'm committed to paying even more attention (they do say your metabolism goes down hill after you've turned thirty). I may not be a counter, but I always read the nutrition labels back home. This of course has proved to be disastrous given the labels are written in Hangul. So, for anyone out there who is trying to stay healthy in Korea- I found this very helpful when doing my food shopping around town. Hope this helps you when reading your food labels in Korea.

Understanding Korean Food Labels

열량 Calories
탄수와물 Carbs
당류 Sugar
단백질 protein
지방 Fat
포화지방 unsat fat
트랜스지방 trans fat
콜레스테롤 cholesterol
나트륨 sodium
칼슘 calcium
식이셤유 fiber

Cooking for one in Korea: Pork and Bok Choy Stir Fry

2010-04-07T20:48:00.000-04:00

One of the hardest things about being a foreigner in Korea is finding foods to cook and enjoying what you make. I've always had a love for food-- and have created some wonderful dishes for one while here in Korea. It's easy to pop in some curry in the microwave- but not as easy to create savory dishes on a two burner propane stove, minus an oven.

The ingredients found in the recipe are easy to find in just about any Korean market or supermarket. This recipe is light and tasty and is great served over rice or noodles (and if you're actually in Korea- Ramen). Enjoy

Pork and Bok Choy Stir Fry

3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (you can find this at Home Plus)
pinch of red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons canola oil
Boneless pork loin cut into chunks
1 carrot chopped
2 garlic gloves, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
2 baby bok choy, thinly sliced
4 green onions

1. Combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce and pepper flakes until smooth. I add a touch of water to the mix.

2. In a large non stick skillet, heat the oil. Add the garlic and half the onions to flavor the oil.

3. Add the pork, carrots until lightly browned. Add the ginger, stir fry for 2 minutes. Slowly add the sauce mixture, and stir.

4.Add the bok choy and stir fry another 2 minutes, until sauce is thickened and the bok choy is wilted. Add remaining green onions.

5.Serve with rice or noodles (but if your of the low carb variety- serve it on it's own).

Spring!

2010-04-06T02:49:00.001-04:00

Spring has finally arrived in Daegu, Korea! The Koreans tell me it's a little late, and after one of the coldest Winters they've had in a long time it's quite a breath of fresh air. (Well with the yellow dust still lingering-- its not quite as fresh as some would like).

Here in Korea, Spring brings forth the start of a slew of festivals. Korea has a festival for just about anything and everything- and I am begining to wonder if its just a label they put on the occassion to spruce it up a little.

Last week-end, Daegu's Cherry Blossom Festival kicked off. There are two areas where the crowds flock to encounter the blossoms. The first, and most famous area is Jinhae, located in the South Gyeongsang Province. Their festival starts on March 31 and runs through April 9. The city features 300,000 cherry trees. The second area is in the city of Gyeongju (Kyongju). The city also hosts an annual marathon named after the blossoms, and has Bomun Lake Resort close by which has blossom trails.

Given the rough start to Spring this year, as we rode our tour bus through Daegu to Gyeongju- we eagerly anticipated the natural beauty that would soon be before our eyes. As we exited the bus, we were bombarded by beautiful bare blossom trees. We were one week too early!

As we searched the landscape, not a single blossom tree could be seen. We trudged on, through the beautiful park and arrived at the Bomun Lake resort. As we scanned some more, we finally found three cherry trees in full bloom (it wasn't quite the hundreds we were expecting- but nevertheless we took the opportunity to shoot some photos).

Bomun Lake Resort was a beautiful scene, despite the cooler winds from the lake- the resort was full of winding walking paths, pagodas and scattered about were a few lone cherry and magnolia trees. It would have been spectacular to have seen the trees at their best- in full bloom!!

Despite the lack of cherry trees, we managed to have a fabulous day. We decided to make the best of it and rent some four wheelers (this of course ended up being the highlight of our day).

Get in Shape Girl!

2010-04-05T18:59:00.000-04:00

My Korean Gym membership came to an end in late February. With my trip to Australia behind me- I took a little workout break. Well, it actually turned out to more of an extended break. Faced with the choice to return to the gym down the street or to work out on my own- I chose the lesser of two evils. The thought of paying for an overpriced gym membership for another few months, being stared at again, for the full workout session just didn't appeal to me. Thing is, I knew that I had to work out somehow, and I needed something to get me motivated.

So last week I committed to doing Tony Horton's P-90X at home program. I already had the mat, and resistance bands and just needed to push play. I've opted to do the Lean program and found that
the workouts are tough, but only because there are some moves I haven't done before. I don't sweat as much as I'd like to- but I may add in a couple of running sessions just to up my cardio a little.

I've taken my before photos- and will report back in 30 and 90 days. Let's see how hard Tony can push me and how hard I can push myself.

Thirty Things to do before you're 30 (No.20)

2010-04-05T00:09:00.002-04:00

No. 20- Get your Australian Visa: Okay so this really is one thing you just can't do after your thirty. The minute you've turned thirty-one- it's over, unless of course you can get an employer to help you with a visa (and by that I mean having a job already set up).

Please read this very carefully. I've been to Australia- and for a limited two week getaway. I would have loved to stay a lifetime. This just is not enough time to explore, adventure and have a blast down under. I totally regret not getting my Australian Visa when I was in my twenties.

Australia has so much to offer, and if you have the means- do me favor and get your working holiday visa. It basically allows you to stay for a year, working to pay off your travels around the continent. I promise- you will not regret this opportunity.

I seriously cannot begin to describe how wonderful this country and continent are-- this is a must before you're thirty... but only because you can no longer get it after you've passed the age!

The article then goes on to say, "but it's not just visas you'll miss out on if you wait until you're 31..." Perhaps I should just stop reading the damn thing.

"Thirty things to do before you're 30" (No. 15, 16 and 17)

2010-04-01T04:13:00.000-04:00

Right... so in case you missed my earlier to posts- I'm ranting on this article, which tells you the thirty things you must do before you're thirty. Obviously, I'm having a bit of a tough time- not because I've passed their so called cut off (i.e. thirty and old) -- but because the article sets out to suggest that once you're thirty you've lost your life (energy, singledom, and sense of adventure). Shame on this writer. She must be a young twenty something.

No.15 Wallow in Mud South Korea- What are the changes- something that's on the list, and actaully in a country where I find myself presently living. Bad news is... I'll be thirty -one. Just one year over this so called age limit. I plan on having loads of fun rolling around in the mud. Plus, they say the minerals in the mud are good for your skin. The Boryeong Mud Festival starts in July- and I'll be sure to tell you all about it.

No.16- Get in a Food Fight Italy/Spain- I guess that scene a couple of years back doesn't quite match up. I've been to Italy-- but I'll make it to Spain to throw wine at other people ( let's be honest-- I'd probably just end up licking it off most passerbys). The article explains that the people in Spain mark St Pedro's day by deluging everyone in sight with wine in the Battala del Vino. Pouring wine on people sounds like my kind of good time- no matter how old you are.

No. 17 Stay in style (on a budget)- So I totally agree with the contributor. Staying in hostels is a must do before your thirty and if you haven't struck gold before you're 35, I'd say it's still alright to still check out a stylin hostel (just make sure you've reserved a private space). Hostels are kind on the wallet- put pack a pretty punch of young twenty somethings slumming it. If you can still handle a room with 8 bunk beds- by all means indulge.

In Surfer's Paradise, if you're over thirty and are willing to hostel it- here's my suggestion: Surf N' Sun Beach Side Backpackers-- but take the private apartment for only a few dollars more. It houses four people, and are way out from the 6 and 8 dorm rooms--

If you're headed to Sydney and you're over thirty- I can tell you that Wake Up Sydney Central was a pleasant experience. The hostel was decked out in high style- this is one place I highly recommend. Great service, staff and a haven where your age doesn't matter.

Thirty things to do before you're 30 (No. 5, 7, 9 and 11)

2010-03-28T20:35:00.002-04:00

Still going through the list from this article (and still somewhat offended that the article suggests that these should be done before you've turned thirty. It also goes on to state that your "Your under-30s are one of the few periods in life when you're likely to have spare time to see the world." I could seriously scream. Okay, moving on...

No. 5 Hit a Nudist Beach in Greece/ Florida/Croatia - I most definitely want to hit up Greece, and I've been to Florida but the top thing on my list is NOT to go to see a whole buncha people naked. I'd rather see Santarini full of clothed people, thanks. The article suggests that the twenty year olds are in their prime, and that they should just strip and bare it all. I agree- it's one thing I really really miss about my twenties.

No.7 Find Love: Jamaica and Germany- The article boasts that the Hedonism resorts in Jamaica promise fun and pleasure. Really? After we're thirty, are we supposed to stop wanting that? Please. And just so you know, one day Ill make it to the Love Parade-- who wouldn't want to indulge in some techno and receive free condoms. Sign me up but only until I hit 35- then I think I will actually be too old.

No. 9 Celebrate the end of your singledom in South Africa- ( I'd really like to punch this writer in the face-- are we saying that once we hit 30 we should have already tied the knot?) I'll be celebrating my singledom with a the longest happy hour right in the comfort of my home. And ... when it finally comes to end- I won't be making my way to South Africa. Guaranteed.

No.11 Get on a sandboard Arentina/New Zealand Well this wasn't exactly in the same place, but I say Australia is just as good (if not better). I can actually say that I did this on my 31st birthday (technically I was still thirty at the time I flew down the sand hill). Yes! That's me on the left!! What an awesome thrill- and if you can make it to either place. Do it- even if you are over 30!!

Thirty things to do before you're 30 (No. 1 and 6)

2010-03-26T21:38:00.001-04:00

Scanning the web last week, I came across an MSN article titled, "Thirty things to do before you're 30". Obviously the curiosity became the best of me, and now that I've officially been 31 for a little over a month, I wanted to see just what this was about... and really to see how many of these things I have done!

The article highlights the lack of ties in your twenties- and lays out a list of things to do before you're thirty (i.e. old). The article's author, Cathy Winston an MSN Travel contributor catches the readers' attention boldly:

" Looking for travel inspiration? These high octane breaks make the most of youthful beauty and energy – while they last ... before you're 30, you tend to have the energy and disposable income - no kids - to see as much of the world as you can."http://travel.uk.msn.com/inspiration/sun-and-sea/photos.aspx?cp-documentid=151939979

WHAT?!? I might as well have killed myself by now. I thought we had gotten over that whole thirty equals old bit. I don't have children, or ties ( I didn't realize there was still a stigma to do this before thirty) and have been living my life just as free and energetically as the twenty year olds. Okay, griping aside- the article showcases some amazing travel destinations. I've done a few and plan to add a few more to my life list. I won't go through the slew of them, but I will make some s~~nide~~ comments in some blog posts.

No.1- Amsterdam Dance Event: I've hit some pretty good parties in my life and I don't think the glow sticks are ready to be put away just yet. I've seen some of the best dj's around and danced to the hardest house and trance. I don't care if you're 20-30 or even 50, you can always dance the night away. But I just may have to check this out in the next decade.

No.6 - The World Body Painting Festival :Austria Okay- who knows if I'll ever make it to Austria- but I can say that I've seen an International Body Painting Festival right here in Daegu, Korea before I was thirty!

I wonder if you've seen one body painting festival... have you seen them all? I think that goes without saying... but maybe I'll see Austria for some of its other fabulous features.

Yellow Dust

2010-03-25T20:02:00.000-04:00

The start of March brought in gloomy, dim weather. Not a typical March that I am used to, where you can start to hear the robins rise and budding blooms begin to pop everywhere you look. Instead, here in Daegu, March brought in skies clattered in clouds, drizzle and yes, even yellow dust.

I can count on two hands the number of rainy, grey days here in Daegu since arriving in August. The month March produced more bleak weather than in six months combined. The Frommer's guide doesn't mention much of this phenomenon- but if you're going to Teach English in Korea be aware- from February to June it's yellow dust season.

The sound of yellow dust slipping off your tongue has somewhat of a nice ring to it- but it's anything but glamorous.

After having been warned by some of my Korean colleagues about the yellow dust the previous week, I decided to do some research. Basically, this "dust" comes down from China. The dust is made up of heavy metals and particles that blow in from the Gobi Desert in China. I read that the dust carries nitrogen and sulfur dioxide and can cause respiratory and eye infections.

This past Saturday, as the skies went from blue to grey in a matter of minutes- it seemed as though Armageddon had finally arrived. The sky was a blanketed in dim grayness and dust. The picture you see here is at about 4 O'clock in the afternoon.

This weekend marked the heaviest and worst yellow dust that Korea had ever experienced. Alerts were sent via text message (translated of course to us foreigners by our fellow Korean friends) as well as in the bars. They warned to cover up and if possible- stay inside. I heard that the dust storm was so bad, that it actually made it's way both to the American news and soil.

It's pretty weird to walk downtown and watch everyone covering up with their hands, scarves and masks, all the while pondering what is going on. The disadvantage of being unable to speak the language is of course- you miss out on the emergency alerts. There could have been some sort of biochemical outbreak- but the foreigners would have continued on partying with no clue at all!

Having been exposed to the dust for well over a few hours while walking around town, it was too late to wear a mask or cover up- anyways the look would have really hindered our outfits as we strutted into the expat bars. Although my throat has been a little sore- I don't think the dust did too much damage.

The weather experts claim that we will have another dust storm within the next few weeks and alert that it can be just as bad. I may have to re-think the mask as a fashion accessory. We'll see.

Take a Bow!

2010-03-15T20:23:00.000-04:00

In the West, when saying hello we often greet people with a quick wave of the hand, or even a simple hand shake when meeting people for the first time. Here in East Asia it's all about the bow.

Before arriving in Korea, I of course brushed up on some traditional Korean ways using my trusty Lonely Planet guide. Pages of traditional customs outlining the ins- and outs of the Korean lifestyle. The one thing that panicked me was of course the whole concept of the bow. Who knew one concept could muster up so much fear. Who do you bow to? How far to you go? Is it a head nod, or from the waist?

Within the first few days I learned that bowing is a form of greeting as well as a form of respect- and to reflect differences in social standing. So I bow to those who are older, and head nod to those that are of equal social position. Those that are younger than me, give a full bow, hinging from the waist. Basically, the bowing occurs when there is a social relationship. So, if I were just walking around town you wouldn't catch all younger people bowing down, but those that know me would be required to.

What I can tell you is this- it's a concept I'd love to bring back home with me. I admit that my ego may be taking over here, as there is this pseudo superstar feeling that comes along when you're walking down the halls and teenagers fully bow down to you. I can't help but feel like nobility when walking through the halls of my school.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if upon my return home, my younger siblings bowed down to me- and all of my younger friends? What if I were dating a younger man- he'd have to bow every time we met up. There may be some advantages to be thirty one after all. Of course this is such a pleasant thought- but I have a feeling this would only happen in my wildest western dreams.

Norebang! Norebang!

2010-03-15T02:09:00.001-04:00

Norebang ( nor-eh-bang): a Korean Karaoke Bar. If there is one thing in the world that I am truly bad at... it's singing. I can barely carry a tune and let's not even talk about how I virtually make up the words to the most popular songs...

Norebang is the thing to do around here. The Koreans love it. Here’s the thing: they can do it without even the teeniest drop of alcohol. Where I’m from unless we’ve had significant amounts of alcohol to loosen us up- belting out the tunes just isn’t happening. But the Koreans marvel in it and can do it for hours. The crowd claps away, tapping their feet to the beats. The tambourines come out and well, there’s a party happening before you know it.

A few weeks ago, my school went for dinner to close the school year. Apparently, here in Korea they swap dessert for singing. As one after another took center stage, I was shocked, they were good. Really good, in fact. Not that I truly had any idea if they were even in tune or what they were saying...

I of course, was dragged up on stage and was told to pick a song. Let me remind you that 99% of the songs are Korean and therefore the selections are mostly from the late sixties to the early nineties. I was mortified. There was nothing worse than standing up in front of 40 or so of my Korean colleagues singing an outdated English song that no one had ever even heard of. I completely destroyed the song. They smiled and clapped along of course, but I think they were just being kind.

I'm told we're gathering up again next week to hit the Karaoke bar. I've already planned to have a nasty sore throat preventing me from participating in any sort of singing.

Home "Sweet" Home

2010-03-12T02:27:00.000-05:00

It's funny- when you're on holiday- there usually comes a point when you crave a little of "home". You have a moment when you dream of sleeping in your own bed, eating home cooked meals and getting back into your routine. Even funnier- not once did this happen while I was in Australia.

Arriving back at Seoul Airport was like placing a child in a large playroom without any toys. I was back home. Back in Korea. No palm trees. No blue sky. No Australian men. No English.

I realize I sound a little depressed, but aren't we meant to feel this way after any amazing holiday? I beleive that I had I travelled to Indonesia or Thailand- that Korea wouldn't have been so badly received. But I was back to the land of sign language, head nods and body-checking ( don't fool yourself the Korean elderly women pack a pretty mean elbow to make their way through just about anything).

It took a few days to re-adjust to Korean customs once again- but I'm back into the swing of things. With nearly six months left in Korea- I'm all about planning the next activity, and of course, the next holiday.

The Gold Coast Part II

2010-03-09T03:45:00.000-05:00

As the sun settled down on our second night in Surfer's, we sat outside on the patio sipping some fine Australian Chardonnay. Easing into our seats, we were approached by two hostel staff making the nightly rounds.

They were selling tickets for the twice weekly Backpackers Pub Crawl event. For 30 dollars we were to get free entry to four clubs, one free drink in each club, transportation, free punch from 8-9, cowboy hat, glowstick and souvenir photo (yippee).

With only a few minutes to discuss, we gave each other a quick glance and forked over the cash. What the hell- we only live once ( and re-live crazy pub-crawls twice).

Dolled up and ready to go, we made our way to the front gate to board the bus. By far, the eldest of the group of 60 or so backpackers- I braced myself for one hell of evening. The only way to survive the teens in heat was to either join 'em or drink enough that I would never remember a single detail of the night.

As we were scurried and stamped into the first bar, we bee-lined it for the bar. Double Vodka please. Pronto. The bar, filled with backpackers partying it up was flanked with bouncers who stood on small stools surveying the crowds. We chose a spot a little off from the main crowd, where we watched in awe as the girls and boys grinded and grooved on the dance floor.

Our spying was interrupted by two ferrels who insisted that I sit on a bar stool. I kindly waved them off- with a forced smile telling them I was fine standing. The man made a second and third attempt to parade the stool in front of me to sit down. I again waved them off. After having a a few more gulps of my first drink- the guy tried to put the stool out again.

I'd had enough of this childish game. I gingerly moved towards the stool to put it back where the boys were standing, as I stepped forward, my heel caught the edge of the stool and I toppled sideways and face planted right into the bouncer's crotch. Clutching my drink, I raised my eyes upward staring into his face. Mortified, I peeled myself off and apologized profusely. I could tell he was trying to contain his own laughter- but I was more concerned with him thinking I was one of those drunk twits who slurs, "I'm not drunk- this is only first drink!!" But seriously, I wasn't drunk and it was really my first drink.

The rest of the evening proved to be a bit of a blur, moving from one club to the next- and we managed to lose the pack twice. I'm not sure how you can actually lose a 60 or so backpackers wearing cowboy hats- but somehow.... we did. We partied it up to the wee hours of the morning- having met some memorable people. We trudged on for the next few days. We discovered Sea World, took a day trip to Moreton Island and caught some waves during a surfing lesson.

My Grandmother always taught me never to judge a book by it's cover- and in fact she was right. Surfer's Paradise proved to be the best leg of the trip. The very best indeed.

The Gold Coast Part I

2010-03-05T04:16:00.000-05:00

First Stop-The Bottle Shop: Having heard fabulous things about the Gold Coast- we made a 4-day stop over in Surfer's Paradise. Arriving shortly after eight we met up with some thirty something men heading to a bachelor party who kindly offered us a lift to our destination. The taxi driver asked us for our first stop. Both men responded through sly smiles, "first stop- the bottle shop". As we sipped on some local brew in the back of the taxi bus purchased through a drive through liquor store, the guys were surprised to find out we were headed to surfer's. With furrowed brows- they advised us to beware- informing us we were headed to Ferrell haven. You may ask what a Ferrell is, just as we did. As the taxi zoomed in and out of traffic the guys pointed out ferrell passerbys on the street. By definition, a ferrell is a person who is nasty, gross or disgusting. As the taxi loomed on- my travel mate and I exchanged quizzical glances -- fantastic, we were headed to the ferrell capital of the world.

Second Stop- Surf N' Sun Beach Side Backpackers: Don't be fooled by the name- both the website and name boast an oasis of sorts. Walking in through the front gate we were bombarded with a whack of eighteen to young twenty somethings partying it up in cowboy hats and glow sticks. As we checked in (to the most unfriendly staff) we were stared down like we had arrived from a different planet. I felt like a grandmother in this place. A few 20 year old ferrells passed us by , giving us the one up and over as we dropped our 20kg packs. I couldn't help but think I had made it to hostel hell.

Thank God for small miracles, because before arriving we had booked a private flat for only a few bucks more- and let me assure you- it was well worth it. Private bath, bedrooms, and our own living room and kitchen- it was the way to go. I could only picture myself in a room with 6 other 20 year old's rooming together in bunk beds. I would have rather shot myself.

Third Stop- A quick trip around town and a bite to eat: I will sum up Surfer's Paradise with a quick sister city comparison- Daytona Beach Florida with a Vegas flair. Scouring the strip to find a place to grab a bite we were introduced to surfer's. Meter Maid's clad in skimpy barely there gold bikini's complete with hooker heels roamed the streets. Boys in board shorts stumbling with fistfulls of bagged beer and hard alcohol. Girls in skimpy dresses that were designed to be shirts- one even forgot her pants as she sported a body-suit with 4 inch heels. I saw more skin than I cared to. I couldn't help but feel that I'd been here before-- twelve years ago on a College trip to Daytona!

In going with the flow, I secured my negative comments to the vault-- as I knew that I was once as care-free and wild as the lot of them. As we settled down to a good glass of wine and nice meal- we couldn't help but have a few good laughs at where we were.

TBC...

Six days in Sydney

2010-03-04T02:14:00.002-05:00

Sydney: a city of friendly and overly good-looking people (and by that I specifically mean men).

This short but concise impression may be due to the fact that I had just spent six months in Korea- but nevertheless, a fantastic place to see the sights. Besides the unusually high cost of food and drinks, Sydney boasted a fabulous hostel- Wake Up! Sydney Central. The hostel came complete with a kitchen, bar and helpful staff. I highly recommend this hot-spot hostel if you're making you're way into Sydney.

We particularly enjoyed the sidebar until the wee hours on our second night in the city, where a one man show played awesome sing-along style tunes for the crowd. The devastating part was completely losing the following day of vacation due to severe levels of dehydration, fatigue and full fledged hung-overness. Why is that we never see the consequences until it is far too late?

We strolled Darling Harbor, and had wine at the Opera house bar. We checked out China Town and Hopped on and Off a Bus Tour. We gawked at the abundance of gorgeous men- and even took a little time out to flirt a tad. We took a day trip to BlackTown where we stood beside Koalas and fed Kangaroos (please note if traveling to both New South Wales and Queensland- be sure to do the Koala thing in Queensland - you can't hold the Koalas in NSW).

We saw the ever famous Bondi Beach and sunbathed at Coogee Beach. Most Australians will tell you that there is something with Ozone that is overly open above Australia and that we should where 30 factor sunscreen at all times (still not convinced if this is 100% true) We did just that, and after a mere two hours slicked with our 30 factor sunscreen realized that we had literally burnt to crisp ( I'm talking sun blister style). These Australians weren't kidding around.... It was only later that we figured out we had purchased an expired bottle of cream.

We sauntered through the gardens, and ferried our way to Manly to meet up with some friends. Sydney took us by surprise and despite our sunstroke and blisters we trekked on to the Gold Coast where the adventures really began.

Turning 3-1

2010-03-03T02:02:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe that a year has past since I started this blog- it amazes me just how quickly time does fly- but also how much can change in the span of a year. I celebrated my 31st in high style- living it up in the land down under. I could not have asked for a more amazing way to celebrate yet another year.

Despite struggling a tad with yet another number turn ( for some reason it was harder to write the numbers 3 and 1 than it was writing 3 and zero -- it's like it made it official or something) I was out and about adventuring and soaking in as much as I could in Australia.

I went sand boarding, snorkeling and even tried surfing. I hugged Koalas and lounged with Kangaroos. I saw things I'd never dreamed of-- this was one Birthday I will never forget. I'm crossing my fingers that within the next 30 I find myself making the trek back over there. Next post- a re-cap of the places we saw and the things we did- with of course a few stories in between.

Landing in Australia

2010-03-01T23:13:00.000-05:00

Apparently I had been in Korea too long- so long in fact that I forgot how to communicate properly. At the airport, on the plane, at the coffee stand, the hostel and even the restaurants- answering in Korean and nodding my head in agreement when being offered just about anything.

I bowed to every one after having been given directions or change. I was in Austrlia- but my brain had adapated to responding in Korean ways.

These Korean customary responses quickly went away as the week progressed and we realized we could actually ask for just about anything minus the charades.

Australia was beyond words. The beaches, the eateries, the bars. The scenery, people and tours- but the best of all was the surplus of gorgeous men (they were everywhere). Having been in Korea for 6 months going down under was a jolt to our synapses- the sight of attractive men was at times almost to much to bear.

But not too much.... Ill kiss and tell you later!

Going Down Under

2010-02-09T21:37:00.001-05:00

Australia: the Land Down Under. Ever since Keaunu and Patrick Swayze paddled out to sea in Point Break, I've wanted to head out there. There is something about the beckoning of the beach, the surf, the amazing wildlife and of course, let's not forget that damn sexy accent.
This trip that I am about to go on has been on the LIST for some time now and while I'm at it I plan to scratch off a few other items too. The first item is learn how to surf. I don't expect to master the craft in two short lessons- but let's be honest- I'm totally hoping the instructor is hot. Who cares if I wipeout EVERY single time!!

In preperation for this trip of a lifetime- I decided to do some surfer and aussie slang re-search to brush up on some local lingo to help me fit in. I plan on flirting it up, so maybe if I throw these words around I'll be sure to catch someone's attention and feelin' right at home.

I figure these few key words should help me survive (thanks to riptionary.com)

1.Ace- Excellent - Very Good
2.Boozer- Pub
3.Bummer- Something that's an all around downer; precursor to bummed.
4.Cab-Sav - Cabernet Sauvignion
5.Dude- General reference to a male surfer. It's use has evolved into a word used for just about anyone or anything.
6.G'day-Traditional Australian salutation, used by surfer and non-surfer alike.
7.Gnar- Crazy. Same thing as gnarly but sounds better.
8.Slammed-The result of when a wave comes down hard, knocks you off your board and drills you deep.
9.Ta- short form for saying Good-bye
10. Wax eater-Someone who nose dives all the time and slides across the nose of their board!!
11. Wipeout-Falling off the surfboard. Totally loose it and get pummeled by the wave.

It will be an action packed two weeks, and I plan to avoid numbers 8, 10 and 11 at all costs. But for those of you who know me- guaranteed I need some sort of medical service on this trip! I'll be sure to keep a careful record of all my extra curricular activities!

Cooking in Korea: The Rice Cooker

2010-01-24T05:17:00.000-05:00

As a welcoming gift, my school gracioulsy provided me with a brand new bright red rice cooker. This is a staple cooking instrument used in most households in Asian countries. I was eager to try out this new cooking tool- having grown up in a typical North American household the only way I knew how to cook rice was the tried and tested stove top method.

As I unwrapped the device I noted that it appeared to be pretty basic. A non-stick metal pot set inside a plastic and metal casing attached to a plug. Seemed pretty simple to me. I took the liberty to leaf through the instructions- there was of course one teeny problem: the instructions were in Hangul. I decided then that I would neatly package the cooker back up until I could figure out what buttons to press and how to actually use it.

The machine sat tucked away for months hidden in the cupboard. It was only when I moved into my new pad that I decided I would face my steaming fears and attempt to make perfect rice. Step one was to do some research on the internet. I had to figure out how to work the machine ( someone out there must have posted something on using a rice cooker for dummies).

Feeling somewhat confident and armed with my larger than one person sized rice bag, I set to work. There was one green light and one red light. Where I come from green means go, and so that's what I did. I threw the ingredients in and crossed my fingers that the machine would do what it it's meant to.

Thursday Attempt #1: Rice, water, lid down and green light on. 45 minutes and several snacks later- not even a boil.

Following attempt number one, I decided to return to the instruction manual, as though somehow the Korean letters would jump out at me and tell me what I was doing wrong. Having devoured most of the pantry while waiting for the rice to cook I figured the experimentation would have to wait for another dinner.

Saturday Attempt#2: Rice, water, lid down and red light on. 20 minutes and too much water later- soggy rice.

Having seen a little steam, I figured I may have been on the right track. Attempt number three would just have to wait another day.

Sunday Attempt #3: Rice, water, lid down and red light on. 20 minutes and some steam- perfect rice.

I did it! Cooked rice in a rice cooker! Perfect rice! I discovered though that first using a foreign cooking tool requires patience, curiosity and a little trial and error. Now that I've mastered the rice I'm going to explore what else a rice cooker can be used for. I'll keep you posted if I'm able to create anything worth writing about.

Only the Lonely

2010-01-22T22:29:00.000-05:00

I never expected to still be single at thirty. If you had asked me at sixteen, I would have told you that by thirty (which was then considered very old), I would have already paraded down the aisle swadlled in an elegant wedding gown, and had a home filled with children by now.

There are days when the thoughts of being perpetually single plague and consume me. The rest of the time, I find myself eternally grateful for the years that have that passed on my own. Being single has awarded with me the time to wonder, dream and discover myself.

I've had the opportunity to really look within and figure out what I enjoy and truly love. Without the beckoning of a partner, with whom we often lose sight of ourselves- I've really plunged deep within to live a life I love.

When my insanely toxic relationship of four years finally came to an explosive end, the fear set in. I wondered how I would ever be alone. I couldn't be alone. But slowly I began mending myself, working things out and found peace.

I've relished in my alone time, knowing that one day I'll be thankful for the quiet time. I've rediscovered my passion for writing and creating. I've pursued my dreams. I've learned what I like and what I despise. I've found solace in writing, yoga-ing and meditation. I've found joy in cooking (eating) and as much as I fight it some days- working out. I've committed to paper what I want to accomplish, where I want to go, what I want to do and what I really do want in a partner (I'm a perpetual list maker).

What I can tell you is that with all this alone time (especially during the week here in Korea) the worry and fear begins to seep in, which eventually turns into minor panic. Have I been alone too long? Are my expectations too high? Will I ever fall in love again (before I'm sixty)?

There was a time when the thought of being romantically involved caused a wrenching that I can not quite explain. The thought of heart ache and pain threw me off. But it's been awhile now and a little romance would be most welcome. I've felt with a certain authority that I've been ready to blend my love for life and a man for some time now. I'm ready to compliment my life. The problem is that he just hasn't shown up. Yet.

Welcome to LAX

2010-01-17T02:15:00.001-05:00

It's only taken me 5 months to realize that I landed at the wrong airport in August. I feel like I should have landed in L.A. given that I've found myself in a city full of vanity and cosmetic obsessions.The only thing that's missing is the blond hair and big boobs.

Korean women go everywhere and anywhere armed with three essential items. A pocket mirror, make-up and high heels. Everywhere I turn Korean women are decked out and dolled up. They turn up for a lazy Sunday coffee sporting the latest fashion trends and can be seen re-applying make-up while holding a latte. I've even witnessed women hike mountains in stiletto's. I've never been in a culture so aesthetically obsessed.

There are days when I am envious. I wish I was able to leave the house having primed and pampered myself for hours before stepping one peep-toe pump out of the door. I just don't have the time or energy to primp that way before my day begins.

Don't get me wrong-- a week-end night out entails a lot of effort. The perfect blow dry; an extra swipe of blush and mascara. But some days, I just throw on my sneakers, pull my hair back into a low pony tail and go. There are days when I only catch a quick glimpse of myself in the mirror.

Korean's aesthetic ideals are an obsession. Almost every woman I've met here has had some form of cosmetic surgery. Plastic surgery is rampant here. They tell me it is because if you have a "flaw" it should be fixed. They pat their faces and stretch their necks a hundred times a day to prevent wrinkles. Korean women talk about rhinoplasty, face-lifts and plastic surgeries like North American's talk about the weather.

Some days it's hard to live in this society. Korea is such an image conscientious society and you can't help but feel less than adequate in your old blue jeans and runners as you walk about town. I'm beginning to wonder if these women have it right!? Korean women are considered the most beautiful of all the Asian countries.

I'm told that here in Korea, women have a small window of opportunity to catch a husband. This window usually lasts from 22-27 years. After 27, they are considered old and chances of securing a mate rapidly declines. My guess is that for the many still single Korean women in their twenties the only way to get a men to perk up is to be as atheistically pleasing as can be.

For now, I'm thankful that I have been blessed with good genes and that my age is masked most of the time. I'm also especially grateful that where I'm from- single women in their thirties aren't clawing their way through in search of the last few good men standing. Although the pool may have dwindled a little- I'm content as can be just the way I am, without any cosmetic alterations.

Moving Day

2010-01-15T00:20:00.002-05:00

One of the greatest things about being thirty is that I've learned through the years how to be assertive, ask for what I want and tell it like it is. There really is no harm asking- and I've learned that sometimes people actually say "yes". Of course, my way is to do it all with style, class and of course a smile. It's proved to be quite advantageous since being in Korea.

I recall when I first arrived, I made a bit of a fuss over the bed I was given. It was uneven, lumpy and lopsided actually! After a few days of gripes, I was told they were going to provide me with a new bed. Here in Korea, once a decision is made, they act swiftly and smoothly. Within an hour of them deciding that a new bed would be needed- it was purchased, delivered and set up within three hours. People move fast. They say Korea is dynamic- but I never expected to be blown away by how quickly some decisions are made. No hassles, no complaints, just done.

Having been borderline hypothermic for the past two weeks in my apartment, I've been expressing my utter dissatisfaction with the situation. A little griping goes a long way it seems! This morning I was informed that the administration has finally agreed to look at some new apartments for me (this of course was refused when I first saw the apartment 5 months ago). Here's how quick everything happens:

11:00 am Off to see some of the studio styles available near my school.
11:05 am Viewing of studio apartment #1
11:15 am Viewing of studio apartment #2
11:30 am Administration negotiates the lease
11:45 am settled on an apartment
12:00 pm confirmation that the apartment I liked would be mine
12:02 pm advised that I would be moving in 3 days
12:05 pm drive back to the apartment with 5 male teachers
12:10 pm male teachers deliberate, argue and sketch furniture placement
12:25 pm I'm given the apartment key and a few boxes

This timetable was not exaggerated in the least. That's really how quickly everything happens around here. I guess there really isn't any harm in asking and owe it all to the advantage of having lived and learned the right way to get what you really want!

Scrub, Scrub, Scrub

2010-01-13T20:59:00.007-05:00

Having been chilled to the bone for a few days- I took matters into my hands and decided it was a good day to indulge in a public bath, otherwise known in Korea as the Jjimjilbang (gender segregated public bath house) If you've read some of my earlier posts- you'll know that making this decision doesn't come lightly!

The place was packed, as I suspected that others were of like mind, beating their weather woes with a good spa treatment. I took my time, enjoying the heat and relaxation. I enjoyed the steam room, jumping from the ice cold pool to hot whirlpool. I even indulged in the high jet massage pool. I felt relaxed and warm. A perfect week day afternoon.

Having spent about an hour savoring the the different pools- my eye caught sight of a woman heading in to a tiny room off to the side of the spa. She was escorted onto one of two massage tables lying side by side. I had heard of these scrub rooms, where Korean women frequently go to have an extreme exfoliation treatment. Women who work at the public baths, called ajuma's (Korean for Aunt) scrub you down.

I sat nervously in the whirlpool, desperately wanting to experience this scrub down for myself. After an internal fight with myself - I decided what the hell. Now or never. As I strutted my stuff across the pools, I glanced over at the lady getting scrubbed down. She appeared calm and relaxed as the ajuma scrubbed away. I stood there for a moment, and caught the ajuma's attention. She smiled as I pointed to my self and made circling scrubbing motions. She nodded her head and flashed her palm. The woman on the table briefly opened her eyes and in her broken English told me to wait a few minutes. As I scoped the scene, I had no idea of the cost, the duration or what to expect- the sign above was of course only in Korean.

My ajuma finally appeared, a petite curious looking woman wearing her bra and panties. She smiled and pointed towards the table. She asked me something in Korean and repeated again. I flicked my eyes towards the woman on the other table, hoping she could possibly translate. She pointed to her face and questioned if I wanted a facial treatment. With nothing to lose I nodded eagerly in agreement.

In silence, she tapped gently on my legs or arms to position me properly. As I lay face up on the table, she poured two pails of hot water over my body. A seaweed and fresh cucumber face mask was slathered on and away she went. She scrubbed every inch of my body. The process is repeated three times, with different products. The scrubbing was quite enjoyable actually. At one point during the treatment I heard her say something to the other ajuma. Slightly paranoid I wondered if she was talking about me? I know that I am the only Caucasian to have entered this public bath. I quickly let it go, and put my attention back into enjoying the treatment.

After applying a thick layer of lotion and exfoliater I was asked to sit up so she could scrub parts not previously covered. As I gently opened my eyes I observed that I was surrounded by piles of dead skin. I must have gasped and winced a little because my ajuma began to giggle. She nodded her head agreeing that the filth around me was in fact mine. I could not believe the amount of skin. I must have shed a least a few pounds. I knew I scrubbed myself- but this was unreal. No wonder Korean women go every second week to get a good scrub down. My skin never felt softer.

As the last rinse was completed, she slicked on a thick layer of body butter and told me to go rinse off. I was done! I felt so relaxed and clean. The whole treatment lasted an hour and fifteen minutes. As I showered up, patted dry and dressed I worried about where I paid for this and what the cost would be.

As I stepped out to collect my shoes- the lady scribbled the amount I owed on a piece of paper for me. The total cost was 15,000 won. That's roughly $14.00. I happily paid for the service, and as I left the building filled with glee- I knew this would become my new addiction.

Antarctica

2010-01-12T22:33:00.005-05:00

Nothing screams home like a good snow storm. Feeling like we were in the Canadian Artic last week, Daegu had a hefty snowfall. The kind of snow that streams from the sky. Thick and fluffy. Just perfect for building snowmen and catching snowflakes.

Winter's first snow fall is just one of those things I love. My heart skips, and girlish giddyness washes over me. As I strolled home through the winterwonderland taking in the grey skies, the whipping cold and harsh winds I realized how these days are just the perfect setting to cuddle up inside, light a fire, brew a good cup of cocoa and snuggle up with your man.

As I opened the door to my apartment, I flicked on the lights and undressed from my coat, hat and mitts. I peeked into my apartment but there was no fireplace, no cocoa, and no man.

I settled for a a billion blankets, a cup of Earl Grey tea and sole snuggling. I stretched out on my bed to watch my latest download and pulled and tucked most of the blankets I owned around me. After a few solid minutes, I felt a cold draft in the air. De-cuddling myself to check out the cause of the temperature shift, I noticed that I could see my breath in the air. I knew the weather had turned brisk, but my apartment was nearly as cold inside as it was outside. I double checked that the boiler system was on. The green beam flashed indicating it was on and working. These boiler systems are equipped with temperature gauges, and heat from the floor. I peered at the temperature. A bomby 14 degrees! I scaled the gauge higher in hopes that the number would change.

Two hours later the temperature hadn't budged. I was in Antarctica. I bundled up with my hat, mitts and layered on a heavy sweater. I put on long johns and ski socks and nestled in for my night's sleep.

It's been 8 days. I've now resorted to camping out on the floor of my apartment. Let's not even mention the whole shower ordeal. Some days I feel like I'm practicing for the Polar Bear club.

Two days ago I received my gas/heat bill. It was ridiculous! They say it's because it's a really old building. The temperature in my apartment has not budged from 14 degrees in over 8 days, no matter how high I scale the knob.

As I eagerly await for the Spring temperatures of February to arrive swiftly, I have succumbed to the camp out on my living room floor. I still wear my hat and mitts to bed and dream nightly of toasting by the roaring fire, with a cup of hot cocoa snuggled up with a man.

Ringing in a new decade

2010-01-01T21:29:00.003-05:00

It's hard to believe that another year has flown by. I've never been one to go all extravaganza for New Year's- typically I allow my gung- ho friends to pick a place to party and follow suit. Everyone scrambles to find something to do, and usually we end up forking out way too much money for "just another night out". But, as they say... it is New Years!

A new year. A year of possibilities, changes and unknowns. At the stroke of midnight, it all begins. It's always been difficult to reflect on the year passed while Auld Lang Syne is humming in the background, the crowd is counting down in unison and glasses are clinking together. At that pivotal moment expressions of good luck, happiness and health are murmured across the bar- usually by this point we can barely stand- but all the same we're celebrating the new year to come.

It's the following day, when morning breaks and the fog from the previous evenings cocktails and shots lifts that we take the time to reflect and curse ourselves for the debauchery from the previous night's party. As we piece together the night, we are faced with the reality that it is a New Year. I've always gone back to ponder the good and the bad and cross my fingers for an even better upcoming year.

I have to admit, that as I scan the last 12 months- I wouldn't change a thing and am amazed by everything that I have accomplished. Of course, there have been some trials and tribulations along the way- but as much as this is cliche- it is truly these times that pave the way for more strength and adventure.

As I raise my glass to no one in particular- I'm wishing that everyone finds the passion to embark on their own adventures and find their true purpose in life. Here is to loving, living and hoping that all of our wildest dreams come true in the new decade.

All alone for Christmas

2009-12-25T21:18:00.002-05:00

For the first time in my life, it really doesn't feel like Christmas time at all. Downtown Daegu is lined with a few Christmas trees full of twinkling lights and sparkling decorations- carols can be heard as you wander past the rows of shops- bakeries present beautiful sweet treats in the windows... but the Christmas cheer is far from home.

This year, as I celebrate Christmas a little differently in the land of the morning calm- I realize that even though I may be "alone" for Christmas, miles away from family and friends- I am not completely alone. For those of us who find ourselves in Korea for Christmas we have gathered around and made new Christmas memories. There may not be any chestnuts roasting on an open fire, snowflakes streaming from the skies or gifts under the tree- but we do have new friendships to toast to.

For the past 30 years Christmas has been spent dashing from one house to the other, lugging gifts, and indulging in one meal after another. This year I have avoided Christmas crowds; gift lists; trimming the tree; wrapping; packaging; cooking; baking; cleaning; driving; de-decorating the tree, and weeks vacuuming up the remnants of the pine scented tree (the most dreaded of holiday activities) that have made up my Christmas ritual year after year.

Although I am rejoicing in the fact that this year I have managed to escape the Christmas craziness- there is something to be said for celebrating the real spirit of Christmas.

Nothing feels more like Christmas than to have friends and family dropping in, the joy and laughter that comes with gathering around the tree; giving and receiving presents and toasting to the holidays. Despite all my delight to the no stress approach this year, I think I would trade it all in just to be home for the holidays.

Templestay

2009-12-06T02:51:00.011-05:00

In the past two years I've sat through intensive Vipassana Meditation courses. Vipasassana mediation is one of Asia's most ancient techniques of meditation attributed to Gautama Buddha. Having experienced some powerful insight, liberation and detachment during these sittings, I've always been drawn to experiencing more.

If you're going to teach English in Korea, I highly recommend participating in a TempleStay. In Korea, the temple gates open to those who wish to be introduced and experience Buddhism. The Korean Buddhism tradition has existed for over 1700 years and participating in Templestay is one of the many rich cultural experiences one can do in Korea.

For 24 hours we experienced the unique lifestyle of Buddhist practitioners. We settled on Haeinsa Temple which offers the full cultural experience. High in the mountains, surrounded by thousand year old trees, ponds, and pathways this temple offered more than just natural beauty.

We were surrounded my monks (Sunim) in traditional robes, the many temples nestled in the forests and the sounds of wind chimes clamouring in the wind. Our host was a Korean Monk who spoke perfect English, and his story touched us all. He , like many monks lived a so-called normal life just as you and I. A life of attachment, material possessions and suffering. I am so grateful for his words, wisdom and insight.

The stay begins at with an opening ceremony at 16:00- we were given traditional clothing and shown to our rooms. The men and women are of course separated. A simple dwelling: you are given blankets and pillows and sleep on the comfort of the heated floor.

We were taught about temple banner, how to bow and basic Buddhist philosophies. At 17:00 We were treated to Balwoo-gongyang (a traditional Buddhist meal) and then to the main temple for Ye-bool at the 18:00. The Ye-boo is the Buddhist ritual that pays respect to Buddha.

To participate and observe hundreds of monks in the temple, chanting and bowing was one of the most amazing and beautiful things that I have ever seen. The energy that filled the room was indescribable. We bowed with them, and quietly observed the ritual.

At 19:00 we engaged in a Da-do- a Tea Ceremony with our Sunim; where he told us of his University days, including tragic suffering that finally led him to his path of becoming a Buddhist monk. The Buddhists claim that while drinking tea we are enjoying life. The whole ceremony was quite the process from the brewing to the drinking.

We talked about life, it's meaning, Buddhist precepts, faith and the Matrix. We talked for hours, quietly reflecting and tasting our tea. Lights out was at 21:00, as Korean Buddhists are the one of the few who rise the earliest.

The Sunim's rise at 02:30. In the darkness of the night, with the moon shining high in the sky, the monks perform a traditional drum ceremony. The pre-dawn ceremony is ignited by the drums that can be heard at 03:10, waking the animals, mammals, and lastly the humans. We joined again in the main hall at 04:00. The chants awakening every human form in the room. As the monks chant in unison, you can feel the energy flowing through your entire body.

The thought of the sacredness and the awakening of our bodies and minds at 03:00 was truly eye-opening. Normally, we would all still be out at the bars traipsing around trying to make our way home.

We were shown how to bow and at 05:00 we participated in the chanting of a thousand hands led by a senior monk and performed 108 bows. We sat through a 45 minute Zen Meditation sitting with perfect posture and breathing. We were again served tea, and had delighted to a modest breakfast.

In the morning calm, we we shown how to make our own Prayer beads. 108 strung along in complete silence. The monks say the significance of making the beads is not in the bead itself- but that the beads are meaningful because they contain within them our prayers and hopes.

We walked the grounds in full meditation and the stay wrapped up shortly after lunch. For nearly 24 hours, you are connected to your body and mind- and I was reminded of how much I truly need to remove themselves from the toxicity and negative influences in the world.

As a result of enduring some major pains some years ago, I committed to a journey to seek myself. To seek my true self. My purpose, my life and my passions. I can tell you that over the past two years my path to self-discovery has taken me to places within myself I'd never dreamed of going. I don't know that I will be able to seek enlightenment- but I do know that I am closer to fulfilling my true purpose and am so grateful to those who have shown up on my path.

May all beings be happy.

One's a Company

2009-12-04T19:53:00.005-05:00

Having moved out out of the comfort of my family home and on my own at the age of 22 - I've had my fair share of living arrangements. Looking back, I probably should have stayed at home until I at least finished University - saved some cash and built a comfortable stash of bills.

But with choices come experiences. For eight years, I lived on my own, well not entirely on my own.. I of course as so many have had to do , I've shared accommodations with other people.

Roommates came and went as the years went by: and so did my sanity. My first apartment was with a girlfriend, we lived together for a few years. We shared laughter, some tears and of course a few fights (I'm happy to report we are still talking). I've shared with a man who didn't want to clean because he argued that he did not contribute to the dust and grime. He also refused to split the purchase of toilet paper claiming he didn't use as much as females. He was also a bar tender- and quite the ladies man! We had a younger male who rejoiced in his cleaning skills, but never laid a hand on any of the supplies- he also blessed us with a cat in heat. Some of my best years were spent with two girlfriends- but as life went on they moved on with their lives. My last two years were spent with a male who hid from me- he stole my food, was late on bills and nearly caused me a serious mental breakdown.

There was no better time to leave my apartment after eight years and move on with my own life. The first few weeks living on my own were bliss. You can eat, clean, vedge, watch whatever you want and even dance around naked. But being on your own slowly loses it's appeal. I know one day, I will look back on this alone time as a god-send- but there are days when it gets pretty lonely. Sometimes, I catch myself talking to no one, and once I actually caught myself talking to an inanimate object.

There is something to be said for sharing living space with others- even if you think you're going to go mad. There is a comfort in interpersonal relationships even if you're not romantically involved. For now, I'll just have to be content with my own company- but two's company is just that much better.

Item number 57

2009-11-30T20:40:00.000-05:00

I crossed another thing off my list last week-end. Number 57 on the list was to stay in hostel. I'd always imagined that my hostel experience would have been in some exotic area- maybe Australia or New Zealand or even Thailand. Looking back on when I wrote this to-do item on my list, I would have never expected it would have been accomplished in Seoul, Korea.

Travelling to Seoul with two 22 year old males was quite the experience- staying in a hostel was quite another. We were headed to Hongdae, Seoul Korea. A trendy and young area of Seoul with plenty of clubs, people and things to do. The boys decided in advance on a hostel stay- lodging for a rock bottom price!

I was slightly apprehensive as I had never even stayed in something like this. I was used to the hotel life, a room with one bed, own bathroom and living space. Even in Europe I did it in style. My initial thoughts on a hostel were of concern. Who would be sleeping there? How many people? What about bathroom etiquette, food, noise? Each passing thought brought on another- until I to force myself to quit the bantering in my head.

We arrived at Hongdae Guesthouse promptly at 10:00 p.m. The guys had no trouble at all introducing themselves to the owner; and getting acquainted with the layout. We were shown to our quarters by the lovely owner, Mary. A quirky and humorous woman, she bustled about ensuring our accommodations were satisfactory. We were given the code, and ushered inside.

One bathroom, one computer, a half kitchen and two bunk beds. A upstairs loft housed three mattresses on the floor. The three of us trudged upstairs, unpacking a few belongings and setting up for the night. For a mere 20, 000 won we were housed, showered and treated to toast, coffee and orange juice in the morning.

The guests were travellers coming and going from all over Asia. Some had been there a week- and a few were just passing the night. The hardest part was the universal washroom- with a stranger right outside the door tapping away on the computer's keyboard. Privacy in a hostel doesn't quite exist!

The bottom line is that hostels are the cheapest way to go. I'm not sure I would do it again- unless of course it was in some exotic location like Costa Rica or Bali. But at least, I've crossed another item off the list!

Routines

2009-11-25T23:33:00.003-05:00

One of my good girlfriend's told me something once that I have never forgotten. Being half way around the World this statement couldn't be any truer.

She told me that it doesn't matter where you go, or where you choose live-- you always end up back in the same routine. The routine that is comfortable and familiar.

Despite struggling at times with my life here in Korea- I've managed to just about fit all of my familiar things into my life here.

I work, go to the gym, eat, download all of my favorite (North American) shows, read, sleep and go at it again. A few nights a week, I may enjoy the company of my Korean teachers and other nights I meet up with friends for dinner and drinks. Nothing much has changed- except I'm doing it all in Korea!

The best part is that while I've fallen back into my routines- I get the added benefits of seeing some amazing things; learning all about a new culture; taking day trips and week-end trips all over the country.

I may have left the comfort of my routine back home; and although I'm making new ones here- I'm shaking things up everyday and look forward to the next adventure all the time.

Livin it Up!

2009-11-06T21:15:00.005-05:00

Here in Korea- I don't really feel thirty. I mean well yes, of course the mirror reflects back a few (minor) tolls of gravity on my body- but besides that I am living it up as though I were some twenty year old most of the time.

I am one of few people around here in the three-oh category. I am surrounded by early to mid-twenty somethings- most of whom have just graduated from University and left the comfort of their parents homes.

The kids here party like rock stars and manage to make it out every Friday and Saturday to the hippest bars and clubs. They stumble home at all of hours of the morning- sleep it off and return several hours later to do it all over again.

I attempted to keep up with this lifestyle my first few weeks of being here- for the most part I was able to keep up (really there is nothing much else to do here on weekends)- and to my contentment many were shocked when they discovered my stamina when they learned of my age.

Last month, I came to the conclusion that the parade around town re-living my life as though I were twenty must come to an end. I've become aware of the fact that I just cannot handle going out two nights in a row anymore. My body has rejected this back-to-back notion with full force. It is reminded of my late nights and weekend binges back in the day- and has cautioned me to act my own age.

So as the decision to live it up one night a week has surfaced- I will try and make the best of it while my body is still able to keep up.

Holy Over the Hill

2009-11-05T20:40:00.006-05:00

Weeknights can get a bit boring around here. To mix things up my friends and I try and meet up mid week to have a drink and grab dinner. There are so many restaurants around Daegu- you really have a lot to choose from.

You can find just about anything from traditional Korean, to Japanese, Chinese and even Indian. There are some wonderful Italian places, and we've even found some cozy French restaurants. Of course there is the all American eateries too. Over here they're called ex-pat places.

Within are first few weeks of arrival we located a highly talked about restaurant and sports lounge. They call it the Holy Grill. Located east of Rodeo Street it's a 2 floor establishment. The menu has some quality tastes from home, including Mexican food, real buffalo chicken wings, burgers and the best staple from back home- poutine.

My friend and I had heard about Wednesday Night's Wing Night- say we decided to give it a go this week. The sports lounge was empty with only the two of us chowing down on some fantastic wings and fries. The screen was playing highlights of the Hockey games- and really it felt just like being at home.

We were kinda hoping there would be more atmosphere- or at least a few more bodies- but nevertheless we entertained ourselves. As we finished the last several bites of our meal, two new customers entered the place.

I must admit, the male caught my eye. He was awfully cute. Then from behind him the female figure emerged. As the two took a seat at the far end of the bar, we struck up a conversation.

Turns out Mr. Looker was from my hometown, and he and his girlfriend attended the same University as myself. The girlfriend was absolutely ecstatic to know that we attended the same University, and proudly informed me that she had just graduated in May. That's correct- May 2009. As she took a swig from her beer, she eagerly asked me when I had graduated. She took another gulp and awaited my response.

"Umm, 2003", I replied with an edge of confidence. The girl wrinkled her nose and said half hazardly, "wowwww. That's a long time ago!", and returned to her drink.

And there it was: A young twenty something alluding to the fact that I was OLD. The nerve.

I contemplated how to respond. On one hand, I could have agreed with her and made a fuss and rambled on about how old I really was... but then it hit me. I was reminded at that moment of a quote I had skimmed over a while back:

Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter (Mark Twain).

Bubble Baths

2009-11-04T03:37:00.007-05:00

I have always loved a good soak in the tub. Nothing beats being nestled into a bath, surrounded by warm porcelain , candles and a terrycloth pillow. Enveloped in layers of aromatic foam, steam and hot water. Soaking your limbs to the sounds of soft background music. Completely alone.

After two months of wrestling with my daily shower routine in my small 4x4 box-of-a- bathroom the thought of soaking my body in a bath was overwhelming.

Here in Korea bathrooms are not usually equipped with any type of fancy claw-foot tubs but they do have what's called public baths. You can find one of these bath houses just about everywhere within a 2 mile radius.

Being a newbie to Korea; we first heard of these establishments within days of our arrival. With no idea what to expect- my girlfriend and I decided to try one a couple of weeks ago. Walking around downtown one day- we spotted the sign and went in on whim. (enter record scratching here).

For about 4,000 won (that's roughly 3.50$) you are handed two very teeny towels, enough to say .... dry your hands and were quickly ushered towards the entrance.

With quizzical brows, we fumbled around the wall of small lockers. As a Korean woman brushed past us, we noted she carefully placed her shoes in the locker, and then went on to another desk. She gave us what we thought was a side glanced semi head nod- and so we followed pursuit.

With our shoes neatly tucked away, we knew that the next step would be to strip. As we entered the lounge, we were immediately blinded by buck- nakedness. A few women gaped as the two foreigners walked briskly towards their assigned locker numbers. They continued to stare even as we began to peel back layers of clothing. There was a slight awkwardness in knowing that in less than 30 seconds the two us would be in our birthday suits in front of not only each other but amongst 35 Korean women of all shapes and sizes.

We stared each other in the eye and both shrugged slightly. "This is Korea", we chimed in unison. As we took the iddy bitty towelette to cover whatever we could we bee lined it for the bath.

I scanned this new universe quickly- trying to avoid eyeballing the thirty or so bathing women who were all goggling back at us. Most stopped dead in mid-rinse to get a good look at the fresh white bodies. Horrified at their lack of privacy- we found our way into the closest nook- the steam room. With stifled giggles- we were safe. The hard part was trying to keep our conversation going all the while sitting their totally in the nude. We peered through the steamed glass to get a good look at our surroundings.

The public bath is laid out on one floor- it contains a sauna, a steam room, and a cold pool. There is a hot tub, and two other rectangular hot baths. This one even included a warm bath equipped with powerful jet sprays that send intense pressure to your muscles. And then there are about 25 shower stations lined against the back walls. Everything is out in the open, including the women.

The experience was interesting to say the least. With no knowledge of Korean and what the heck we were doing- we just did our best. Hopping from one pool to the next, taking it all in. The obvious staring was quite aggravating after awhile- but then again I think they were more concerned with our lack of hair down there than anything else. As shocking as it was for them- trust me it was a real shocker to be bombarded with bush. In case you were never informed- Korean women go at it "au naturelle" .

This concept of publicly bathing is a hard one to get around- as North American's we usually cover up as much as possible when in the gym locker room or any public place where undressing is required. We are used to shower curtains and privacy- but here in Korea if you want to get a soak on- you need to brave the masses.

I've been twice now on my own- I've held my head high and done my own thing. I still struggle with walking from the locker to the bath (which is about 8 meters away) with only a face cloth to cover my heiny- but I hope one day to just prance right on through without even a care in the world. Until that day arrives, I'm still resorting to leaving the contacts at home so that I don't see a thing.

Tip #1: Better to go at it in two's your first time. Language barriers and nudity may pose a problem to some.
Tip #2: Go prepared. Bring a large size bath towel and toiletries!

"We"

2009-11-02T00:19:00.005-05:00

We've all known those couples who flaunt their relationships. Those that are in-your-face about being a "we". The ones who can't keep their hands off each other... the ones who can't be without their significant other for more than 5 minutes and let everyone else in the room know about it. The ones with pet names and the ones who actually use the cutsey-wutsey tags in every sentence imaginable. You know... the ones that make us singletons want to be sick.

It seems everyone here is in a couple. I mean the Korean ones. With almost 49 million people to choose from- it seems there really are plenty of fish in the sea. Dating Korean couples are slightly more different than those we are accustomed to in North America (as noted above). They have taken the "we" to another level entirely.

Most Koreans in dating relationships advertise their couple hood- with clothes. Couples walk around in matching shirts- dress shirts, sweatshirts, t-shirts and I've even witnessed some sporting the same jackets and a few with matching shoes.

The stores here cater to this like cotton candy vendors at the fair. Matching cell phones, pyjamas and even underwear.

I'm not sure how well this concept would fly back home- but for now it's all around me. Repeat this mantra: it's not wrong, it's just different.

Hello's

2009-10-29T05:32:00.000-04:00

The population of Korea is around 49 million people. Here in Daegu it's estimated to be at 2,512, 604. That's a lot of people. Of that two million- there are a few of us non-Koreans scattered around town. I am completely making up this number- but if I had to estimate the non-Korean population in Daegu- I'd have to go with numbers in the thousands.

It's easy to spot the Native English Teachers- we stick out like sore thumbs. My first week here in Korea was a lot to take in- but when you finally spot a foreigner a ways down the street- you can't help but feel a little giddy. I flashed by brilliant smile and waved my hand around like Sandy the sea lion performing a trick at the aquarium. My first encounter with a foreigner! Initially, when the person to whom my greetings were directed were met with a refusal to return my sentiments- I chalked it up to miscommunication or even blindness.

You'd think the exchange of English words and familiar greetings would be the highlight of your day. As the days turned into weeks, and weeks into months- I just couldn't understand the stats. I'd say that about 8/10 times my "nods" and "grins" were simply not reciprocated. No eye contact- no acknowledgement- just blank stares.

Having felt somewhat self -conscious the matter was immediately broached within the circle of friends. Apparently this is happening all over Korea. Foreigners disregarding other foreigners when out in public places. Who would have thought?

After some deliberation - it still isn't clear why this phenomenon occurs. Determined to change my stats- and have my "hello's" and "how are you's" met with at least a smile- I go on walking out there with my girlish charm and forward greetings. I'm aiming for 5 out of 10 to reciprocate the gesture. Half is always better than two!

Coke Bottle

2009-10-28T05:40:00.000-04:00

The other day in the teacher's lounge, surrounded by co-workers, my Vice Principal gestured for me to sit next to her. She smiled and I could tell by the look on her face she was trying to think of the words she wanted to say. She finally sputtered, " You : Coke bottle" and patted my shoulder. I wasn't quite sure what the words meant; and so by reading the blank stare on my face she again said, " You- Coke bottle". This time she threw in a small hand gesture. Still unclear on the intention- I sneered. Was she calling me fat? Finally after some deliberation she spoke in Korean to my colleague. I was then translated her meaning- she wanted to tell me that I had curves... just like a coke bottle.

I have to admit the symbolism used was brilliant. Slightly taken aback- I expressed gratitude for her comment. She appeared flattered and proud of her compliment.

Here in Korea- people say what they mean- no holds bar. For example, I've been told that I look tired, sick and have even overheard women tell each other that they got fat over the break.

In North America, we tend to smile and nod, and deter from pointing out anything that may be perceived as hurtful, rude or inappropriate.

Maybe we could all take stock in the Korean way of words: say what you mean and mean what you say!

Simplicity

2009-10-27T05:42:00.002-04:00

As we move on in our twenties- we hold more powerful jobs, make more money and acquire more possessions. We buy more and want more. Do we really need all that stuff?

Ushered into my apartment on that first day some three months ago- I was quite shocked when I took it all in. Or should I say lack there of?

One bed, one table, one chair. One lamp, one TV, one armoire. A few hangers, a washer and a lone roll of toilet paper. One pot, one pan. Two plates and a can opener. One fork, one knife, two spoons and a pair of chopsticks. That's about it.

After some initial essential purchases and a few a plants to call it home- I was settled in.

The funny thing is- you soon realize that you don't really need all that stuff to survive. It amazes me everyday just how little we need to live comfortably and be happy.

Don't get me wrong- I'm not trying to say that I am now ready to lead the life of a monk- but there is something to be said for the simple life. A little downsizing now and then isn't so bad after all- if you can just be grateful for the things you do have.

Sports Day

2009-10-23T22:59:00.005-04:00

Last week our school held it's annual "Sports Day". Here in Korea- you never really are warned about events in advance. The people here just pass information along as briefly as it comes.

Just as I was clearing my desk, shutting the computer down and getting ready to call it a day, my co worker informed me that the following day I would need to forgo my usual work attire and dress in sports clothes. She let me know the school was having their sports day, and that the teachers dress down and cheer on the students.

Geared up and ready to go in my lululemon's I was ready for sports day. As I approached school, a couple of the students passed by me, and giggled in choppy English. I could barely make out what they were saying, but I got bits and pieces of the garbled message. Something about, cheer..... Cynthia.... Teacher..... race. Horrified, I quickened my pace into the building, and sat at my desk- searching for my one colleague who would be able to decode the message.

I was advised that there was in fact a teacher's race that afternoon, and that I should not be worried- it was just for fun. Great- thanks for the heads up.

Outside, the students chanting and cheering peeked my curiosity- from the teachers lounge I saw the students stretching, and running in place. I looked a little more closely and saw the race was a mere 100 meter dash. Relief. I had this.

At precisely 2:35, I was scurried into the main field. In was confused, as the lines for the race were on the other side of the field- but figured they were just going to announce us or something. Then from the left, colored pinnies were being thrown at us. As I struggled to put the damn thing on, I stood there in utter confusion. I quietly asked one of the teachers next to me to clarify. Turns out it we were running a relay race.

I never ran track in high school, I run now and then when I feel up to it- but a relay?? With cold muscles, I was put in position. I scanned the crowds of students and waited for my team mate to turn. I began a slow jog, and grabbed the baton. I was in the lead. As I ran the crowd cheered. My students chanted, "cyn- thi- a" " cyn-thi-a". As each chant escalated, I raised the baton and they cheered louder and louder. I had visions of the Olympics as I wizzed by my competition- I was a natural at this.

Then as I was about 5 steps from the hand off- I totally bailed. Fell down with a thud (there were dust swirls behind me). I saw the sky, the dirt, and the sky again. The crowd was silent. My team mate was so mad, she grabbed the baton out of my hand and took off. As the dust settled, and twigs were pulled from hair- I was helped to my feet.

Limping off the field, trying to save my pride and assess my bodily wounds all I could do was laugh. Seems like something right out of a movie. But this was real. I was all cut up. I was treated, bandaged up and sent home. I spent the next two days answering a 1000 student's inquiries and showing off my battle wounds.

The whole thing went down really differently in my mind., that's for sure.

Eating Out

2009-09-28T06:56:00.007-04:00

Lazy Sunday's- gotta love them! After Friday night's hookah bar, Saturday's amusement park, I awoke to rain drizzling down in Daegu.

What a better way to start the mid afternoon than hitting up a home-style breakfast joint. A little taste of home! Hami Mami's is nestled close to Camp Walker (one of three US army bases). It serves all day breakfast- just the way we're used to: eggs, bacon, bagels, french toast and home fries.

After fueling up on some delicious all American breakfast, we hit up a public bath (more on this to follow), had a real pedi, did some shopping, and before you know it it was time to eat again!

Eating out in Korea has been quite the experience. Unless you're eating "American" eating Korean food is quite the challenge. Unless of course, you had had the opportunity to buckle down and learn the language or befriend a Korean.

My girlfriend and I decided to take a chance and indulge in some Korean food for dinner. One- it's way cheaper and two- if we're gonna be here another 11 months, we better learn to eat it! After eliminating several options, we decided the heck with it, and walked into a random place. Here's a recap:

Step 1) Enter restaurant
Step 2) Randomly select options from the pictures on the walls
Step 3) Alert waitress, and sign language that we have no idea what we are doing
Step 4) Scour the joint and try and catch a peek at what everyone else is eating
Step 5) Sign to the waitress that she ought to suggest a dish or make a recommendation
Step 6) Smile and Nod and agree to whatever she has suggested
Step 7) Laugh out loud and pray you're not about to sit down to devour Cow intestine
Step 8) Wait for the meal to arrive
Step 9) Quietly watch how everyone else is eating the meal
Step 10) Just dig in!

For 9,000 won we ate like Queens; had a few laughs and will never ever be able to remember what we ate!

Pampering

2009-09-20T00:28:00.007-04:00

Every now and then we could all use a little pampering. What's better than a little lunch, some shopping and a pedicure??

This experience wasn't quite what we were used to: the whole pick your polish; sit back in one of those over size massage chairs; have feet scrubbed, scaled and seduced while you catch up on gossip with your girlfriends. This was a completely different kinda thing.

It's called Dr. Fish Zone. Let me explain: It's cafe, bookstore and pedi place all in one. For a measly 6,000 won (roughly 6 $) you are greeted with warm fresh rolls butter and jam, and a choice of coffee, juice or tea (unlimited). You can have a chat with friends, watch some television, play X-box or read some books and of course you can have the opportunity to have fish eat your feet if you are so inclined.

The place is quite classy, and once ready you're asked to rinse your feet in warm water. Once completed, you then plunge your feet into a cold aquarium style case embedded into the floor. No sand, no fancy backgrounds. A box filled with about 10 inches of water, and an average of 20-30- fish.

They are by no means underfed ( we noted a stash of fish food neatly tucked under a cabinet) and as soon as your feet are immersed under water, the feeding frenzy begins.

For 15 minutes the fish suction, nibble and nab at your toes. Initially uncomfortable and ticklish, you soon give in to the experience. The three of us sat there, squirming-- trying to understand the logic of this kinda treatment! I only had a few nibbles at my feet, the lot of them were much more interested in my friend's soles. (I was quite relieved actually!)

It really didn't do much, and I would much prefer a conventional pedi- complete with having my toes polished and primed- but at least we gave it a go.

If the shoe fits...

2009-09-16T19:03:00.003-04:00

When first planning my trip to Korea, I was a tad apprehensive about some of the food dishes I know I would be introduced to and/or obliged to eat. One disadvantage is that I refuse to eat fish and seafood. Just don't like it. Korea is known for their seafood dishes, and they sneak fish into just about everything. There is an upside to this though- this is going to be great for my figure.

Eating less and walking just about where has me crossing my fingers for a few less pounds! Week 4, and I've lost 5 pounds already! Korea has been great for my body image!

I decided to celebrate the lighter me and crack down on some shopping. Daegu is known for it's shopping districts- and so off I went.

Bombarded with neon signs, rows of clothing boutiques and hundreds of shoe stores I was in heaven. That is... until I tried to figure out the sizing.

(insert record scratching here). After twenty minutes of trying to figure out the size numbers (in Korean), trying on arm full of stylish tops and trying to inch my feet into every adorable pair of heels I could find... I finally figured out my perfect size in Korea.

Dress size: 95
Shoe size: 255

I haven't even attempted to look at the pants around here. Most of them look like they will fit around my thigh. I'm not so sure Korea is going to be the place where my ego soars... but as they say- as long as the shoe fits...

Home Sweet Home

2009-09-09T01:31:00.004-04:00

Home these days is a tiny studio apartment big enough just for me. I am constantly banging parts of myself on the walls, scarce furniture and and french doors which separate the living space. I often wonder if this apartment is bigger than those in New York City. At least my bed doesn't fold down and detach itself from the wall!

The bedroom/living room/tv room/computer station/microwave area:

It's a little bare for now, but with a few plants and maybe some wall art- I think it will do just fine. I am however still getting used to the whole single bed thing again- I almost fell out last night, just trying to get a good stretch in as I settled to sleep.

The bathroom/shower/toilet/sink area:

The bathroom is a another story. It's one of those things- you just have to learn to get used to! As my girlfriend put it- you can pee, shave your legs and brush your teeth all at the same time. Complete efficiency.

The kitchen:

A little on the cramped side. You can't open the fridge without banging your behind on the doors, and you can't wash a dish with out squeezing your body in between the sink and fridge. With no counter space, chopping, cutting and peeling are some what of an art form! The two stove burner is a real gem to master- but I've scaled down on my cooking...

The best thing about this apartment is that it is all mine. I just need to dress it up a little!

Home Stay

2009-09-06T01:43:00.006-04:00

In Korea, one should expect the unexpected. I think it should be the unofficial motto around here. I arrived safely in the city they call, "colorful Daegu". I was introduced to teachers, the vice principal and principal. of my school. The introductions were mostly filled with me smiling and nodding. Them talking and smiling back at me. One thing is for sure, the school was very excited to greet me.

Within minutes of my first exchanges, I was informed that all of the teachers would be dining out together, and that I was invited to come along for a meal. Exhausted from my the long bus ride in, this sounded delightful. I quickly accepted the offer, and smiled at the thought of finishing up and being shown to my new apartment. It would be so great to unpack, unwind and settle in to my new digs. Dreams of solitude, rest and comfort were interrupted within the next several minutes. Apparently, my apartment would not be ready for a few days and that as their guest teacher, I would be staying with one of my fellow colleagues and her family. Initially stunned by the news, alone, cranky and tired I practically bursted into tears. Home stay?!!

After re-packing yet another bag and regaining most of my composure, I was on my way. At first I was afraid. My colleague knew little English and I of course knew little Korean! I was to stay with this family for four days until my apartment was ready.

I was greeted my thew two most curious creatures. My colleague's two children, were the cutest darn children I had ever seen. They jumped with excitement upon my arrival, and I quickly decided that this may not be so bad at all.

My home stay showed me one of the true ways of Korean life. I learned many new things about Korean culture and shared some of my own. I was shown how to (properly) use chop sticks by a six year old, privy to authentic Korean cooking three times a day (I'm still not sure how they stay so thin), climbed on, read to and jumped on some more. I was taken on a field trip to Pagyesa Temple and treated to Korean Duck Grill.

Four days later I was the charades champion of Korean-English conversations. Plus, the kids have this great electronic dictionary.

What I can tell you is that Koreans are one of the most generous and kind people I have ever met. As a guest in someones home, you are fed, showered with smiles and affection. They will do anything to ensure your stay is comfortable and acceptable. They are a culture of sharing, giving, and harmony.

I hope that all of us here in this country can take home some of these wonderful cultural values learned in Korea. It amazes me how far love and kindness can really take you.

Dynamic Korea

2009-08-26T07:14:00.006-04:00

Survival Korean Lessons:

1. Try your best and pick up a few key phrases
2. When in doubt use hand gestures
3. or find someone who can translate
4. Smile
5 . Just go with the flow.

Life here continues... only two days left of orientation and then off to the city which I will be calling home for the next year. This pseudo freshmen week is almost coming to a close, and as the sips of soju and beer dwindle down, the people around here are quickly making connections and friendships, quickly realizing that in two's days time the gigantic frat party is over.

In the meantime, I've learned that Korea is a crazy place. Last night, a group of us decided to let loose and head into the city for an authentic Korean experience.

Let's re-cap: Having nearly been run over by a delivery boy on a scooter to our right, we triple checked that the coast was clear. Stepping carefully off the curb to find our taxi, we were then practically run off the road by a flashy Hyundai to our left. Having recovered, the task at hand was how to get to our destination. 3 taxi's for 12 people. Having mangled the Korean so badly, a fellow Korean-American wrote down the Korean Characters to show the drivers. Each group had to follow suit. After some basic hand signals ensuring each driver knew where we were headed, we were on our way.

As we lurched into the back seat, the taxi took off. At speeds in excess of 100 km on city roads, we were almost killed, and nearly took out a few pedestrians along the way. Taxi's here do not follow any sort of road courtesy- they even go through red lights. He must have thought this was an emergency.

Having caught our breath and landed on stable ground, we waited for the other taxi's to arrive. As each taxi passed minus our companions,the panic set in. Turns out all 3 taxi's dropped off their fares at opposite ends of the square. Having found the only other 9 foreigners in the busy market, we were re-grouped and set off to find a stiff drink, pronto.

In this city, there is nothing a little soju and silk larvae to help kickback after a stressful day.

Day 5

2009-08-24T08:52:00.003-04:00

Everyday I wake up, it still hasn't quite hit me that I'm in Korea. It's probably because I am surrounded by approximately 600 or so other Native English Teachers who have been invited by the Government to participate in this program. For 9 days, we have been lucky enough to be staying in Jeon-Ju University. The dorm is actually named "the place for superstars".

The schedule is pretty hectic, with training classes from 9- 5:30. This orientation week has me feeling some ten years younger. It's seriously like frosh week. Clutches of groups, rooming, eating, drinking and partying together.

I never actually had the opportunity to live in rez in University- but have been lucky enough to share in the experience before me.

Curfew is at 1:00 am, and while hitting the city one night with a few new friends, we arrived at the building's front door in the nick of time. Bombarded by bodies before us, guzzling down the last remnants of their beers and soju- I observed what it must have been like to be at an all American frat party. I've never seen a breeding ground like it. The men had only one thing on their minds.

Funny thing is, Koreans are conservative and it is not acceptable to have males and females share sleeping quarters, unless they are married or in a "couple". The guys had been blocked on pursuing their intentions from the Government itself.

As we've reached the fifth day, I realize of course that this frosh week is completely the opposite of what lies ahead in just a few days. I gather that when they drop me off at my new apartment and I'm the only native English speaker for a few miles- the reality will strike.

Until then, I'll practice my Korean, enjoy the time with my new found friends and just go with the flow.

The Arrival

2009-08-22T07:31:00.004-04:00

Well.... I landed safely in Seoul. I made it through the connections, the cramped seats and airplane food. After lugging around my bags and following the herd of other native English teachers streaming through the airport, I realized I wasn't the only one on an adventure. As I scoped the line ahead, 600 or so other bodies were clutched together around the meeting desk. I guess the whole teaching ESL thing in Asian countries is really as popular as they say it is.

After getting on a bus to take us to our orientation destination point we piled into the dorm rooms and settled in for the night. Losing a complete day was hard enough, but waking up the next morning and realizing that you're in a dorm room, with a virtual stranger in the bed next to you is pretty scary. Realizing within the next few waking moments that all of this is happening in Korea is even more dramatic. Several thoughts rush through your mind- how did I actually get here?

Good news is the people are awesome (except for some very strange characters- more about this at a later date). The best thing aout teaching with the EPIK program is that there are about 600 of us here to meet and greet. I've met some fantastic people! I've even befriended a couple from near home. He's already taken his rightful spot as my wingman.

I'm thinking Korea is going to be a very good adventure...

Ready, Set. Go.

2009-08-17T09:21:00.002-04:00

Travel List

Vaccines. Check.
Selling of personal possessions. Check.
Passport. Check.
Visa. Check.
Money. Check.
Tickets.Check
Sanity. Check.

After three months of what seems to be endless preparation, the time has finally come. In less than 24 hours I will be making my way across to the other side of the world.

Packing your life into two bags with 55 pound weight restrictions has been trying. What do you take? What do you leave behind? You start to sort the non-negotiables from the negotiables. Hair dryer, straightener and lulu-lemon pants (non -negotiables). Shoes, products and make-up (non-negotiables). With whatever room you're left with you cram as much clothing, books, pictures, and personal things as you can. It wasn't as easy as it sounds. I packed, re-packed and packed again, eliminating things as I trudged along.

Having won the wrestling match with my two suitcases, I left the worry of going over my weight allowance in the wind. There are just so many things I couldn't leave behind.

As the hour quickly approaches, I'm mindlessly moving one pile from one area to the other. With only a few last minute things to pack, I'm ready to go.

I feel pretty calm despite what awaits ahead. I figure one of two things will happen when I step foot into the bussling airport in the morning. Either, I'll realize I've lost my sanity and demand that my parents drive me right back to the comfort of my family home or with a few tears and stomach flips I'll make my way through the gate and embrace the adventure.

There are bets that I will have a minor melt down, but as I see it- it isn't good-bye... it's see you in a little while...

Girls Night In

2009-08-11T09:49:00.006-04:00

In our twenties, Girls Night consisted of an evening excursion where girlfriends gathered, dressed in skimpy outfits, drank ridiculous amounts of alcohol and headed out for a night on the town. We would be loud, reckless and act like we didn't have boyfriends.

As the years passed, and we all became busy in our personal, romantic and business lives our once partied filled girls nights on the town turned into something much more profound... Girls Night In.

Girls Night In: A small group of good girl friends who get together either at some one's house or casual eatery. A chance for us to unwind, have dinner, drink good wine and of course gossip about everything.

Once gathered, we check in with each other. We broach the work topic and move on quickly. We gossip about relationships and sex. We offer advice for the girls who need expertise in all areas, especially on how to control their boyfriends/husbands. We analyze just about everything. We fantasize about love and romance. We discuss fashion and very random facts. Sometimes we talk about nothing at all. As the wine flows, we return to our favorite topic : the bedroom. Blunders, passionate nights and hot tips. We really should run our own racy column.

I'm really going to miss attending this weekly affair!

The Club

2009-07-26T11:14:00.009-04:00

We decided to shake things up a bit and hit the downtown club scene Saturday night. Back in our early to mid twenties we knew the hot spots. We had connections, guest lists and VIP status. We knew the DJ's spinning each weekend. Week after week, bouncers greeted us with friendly winks as we passed through security and bartenders smiled as we strolled through the club.

Dolled up and ready to go by eleven, the gang of us partied through the wee hours of the morning, drink after drink, we partied hard. As the beats spun, we were on fire. We rocked the dance floor and occasionally the speakers.

We were there once. But as it would seem not anymore. With absolutely no idea where to go and no connections, we counted on the younger generation to help us out. Just like old times, we were picked up at eleven by our DD and headed out to a club suggested by a young twenty something male.

Just wasn't like the old days. Hip twenty somethings grooving to the music, fighting for spots to showcase their moves on the speakers, clanking cocktail glasses and drooling over each other. We witnessed the occasional fall off the speakers, boys exposing their bare chests and gals busting out their moves in barely there skirts.

As we sipped our twelve dollar cocktails high above in the VIP section we surveyed the club goers down below. We shared a few laughs at their expense. We saw ourselves ten years younger. We were old.

My how quickly we forget that we were there once. All we did was look forward to Saturday nights. We partied hard well after the clubs closed; fallen off speakers; been carried out of the bar and forgotten people behind. We killed the party scene.

Now in our thirties, there were a few stifled yawns as the clock struck two. We were more excited to kick off our heels and crawl into bed than anything else. I keep telling myself it was just the club, because I know I still have it in me to party like a twenty something.

Wingmen

2009-07-24T16:55:00.009-04:00

Men just seem to have this unwritten code that has been passed down from generation to generation that girls are simply just not privy to. Being a woman, I can only guess that at some pre-determined age- like fifteen, boys are quickly taught some of the important rules of the dating world. Take for example, the wingman philosophy. Whether at seventeen, twenty two or thirty (I suspect this role carries on in their later stages as well) men just have each other's back, constantly looking out for one another and helping their buddies approach women.

Let's take a closer look at the concept: A wingman's role is to support his single friend in picking up a woman. The single guy spots a woman with the intentions of seducing her, and his wingman backs him up, by chatting up one of her friends or engaging the woman herself and making comments which make his friend seem more attractive. Voila! Single Guy and Single Girl hit if off. This whole social interaction appears to be a very calculated maneuver- but it works. Simple 3 step process.

In my experience, women are so very very different. Winggirl is a foreign concept in our circle. We were never taught the simple approach. Women are certainly aware of the notion, but for some reason or another choose to ignore the rule ( you know what I mean- single woman sets her sights on single male, a plan is made, friend sets herself up for the screening process, friend signals that she's going in, she chats him up, bats her eyes, flips her hair, lingers on his every word, giggle's at everything he says, she realizes she is enjoying the guy's attention, friend ceases to exist and twenty minutes later she realizes that her single friend is waiting in the corner for her to return with some sign that its good to go). Not so simple. Long drawn out twelve step process.

You'd think by thirty, women would have figured it out. I think we need to take a few pointers from our counterparts and revolutionize the winggirl philosophy. Probably won't happen in this lifetime- but it's worth a shot. Maybe the single gals should just start going out on the town with their male friends only... I think they may have our best interests at heart.

Just One Drink

2009-07-19T16:51:00.004-04:00

By thirty, we have poise, insight and experience. At this stage, we've learned our limits and discovered that making bad choices have consequences. We realize that crash diets really don't work; that we can actually say NO and enjoy it and we've been through enough to finally be able to spot the red flags.

Who knew that our wisdom didn't apply to our love for partying? You'd think that by the age of 30 we would have the experience behind us to know that one drink usually leads to two and that hitting the bars and guzzling back too many cocktails is directly linked with severe fogginess, throbbing temples, random flashbacks, couch potatoism and a strong declaration to never pick up another drink again.

We find ourselves painfully reliving this lesson, over and over again. Will we ever learn that we just can't handle it like we used to in our early twenties? Will we ever learn that it's okay to just have one drink?

The Reason

2009-07-15T20:04:00.007-04:00

I believe everything happens for a reason. People we meet, the things they say and do. Each person or situation has some small effect on our lives, and somehow we grow or change as a result. Maybe a stranger’s conversation sparks inspiration or creative genius. Sometimes a friend’s kind words or experiences instill bravery and courage that make you wake up and want to make a change.

Sometimes I wonder why certain things happen or why certain people show up in our lives. It seems somehow these encounters just seem to happen for a reason. Sometimes an opportunity presents itself, and we are faced with hard choices. We may not get the job we had a hearts set on; relationships we thought would last through the ages just weren't meant to be; some doors close. But quietly observe what is being presented. When when one door closes, another opens. Look for the opportunities. Listen to what people have to offer. You just never know why they've shown up.

What I can tell you is that at this point in my life, I believe that every experience big or small up until now has shaped who I am, and has led me to exactly where I am supposed to be, at exactly the right time and for the right reasons.

I am about to embark on the biggest adventure of my life. The opportunity knocked and I am walking through the door.

Ask yourself the hard questions, make the hard choices. Remember that things happen for a reason and live your dreams.

The Adventure

2009-07-15T20:03:00.002-04:00

Turning thirty has brought a whirlwind of changes, challenges and excitement. As a result of a certain sequences of events, I’ve made a decision to pick up and travel across the world to teach English.

One of my goals has always been to teach children- so I took a TESL course at a local University. Surrounded by early twenty somethings with looming graduate statuses were buzzing about, excited to teach abroad somewhere in the World. The world was at their fingertips. Some chose Italy, one had his sights set on Greece. Others chose Japan, Germany and South Korea.

Out of 20 classmates, I was one of three people over the age of 30. My initial intentions were just to complete the course and maybe tutor for some extra cash. You know… stay safe and comfortable exactly where I am.

With all of their excitement and spontaneity, I stopped and really questioned myself. Why couldn’t I do that as well? What exactly was keeping me here? After some intense internal battles- I finally made the decision to go for it. I had nothing to loose. Being somewhat of a free spirit helps, but I figured there was no better time in my life to live a little. This is our one shot at making our dreams a reality… and so I’m living it up.

As the 4 week countdown begins its only fitting to borrow from the Genius himself. Dr. Seuss wrote in "Oh the Places You’ll Go":

Congratulations!

"Today is your day.
You're off to Great Places!
You're off and away!"

You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.

"You can steer yourself anydirection you choose."

You're on your own.
And you know what you know.
And YOU are the guy who'lldecide where to go.

For a full version of the book complete with photojournalism by an Australian Backpacker please visit http://www.photohype.com/HBjourneyGerri.htm

Vacationland

2009-07-14T18:36:00.009-04:00

My dedicated fans have been asking for more, and I realize that I haven’t written a single word since May. Most of you might have thought I got sucked into some shady cult given my last posting, but fear not I am alive and kicking.

So much has transpired over the past few months, which I promise to explain in later postings- but for now I owe this one to Vacationland.

Everyone needs a little down time, a little sunshine, and a lot of drinking, laughter and of course kicking it back a few years and being fifteen for a few days.

As I rocked out to Michael Jackson’s ( aka MJ) greatest hits on the drive down I looked forward to Vacationland.

As I approached my girlfriend’s beach front cottage, I caught a glimpse of her awaiting my arrival. Armed with colorful acrylic wine glasses and some classic Chardonnay, at two in the afternoon, vacation was under way.

Settling in, I took it all in. The sea air, the sound of the crashing waves against the beach. One cottage. Two couples. One very adorable and single guy two doors down... plus me. What are the odds?

Road Rockets in hand my girlfriend and I made it to the local bar...barely. We were joined by my girlfriend’s good friend from two doors down. We’re not so sure how we made the walk home- mangled, but the chivalrous Mr. Two Doors Down offered the ladies a ride home on his scooter. Relief struck us as we exited the bar to catch a ride on a sleek and stylish, two wheeled bike (or so we assumed).

Turns out, the glimmering silver object reflecting off the moonlight was in actuality a handled-bar skateboard with mini wheels. We nearly died of laughter- but also nearly died trying to actually use the damn thing ( due to levels of alcohol consumption). There was a bail out, more laughter and a black bruise to boot. Good times. We still suspect he stole it from the kid down the street.

As the sunshine rolled out, so did the memories. The gang of us beached it by day and binged by night. Over the course of the next four days we managed to* gaze at the stars, get super D (aka drunk) , takeover the door man’s job and card people at the bar, get kicked out of the bar, return home, make a bonfire, catch the sunrise, walk the beach like 15 year old teenagers drinks in hand at 5:30 in the morning, play beach baseball, be seduced by swingers and took a car for the ultimate ride.

Oh to be single, sexy and free in Vacationland.

* the inspiration for the prose was perfectly summarized by "Pete" and so I sheepishly admit that I borrowed some of his material. Thanks.

Bliss

2009-05-13T12:18:00.002-04:00

Last Spring goal #12 was crossed off the list. After a year of daily yoga practice and dabbling in different meditation techniques, I decided to take it one level higher, and learn the technique of Vipassana Meditation. After doing some intensive Internet research, I learned that this particular technique is one of the most intensive techniques out there. It is a Buddhist technique, over 2500 years old. As I scanned the technique and code requirements, I told myself I could do this. The introductory course lasts ten days, and the foundation of the practice is based on silence.

Basically, you take a vow of silence for ten days. You sit in meditation for ten hours a day in stretches that last from 2-3 hours. Intense. You are also required to follow a code of honesty, and eating vegan. I had a feeling it was going to be extreme, but I was up for the challenge. Oh and did I mention, no contact with the outside world. No phone. No email. No drama.

One of the aims of the technique is to penetrate the deepest levels of the unconscious mind, and learn how to eradicate the complexes living there.

So off I went to the ashram in pursuit of eradicating, and purging the toxins of mind. I can attempt to explain what happened in there, but it most likely will not make any sense to the outsider.

What I can tell you that ten days being alone with your own thoughts is trying, but in the end completely worth it. On the fourth day, I contemplated just calling it quits, but self -determined to complete the course I stayed. On the eighth day it was complete and utter silence in my mind. I can actually say it was bliss.

The time table was bit grueling, but after day two you're into the swing of things. Wake up bell is at 4:00 a.m, and lights out at 9:30.

Ten days is hardly enough time to purge every complexity, but I can tell you that I left a very toxic person behind in the crevices of the ashram. The sacredness of the meditation hall released years of negative energy associated with a particular ex, who continued to have a presence in my mind. He stuck around in my mind for way too long, and one day he was finally gone. Gone baby gone.

The premise is a technique of pure regarding, no mantras, no music, no guides. You sit through the discomfort, through the silence. The technique is taught by a guru, who gives daily instructions. See the thing is, in our day to day lives we are bombarded with all kinds of discomforts- emotional, physical and psychological. With the technique in hand, we can know whole heartily that it will pass.

The principals learned follow the Buddhist traditions, and you don't need to be a Buddhist to practice. But practicing love, kindness, gratitude and forgiveness daily are one sure way to live a happier and healthier life.

Without fail, there were some mishaps, like unknowingly putting on someone else's shoes at 4:00 am. in the pitch black, and realizing after leaving the hall that my own shoes were not there. I realized that I had actually slipped on the wrong foot wear. Imagine not being to tell the person you stole their shoes (due to noble silence), but secretly watching them freak out when they can't find their shoes.

I will write more on my personal experiences with my first course as time goes on, and will do my best to explain the sheer joy and love that I felt within upon completion of the course. For now, I will leave it at this, as I am heading off for another course, in hopes of reaching bliss once again.

This course is a simple three day- I don't know that I have the dedication to sit another ten day! I am not sure what will be eradicated this time around, but I look forward to discovering what lays ahead. See you in a few days.

Should you wish to research the technique, please visit http://www.dhamma.org/. There are ashrams around the world.

The DD

2009-05-11T20:52:00.003-04:00

A very peculiar thing happened this Saturday night. As the week closed in on Saturday night's plan to celebrate another thirtieth birthday party, a few of us from the more rural areas chatted back and forth agreeing to ride share our way into town.

Back in the day, we fought tooth and nail over who wasn't going to be the DD. And there it was, four grown women, duking it out , because each one wanted to take their own cars so that they could leave the party early.

Has it really come to this? Are we seriously that old?

Serendipity

2009-05-09T09:54:00.002-04:00

A few old friends got together last night, as the wine and conversation flowed, we talked politics, religion and favorite flicks. And then came serendipity.

Serendipity: the effect by which one accidentally discovers something fortunate, especially while looking for something else entirely. The concept is often applied to scientific findings, such as the discovery of penicillin, or helium. But as I looked around the dinner table, it got me thinking. To me, its interchangeable with the likes of fate, timing and chance. Finding the one.

I am sure we can all agree that at some point in our dating lives, we've come across what appear to be those fairy tale urban myths- the couple who "just knew"; that couple who found each other while traveling to far off places-and finding that person who just seemed to show up everywhere they went; or the success stories of the two people who found each other online just as they were about to close off their dating accounts or even the couple who made eye contact one night from across the bar and ending up finding each other three years down the road.

Ahh, the stories, that keep us singles holding out for our own serendipity. As I looked at the couples before me, a certain chemistry was apparent. The glances and lingering touches that generated electricity in the room. Big hugs and gentle kisses exchanged between lovers. Somehow, you just know that these two people are just meant to be.

As I ponder the stories that have materialized before my eyes, it gives me hope. A sense of excitement knowing that this really does happen. Filled with optimism that true love really does exist. But most importantly its knowing that when the timing is right, the right person shows up.

Life happens...

2009-04-27T17:06:00.003-04:00

She turned 28. Of course she is happy, she hasn't hit the big "3-0"! Nevertheless, a dear friend of mine read my blog for the first time. Oddly, I feel like my words touched her somehow, and in turn her gratitude touched me as well.

Simply put, she wrote me a personal note, " Your thoughts made me realize that turning another year older and being single is something I should embrace, accept and enjoy".

I couldn't have said it more eloquently and must give back thanks for those older and wiser than myself who also graced me with their words of wisdom.

For me, being single isn't about waiting around and expecting miracles to happen. I go on about my life, learning and growing all the time. I've come to peace with who I am, what I am about and what I want in life and in a significant other.

Don't get me wrong, It took me awhile to sort it all out and rebuild myself from a toxic relationship. Over the past two years, I have truly discovered my true goals and passions and are putting them into action.

I am so thankful for the relationship I have built with myself and look forward to many more years of self-discovery.

I've been told that life is what happens when you're busy making other plans. Go on, get out there!

Break or Break -Up?

2009-04-10T18:00:00.000-04:00

Dating in our teens and twenties boyfriends would often insist that they needed "a break" from the girl they were dating. Or the couple themselves both decided to "take a break". I never really understood what a "break" meant exactly I thought it was just something guys and girls used when they were younger to sound cool. Operative word being younger.

Unfortunately, to my surprise men are still using this concept in their thirties. Seriously? Cowards. My girlfriend's guy attempted this sly maneuver on her last week. Just so we are clear, let's try and define a break. If you're on a break, you don't see each other or talk to each other. So what is the point? What do you do on a break anyway? What are the rules? What are the guidelines? Time lines?

Unless there is valid reason for a break, such as successful candidate for contestant on a reality TV show or an unexpected trip to the Artic for a pre -determined amount of time, then I can see it passing. But seriously...

Isn't a "break" just another way of saying break up? In my opinion its a wussy way of breaking up. Give it up boys ( or should I say men?) . Lets call a spade a spade. A break is really just a break up disguised- where men are too scared to be honest. Just say what you mean. Please.

Saturday Night Singles

2009-04-08T19:05:00.001-04:00

She wasn't kidding! As the rain beat down outside on Saturday, she asked me what I wanted to do. First thought. Be Cozy. I looked out toward the window, it was grey, drizzly and miserable out. "Ummm... Stay home and watch a movie? I said with a inquisitive brow. She didn't like the sound of that. She told me that I had been single too long, and scorned my choice of renting a good flick. Then she kindly reminded me that I wasn't 50.

"Think." she said. "Where are all the men on a Saturday Night? - cause that's where we're going." Her fingers drummed against the table, eagerly awaiting my go ahead with Saturday night plans. After I kiboshed most of her suggestions, we quickly realized that it was hockey night. Now we were on to something. We checked the game listing and saw that we were in for a good game. She looked at me and smiled. "Beer + Grub + Hockey+ Pub = Men", she remarked. "Game starts at Seven", I said. "Be here at 6:30", she replied with a grin.

And off we went, two singles on a Saturday Night in search of some single men watching a good old hockey game.

As we were seated and scanned the pub, our waitress brought us our drinks. After a few laughs our glasses clinked in unison. "To being Friends and To being single!" the chin chin inferred.

Throughout the night, men dwindled in and out of the pub. Although we didn't meet the men of our dreams, we did enjoy the game and had a really great time.

My How Things Change!

2009-04-06T18:12:00.003-04:00

7 days ago, I was the last one standing. Officially the last of my kind in my group of girl friends. I was wildly ecstatic for my girlfriend who has been waiting a long time for this man to arrive! After the giddiness subsided, my mind decided to conjure up all sorts of horrible thoughts. One thought leading to the next, and each passing thought was more awful than the one before it.

Visions of myself being the 18th wheel at all of our upcoming functions; not being invited out to dinner parties because I had no man by my side; Images of endless Friday and Saturday nights alone as the others were coupled off at "date nights" around the city. To my horror, my mind went on a tizzy: Images of myself at 50 with 12 cats and a cabinet full of Chardonnay was all I could think of.

5 minutes later I shook it off, and got on with things. Then the strangest thing happened-

3 days ago, we were back to two. One of my girlfriends was back in the single life. The compassionate side of me was saddened by the news, no one likes a break -up. But the selfish side of me was happy to hear that my friend has joined me back on the other side of life. The single life. Despite her sadness, I think she's ready to move forward, and she's let on that we're about to take on the dating world.

Here we come. Watch Out.

How Ironic

2009-03-29T11:08:00.004-04:00

" I feel so old!", she quipped. I did a double take, just to make sure she was talking to me. As she stood in front of the mirror reapplying her crimson gloss, I watched her reflection in the mirror. I noted that this child didn't look a day over 20, about 120 pounds and wearing the latest fashion trend. "Pardon me?", I stammered. This perky barely twenty something babbled on about the clothing choices of the younger women in the bar, she commented on how thin, young and risque the girls were. She confided that when she was their age she would have never worn what the "younger" girls were wearing now- and then she admitted that she felt too old to be in this particular bar. As she made some final alterations to her own attire and pouffed her hair, I watched her. You have no idea kiddo. No idea at all. I giggled, "Do you mind telling me how old you are?". She smucked her lips, ensuring the gloss was evenly distributed, and smiled. "22!" she exclaimed.

Instead of giving in to my desire to shake the twig and complain about how it feels for us older ladies, I opted instead to concede. "I know exactly how you feel", I said with a grin.

We stood alone in the washroom for another second, and with a flick of her hair she darted off. As I took a moment to stare at my own reflection in the mirror, I couldn't help but smile. It dawned on me that she must have thought I was give-er take the same age. If she only knew that 5 minutes before heading to the ladies room myself, my friends and I had just finished griping about all the college kids in the bar!

A Whole New Category.

2009-03-28T09:59:00.008-04:00

Okay so I've been 30 now for little over a month. Nothing really new has transpired. I can't say that anything out of the ordinary has happened to remind me of my milestone birthday.

In the past month or so, I've been asked to state my age on two occasions (one cringing and one confidently), the latter was followed by an astonished 23 year old male (hot by the way), who gasped and informed me that he would have never guessed that I was 30. How sweet. Wild thoughts ran through my head at alarming speed, and for a second I thought I may have kissed him passionately for his kind remark. But gathering my witts, simply smiled and thanked him.

Oh yes, and probably the most significant event was the survey I was required to fill out last week. 30 questions. As I responded questions 1 through 19 with ease, question 20 caught me off guard. There it was.

20. What category does your age fall into?

[ ] Under 18

[ ] 18- 24

[ ] 25-29

[ ]30-34

[ ] 35-49

[ ] 50 +

With a gulp, I checked the new category. A whole new category. 30-34. Wow. And there it was, the first time I officially had to put myself in a new age bracket. I admit, I had a momentary (internal) freak-out. Why is it so damn important for these surveys to know our age category anyway?

Ummm...

2009-03-11T19:31:00.001-04:00

Okay so maybe I was being a bit hasty- like, you know, I don't need a relationship because I love being unattached kinda stint.. But here is the truth- I am happy... but anyone who says they absolutely don't want a little loving is not being honest with themselves. Seriously, there are times when I secretly cross my fingers behind my back every time I walk into a new bar or am about to meet new acquaintances. Deep down, I don't think it would be so bad to drop the single status. I am reminded of a "situation" not too long ago, where being single was the worst thing that had ever happened and I would have just died to be a "we".

I had been invited to dine with some friends and we met up one fine summer evening on the street before entering. As I watched the people file in, I noticed some unfamiliar faces. My girlfriend confided that she had invited some new "couple friends". As I stood in line waiting for the Maitre D' to seat our reserved table of 12, I took a good look at the group around me and noticed that we were 13. The gang piled in and without hestitation a myriad of confusion broke out as people tried to figure out the seating arrangements to ensure that those two and these two could chat, and those two and these two couldn't sit next to each other... oh and those two and these two have nothing in common.... you catch my drift. Finally, after all were seated, the only one left standing was... of course- me. You got it: 12 +1. As the restaurant staff hurried to get me seated, they found an extra chair in the back room (our waiter was required to yell over the louder than normal chatter of the diners to another waiter nearest the kitchen to ensure the chair was retrieved). At last the chair arrived and I was placed at the head of the table (actually at the head of the table, in the area where the wait staff zoom through with plates and call orders to the kitchen- the seat where huffs were snarled as they squeezed past my chair).

If this wasn't bad enough, I was seated in front of couple I hadn't met before and after some brief introductions the new couple inquired , "Boyfriend couldn't make it ?". With scenes from Bridget Jones playing over and over in my mind, I stammered, "I'm single". "Really?", they chimed in unison. "Really", I maintained. The attention quickly turned as they engaged with the other diners. I excused myself and made a mad dash for the some air. As I held back tears that began to sting my eyes- I knew right there and then that sometimes I really didn't like being single at all.

The question.

2009-03-10T19:46:00.000-04:00

There are times in my life that I feel like I am the star character in Bridget Jones- minus the stellar English accent of course. The times it seems everywhere you go and everyone you meet asks you how your love life is going. Pretty simply, its the most dreadful of all questions to ask.

Just last week in the middle of the fury of a shopping mall, I bumped into an old acquaintance. As she held her newborn close to her bosom and introduced her husband- I saw her eyes dart towards my left hand and then greeted me with a grin. "So" , she questioned, "whats new?". "Married?, Children?". As I smiled through gritted teeth, I most cheerfully responded that I am working in a field I love and that I am happily unattached. She smiled at me awkwardly. I couldn't quite read her expression and debated whether it was an awkward pity smile or if it was an awkward, "I'm holding my baby- I wished I hadn't gotten married- good for you girl smile". I chose the latter, and as we parted ways, I couldn't help but think about all the reasons I was in fact- happily unnattached.

Here are my top ten and they aren't in any special order:

Peaceful and restful nights sleep. No early morning shivers due to stolen duvets, no snoring, no cold feet. Just a well deserved night's sleep.

Answering to myself. I do what I want when I want. An afternoon at chapters with Starbucks and book browsing; crawling into bed at nine and watching a chick flick.

Argument and hassle free. My spirits can't be spolied by anyone else, or having to cheer anyone else up. The only arguments I have are with myself and usually involve heated debates on whether I should splurge.

Money. That trendy new outfit- or fabulous shoes. Mine. Mine. Mine. Two vacations a year. Mine.

Getting to know myself- my likes- dislikes and my in betweens. The peacefulness of my own mind.

Dating. Meeting new people and enjoying conversations about different things and getting to explore different personalities (and realizing that I am better off alone than with someone I dread).

No curfew- no explanations

The TV remote and couch are all mine. I can flip between the Bachelor, Americas next top model, Sex and the City and Biggest Loser without any hassles.

Free. Free to choose exactly where I want to go, be and do.

Eating the extra scoop of ice cream, slice of cheesecake or greasy dish with out any comments from the peanut gallery.

The Dinner Party

2009-03-09T11:16:00.000-04:00

Falling in love. Check. Getting hitched. Check. Buying your first home. Check. Having a baby. Check. My social networks are quickly crossing off the milestone to-do lists. Let's be honest these are pretty monumental events in one's life. Each event being ceremoniously celebrated within the circle, followed by speeches, toasts, dinners, lavish gifts, laughter and of course showers. The one constant is that as friends, we still manage to get together ( a little less frequent as we would like) for dinner parties.

Whether its just the girls, or the husbands/boyfriends/significant others/partners are welcome- the women usually side off and dominate their own conversation. Back in my early to mid twenties dinner parties and gatherings were focused on our latest crushes, outfit options to wear to the next big party, who broke up and who got together. Purely girly gabbing and gossip. In the last several years, our dinner parties seem solely focused on ring sizes, color swatches, fabrics, baby names and bedroom schemes.

For some of us singletons, its easy to be happy but hard to contribute to these conversations. Incorrect, I've been known to bang out some really great decor tips, and some girls often invite me along for shopping support and critical decision making. Okay so other than that- zippo. I don't even know the difference between a princess and square or what the hell a karat means (the man who snags me will pretty pleased). The most difficult is the baby talk, or rather the new mom chatter. I'm not griping- its just when the new moms chat endlessly about which week this or that happened, or what occurred before, during and after birth- or their breast feeding schedule I have nothing to say (maybe that's a good thing) and even less to contribute. Listen, I'm not talking about a few minutes here and there- I get it- they have fallen in love with their new bundles- I'm talking about excessive and endless chatter- where they absorb themselves and often forget that there are other important topics of adult conversation besides their surprises at diaper change time.

I guess what I'm saying is- remember that other people in the world exist- that just because some of us haven't crossed off our milestone lists that we have nothing to offer a good dinner party. As I type these last few words of what appears to be strong opinion- my fingers are crossed that one day Karma doesn't come back to bite me in the ass.

The Gift

2009-02-28T08:46:00.004-05:00

Gift: something given voluntarily without payment in return, as to show favor toward someone, honor an occasion, or make a gesture of assistance.

Someone bestowed a gift upon me when I was 25 that I will never forget. One day, as I lazed about my apartment, sans boyfriend for the day my doorbell buzzed loudly. At the door stood a familiar face, an extended family member with a serious look on his face. "I brought you a gift", he said as he handed me the package. Several thoughts ran through my head as I stood in the doorway. One- it was not my birthday Two- this family member does not randomly "drop in" to give gifts and Three- I wonder what it is. As I searched his face for some meaning, I took the gift and began to feel its surface in my hand. Hard. Rectangular. 3 cm thick. My guess was that it was a book. Fabulous- I was in need of a new good read.

As I began to peel away the paper, he stopped me. He clearly instructed that I open it alone. With my face scrunched up with an uncertain gaze, he double checked to see that my boyfriend of 3 years at the time was not with me. I shook my head, with even more concern. He gave me a quick nod and left.

My feet couldn't move fast enough as I double timed it up the flight of twenty stairs to my apartment. I put the wrapped gift down on the coffee table and stared at it. In times of uncertainty the best remedy was to brew a cup a tea and light a ciggy (this concoction got me through most of twenties).

With the paper strewn on the floor beside me, my gift was revealed. I scanned the glossy cover for titles and words that would capture my attention. At first glance, the words, "from a writer and a consultant of sex and the city" were printed at the bottom of the cover. Bright hues of flashy pink and lime green caught my eye as I then saw the image of a white phone. A spark of excitement rushed through me as I held my new girly read close to my chest. Then as my eyes narrowed on the big pink circle in the middle of the cover I saw the typed words, "He's Just Not that into You". My eyes flicked from side to side as I read it again, and this time the smaller print read, "the no excuses truth to understanding guys" . I flipped through the pages, not completely understanding. This had to be a joke. As the pages slipped through my fingers, I scanned the table of contents.

Chapter 1, "He's just not that into you if he's not asking you out", or Chapter 2"if he's not calling you" or Chapter 4 "if he's not having sex with you". As my blood pressure eased, relief settled in. Phew - this was a joke- this had zero connection with me and my current relationship. I scanned a few more and there they were Chapters 7, 8 and 11. "He's just not that into you if he's breaking up with you"; "if he doesn't want to marry you" and the clincher, "if he's a selfish jerk, bully or a really big freak". Fury and rage rushed through me and I blindly launched the book through the air.

"How dare he", I glared. I got up, picked up the book, and stored it neatly away on my bookshelf. I actually took the time to hide it behind some other books. Never to be opened again.

That's a lie. One year later when the nigtmare was finally over with my boyfriend, I ransacked my apartment knowing that I had been given this "gift" but couldn't excatly remember where I had placed it. Several spots later, there it was, exactly as I had left it. I read the enitre book in less than an hour.

In hindsight, my Uncle's gift was one of assistance. A gentle prodding- a reality check. At the time I hated him for his "hidden meaning" gift. But as the years carried on, I found myself giving the same gifts to loved ones around me. They probably hate me too, but I realize that there is nothing more gratifying than giving someone the gift of wisdom.

Now What?!?

2009-02-23T19:18:00.003-05:00

Okay. That's it. Im officially 30. Three, zero. The hoopla's over, the last bits of confetti wiped up, and parcels and sentimental cards tucked neatly away. As I worked off a slight hangover the morning after the celebration- I took a moment to reflect on my new number. "Thirty". Somehow with such a milestone birthday I thought for sure I would somehow feel different... but as the haziness cleared and my head stopped pounding I learned two things:

(1) you're exactly the same

and

(2) a "3" and "0" simply replace the "2" and the "9"

As I stared at my reflection in the mirror, I couldn't help but search for signs. Not a single grey hair. I think I may have found a few more crow's lines around my eyes- but who can tell for sure. No major shifts or changes. Its still the same you. A better you. A you with the experiences of your twenties behind you, a little more wisdom and a lot of class. I realize that its okay to be where I am, just as I am and that everything will eventually fall into place.

Im rearing to go. Up and onward. To thirty more years.... and another thirty after that. In the meantime, I think I like the ring of "29" a whole more and plan to celebrate my 29th over and over and over again.

With the last three decades behind me

S is for Scoundrel

2009-02-15T09:47:00.006-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I attended a bash in celebration of Football's hottest event: Super Bowl. As the sound of tackles, runs and crunches filled the room- I mingled with some unfamiliar guests. Friends of friends, that sort of thing. Sitting around the table, we chatted away, getting acquainted and trying to place if we had all met in earlier times through other friends or at some local pub throughout College. We griped about stories over the years, particularly those scandoulous enough to make its way into every social gathering. Several laughs later, it was my turn. Somewhere during the conversation, someone pointed out that one of the guys had previously worked with my ex, and he immediately turned and all attention focused on me. Turns out the two had worked at the same establishment for awhile. When he learned of who my ex was, and the lenghth of time we were involved, he quitely placed his hand on my arm. He looked straight into my eyes and said, " I am so sorry". His words were genuine. I always knew my ex was a creep , but you know he was a dirty, rotten scoundrel when two years later, someone you've never met sincerely takes the time to provide his sympathies.

At that moment, years of lies, transgressions and deception flashed before my eyes. I read his facial expression, and knew instantly that he would be able to provide me with the missing pieces from so many years ago. Instead, with my head held up high, I answered , "Its okay. It was a huge learning experience".

I realized at that moment as those words escaped my lips, that I had grown- that somewhere along the way a lesson was learned. Back in my early to mid twenties- I would have jumped on the opportunity to gather evidence, sift through it, and re-hash it trying to understand why, be angry and cause a huge scene.

Somewhere out of that experience, I learned that you don't need to understand why. You just need to accept it.

Self Love?

2009-02-14T10:07:00.004-05:00

Valentine's Day- one day of the year set aside for love and romance. Cooing couples celebrating decades, some celebrating new love. Flowers, Hallmark cards, and Al Green's rendition of "Let's get it on" over candlelight dinners. I get the illusory nature of the holiday. But let's be honest, being single on Valentines day is just another reminder that we're not in a couple.

Back in my early to mid twenties- finding friends to spend the evening with was a cinch. Grab some grub, some wine and alot of laughs. Fast forward five years, and almost everyone I know has something special planned with their significant other. Let's face it- this is one night that being third, fourth or even fifth wheel is not appealing. To make matters worse, my one and only other singleton is out of town for the weekend.

So this Valentine's day instead of embracing the fiery throws of love, Ive decided that love is not just for couples. Its about self love. In honour of myself- Ive planned a fantastic date : A little cleaning, a little cooking and a whole lot of shopping. Nothing cures the Valentines blues like retail therapy and a bottle of wine.

The Psychic

2009-02-12T18:29:00.004-05:00

Sometimes when we're really down and out we find ourselves searching for some deeper meaning. Something more powerful than ourselves, something or someone to give us some answers. I admit, one day, at 27 I decided to join my girlfriend for her twice yearly trip to her Psychic. Full of anticipation, and expectations, I met her at the address she gave me. Rounding the corner, I fully expected to find some dingy door in a strip mall, with a red neon sign flashing "fortune teller- come on in we're open". Instead, I arrived at the destination; a classy apartment building in a well travelled neighborhood. I was ready to get some answers.

Greeted by an elderly woman in her sixties, we entered. Respectable, clean, and tidy. The kitchen table sat in the middle of the room. Four chairs, a tape recorder and a deck of cards. As her grandson, zoomed around the apartment - she got to work.

My friend went first. Several life issues were tackled one at a time. Before I knew it was my turn in the hot seat. I nervously answered her questions, and lingered on her every word. "May I record the session?", she eagerly asked. "Of course", I stammered. Without divulging her reading, what I can tell you is that she was bang on for recent events that were unfolding in my life. Some were even powerfully scary. Trust me, once home I scoured my entire social network to find a tape recorder to replay the silly cassette, and played-paused and stopped the tape over and over to write every single word down. Now thats scary.

On the other side her predictions for my future were way off. Like several years off. Three years later- off. Like potentially never gonna happen in this life time-off. There is a part of me that still wants to believe, that holds out for some her predictions, grasping on to the potential that maybe this psychics' powers are several years off in terms of time lines. In the meantime, while I await her predictions to unfold neatly into my life, I've realised that we are own creators. Along the way, I've come to learn that the best way to predict the future is to create it.