Texan Accents...eww

Andrew: "CASSAAAAAANDRA!"

Me: (In the worst possible Texan voice I could come up with) "I hate you Andrew Scott Miller!"

That time has come...

I recently had a conversation with my boss and she asked me if I would like to renew my contract here for another year. I politely declined the one year offer but agreed to extend for four additional months, pushing my state-side arrival to early July. If by that time, I'm still not ready to leave, I can keep extending a few more months until I know for sure my time here is done. But I can't seem to fully lock myself into a 12 month allotment for the time being. And maybe when I'm here all alone, away from my Korean family that I've become so close with (who will all be gone), I'll want to come home sooner than expected.

When it comes down to it, I know for certain I'm not ready to leave Korea just yet. But I did come to the conclusion that another year in Korea may be a few months too long. I guess I'm just proceeding with caution and playing it safe. There's nothing wrong with that -- right?

A silly little Christmas letter

Dear Santa,

I just wanted to write in order to tell you what I wanted for Christmas this winter. I feel that I have been pretty good for the most part. I wasn't mean to many people except for the mean ajuma that owns the shop near my house. Well, I guess what I am trying to say is that I feel like I have been really good this Christmas and all I want for Christmas is Cass. She sure is super swell and I think it would just be a good idea for you to drop her under my tree Christmas morning. I will find really good cookies and give them to you with the finest milk Korea has to offer. I promise I will not contaminate the cookies with Kimchi. Thanks for listening Santa.

Love, Andrew.

P.S. Please don't run over my grandma, and don't kiss my mom this Christmas. It is really putting a strain on the family.

Epic Birthday

I don't even know where to start with this blog about my giant birthday celebration on the Saturday after my 24th. All I can say is that it will be remembered by all who were a part of it.

Well the day started off with me getting my hair dyed yet again, but instead of the dark blonde I was going for, it turned a dark purpley-red. I left the salon quite upset but didn't have time to deal with or stress over it - I had to find my party dress! I went to Zara's to pick up my dress that I found the week before at a store in Seoul. But unfortunately the location closest to my house didn't carry the one I wanted. So, I had to make a quick unexpected trip into Seoul just to pick up my perfect party dress. When I got back to Jeongja, I met Si and Pauly to get a manicure and an early dinner (my first and only meal of the day). Afterwards, we headed back to my house to drink champagne and get ready for the festivities.

We made our way to Dublin's at 9pm for a quick cocktail and then off to Itaewon for another decadent mango martini. After finishing the perfect and very strong martini, the girls and I hopped into a cab and headed to Hongdae to meet up with the rest of the crew. That's where everything fell apart. First we started walking to the bar and somehow the group got split up in different directions. Once we regrouped, we drank and danced the night away. Other epic events that occurred throughout the evening are as follows:

• Songi and Andrew broke up over a lollipop
• Sionna got blackout drunk by midnight, and left her purse in the bathroom
• Sionna twisted her ankle (later we learned from the doctor she actually fractured her foot and is now getting around on crutches)
• My keys were given to a stranger (and not by me)
• I jumped over a bar to greet the bartenders with a warm drunken hug and then I proceeded to work in the bar while making friends with the bar manager at the same time
• I was found passed out by the speakers (Bouncer to Liz: "Umm...do you know that girl? Liz: "Yup! In fact I do!")
• My friends (thank the lord for them) carried me home as I was unconscious (They may have dropped me A LOT - you should see the bruises)
• The next day, I woke up in Andrew's bed freaking out because I had NO idea where I was. Turns out they didn't have my keys so they couldn't put me in my own bed.
• I had to meet Si and Pauly in the pouring rain to get my keys back still fully dressed in my heels and party dress mid-afternoon (I got quite a bit of looks)
• I was throwing up until 10pm that night, super hung-over (I definitely had alcohol poisoning)
• Then the next day (Monday), I had to pick up my purse from Jee containing my credit card, cash, and camera because I didn't know it existed at the time
• I couldn't eat solid food for 3 days because my body was so screwed up

Now, I'm not proud of what happened nor have I ever got that belligerent in public, but all I can say is that it was eventful. And thank god I have the friends that I do.

Note to self: don't ever take a month off of drinking and then instantly party like a rock star. It equals misery for many, many, many days.

A Year of Many Thanks

There was no Macy's Day Parade. No turkey paired with the "fix-ins". No family squished around a table gorging and chatting away. No male family members deer hunting. No football game or football talk. No after turkey naps. No apple pie or pumpkin roll. And no game of dominoes.

There was just me, at work, thinking about all the things I was missing out on being a gazillion miles away on Thanksgiving Day. And if you think about it, that's quite ironic. I was left to sit alone and actually be thankful for all that I have in my life. This year, Thanksgiving wasn't just about having a day off and eating a lot of great food. It was like taking a look back at this past year and realizing how good I really have it. I am thankful for everyone in my life and all of the experiences I have had. And, I am thankful for being me. I am happy, and that's all a girl can really ask for.

Birthday Make-up

We're not talking cosmetics here. We're talking about the fact that I didn't do anything special on my big day.

So despite my poor health, I decided to lift my spirits with liquid spirits at Dublins with all of my friends. I think by the end of the night, I sampled all the drinks Dublin's has to offer. Car Bombs, martinis, mixed drinks, beer, and shots galore filled my insides and I was feeling much better about my Birthday-less Birthday the day before. I even received a home-made card (the best kind), a can of fake snow that was sprayed into the air all throughout the night, a stellar performance by Andrew that included all of my favorite upbeat cover songs, many shout-outs on the microphone, an amazing fire show, a few gifts, a delicious Korean cake (that I ate all of the chocolate pieces off of and then later started a cake fight with), and lots of love from all my friends.

All in all, it turned out to be a great night and a super fantastic 24th Birthday celebration! Like always, I closed the bar at 3 am and actually SK, the beautiful bar owner, kept Dublins open for myself, Cho, Alex, and the bartenders (DJ, Matt, and Tae) for a private after party with some grub and many bottles of soju. I think I got home around 6 am and in one piece.

When I woke up the next day for work, I moved at a snail's pace to get ready and all with a headache the size of Jeju Island. Now all that's left on the birthday agenda is round 2 which will take place Saturday night in the busy and eclectic area of Hongdae. I'm looking forward to a night of birthday magic and debauchery.

Birthday-less in Korea

If there's something I've learned about having a winter birthday, it's that with the cold, blustery air, flu season comes blowing in. Unfortunately I didn't get to really enjoy my birthday because I woke up with an awful cold. I somehow managed to get to the gym but I only lasted about 5 minutes on the treadmill before I had to call it quits on my cardio session due to not being able to breathe. When I got to work a few hours later, I headed to the Doctor's office for some meds. The Doctor insisted that I get tested for Swine Flu as I had all of the symptoms. But unfortunately I had to decline due to lack of time. I made it through the day of teaching, drinking 2 liters of orange juice in 6 hours. And then I had to cancel my birthday dinner afterwards to go home and rest.

On top of the misery I was feeling, my school forgot it was my birthday and I didn't get the cake I was looking forward to (as this is what our school does for every one's birthday). So yes, I was sick, not blowing out 24 candles, and not celebrating whatsoever that it was my Champagne year. Hopefully I can make up for it over the weekend. Happy fan-freakin' Birthday to me! ;)

I Stayed Alcohol Free Until 11-23

Not that this is something I should totally be proud of. But when you're in a country where everything is based around alcohol, it can be considered a major feat. So for all of you hooligans who said I didn't stand a chance, believe it, because I can say no. And in fact, it's Wednesday, November 25th and I still haven't consumed a drop!

Officially Winter!

After so many years in the sunny desert, I've forgotten what it feels like to experience the first snow of the season! This is surely the first time I can remember enjoying a moment like this as I took it for granted growing up in the very snowy upstate area of New York.

I remember always dreading this time of year because all it meant to me was slippery road conditions, scraping the windshield, and shoveling the driveway. But now that I don't have any of those responsibilities and it doesn't really snow much here, I really embraced every giant, fluffy snowflake that landed on my brow as I walked home from work last Friday night. In fact, I was so excited that I ordered a pizza feast (stuffed crust Hawaiian, garden salad, and oven spaghetti), rented two of the best Christmas movies ever: Home Alone 1 AND 2, and headed over to Jee's house for some quality girl time.

Although the air was chilly, I had my MP3 player and a list of Christmas tunes, an Italian feast, and Jee to keep my spirits warm. Who knew I would come to love the snow! I guess I'll have to just wait until our first "out of the blue" snow storm. Then all of those happy feelings may melt along with the slushy snow!

Why I Love My Family

I recently called home just to check in and see how things have been going. In a short time, I learned that Peter has been grounded from his guitar as he's been slacking on his homework. I learned that football season is over and that Jacob's team was undefeated. I discovered my dad's been super busy at work, often working over the weekends (which is somewhat unusual). I learned that it's now wrestling season (the fun never ends). And I also found out my brothers were making their annual Christmas lists, which was coincidentally one of the reasons I called.

Now you should know that this is the first year ever that all four of us kids won't be together for the Christmas holiday. Although I've lived out west for the past few years, Christmas has always been the one time of year I've traveled to good ol' upstate New York to pay a visit. So with myself being in another country and not able to make it back to North America, and Colt coming at that time for two weeks, my poor mother is devastated. And unknowingly, my two youngest brothers are feeling the same way.

So, when I asked Jacob (the youngest sibling, age 11) what he wanted for Christmas, he said, "Sis, all I want is you."

Well as you could imagine, that gave me the biggest grin from ear to ear and yet broke my heart at the same time. There is no doubt this Christmas will be tough. Being away from family and friends and all that is familiar this time of year is already feeling painful...even a month out. But it's so good to know you're wanted and that you haven't been forgotten.

Thanks Jacob. You mean the world to me!

Mommy, Care Package Juseyo?

In the almost 10 months I've been in Korea, there hasn't been too much that I've missed with the exception of family and friends of course! Over the course of the summer, I would have loved to get my hands on some Boca Vegan-friendly Burgers and couscous. I would have loved to walk into a grocery store and accidentally stumble upon giant Portabello mushroom caps and real cheese under the price of $20.00 per ounce. Even non-perishable things like undergarments larger than an A cup would have made me fall over with joy. But all in all, nothing I couldn't live without.

But now that the weather is changing yet again, I find myself being more nostalgic and craving more of those chilly/cold air items. With Thanksgiving only days away, I find myself racking my brain on how I can get or make my Mommy's sought after Pumpkin Roll or even bake a delicious homemade apple pie with my non-existing oven. Knowing the inevitable, I have tried to change my focus on more realistic items. For instance, how incredible those Christmas wrapped miniature peanut butter cups and Andies Candies that good ol' Mom always has stocked in little candy dishes all over the house this time of year would taste. Although Korea is full of Starbucks Cafes, a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte (that is non-existent in this country) would really hit the spot in so many ways. Creamer for my coffee that I am now used to drinking black and real life ground coffee beans instead of the instant coffee I now consume would be almost magical.

I found myself thinking about all the things I would potentially love to have from back home if I had them at my disposal; the things I've done without for the past 10 months. Then that brought up another question. It seems as each day passes, I am leaning more and more towards staying in Korea for another year. As I am planning to visit home in between contracts, what things will make the cut and what things won't? Before I know it, I'll realistically have to make those decisions and it's not something I'm looking forward to. On the bright side, I know what I can expect when packing a year's worth of belongings into a few small suitcases. But at the same time, that same knowledge could also hurt me. Without a doubt, it's something to at least ponder.

The best made-up holiday

Pepero (빼빼로) Day falls but once every year on November 11th. It's a brilliant advertising campaign created by the makers of the Pepero snack, a delicious chocolate wafer-like stick, that also comes in a few other variations as you can see from the photo above.

According to Wikipedia, Pepero Day is an observance in South Korea similar to Valentine's Day. It is named after the Korean snack Pepero and held on November 11th, since the date "11/11" resembles four sticks of Pepero. The holiday is observed mostly by young people and couples, who exchange Pepero sticks, other candies, and romantic gifts.

I for one have been counting down the days until Pepero Day because they have become one of my favorite Korean snacks. However, when the day actually arrived, I was really wishing it fell on a weekend. My students were completely insane and all hyped up on chocolate and sugar!

I really wish the states would get the ball rolling and incorporate Pepero Day into the calendar. But then again, I wouldn't want to take anything away from our existing Veteran's Day. God Bless!

Alcohol Free until 11-23!

I can honestly say for the last month I've been a waste of life. I've really done nothing with myself but work, eat, barely sleep, and drink booze until all hours of the day and night. Although it was all in good fun, and mostly all for Sarah, I have become quite disgusted with myself. My health and good habits have vanished and my poor liver needs a break! So I decided that after Halloween, on November 1st, I would not drink again until my birthday.

As I made the announcement on Halloween Eve, everyone grunted at me with disbelief and said, "Yeah right Cass. There's no way you're going to make it, especially in this country." Lucky for me, all of that negative feedback has turned to fuel my goal and I've become driven to prove them wrong and stay alcohol free until 11-23. (Why 11-23 you may ask? Because it's my friends g'bye party and technically I turn 24 at midnight ^^.)

I've already turned down four drinking invitations and I managed to stay sober for two open mic nights. Everybody is making bets on when I'll crack, but the truth is, I can say no despite popular belief...and my liver and wallet are thanking me dearly.

Me vs. G-Dragon

One of the lead singers from the popular boy band group called Big Bang has gone solo and produced his own album with a few rather catchy hits. To make himself stand out and be known to the public minus the other band members, G-Dragon has died his jet black Korean hair to platinum blonde. I think it shocked everyone at first, but lately I've noticed bright, blonde Korean heads pop up among the Korean crowds. As mentioned previously, I too have jumped ship and went platinum myself. I have to admit my doing was for my Lady Gaga Halloween costume, but when I got out of the salon, all I could think was, "Holy shit, I look like G-Dragon." You can literally see me coming from a mile away!

So now when my students go, "Teacher! Hair!" I just say I'm G-Dragon. At least we all get a little laugh out of it!

Let's Go to MY HOUSE

Once the bar closes, no one really wants to go home. We all want to hang out and keep having fun!! So lately, instead of spending more money at a noraebong or some place you have to buy food just to buy a beer or a bottle of soju, I've been inviting everyone back to my place to hang-out. Everyone piles into cabs and off we go...to MY HOUSE!

Countless bottles of soju, jugs of beer, Korean friends, and crazy Korean bar snacks (like dried Squid, bowls of Ramen, and Mandu) tend to consume my floor until the early hours of the morning. But it's all good as it's been a LOT of fun. I'm so lucky to be surrounded by such good friends.

I'm already looking forward to the next few house parties (that is as long as the neighbors don't mind). There's a lot more fun to be had and my time here is running out.

A Lady Gaga Halloween

I have always been a huge fan of Halloween. Over the years I've had some pretty awesome costume. Whether I was a bag of jelly beans, Tinker Bell, or the Hamburglar, I've always had a good time. But I've also had some not so great ones in the mix as well (aka the year I dressed like an old man). Well this year, I think I nailed my costume right on the head. You can be the judge.

I've never been one to master a celebrity look-a-like. I've been told that I have similar features to a Madonna with her 80s retro glam or a Scarlett Johanson (which I really don't see). But nevertheless, nothing remotely remarkable. So for the past year, I have been planning on being Lady Gaga, the latest pop/dance sensation to top the charts. The artist known for her extreme, over the top outfits and super catchy dance mixes. Of course I waited until the last minute to pull it all together, but I honestly don't regret any of my decisions. My biggest worry of the night was if people would know who I was. I really didn't want ANYONE second guessing my costume and who I was trying to imitate. Well to my surprise, EVERYONE I came across was like, "HEY! It's Lady Gaga! Sweet Costume! I can't believe how much you look a-like. You look EXACTLY like her!!"

I've honestly never been asked by so many strangers for my picture before or to pose with them in their picture. Crazily enough, I was even asked for my autograph! Everyone was like you really do look like her...it's incredible!

So thanks to my new super-bleached blonde hair (which everyone thought was a wig and still do for that matter as I stroll through the streets) , blunt-cut bangs, my zebra print stilettos, fingerless black lace gloves, awesome shiny pink-metallic hoodie from American Apparel, black sunglasses, and simple black tights, I mastered this Halloween like never before. It's going to be tough to top this next year.

So Tired of Saying Goodbye

Good chingu's Dan and Krista recently said their goodbyes with a huge Galbi feast and soju cocktails. Although this popular couple is coming back to Korea after they tour around the U.S. and Australia, many of us will be gone before their return. I'm really sad things ended as they did, but I wish the best for them and a very safe trip on their travels. Hope to see you again in a few months friends.

My Month Long Binge of Fun

My first and closest friend in Korea leaves at the end of the month and I'm not looking forward to the passing of each day. Unfortunately for my liver, Sarah and I decided to spend every free minute together before she heads to America. Because we both sleep until we work and then we work together, our free time somehow always led us to some bar or another until closing time which then led to noraebong hours later.

As tired as I was this past month and as much money as I spent, we had a crazy good time. Lucky for us, both our families are based in Rochester so we'll be able to run into each other again down the road.

Good luck to you and maybe we'll both be back here teaching again together.

Taking the Dive

All Sarah wanted in her final days in Korea was to go bungee jumping and pay a visit to Jessica's Kitchen, an excellent buffet restaurant. So why not make a going away party of it! We met at Yuldong Park on a Saturday afternoon to take part in the festivities. Of the 10 + people that showed up, only 5 of us were brave enough to take the plunge.

The bungee tower is only 45 feet high and located over a small lake. But I swear, once you reach the top, you feel as if you're in the clouds. I was the last of the 5 to take the jump and boy was it ever scary. I decided to be bold and jazz it up a bit so I stood at the edge of the platform, took one last look down, then backed up and did a running leap towards the horizon. It literally only took seconds and everything seems like a blur. But it was the most exhilarating, heart pumping, adventurous thing I have ever done. We were all scared out of our minds, but once our feet reached the ground, we all said we would totally do it again.

As the sun was setting our tummies were hungry for great cuisine at Jessica's Kitchen. We all jumped on a bus together and headed straight to AK Plaza. Surrounded by plates full of food and cheap beer, we parked for the next 3 hours or so. Beer after beer and plate after plate of amazing food, we were all stuffed to the max and ready for some Dublin-time.

At first, everyone was in a food coma, not talking a ton and quite sleepy. But once everyone got over that, we had a "killin" time. We practically owned the bar...well because we were the only ones there. Mikey and I played every throw back song we could think of and everyone seriously rocked out. DJ even set up a live microphone for all of us to use. After we closed the bar, we all headed to noraebong for some classic fun time. For once I was actually one of the first to leave and at around 7am (due to some bullshit fighting between a co-worker and army boyfriend). I believe everyone else partied well into the early afternoon.

God damn. I'm ganna miss you Sarah. Always a good time. Love you half heart.

And I'll never forget...

...True love waits.

New Bling!

Considering getting a tattoo is never a good idea when you know that you will someday return to the unforgiving corporate America. Plus I don't see myself loving a tattoo forever. It's one of those things I'd love for a few months and then regret in the long run. So in effort to keep my skin ink-free, I ordered custom made jewelry. A "blinging" gold ring band that spells out CASS-AH in Hongul and a shiny gold necklace that spells out "Sarang" which means love in Korea.

I like to think of each piece as my "Carrie" necklace, as something I can always have to remember my time here. Perhaps someday I'll change my mind about a tattoo. But for now, all I need is my bling.

Quote of that Week

Sarah: Mikey! I leave in 3 weeks...can you believe it!??!
Mike: Wow...3 weeks. So Cass, when do you leave cuz that's ganna be a sad day.

To stay or not to stay...that is the big question

I am at the point where I literally change my mind everyday about whether I will stay here another year or go home and try to find a job. I keep thinking why am I living my life by a piece of paper (aka my resume).

I just need to do what's going to make me happy. I just don't quite know what that is yet.

Dr. Fish

There is a little thing here called Dr. Fish. It's considered somewhat of a "spa treatment" as it deals with the cleaning of your feet. Still confused? Don't worry. You're not alone.

Last Friday I went with some girlfriends to pay a visit to Dr. Fish. We arrived at a cafe, ordered some coffee, and ate some complimentary bread. Then we went to a higher level in the cafe to experience what is known as Dr. Fish. See what you do is rinse off your feet and then stick them into these rectangular pools...full of little fish.

The fish swarm to your feet and eat the dead skin. So essentially you relax and they get a full meal. In my head I didn't think it would be that bad but I've never freaked out more in my life. I froze. I simply couldn't do it. After about 10 minutes passed, I finally said to myself you're in Korea, just do it - you'll never do it again.

So I stuck my feet in the pool for the next 15 minutes and as every minute passed, I hated it more and more. My teeth were clenched, my hands were tight, and my legs and feet were like statues in the water. Everyone kept saying it would get easier and you would eventually stop noticing it as much. But I certainly did not. I just made Jee keep talking to me and I stared out of the window onto the busy streets of Gagnam waiting for it to all be over with. I couldn't bear to look down and see all the fish with their mouths opening and closing and nipping at my feet. After the timer went off, I jumped out of the pool and swore I would take everyone there to experience it. I still hated it, but it's just one of those things you have to try.

Those fish might have got the best of me, but I walked out of there with clean feet!

Two songs that sum up my Summer

I don't care by 2NE1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Ski6gelc8E

and Tell me your wish by Girls Generation.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZpHBlmvGGI

There are plenty of others, but I could listen to these songs non-stop. And I pretty much have been for the last few months. ^^

Jane Anne

Sarah: "Everyone was talking about how Jon had a week long going away party. But Jane's good-bye events have been going on for the last three weeks. I think she's winning!"

As true as this may be, we'll miss you Jane. Good luck with the job hunt and see you soon at our "Korea Reunion!"

The Korean I left behind in the USA

Saturday, October 3rd was my good friend Laurie Anne Fitzpatrick's big wedding day. And of all places, I was stuck here unable to attend. These are the things that kill me about being so far away. The holidays, family reunions, big birthdays, and weddings I'm giving up to be here in Korea-Town. Missing big celebrations is unfortunately not something new to me as I've lived away at college and then out of state for the past few years. But for some reason or another, missing Laurie's wedding is really hitting me hard. I know she understands, but I still hate that I missed such a milestone in her life. I'm sure there will be more special occasions I will miss down the road for one reason or another, but I truly hope I can still find a way to be there for those I love.

Congratulations Bill and Laurie. I wish you all the best!

8 months cable free

Since my arrival in Korea, I have not had the Internet in my home or any channels on my T.V. I have however had a DVD player with a select few DVDs that I brought from home - most of the collection being what I like to call "the bible": the complete set of Sex and the City DVDs. The past eight months of Carrie Bradshaw and the gang has been great, but I'm ready for some different background noise. So yes folks, I have buckled down and installed 70 Korean channels in my home. The best part is this cable package is only costing 5,000 won per month. Most of the channels are in Korean, but there are 7 or 8 English-speaking channels that I find very entertaining. Now you may be wondering why I waited so long. To tell you the truth, I decided early on that I didn't move all the way to Korea to stay in my house and watch television. But lately as close friends are starting to leave and my time is running out, I'm kind of looking at it as something to:

A. Keep me busy.
B. Keep me from drinking myself into a drunken stupor at the bars.
and C. As an effort to save some money before I leave.

Plus, now that I've been watching TV the last few days, I feel like I'm experiencing a whole new side of Korean culture. Before you know it, I'm going to know all of the choreography to every popular music video and be able to jump right in with the Koreans when they have their random dance outbreaks. I know you're picturing it now. Me, home alone in my makeshift living room/bedroom, dancing and singing away to my own television set. Well believe it because this is what my life has come down to. And quite frankly, I see nothing wrong with it.

Si turns 25 and Aaron says Goodbye

Si's mom, Simone, was gracious enough to get Si a hotel room for her birthday and so the three of us packed up our overnight bags and headed for the Marriott Courtyard. The hotel was somewhat new and modern and it actually reminded me a lot of the Sheraton Downtown in Phoenix. The room was beautiful and fitted with a great view of the city and more importantly, a full shower. I think each of us took a full 30 minute rotation and then we started drinking and getting ready for the theme of the night: Korean F.O.B. Now I had never heard this term before so for those who are sitting there banging your head against the keyboard, it stands for Fresh Off the Boat. We busted out our best Korean attire to reflect only what we see on a regular basis and the breakdown was as follows:

*Paulina sported a full ivory ballerina skirt, black racer tank top, gold bling, and gladiator sandals. Her finishing touch was a sports cap with black curls cascading down her back.

*Sionna played the cute card with a giant silver sequence bow on her head, a green ruffly top, black shorts, and high black socks. She was a gem.

*I wore a black bedazzled long sleeve shirt (which I like to call my ice skater shirt), a vest, the shortest mini skirt I could find, and black socks that went past my knees. The final detail was the non-matching yellow flower hair band around my wrist.

We hit up the Hongdae scene which was nearby and met up with the Incheon crew as it was also Aaron's going away party. We drank and danced well into the early morning, I "fell" out of a window, bought many sticks of chicken - "Hana not spicy juseyo!", and we said our last goodbyes to Aaron as he heads back to Brooklyn in a few days. I do regret not spending enough time with him, but it was damn fun while it lasted. I'm already looking forward to hitting him up in his hood someday soon! Overall, it was another great night!

Tonight's Ganna be a Good Night

The hit single performed by the Black Eyed Peas has become somewhat of an anthem for the girls and I. It doesn't matter what mood any of us are in. You play that song and we all know we're in for a good time. Since Si's discovery of the catchy pop tune a few months back, we have listened to it before every night out on the town. The catchy lyrics and hip rhythmic beats somehow always manage to lift our spirits and give us a new found energy and great state of mind. It's funny how songs can do that for us. They tend to act as small reminders when we get too caught up in our own lives.

Click on the link and have a listen. I've gatta feelin' you're ganna love it! ^^

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_2rrxONlLo

Christmas in September?

I mean, I've heard of the occasional Christmas in July and of course the national holiday in the month of December. But Christmas in the fall is something new to even me, the avid Christmas lover/fanatic.

While staying at the Marriott for Sionna's birthday in an up and coming neighborhood, we were baffled by the sounds of Christmas music as we walked out of a newly opened shopping district called Times Square. Not only did we hear the brassy sound of trumpets in the distance, but it was also snowing! I know...it all sounds crazy but its true. Although it was fake snow shooting from the rooftop out onto the courtyard, it was indeed snowing.

As we made our way around the corner, the music grew louder and a marching band came into sight. It was a vision. A small band of young, wafer thin Korean girls holding up giant instruments, which weighed more than them, dressed in little "Sexy Santa" numbers playing Christmas tunes. The girls and I just stood there with our jaws to the floor in shock of what we were witnessing. Then it hit us. We're in Korea. Nothing ever makes sense. It's funny how at this point, we have to remind ourselves.

Later we learned it was the mall's grand opening so they were doing all of these promotions to draw attention. Well succeed they did. And I must admit, I couldn't be more excited for Christmas especially this year as I'll be spending it with my brother in Korea. Even more so, I'm excited to begin Christmas shopping! They win again!

The Quest for a Nigerian

The afternoon of Sionna's birthday arrived and with it, the urge for straight hair. So we ventured all the way to Itaewon in search of a "proper" straightening. After wandering around and asking a few African women for their recommendations, we ended up at "Ethiopian Row" (as Sionna calls it) where Si found a nice Nigerian to do the job for a good price. Si felt comfortable at the shop as it was the same shop where Paulina had previously connected with her inner-blackness and bought nice black-spiral weave.

An hour passed by and the Nigerian woman thought she was finished. I wish you could have seen the look of disgust on not only Si's face but on the faces of Paulina and myself as her "do" fell way under par. The woman continued to work on what became known as the "beast" for another hour, continuously burning Si's scalp and adding ghetto grease. As the end of hour two drew near, I'm afraid the Nigerian was unsuccessful at taming the "beast". On the bright side, the three of us made friends with a nice girl named Juliet from Uganda who was getting her hair re-braided!

We left the shop and Si felt disappointed with the final look. Paulie and I insisted we could fix it but Si wasn't having it. Later on that evening, or should I say the next morning, I recall Si talking with her mother on the phone from the taxi saying, "All I had today was a schwarma and a hack job from a Nigerian."

Who would have thought a black woman couldn't do a fellow black girl's hair? Things aren't always what they seem...

Out with the old and in with the under age

Is it bad that I want to just kick back and hang out with my new students? Over the past month, I was given a class of spectacular kids who are not only cool but brilliant. Almost all of them have lived abroad to study English and each one of them have great personalities, especially my new student Brian. Brian is one of those 15 year old kids who has everything going for him. He's very outgoing and quite popular among the students. I hate to admit it again, but if Brian were about 15 years older, I would marry him in a heart beat. [And I'm pretty certain he has a crush on me too ;) ] So yes, he has taken over Denny's spot as my new crush. Sorry buddy!

...This is exactly why I could never be a teacher in real life.

The Hills are Alive...

In Seoraksan that is. I don't recall ever seeing such beautiful mountains in my life. The many boulders and rock formations were mixed among lush green trees in the Seoraksan National Park. The hundreds of winding hiking trails led us to many various sites such as a Buddha temple, a giant Buddha statue, caves with monks inside, a rolling river bed, and of course different peaks and valleys where you could also get a glimpse of the ocean in the distance.

Our journey started on a Saturday morning where Andrew decided to oversleep and hold up the bus we rented just for our crew. Around 10am, 14 close friends set off to Seoraksan, which is located on the east coast for Jane's goodbye weekend celebration. We arrived four hours later to the National Park, a couple of soju bottles deep, paid our entrance fee, and headed straight for the cable cars heading up the mountain. We cheated our way up to the top, snapped what seemed like a million pictures of the breathtaking view, and took a two hour nature hike along the river bed. Some of us were a little disappointed the leaves had not transformed into their fall splendor, but we did manage to see a tree here and there with sprigs of red and orange beaming through the green.

As dusk grew near, we headed back to the park entrance to grab some dinner. We originally intended on cooking our own feast, but by the late hour, everyone was ready to be served. We set forth to the coast in search of a fresh raw fish restaurant. We found a little place right on the beach that served us their catch of the day. We had fresh, uncooked squid, octopus, and steamed prawns for the first course, two kinds of raw fish for the second course, and a spicy seafood soup with all of the leftover parts of the fish (like the head, tail, and fins) for the final course. It was all incredibly delicious and accompanied by many shots of soju and Cass beer.

After dinner, we stopped at a market next door and bought more beer and soju, as well as sparklers and fireworks, where we then headed to the ocean just a few feet away. After we had our fun, we called our driver to pick us up and we drove off to the pension we booked. The pension was beautiful and we had more than enough space. Everyone picked their room and the drinking and gaming began. We played jenga, dominoes, cards, kings, asshole (thanks to Jon for leaving them behind) and I introduced the infamous soju kettles to everyone. For some reason I thought it would be a good idea to drink four bottles of soju, which is never smart, and I passed out early. Which apparently was the same time all the girls decided to go to bed as well. I heard the guys had a "bro-deo" until about 4am where Dan ended up puking and breaking bottles somewhere in the distance. So typical.

Most everyone woke up pretty hungover, some more than others (aka me winning the most hungover award) and we laid out by the pool with the mountains as our backdrop. Around 2pm, the bus arrived and took us to get lunch. Unfortunately for everyone else, I threw up on the bus almost as soon as it started moving.

After lunch, we went to the beach and relaxed all dressed in swim suits and hoodies. Some played chess, some played soccer and frisbee, and some even slept. No one went in the water and no one got a tan because it was far to cold and cloudy. However, some of the girls went on a quick speed boat ride through the waves. After a few hours, we hopped back on the bus and headed back to Bundang. It was so good to be home, but I'm going to miss that place!

You could say the hills were alive that weekend. Alive with drunken shouts from the Bundang crew. As for the sound of music, I imagine the locals were happy to see us go.

1984 Ghetto Prom Birthday Bash

Yes folks, we had another theme night. However while recently browsing over past blog titles, I realized I never posted Paulina's 25th Birthday Celebration from back in July. I figure at this point, pictures will do this blog more justice. Now let me introduce you to the Prom King Aaron and the Prom Queen herself: Paulisha!

Hooray!

It's official! A plane ticket has been booked with Colt's name on it for Christmas. He will arrive in Korea on December 23rd and depart on January 5th; two solid weeks of pure holiday family fun. I have no idea what we're going to do with ourselves but I couldn't be more ecstatic to have my brother around during that time of year. 13 weeks and counting!

30 is the new 20?

It's safe to say times are really changing and people are doing things much later in life than in years past. When thinking about my generation, most of our mothers and their mothers and their mothers, were married and having children in their early 20s. You were almost out casted or "looked down" upon if you were over the age of 25 and without one of the two. Certainly by the peak age of 30, you were doomed for a life of social annexation, spending most of your time alone at your favorite coffee shop.

But today things are much different. Although there are still those girls that dream of nothing more than getting married and starting a family, there are also plenty of women who are now career driven and filing thoughts of "happily ever after" in the over-stuffed cabinets stored in the back of their minds. Women today no longer feel threatened. We have become strong and independent...no longer in need of a man to fulfill every need. Instead, society as a whole has drifted into this power struggle of constant change and new trends that have given people either the strength to accept it all and keep climbing the ladder or spiral downwards, drowning in a pool of their own insecurities.

Life is all about having choices and making decisions. But what if the decisions you make are the wrongs ones? Now I'm a firm believer in existentialism - that there is no fate or destiny for each individual. I do believe the experiences you have determine the events that will take place in your life. So combining this frightening concept with the idea that people are doing things much later in life, I often find myself wondering... is there more than one "mid life" crisis in one's lifetime? Think about it. If people aren't really starting their lives until their mid 30s, do we now have more time to "freak out" as we wander aimlessly through our 20s?

Now I wouldn't exactly say I'm having a mid life crisis, especially at the ripe age of 23. But I can honestly say I've had many frantic outbreaks of "WHAT AM I DOING WITH MY LIFE?" Most recently, I found myself saying those exact words here in Korea. It was a like a light switch went off. I went to sleep and woke up a different person. I like to think I'm doing okay but I have so many interests and desires and unfortunately society doesn't easily allow you to go in all directions (unless you are fortunate enough to have a rather large disposable income).

For instance, I'd love to start a trendy coffee/wine bar. Open a hip bed and breakfast. Be a food stylist. Study art and work at the MoMA. Travel the world and broadcast my adventures. I'd love to write a book. Design a shoe line. Perform on Broadway. Be a talent manager. Sing on American Idol. Work events on the cat walk. Be a personal stylist. Make clothing. Be a personal chef. The list is endless. I feel that as eclectic as I am with my own personal style, I am also eclectic with my dreams and aspirations. As I have all of these interests, and all in so many directions, I sometimes find myself in a constant hazy spin.

What I am describing is also what I consider to be one of those "crises". Is it possible to be 23 and having a "quarter-life crisis"? The answer is yes, because I can tell you my mind is always on a perpetual over drive. And I'm fairly certain I'm not alone in the matter. But I wonder, who made the rules? Why does it seem impossible to follow all of my dreams? It's moments like these where I have to step outside of my body and remind myself to breathe.

But am I really just avoiding the inevitable?

RENT

If there is anything you know about me, it's that I love the musical production of RENT. So when I heard a semi-original cast was coming to perform in Seoul, I was uber excited to say the least. Then when I found out it was their last world tour, I became saddened and I knew immediately this was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. I mean who wouldn't want to watch a musical where all of the characters are gay with AIDS in an extremely homophobic country?

Well despite that very true statement, I bought tickets to the first Saturday night showing. It was so surreal to me to be watching my favorite songs come to life before my eyes on stage! Hearing the voices of Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp in person was nothing like I've ever experienced. Their voices are so distinct and they've been playing these characters for so many years that it seemed as though they had truly become them.

The success and popularity of RENT has changed the thoughts and feelings of so many closed minded people around the world and to such sensitive issues. I really stand behind its' message and I hope to see the production again one day. Or better yet, star as Mimi Marquez, my dream Broadway role.

525,600 minutes how do you measure
measure a year...

Once a planner always a planner

One of my good friends Jon has recently decided to move back to the "real world" in the good ol' USA. His contract is about to expire and with the many options he has come to face of whether to stay an additional year or get another degree or go back to work, he has chosen to leave the country and head back to the states. Now you should know that although I've only known the man a few months, he has somehow become my "confidant" and a real true friendship has blossomed. I am admittedly sad for his upcoming departure but in the end, I only want what's best for him.

So there I was, planning my first "goodbye" party and the reality of it all was really sinking in. He is the first of the many friends that will be leaving over the next few months until my departure in early February. So all I could think of doing is what I know best...attempt to throw a smashing party and get the group together to say their goodbyes.

Amongst the many ideas, a simple afternoon picnic in the park and a night out in Seoul was in order. Jon's only request was that he would love to order custom T-shirts. Being the planner that I am, I put a smile on my face and attempted to make it all happen in spectacular fashion. Hopefully it'll turn out to be the exit he had in mind and that I'll be able to keep it together.

Saying Goodbye

It has finally hit me that I may never see the wonderful people I have met in my year long stay in Korea. The people I have seen on a regular basis, day after day, will no longer be a part of my life in the same way. Of course there has been discussion of "Korea Reunions" and there's always email and the good ol' telephone. But if there's anything I've learned about moving, it's that people change and people drift apart. The friendships I have tried to maintain since high school have mostly turned dull for the mere fact we all live our own separate lives now and don't really have all that much in common anymore.

Now I'd like to be the optimist and hope for the best, but deep down in the pit of my stomach, I know that is not realistic. I guess all I can do is hope for the best and hang on to the memories. Eventually you'll have people in your life where you can just pick up like no time was ever lost.

Someone once told me that in your lifetime, if you can count the number of true friends on your hand, you are a lucky person. I like to think that someday I'll be able to use my toes too. There's too many people I love out there and those I have yet to meet.

I just consider myself the lucky one to have them in my life.

A Sudden Change of Heart

For as long as I can remember (which actually isn't that long at all) I have had my mind set on staying a second year in Korea. I love this city and the adventures are endless. But I am finding myself asking if that is all truly worth it.

Before coming to Korea, I thought I had it all figured out. I was career driven and on a good track. But putting the life I was living on hold for a year has really opened my eyes to a lot of things. Was I really that happy? Was having no life of my own but that of my job really all that gratifying? For the first time in years, I am able to have a social life and a private life where my work stays at work and I don't have a cell phone glued to my hip, ringing at all hours of the night and day. Where I'm not driving a car with my knees, two cell phones in each ear, and my file in my lap. I am able to make plans for the weekend or go on vacation at a almost a moments notice. All of the luxuries a less demanding job allows.

So for months I've been set on not returning to the states. But now, I fear I may be making career suicide. A one year break in my career is easy to explain, but I would imagine a two year break makes me seem less marketable to a potential employer per say. So the circles I've found myself talking in, since my surgery has left me unable to move around quite as much, have led me to the decision of leaving the country. Now the question is will I leave right when my contract ends or will I stay and extend 3-4 months in preparation of coming home? There is a lot of money to be saved and a lot of things I want to try and fit in before my time is up. And now that there is an expiration date on my life as a Korean citizen, I'm feeling a bit stressed and overwhelmed.

So many choices and decisions to be made. Where should I go next? What job should I try and get into? With an unstable economy and a shocking unemployment rate, I'm not exactly looking forward to what lies ahead. All I know for sure is that wherever I go and whatever I do, I am starting completely over... and I kind of like that idea! Here's to turning a new leaf and hopefully finding happiness!

The best Christmas gift a brother could give...

Considering I wasn't able to do much day after day in the hospital, I found myself making MANY international phone calls back home. One of which was to my brother Colt who I've mentioned in previous blogs that he has recently moved to South Carolina. We chatted about the usual stuff: work, school, location, girls...and about when he would come visit me here in Korea. It turns out he wants to come for Christmas!!! Talk about making a sick girl happy!

So it was settled. He would start putting spending money aside and I would begin talking with travel agents for price options. It looks as though this may be a better Christmas than I could have ever imagined. And I was all worried I'd be all alone for the holidays in a far eastern land..

I guess I'll have to start making a paper chain to count down the days Is it Christmas yet!?!? ;)

Saint Soh

Thank the lord for great friends like Soh. She came to my rescue and stood by my side the entire day translating this and that to me. She must have been more exhausted than I, but she did it all with a smile on her face. After the 2 hour surgery was over, I was greeted by more good friends as they got out of work. I was really lucky and boy was I glad to see all of them throughout my five day stay at the hospital in Seohyeon. Between not being able to eat or drink for days, the cranky, chair-stealing adjumas, the constant injections, the tubes coming out of everywhere, blood koolaid drainage, and then later the terrible Korean hospital food...I just may have gone crazy without them.

I love you guys!

Trauma in Korea

Imagine what it would feel like if someone stabbed you in the stomach with a knife and then proceeded to keep turning it while it was still inside you. Well that is how I would describe the excruciating pain I endured for 9 hours before I managed to get myself to a doctor's office.

I went to bed one night only to find myself in a lot of pain and not actually sleeping a wink. It was during intensives and I was actually beginning to grow stressed because I knew without any sleep, the following 12 hour work day of screaming Korean children would be absolutely miserable. Well, little did I know at that point that was the least of my worries.

Hours had passed until finally it was morning and my unbearable pains had grown worse. Then on top of the pain, at around 8am I began throwing up every 20 minutes. Growing weaker and very light headed, I tried to contact my work to let them know I couldn't teach and that I was heading to the hospital. But unfortunately, I couldn't reach anyone. As my alarm clock started going off, I managed to hop in the shower, hoping it would help, which it didn't, and then I finally got through to my co-teacher Sarah and explained the situation. Luckily I was able to catch my first cab while it was raining out (an almost impossible task) and check into the doctor's office at about 10 am.

I explained my symptoms to the doctor as he plugged away at his computer (thank god he spoke English) and he said two things:

1. I was possibly having a reaction to the medicine I was taking a week prior (due to a cold) or...

2. I had appendicitis.

He said if number 2 was the case, then I would need to have emergency surgery right away. But first they would obviously have to run some tests. Before the series of tests began, I called my mom for the second time that morning to share the most recent news. .

Dan actually picked up the phone first and said, "You're not pregnant are you? Your mother's too afraid to ask."

After laughing that off, all I have to say is THANK GOD my mom is a nurse and that she didn't freak out because I was already in rough shape! She explained to me the best way she could about the procedure and what they'll do and what questions to ask. All I can really remember is that she kept saying that it wasn't a big deal and to relax as I continuously sobbed like a baby.

When I finally calmed down, I called my good friend Jon just to let someone know where I was as he didn't have to go into work for a few more hours. In between throwing up about every 15 minutes, I paced the floor in the doctor's office awaiting what was to be my fate. I had to take an x-ray, a blood test, and have a sonogram. While I was waiting for the test results, my knight in shining armor walked in - Jon. I don't think I've ever been happier to see anybody. He told me he could only stay until 12pm but that he contacted the crew and that Krista, Jee, and Soh would all be taking shifts to stand by me through all this.

Finally, the results came in and the verdict was appendicitis. I felt like I was on a roller coaster of emotions as I had never got more than stitches in the 23 years of my existence. SURGERY! Are you sure?!? I must be dreaming....someone pinch me please!

So there I was, thankfully surrounded by close friends and about to go under the knife in KOREA.

School's Out for the Summer!!

I think Alice Cooper said it best when he belted this summer anthem! School was finally out and we were able to get a few days off to enjoy the summer sun. Most teacher's traveled to another Asian country, but again like the last vacation, I stayed in Korea. I had good intentions of going to Vietnam with about 20 of my closest friends, but my vacation days didn't quite match up. Boo!

Anyways, I traveled by bus for about four hours to the second largest city in South Korea after Seoul - BUSAN!! The great city of Busan is located on the eastern coast and it is a big travel destination for many families in the summer mainly because of its' not one, but two easily accessible, beautiful beaches.

I went to Busan with my Korean girlfriend Soh who actually grew up there. It was really fun to have her show me around her old stomping grounds! We stayed at her parents apartment and I became instant best friends with her mother, who knew maybe 3 English words. I quickly learned she is a classically trained pianist and we ended up spending the better part of an afternoon singing every English song she had in the house from Moon River to Fly Me to the Moon. We really bonded when she found an entire song book of Mariah Carey's best hits. Soh's mother also prepared lunch for us each day which was some of the most delicious food I've had here (Mom food is always the best)!!

We were originally supposed to stay only 2 days but we were having so much fun that we ended up staying 5 days. It was a blast and I got to meet a lot of Soh's old high school friends. Soh was the only one who really knew any English so I got really good at reading body language. Somehow I managed to keep up with a lot of the conversation even though I could only pick out a few of the words they were saying. Needless to say, I was commended for my efforts!!

You could say Soh and I spent most of our time hanging out on the beach and partying until sunrise but I promise you, it was time well spent! My most ludacrous thought about Busan was to see skyscrapers right on top of the beach. But I must admit it was very beautiful at every angle and time of day.

Mosquito Bites?

So earlier I mentioned I had crazy bumps all over my legs and I didn't know where they were coming from. Well I finally made it to the dermatologist and it turns out that they aren't mosquito bites. In fact my bumps weren't insect related at all! Apparently I had Inflammation Dermatitis (aka inflammation of the skin) aka = a nasty rash. I learned this is a common rash that Korean women develop during the summer time. It's caused by a combination of washing too much, shaving, and the summer heat. Unfortunately for me, the Doctor's remedy is to not use hot water or soap on my legs and no shaving for a week. I also have to take 2 pills a day to stop the itchy sensation and apply a special lotion twice a day. Ugh - so miserable!

Bupyeong Mud Festival

I recently went to a Mud Festival located a few hours outside of Seoul. Bupyeong is famous for its mud as it is really good for your skin. But that's not exactly what brought us to this festival. See, to foreigners, MudFest is like spring break. There's a beach , a bunch of mud, and a lot of booze. We went through an outdoor company that puts package tours together called Adventure Korea. So all we had to do was pay and show up. They handled the transportation, hotel, and activities. I don't think we were expecting to have as much fun as we did. Lucky for us, Si has an incredible camera so we were able to get a lot of great, muddy candids! We ran into a lot of friends over the course of the weekend, got insanely muddy, super toasty (or "full hot" as the Bermudians say), and made some great memories. And to think, I was hesitant about going! The only casualty of the trip was my poor cell phone. Yes folks, I had to purchase cell phone number 3 in the less than six months I've been in Korea. It's a good thing they're so cheap! Well, here's to looking forward to next year!

Nothing but Rain

Well, like I've mentioned before, the rainy monsoon season is officially here and man have I never seen rain like this before. It literally pours, seriously heavy rain 24 hours a day. It wouldn't be so bad if:

A) I could find rain boots
B) I could find a rain coat
and C) I didn't have to walk 2o minutes to work in a torrential down pour.

I literally get to work and I'm completely drenched from head to toe. An umbrella doesn't exactly work either when it's raining sideways, front ways, and all-over-ways! I think I'm going to begin bringing a set of clothes to change into because teaching for the next 8 hours is not so pleasant when you can wring the water out of your clothes! To put it into perspective, in a matter of one day - even a couple of hours, the river floods so much that the water level hits just under the netting of the basketball hoops. The water is usually so shallow you can see the bottom where it generally reaches ankle deep! Yikes-AH!

Too bad it's not raining men. I might be in better shape!

The land of plenty...

Mosquitoes that is. I have been in contact with these nasty, blood sucking insects for my whole life. So an itchy bite here and there is really not an issue. But apparently in Korea, I have the best tasting blood around. I woke up one morning to find my legs covered with quite a few small red bumps on only my legs. They were scratchy so I just figured a mosquito got the best of me in my sleep. The next day, I woke up with even more bumps so I started compiling the possibilities. They aren't spider bites and they're not big welts from the mosquito bites I'm accustomed to. So the co-workers and I decided to self diagnose and we decided it could be fleas or a case of some serious bed bugs. The next day, I tried sleeping on the floor and I couldn't tell much of a difference. I then proceeded to spend the next three nights at other peoples' places only to find I was still getting more bites. The strange thing is that these bites are only located on my legs and ankles and no where else. And let me tell you my legs look absolutely atrocious! I've shown a few people and everyone has the same reaction - they step back, put their hands to their mouths, and gasp out loud. I've spoken with my boss and some other natives and I have since closed all of my windows (although I have screens). I'm also only using artificial air. I'm making a trip to the Doctor's to see if there is anything they can tell me. I'll keep you posted on my strange bites and hopefully not illness!

Yeah...you could call me a road warrior

So I may or may not have just purchased a bicycle. Mind you this isn't just any bicycle - it's a K-STYLE bike. Neon pink with one normal sized tire in front and a small wheel in the back. It is also equipped with a white basket and matching bell. I don't know why I waited so long to buy one. I've only been wanting one for months.

Good thing I'm staying another year...going to get my moneys worth!!!

Seven Weeks

It has been a disturbing 7 weeks since I last saw Sionna and Paulina. We went from sharing every free second together to having no face to face contact for almost two months. I've been pretty bothered by it actually considering I've made countless phone calls throughout the many weeks in an attempt to stay in touch and make plans for the weekend. But it seems every weekly invitation I sent out was rejected for one reason or another. Not to mention I didn't receive a single phone call in that entire duration from either one of them unless it was to return one of my phone calls. As down about it as I've become, I have finally come to the realization that they'll really make the effort when they want to see me. What I still can't comprehend was why it took 7 weeks for that theory to become a reality. Despite my efforts, I should have tried more. I guess I really don't fit into the "sisterhood" when I'm in the next city over, not able to share every meal or grocery shopping trip. It has become more clear to me that I was always the third-wheel. When we were together. But at least they have each other...right?

The one that means the most is the first to leave

Who knew I'd come all the way to Korea and fall in love...

Man do I love freedom...

A great holiday snuck up on all of us foreigners by surprise. And within a few days, we managed to pull together a very festive Independence Day. A roof top BBQ was in order and to give our holiday a spin, we declared it a white trash 4th of July. Everyone showed up in their best gear (corn rows, white beaters, handlebar moustaches, flannel, and bandannas) and with any American produced foods they could muster up (Lays Potato Chips, Miller Light, Pringles, and Budweiser). Yes...we weren't messing around this holiday. We purchased grills and coolers and loaded up on hot dogs and burgers, salt potatoes, and pasta salad. The buffet line was an American dream but the games were even more of a spectacle. We made frequent toasts to Democracy and freedom among many other things. We shot-gunned beers (a first for me believe it or not) to all 50 states and we even managed to set up a little flip cup action. Everyone was feeling pretty toasty and it wasn't long before we headed to Dublins for a little more fun. The problem with this was that after our day of drinking, everyone was well...drunk and mind you it was only 11pm. We may have been rowdy. I may have forgot to pay my tab at Dublins (oops). But that's what we were all about this past fourth of July - good American fun!

We later ended up in L.A. for a few hours of crazy, sweaty dancing and people began to stumble home from there. I would say this was an Independence Day for the books.

I'm pretty sure I will never forget 7.4.09, the day America rocked in Korea.

A Change of Address

I am proud to say that my brother has graduated from a two year community college with an associates degree in travel and tourism. And most recently, he has been accepted to attend Coastal Carolina University in South Carolina this coming fall. There, he will study resort and tourism management for the next two years. I couldn't be happier or more excited for him and his new endeavor. He is planning to get an apartment with a few of his other friends that were also accepted and live it up in the sunny south. Located only 4 miles from Myrtle Beach, I'm sure my brother will get along just fine. But let's just hope he makes it to class on a regular basis. I think my parents are excited to have more of an excuse to visit the Carolina's as it's one of their favorite destinations. I'm actually thrilled about him being there too. Maybe I'll have to put off Manhattan for another few years and hit up SC for a bit.

Really, I just miss my brother. :)
Congrats Colt! Love you!

Good Blogger Gone Bad

As much as I love blogging, I have been absolutely terrible at keeping up with it lately. Ever since the summer came and brought the sunshine with it, I find myself outdoors far too much to be sitting inside typing away on a computer - and gladly so. But don't you fret as I never stopped writing. I will admit I haven't written as much as I'd like, but I have a whole notebook of blogs to post. Now it's just a matter of finding time to post them all!

So in the meantime, hold tight as I have plenty of memories and stories to share!

But please excuse the timing on a lot of them as many of the events I speak of have already passed and may seem a little outdated.

Happy reading!