Ijungono Malhagi Dewe (Bilingual Speech Contest)

 We are now sitting in a small auditorium waiting for Pilip’s turn in this speech contest. The airconditioned auditorium seats roughly about 140 people, with plushed seats that has removable armchairs. It is also equipped with projector and screen coming out from the ceiling. It has two lecterns, one for the emcee and another for the speaker.

With the 29 contestants from the province in this competition, I wonder how this will go and have them complete the 6-minute time allotment for each contestant. Each contestant will do the Korean version, then the foreign one right after. The schedule is set from 1 to 6 in the afternoon. I think they started at one (we got in about 15 or 20 past one).

There are a lot of kid from first to sixth grade competing. Most of them came in their respective country’s national costume with fancy headdress, caps, and hair ties to boot. It was an interesting sight to see their outfits from countries like Cambodia, China, Japan and Philippines. There were a couple of Russians but I don’t think they wear wearing Russian traditional clothes. However, there are also some who came in like it is just a regular day at school with only shorts and T-shirts.

The speech contest turned out to be streamlined. It flowed quite smoothly since they have two lecterns and the contestants were seated near one of those. Every ten or so kids were moved to seat near the stage and they go back to their originally seats after their turn. The mic was seldom has to be adjusted for height since there were two removable blocks that were provided just behind the lectern if the speaker needs it.

The topics were about living here having a foreign parent, their job ambitions (like translator, news anchors, etc.), the kids’ interest like singing and taekwondo. The taekwondo kid also showed up wearing his medals to boot. Another one played horn, and someone even did cartwheels. Just to note, the ones who played the horn and did the cartwheels were from my home country. I just find it funny.

Good thing is that the winner, who was also from my home country, didn’t do any of those and just a very simple content of his own family life. It was honestly simple and short but he delivered it well, meaning he memorized it and told it in an almost natural way. 

As for my son’s piece, he got the most laughs I’d say. Not only because he fumbled a bit, but mostly what he was actually saying. I was quite surprised that the audience were still awake and listening after all those hours. Nonetheless, I was just relieved that it was all over and done with. Even though he didn’t memorized well, he did get the audience attention on a good note.

Almost two long hours of sitting and listening would definitely tire anybody, specially the judges, so there was a ten-minute break sometime around three o’clock. There were hot teas, juice, biscuits and candies prepared for everyone outside. I, on the other hand, headed out in the sun to soak up the warmth since I am already feeling the airconditioned-room effect on my system. I should have borrowed one of the kids’ headwear or brought one of my own.

We were called in for the remaining set and sat for another hour, I think. My kid’s turn was at the last part so I really have to endure the remaining hour. I rushed out after all the contestants had finished their turn. I know that they would have to tally the judges’ scores for each contestant.

While we were waiting for the  the tabulation to finish, there was an ocarina group who played three songs: a Korean traditional song, an English folk song, and Chopsticks. They also showed some gag show on the projector screen. The show was simply played from a video site online. Even my husband was surprised when he saw them clicking through naver site while loooking for the video.

Everybody started streaming out of the hall before five o’clock. It took about 30 minutes and the results were out. I missed the final awarding because I was really nursing a very bad headache at that time and cannot afford to stay inside anymore.

As it turned out, my son didn’t come home empty-handed even though he faltered a few times. I wasn’t exactly expecting much knowing that he barely memorized his piece. He managed to get a bronze award (this is all paper, though). The coach and his Dad were a bit disappointed but I am just glad it’s over and we don’t have to prepare for another one for a while. :D

Although, as for my husband, he said we might have to start thinking up for the next topic of his speech for next year. hahaha..And here it is right off from the top of my head..

* his first contest experience (comparing with the Philippine ones..)

something along the lines of having to wait, grab candies, etc.

* part 2 of his snowman experience in Korea, finally (with pictures to boot)

*

P's Bank Account

I had finally opened my son’s bank account today! I had been trying to do this task for months now since his small coin bank has been full. We tried it twice at Shinhan but until last week, we barely made it to filling up the application form.

At first, after checking the document that I had prepared (Kajok Kwange), they said that the boy need his “dojang” aside from that. So I had to reschedule that one again and just had his “dojang” made by myself without him seeing how is it done.

We came back to the bank a few weeks later with the previous document and the dojang this time. When we got to the teller, she again refused us and told us that there’s something wrong with the document. The National ID number should be shown and should not be in asterisk. I was already getting pissed off by this time and asking why they didn’t check that one in the first place the first time we were there. Lousy business.

I dragged my son to Woori Bank with barely a few minutes to spare before the banks closes. We managed to get in and get to fill up the form. The thing is the same asterisk thing came up when we submitted it to the teller. This time, however, the pretty teller wrote down the list of documents we need in a cute note pad. Not only we need a Kajok Gwange but also a Dong Min Junrok.

Even though she didn’t mention, my husband reminded me to prepare the one with my name on it. Base from our previous experience, the Dong Min Junrok (Family Register) doesn’t usually include the foreign wife unless specifically requested at the Dong/Office. One would hardly notice my foreigner’s name at the bottom of the document as if it was added as an after-thought.  It bothers me to see that there’s plenty of space between my husband and son’s name and mine. Oh, well. Somebody ought to explain how that form works. :D

Nonetheless, the teller was pleasant enough to deal with even though I know that it was a trifle hard for both of us. She still had me fill up another form even though my son had already filled up the application and a privacy disclosure of sorts. Stupid me just filled up and signed another document which I think is something like a “parental document.” I do hope that will not get me in trouble later on. :D

I gave her my son’s paper bills and coins after I thought that she is already finalizing the papers. She also asked if it will be a passbook or card account. (All of these was in Korean of course.) I only tried to guess what she really meant, along with the gestures and all. Since it will basically be a deposit account, I opted for the regular bankbook account. I have to really study a bit more about banking terms, as well as filling up a form. (Tong Jang is bank book, Ibkum is deposit, Jeokum is savings.) There’s more to learn though and it is imperative that I should be familiar with these since it is a very vital part of anyone’s existence here.

I breathed a sigh of relief when the transaction of opening my son’s account was done. Good thing that the teller was pleasant and patient. I was delighted when she gave me the bank book with the Thomas Train cover on it. My son will surely be delighted as well. :D

___ --- ---

Noted Stuff

It is getting hot in the peninsula and I cannot help but notice things around me like plants that are almost as happy as I am with the sun shining hot above. One thing that I’ve noticed is that the leaves of most plants here are usually small compared to the ones back home. Indeed, tropical plants tend to have bigger leaves than the ones here. It just shows how nature adapts to the availability of sun at this part of the world. We get more sun in the tropics so the leaves are usually bigger to catch more sun. Isn’t it a funny observation? On the other hand, fruits like strawberry that are grown in a limited part of the Philippines are smaller than the ones around here.

Oh by the way, I have a seen beet for the first time at the open market under the subway track today. There was also an interesting plant called “birum” which I might try to make into  namol one day. I asked the old lady selling it and she answered me with a lot of other information but of course it was all in Korean. I only understood about less than 20% of it. As long as I got the name and the idea that it can be made as namol, it was good enough for me. I didn’t buy though. I was not brave enough to try to make it yet.

I also got to taste a cherry on my way to the Jumin Center when I happen to pass by a truck that sells them at 7000  W.

Me: Can I taste?

Cherry Ajussi: Only one.

Me: Of course.

Cherry Ajussi: Are you from the Philippines? How old? (He asks while he was choosing the cherry for me.)

Me: Yes. Seorun dol. Thank you. (And off I go as I bite into the unwashed cherry. It isn’t that sweet for my taste.)

I am so used to being asked my age here in Korea at this point but still it sounded strange to me. I only wanted to taste some cherries and I get ask how old am I? Oh, well. This is Korea.

So what else have I came across today? Ah! I tasted and finished a bibimbap serving at the Gimbap Nara today. I even managed to ask the ajumma to make sure that the gochujang is on a separate plate. Next time, I’ll ask her not to give me any kimchi and only one banchan (side dish) for me. It’s such a waste coz I hardly touch the other banchans.

Bits of Culture Differences

I've met a few more Pinays married to Koreans these past few days and of course, culture comparisons between our home country and Korea won't be unheard of. We generally know a lot of big difference but little things do come up every now and then. So here is some list about social interactions that I have come across lately:

* bringing along someone else after being invited only in the first place
* bringing a gift for an occasion is not  really required
* bringing a gift is almost required
* listing up the amount of cash gift and returning that on the next occasion for the giver
* a stranger calling you with your kids name instead of some general term for a stranger

Make a guess which are Filipino and Korean ones?

The first two are very Filipino. Prior to meeting my husband, I had no idea that the first one is actually a little common culture for Filipinos. I was made aware of this ever since my Korean husband has brought this up early on of our relationship when comparing cultures. When you invite a Filipino for a meet up or a party, do not be surprised if he shows up with someone. We are not talking about a damsel with chaperone here. Although most often, it is a lady that shows up with another friend in tow. And they don't see anything wrong with it. I have never noticed this one before but ever since my husband pointed this out, it made me more aware of this possibly happening every now and then. Although, I am more aware that I do not do the same thing coz I really do think it is a bit strange even though I lived most of my life in the Philippines.

I may understand that single ladies would opt to go with a friend when meeting some guy for a date for the first time or something like that. But other than that, I do really think that it is not cool to bring along someone when one is invited without asking if it's okay. But in the Philippines, it seems to be just okay. Some do ask, while some just show up with someone in tow.

The next one is bringing a gift for the occasion. Bringing a gift is not that common specially for friends and relatives birthdays. One can always get away without the gift although bringing one will always be welcome. (Who doesn't like gifts after all?) Nowadays, it is almost changing specially in the urban setting.

The remaining three are Korean ones.

Gifts are almost always a requirement. Cash and goods alike. The amount of cash is listed in a guest's gift  list specially in formal occasions. This is used as a guide when you get invited and have to bring a cash gift later. Common gifts would be socks, t-shirts, food packs (Spam etc., fruits), drinks (alcohols, medicinal drinks, etc.) beauty packs (facial mask, etc.),  bath toiletries pack (shampoos, soap, lotions, etc.) and cleaning agents (bathroom tissue and laundry powder for people who have just moved in.)

I think gift-giving is almost as an affair of its own like it is Japan. (Talking about origami art of gift wrapping here.)

The last one is about calling strangers with their kids name. There is an old man who lives on the first floor who does that to say hello to me and my husband. He would call out my kid's name as a greeting or to get our attention or something like that. It's just seem strange for me coz we usually just address a stranger with a general Manong, Manang, Ate, Kuya or something like that. But since the old man is way older than us, it would be Hija or Hijo, Ineng, or something like that. Hearing the old man call out our kid's name even if the kid is not around is just strange for me but seems to be the way for Koreans.

That is about it for now. I'm sure there will be more later on. :D

Multicultural Korea

The word multicultural is defined in the Longman Dictionary as involving or including people or ideas from several different countries, races, or religions. It has become familiar word in the Korean society as the rate of international marriages increase in the past decade.

The word itself can be technically correct in my own humble opinion. But my husband doesn't like it at all. He says that it is almost as bad as a label for someone of mixed decent. I argue that it is technically appropriate word. He counters if is there such a word or an agency for such in my home country or (any other country) where kids of different parents' nationalities are more common. I can only answer "none" for my home country. He has made his point. Yet, I still feel that maybe, the long-time-homogenous Korea would really need such word more than Philippines. I am a still bit ambivalent to the term. 

In spite of that, I appreciate the programs in schools nationwide from the Ministry of Education. The last week of May has been designated as the month for multicultural awareness, it seems, as I've seen in my son's school calendar. There were activities at school that were designed to promote multicultural awareness. Even my son had to join a speech contest for multicultural kids like him.

But no, it isn't just because my son gets to join such contest because he has a non-Korean parent that I am appreciative of this. I am glad that accepting the changing social landscape would start with educating the next generation. The school is one of the best place to do so. The pupils brought home some fliers, mini-books, and hopefully, a better understanding of other different cultures. 

My son's friend who goes to another school also had such multicultural activities at their school. His parents are both Koreans and are more open to the idea of multiculturalism. Come to think of it, I haven't really met an openly against such notion so far. There might be some who thinks otherwise but I believe that there generally more who support the idea. 

The term "multiculturalism" itself might be a bit strange for some at this time. Nonetheless, it can be a place to start as I look forward to the time when there won't be a need to use such term at all as everybody will be accepted regardless of their racial heritage. 

 

Yeolmu and Bibimbap with Daenjang

I found yeolmu on sale for 500W per bundle the other day at the nearest supermarket. I specifically went in and bought one only to find out that it was quite big. This would be more than enough for what I had planned on making -- yeolmu muchim/namol for bibimbap.

When hubby saw it, he also googled up some recipe that has yeolmu. Of course, it involves some gochu karo. It turned not very spice at all, except that the stalks are a bit hard since he insisted on having everything fresh and uncooked. In my case, I decided to blanch the yeolmu, specially the stalks, and simply made it like a sigumchi namol.

My brother-in-law brought home a box of shitake mushrooms a few days ago. The mushroom is like a gold in terms of price, quality and nutrition, and I am just very thankful that he brought home that much. Now, if only my husband wouldn't keep his mantra "we have to finish it" and change it to we can "store it in the freezer" so we can enjoy it longer. That's what freezers are for anyway, plus maybe I can also try to dry some of it.

Typical bibimbap will use gochujang but since I've tasted one that uses daenjang with a Korean friend recently, I am very keen on trying it at home.  And..tadadada...not the typical mix of vegies but it was good. I can finally enjoy a bibimbap minus the spiciness of gochujang.

We mixed the yeolmu with some stir fried zucchini, leeks, carrots and the shitake mushrooms from brother-in-law. Hubby put some gochujang and sesame oil in his and I, on the other hand, only put daenjang. Yumyum. Bibimbap with daenjang is now gonna be on my edible list. :D

I hall

Hall

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Ifedex mo..shampoo ko. (thank you po Nay and Tay)

My poo less days are finally over. I got my early birth month gift from my Mom, my human heart nature shampoo, last weekend.

After months of figuring out a shampoo-less hair care, I am just glad to have a taste again of the organically-made shampoo from home. I was not able to bring it or have these shipped before our moved coz it was out of stock in the local branch at that time. I had to make do with a small sample bottle which only lasted for a week with me.

How did I get the stuff? My dear mom sent it through fedex. It cost an arm and a leg for a one-kilo fedex int'l economy package service but you get what you pay for. :D Although I will have to think twice if going to do it again. My MOM would really think twice again. :D The local post office didn't accept it coz it was liquid. *sigh*

Here is the tracking info from the Fedex website, except the first and last entries.

May 3 (Saturday)

Delivered at the addressee                                Asan-si


May 2, 2014 (Friday)

20:03	In transit		JUNG-GU INCHEON KR
	Tendered to authorized agent for final delivery
10:19	International shipment release - Import		JUNG-GU INCHEON KR
09:40	In transit		JUNG-GU INCHEON KR
	Package available for clearance
08:30	At destination sort facility		JUNG-GU INCHEON KR
04:20	Departed FedEx location		GUANGZHOU CN
03:27	In transit		GUANGZHOU CN
-  01/05/2014  -  Thursday
01:35	In transit		GUANGZHOU CN
01:24	Arrived at FedEx location		GUANGZHOU CN
-  30/04/2014  -  Wednesday
23:07	In transit		PASAY CITY PH
21:06	In transit		PASAY CITY PH
21:04	In transit		PASAY CITY PH
20:15	Left FedEx origin facility		PARANAQUE PH
17:03	Picked up		PARANAQUE PH

Tue - April 29 Package drop off at the branch in my hometown PPS.

So what was in the one-kilo medium box? big bottles of HNN shampoo, lotion, facial toner. Also a pair of my son's old clothes and another dress for me (used as fillers).

Declared value was 1k, shipping amount would probably be the same.


It took 5 days, counting in the day it was sent. Two days for the sending and receiving end. The rest of it was in transit from Manila, China and Incheon. Isn't that just fun? I may want to work in a courier company like fedex one day. :D

I now have my mandarin smelling shampoo which I can use with my vinegar/baking soda/rice washing hair regimen alternately.

Advance happy birthday to me..with big thanks to my mom. I hope she will also like using the HNN products that she'll be trying out soon. 

Note:
I have finally checked out the local Olive Young branch here and found a bit limited possibles for my future washing needs. I may have to double check how much it would cost to order from HNN internationally and compare it with buying other stuff online or offline from here.

Another possible blog entry about Olive Young..or should I say, Andes choco mints? ;D

Lost in Translation

My son was given a school homework to join a speech contest last Tuesday. He only has until Friday to do it. It will be in Korean and English. It was a family homework since we needed to do translation. Moreover, the teacher required him to hand in a copy the next day (Wednesday) so he can go over it as well.

This is the process that we had to do. First, I had to pick my son's brain for what he wanted to be included in the content. That wasn't easy because when I asked him about that, all he answered was " I don't know" and "I don't want to" I can clearly see that he has no initiative to actually compose the speech.

I had to remove the initial barrier of not wanting to do it. Wanting to do it or not is out of question. He just HAVE to. Then we can move on with composing the content after getting past that.

So I asked him direct and leading questions to be able to figure out what he might want to talk about. Unfortunately, it was already late at night so I was only able to squeeze out limited information from him before he had to go to bed.
We were able to have an idea on how to start and end the piece, and a few topics to expound in the middle.

I tried to write and finish it while he was sleeping. I had to finish it before I hit the bed coz the next part would be harder for his dad will have to translate it to Korean.

That is where the problem begins. I thought that he would just simply translate it. Simple and easy. No. He did not. He decided to get the main parts and make it as a guide as he compose the Korean version. His version. Fine. I have no problem with that. He then sent that version to the teacher.

And when the teacher sends it back with some minor additions that I have no objections as all, my husband again tries to translate it to English and asks me to write in down in English. That's the worst part. I wrote the original, it comes back to me with some details not coming out as I want it to be.

I wouldn't have put those details in the first place if I had only known. Hmmp. That is one thing that I have to take note next time. Be bland.

After writing out, put it together (Versions 1, 2 and 3), they still have some problem with it. Fine. I've done my part. Let them do whatever with it. I let them, father and son, do the writing now, as I type this blog entry.

This predicament seem to be a possible one when an author agrees to have a movie version of his book. The screen play that will be returned to him will have added parts that he may not really want to be in there at all or some may come out differently from what he originally meant it to be. What a dilemma specially if you have a tight schedule. Lost in translation.

P.S. I may think about adding the versions here later on..only three anyway, just to see the what really happened. 

Onyang Folk Museum

We were there at ten in the morning, a little cold but the weather improved and it got warmer with the walking that we had to do. We were supposed to be there for another reason but it turned out that the event got canceled. We ended up making the most of what we paid for the entrance fee (1000/pax, not that much since we have recently registered as local residents ^^,) Regular fee is 4000 for adults, I think. Hubby had to present our ID's.

We took the outdoors first since I didn't like the air when I first got in the main building. It smelled a bit too strong at first. We saw traditional houses, graves, epitaphs and statues (most of them as spirit guards of sort). There was also another building which has an art exhibit that has just opened and will run for the next three months (Old and New, April 23- July 27). 

The main building has three levels of spacious showrooms. If you are like me who likes to take the time in reading and taking in everything in a museum, it would take more than two hours just to cover the main building. We had no idea how the place looks like beforehand so we just took each level as it is. It starts with a first Birthday scene, wedding, death, parts of the house, hairstyles, shoes, accessories etc. on the first floor. Second floor was about agriculture, weaving, fishing, etc. By the time I found the third floor, it was already an overload for me. There were old coins, a wall of masks and whatnots. Since it was already lunch time and we were getting hungry, (not to mention that my son has already lost interest) I ended up skipping the most of the last floor.

I didn't see any elevator facility in the building. We had to take the staircase except between second to third which has a slope in between. There were also a small resto which at that time served 12,000 W meal which we did not take. We packed our boiled and planned on eating somewhere else.

Another note. After buying the ticket at the ticket booth, there should be an ajussi to take the other part of the ticket. He wasn't there when we got in the morning. You should have your other part of ticket with you just in case he asks if you happen to step out and need to get in again. 

Basically, scenery is quite simple but the indoor museum is educational. Limit the time for the kids with short attention span though.

The whole place will involve a lot of walking, walking and more walking as most traditional museums would, so bring at least some water. We spotted a vending machine outdoor that has cold drinks but no hot coffee or something hot drink. This can be good on warmer days.

IDs and more IDs (Library Post #1)

Three months after arrival and three ID cards now. The first one, of course, was the alien card. I got another one when I joined the multi-cultural center. And finally, the default one in every place I get to, the library card. My family are just crazy about books and libraries.



It was pretty easy how to get the library card: present the alien card, fill up the form, and have the librarian take a digital photo with the tiny camera and smile as you think of how many books you can access through this card. Happy Day!

I was able to get the card right away and even borrow the maximum 5 books that I could. Even checking out a book was a breeze. Oops! Not just one book, but more than that coz one doesn't have to write or register the books one by one. They just pile the books up and put them on a flat surface of the machine and voila! All the books are already checked out under your card. This was an improvement from seven years ago when I had to have the books bar-code-read on the machine one by one.

So where can I use this fancy library card? This card can also be used in other FIVE libraries in town. That is just awesome! I will have to find those other libraries in the future. ;)

So what is it like in the Children's Library? One thing that I can say for now is that it has quite a collection of various English children's books more than what I have seen in a general town library a few years back. This is really a children's library!

I will post more about the place after our next visit and maybe ask the librarian if its okay to take photos inside.

I will also find my way around the Korean children's books that I can possibly use to learn Korean. One of my goal is to be able to read and understand a Korean book soon. It will not be easy but resources, resources and will power!

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Off to Old School Setting

http://librivox.bookdesign.biz/book/1782
Drifting off to the land of long ago when things are still simple...

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Still on the Subway...

The last entry was about the random art lesson. But this one is going to be mostly about the things I see on the subway ride. Or should I say, the people I see in the subway.

Some things can be funny, some things can be moving, some things make me think and reflect. (I do seem to do the last two quite often.)

We often see people selling different things on the subway ride. I remember the typical towel, drink, gum, socks, cleaning rugs or special magic brush, and even a 1000W rice cake. They usually get on the last couch and moving from one couch to another. They say their spiel upon entering the couch, move along the seats to get their possible customers to buy and exit at the other end. Sometimes, I would like to buy stuff just for them to earn something from that couch but I don't have that much money usually. Hahaha. Luckily, there would be at least one who buys from them. As I look at the buyer, I am glad to see that they are actually happy to buy whatever goods they were even though I don't think they were actually that good.

One was a magic brush/scrubber which one lady bought. It can remove dust from a carpet pretty well based from the seller's demo. I really thought nobody will actually but that. But one lady did. She looked so happy that she got the chance to buy that even telling another lady beside her what she will use it for. I could tell that other people around her was also watching her. Maybe some of them were thinking, "I should have bought one too." "You can actually buy one like that online also." "There goes an impulse buyer." " I just hope she will not regret her purchase." and other lines go on...

There were also some who are not really selling anything. There was a preacher who sang some familiar tune at one point before starting his spiel, and another one, blind man I think, who played his harmonica. I heard that harmonica before I caught a glimpse of the man. P, who seldom see anyone playing a harmonica, dug through his pocket and handed over his change. It was a just a small amount from the little boy but I wonder what exactly moved him to do that.

Still on a note about another blind man navigating the subway, we also another one last time. This one is a bona fide passenger. He was wearing an light neon green shirt as he moved to another couch with the help of his walking stick. He even slightly bumped into a lady before he exited our couch because of the sudden lurch of the train. Yet, he managed to get to his target exit door.

P also saw this man and I asked him how does he think did the blind man managed to get around. The kid had no idea. I had to tell him that blind people usually are good in remembering numbers and they keep count of the steps most of the time.

This simply amazes me that a blind man can safely navigate the subway all by himself. The subway system has special amenities for the blind. Not only are the elevators have the braille, but also the sign for the rest rooms.

It goes without saying that this is indeed a better place for special people like him. 


On a lighter note, there was also another interesting situation I saw last night. It was an early evening ride that we took. There were no seats available right away so we had to stand at first when we got into the subway. I saw a young couple who seem to be sharing a secret joke. As I look around, I noticed a middle-aged woman sitting beside the couple. She was sleeping deeply, swaying her head with every move of the train, but still sleeping. She even had her bent forward and sidewards, almost leaning on the unfortunate person sitting next to her at some point. But she never stirred. She did manage to open her eyes for a few seconds in between but she still fell back to sleep again. It was almost hilarious to watch her.

When the couple stood up to prepare to get off, P grabbed the seat and tried to drag me beside him to sit next to the sleeping woman. I opted not to. I don' think I can handle a swinging head beside me. I got another seat across, then another man took the seat between P and the lady. It was an interesting sight to fill my already-tired-eyes and mind.
 
It was pretty entertaining but I also wonder what if she really sleeps like that all the time. Or may she was just very tired from work. I wonder what kind of job does she do that made her very tired and sleepy. I wonder if she'll get off at the right station. Most people had already left and the subway has finally reached its last station. We all had to get off but she was still sleeping. I just had to let P to wake her up and inform her that it's the last stop. I hope it was indeed her destination station.


I really learned the hard not fall asleep while traveling or waiting for the next ride. I almost missed a flight once because I fell asleep. Good thing that my father called my phone at the same minute that the airline staff was paging me, for the third time at that! Plus I don't want to be caught drooling while sleeping in a public place. Hahaha..

Weekend Affairs (Random Art Lesson in the Subway)

We learn things in different ways, in random circumstances, and in unexpected places. P has had a bit of art appreciation lesson on our subway ride going back home last night. There was an ajussi who happen to sit beside him and they started looking and talking about the PyongChang art magazine that he was holding. I sat across from them and watched P if he can actually understand what the old mas was talking about. The boy did seem to understand the most of it. He was able to reply and give his opinion a few times as well.

It made me reflect just how important it is to have an open mind as we journey through life. I am just glad that P has overcome his shyness long time ago. He is growing to be more receptive of new people and experiences. He is not the kind of kid who would shrink back if someone tries to be friendly with him. The thing is, there are still a few times that he is not very assertive in some situations where he should actually be. Nonetheless, he has finally learned not to be shy to ask questions specially in shops, offices etc.

He was even the one who initiated to write a comment at the T3 airport last time. I am not sure if I've written about that one yet. It was during our layover at the NAIA 3 when we were trying to charge our mobile phones only to find out that all the wall sockets available were flats. It so happen that our smartphone charger plugs has round ones. I know that there are already dual type of sockets available for years now and it just beats me why the T3, the latest terminal built, would still be using flat heads. We went to the information/assistance center, asked about it and P was the one who thought to write about it on the feedback paper. And he did fill it up himself!

This makes me think back when he used to be shy at asking questions to other people. I had to prod him a couple of times when he was a bit younger. I remember telling him "Why not ask it yourself? You want to find out about something, ask someone yourself. Just make sure you do so politely and say thank you. It won't hurt. " And so he tried, got positive results, and has learned to do so since then. Just like recently at the Korean supermarket, we were checking out the bread deciding what to get and he suddenly disappeared. I was surprised for a moment only to see him asking the salesclerk how much the bread he wanted to buy. No prodding needed now.

I am glad he has learned that already so with everything new around us now, he can figure out things for himself without his dear mommy around. If only he will figure out that he has to head out to school earlier. But that is another blog entry. :( 

South Korean Expressway Pit Stop (Anseong Rest Area)

It was my first time to see the expressway outside the immediate area of Seoul. We used to live just outside of Seoul and a short bus ride or car ride will technically bring us there.

Since we are now living in another province, getting to Seoul is another adventure. There are plenty of ways to get there via the efficient public transport system. We got here via express bus when we first arrived. There is also a subway line in our area that I have yet to use to get to Seoul in the near future.
I'll be looking for a chance for that as the weather gets warmer.

We had the chance to travel to the Seoul area over the weekend via the expressway. It was still a bit cold for me since we left late in the afternoon already. Hubby had to follow the car navigational system since he was not really familiar with route. I also had to decipher the symbols there specially once we got into the expressway since we are all not familiar with everything yet.

I had to keep track of the exit signs and rest stops. I noticed that there were rest stops indicated well in advance in the "navi". We had to use them once for the rest room and another one on the way back for the fuel. The first time that we passed one, I was curious how it looked like. When hubby announced that he needed to stop in one of these, I just had to check it out even though I was not feeling well and even a bit cold.

Anseong Rest Stop

The place has a convenience store, a number of restaurants and chains like even Dunkin Donuts and Baskin Robbins, spacious rest rooms and parking lot.  There were specially designated parking spaces for trucks or bigger vehicles, and the regular private vehicles. There were special areas for specially-abled person, and pregnant ones as well (check out the pink sign on the ground). 

The gas stations (at least two from what I've seen) is located right before one exits the area. One can take his time to rest in between driving through the fast-paced expressway.

We also happen to catch a short entertainment provided by some musicians dressed in what looked like Japanese costume. (Or maybe it was supposed to be Korean? I'm not sure.) I could have sat and enjoyed some food while watching them but we were in hurry and it was a bit cold for me.

I was just green with envy as I watch a group of Korean locals watching them while eating ice cream outdoors while I was still almost freezing mode. Wait 'til the weather gets warm. I'll get my vengeance of enjoying the sun while the Koreans hide their pretty white skins to avoid sunburn. (*evil grin)


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Asan City Lotte Mart

Behind this building is where we got off from the airport bus when we first got here. We just waited at back part near the old terminal while waiting to meet my brother-in-law.

I have finally seen a bit of what is actually out front and inside. Below is the mall schedule and the building directory. This quite useful before heading out to such place specially when one is in a hurry. One thing I still have to find out is when do theses discount stores close on a monthly schedule. It can be Sundays or Wednesdays, twice a month. It depends on the location.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Store Hours: Lotte Mart 10:00-24:00, Hi Mart 10:00-21:00

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I did my own thing while waiting for hubby to park somewhere. I am not very fond of basement parking lots or multi-level ones that always makes me dizzy.

Took the two photos above after spying a NO CAMERA sign at the door. (Stubborn me. There were also signs for No Smoking, No Pets and I have yet to figure out the last one.


Floor Guide:

B2   - Daiso, Fresh Produce, Processed Food
B1   - Hi-Mart, Toy, Medical (beats me what this one actually is)
1st   - Asan City Bus Terminal (Far back), C4U(a convenience store),
          Krispy Kreme, some Coffee Shop etc.
2nd  - Apparels (Kids, etc.)
3rd  - Restaurants: Ashley, Rimini (Fancy Italian one), Parking Lot
4th  - 7th - Parking Lot
8th  - Asan City Terminal Wedding Hall
9th  - Lotte Cinema

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11th Year Anniversary and a New Fridge (for the Next Decade?)

We are in our second brand new fridge in the eleven years of married life. We got our first fridge during our first year back in my home country.

We simply went to an appliance store, checked out what I liked, bought his brand of choice (LG) and had it delivered. We only used that one for a few months before we left for ROK. That fridge went through a lot of moving around until it we finally came back.

We were still able to use it for almost 7 years that we stayed in my hometown. The thing is it wasn't really in its top notch condition anymore. The water leaks whenever it is defrosted so I had to keep a close watch on the soda bottle that I put to catch and empty out when it's full or risk a flooding floor. 

When we first move to ROK, we just bought a second-hand fridge and it was cool for the three years of our stay. I'm sure it would have gone for another decade had we stayed on.

On our second move back here now, I really don't know why my hubby opted to buy a brand new one, albeit on the still on the cheaper end of the spectrum. I would have been happy with a second-hand one, from a leading brand. But here it is now, sitting, I should say, standing 6 inches taller than me that it makes me feel inferior in height. I would have preferred a just about my height, you know. This one is bigger that our previous one here, and definitely waayy bigger than what we bought as a newly married couple. Hubby says it's because we have a growing kid to think about. He'll have to eat a lot more food as he grows, etc. Come to think of it, I can still fit him inside this big fridge.

Hubby bought this online after we went and saw it at an appliance store. It was wayyy cheaper than to buy there outright. We merely check it out there to get the actual size and overall look of what's in the market for us. I was really so intimidated by the sizes of the latest fridge in market nowadays. I mean, what can one possibly put in those refrigerator without forgetting what you actually put inside. I can get lost inside those gigantic fridges.


I am more worried about the over-sized fridge and its accompanying bill, really. What I can possibly do now is just make the most of this one. Go freezer-cooking way to save on the produce costs since we live in a temperate country now. That is what I have to check on this time.

Off to my next task now.

Ssangyong Station, Line 1

I was headed to Emart Cheonan and the nearest station is Ssangyong Station, Line1. This the Nazareth University in Cheonan, Chungnam-do.

Pretty long staircase going up to the Uni. (view from the ground of sub station)

This commercial building is just right outside the Ssangyong Station, university side.

If heading towards civilization (bus route), take the opposite exit. You can take a bus going to the left if going to Emart Cheonan.

Another option is just walk a few meters out to the the road from the subway station exit and turn left.  Emart is about two long blocks from there. I passed by Ehwha Hospital, another children hospital, a 7-11, and a Drive-thru McD0 almost across from it, near the SK gas station. There is also a Dunkin Donut at the intersection, opposite Emart. A McDo is also inside the Emart itself, in the small food court on the first level.

posted from Bloggeroid

"What clothes should I wear?"

A month of going to school now and relatively same weather lately but the has not yet taken the initiative to plan for his clothes in advance. We still have to thrust him the clothes he has to wear every morning and shove him out of the door late for school.
It gets worse now with him coming home late from his after school orchestra on ceratin days of the week. It is just getting too much of dependency that a retraining would be the best action now. I've tried to start it last week with onset of spring but there was some problems on the clothes available for him to rotate. And we were not able to solve that one over the weekend. Let's see how he will make it today.
The boy went out at almost 8:40 already. I hope he gets some spanking at school although I know that the teacher is decent enough not to actually do that. A stern warning might be what he needs now. If that won't work, I'll welcome a face-the-wall punishment for him.

posted from Bloggeroid

Fake Lake or whatever it is..

We went to this fake lake yesterday. Warning: This is almost a rant post.

I would have enjoyed the place on an another day with a different weather condition. It was quite cold when we went out yesterday and I wasn't really very much up to it. There was a slight sprinkle at one point before we actually head out, and I can hear the wind howling in the apartment. That means it is cold because of windchill factor. The car thermometer indicated 7 degrees outside. Not a very good time to go outdoors for me but I still went thinking that we will head to Emart afterwards to shop for my son's clothes. I was totally misinformed. And there are just three of us! Talk about miscommunication or what?

I had to endure the trip feeling very cold even with a cami, thin long-sleeved shirt, sweater, another jacket sweater and a ski jacket or whatever-you-call-it. Well, my top part was quite better compared to my bottom part which was clad in a pair of leggings and winter pants. The cold really gets to me and makes me feel very weak. If only they know how much the cold weakens me. I had to suck on my ginger just to keep my stomach from going crazy with my motion sickness. I manage to hold down everything and even finished a roll of tuna gimbap before heading home. It was not very fun though. I hit the sack and slept for hours when we got home.

Now for the very limited photos that I was able to take despite the cold, here they are.

Bike Road 

Covered Picnic Area

The covered picnic area is where people can put up tents, cook stuff and hang out. It can suited on very hot, very cold, windy or rainy days such as yesterday. This is open from 10 am to 11 pm. I didn't see any cooking stuff though. I figured Koreans bring their own portable stoves (fueled with gas in cans). 

"Welcome" to the Rest Room Stop by the road

There are rest rooms near the road, before hopping into the lakeside. There is some music blasting from the speakers installed in these. (Check out the speaker beside the window.)

This kid seems to be very happy to welcome anybody in these toilets. He sure looks like it is the Gyeongbok palace behind him. ^^,

A Peek Inside the Female Rest Room 

It is small with only two bowls and one for the specially-abled person cubicle. There is also a very tiny wash stand on the left corner (not shown here). Relatively clean and smell-free. I have seen worst in my life.

Drinking Water Fountain with 4 Tap

A Resting Place by the Road/Lake

The Boys in a traditional hut facing a Pond

This structure is jutting out of the hill with no sign or whatever in front
so we guess it's a private house. A cool one at that. Maybe a vacation house? 

Below is another single detached house with a wide driveway. The flowers are pretty and I would like to guess who owns this. It would be interesting to meet them and see what it looks like inside. It is not very usual to live in a house like this since most of the Korean population live in apartments. The land area is quite limited and to have a house and lot here is something, I think.

A House Near the Lake

posted from Bloggeroid

No Poo.. and Still Counting

April Spring has just rolled in this week and I'm still in the no-poo zone.

I have been using the rice vinegar for a couple of weeks now and I feel that it is not getting the great results that I was hoping. My hair feels limp and flat every time after I have used the rice vinegar along with the baking soda. I used to have better and great results back when I was using the b. soda and white sugar cane vinegar before. It was also cool when I used the apple cider vinegar.

I am on wits end. I have to get myself another bottle of the acv. for my hair if I would still want to continue with my no-poo journey. Or my other option of securing myself an organic shampoo from home or order online from an international company like iherb. I've seen some of their products and it might be a good one to try. The thing is, I'll be back into trying out stuff again which I am not very much up to right now. I might have to go on with the acv or really look into getting those Human Heart Nature that I was using before I left home.

Oh..my birthday is coming up next month so maybe I'll just have it as a present for myself, eh? :D
*feeling hopeful for my hair

74 and still working..

I just met one of the apartment ajussi's. He speaks English well, surprisingly. He said he used to be a president of the Eden Cruise travel agency. He is retired and is now 74. He is now in his after-retirement job working from 6-6 as apartment guard. Isn't it just cool? They are old but they they just don't stay home and rot or take care of grandchildren as most from my home country would if they were even lucky to live that age.

It was such a pleasant surprise as I try to practice my newly-acquired-Korean-phrase "Dua dereukayo?" (Can I help you?) only to find out that the ajussi speaks English well than any average Korean of his age, that is. He did help me remember the phrase though. I hope he can be a patient ajussi to practice my Korean language. I find it interesting to chat with old people sometimes and hear their stories. Mr. Lee.

Changchi Gukso -- (our version)

Finally! (Why is it that I seem to have used this word more often nowadays, I wonder) We were able to taste this noodle dish after a while. It was bit pricey to make it back home but since we have moved here, the dishes that we liked are more accessible for us. This one of those on our list to make.

It has four basic parts: stock, noodles, sauce and the various toppings (carrots, blanched chinese cabbage, fried egg strips, kimchi, zuccini, mushroom, tofu and laver or seaweed) I mean the list of toppings one can possibly add can be crazy.

The stock can be simple but a bit daunting to make. The sauce is also easy to put together and cooking the noodles is the quickest. The trick is make enough toppings and stock the first time so you can enjoy eating it again on your next meal with less hassle and prep time.

A. stock/broth
about a dozen whole large anchovies
4-6 C of water
6x4 inches dashima
All boiled together in a large pot. Simmered in low fire afterwards until it smells like broth. <sup>,


B. Sauce (this is one of the last to add when you eat but better make it ahead lest you forget later ;) )
3-4 T soy sauce
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
3 green onion leaves, minced
1 t sesame oil
sesame seeds
pepper flakes
(the measurement for the last two is really based on personal preference)


C. Toppings carrots, zuccini - julienned and lightly fried SEPARATELY (looks better as toppings later, ^^)
1 or 2 eggs - whisked, fried thinly and cut into strips afterward
tofu - cut into strips or small squares, fried
kimchi - slightly minced
mushroom and onion - can be fried together (if using dried mushroom, make sure it is well soaked in water, soft and well cooked)
laver or gim or dried seaweed - cut into strips using scissors or hands done on the LAST MINUTE BEFORE SERVING to keep it moisture free
1 big leaf of cabbage, cut into thin strips, blanched (the same boiling water can also be used for cooking the noodles as this saves heat, water and time)
sumyon Noodles (very thin noodles like angel's hair)
about 2 inches in dm as you hold then with your fingers (not every kitchen has a weighing scale, you know)
- cook in boiling water. Note that this thin noodles cook very quickly (3 minutes). When it starts to boil over, add a bit of cold water. Do this boil over-add water twice. Then noodles should be ready to drain.
- Drain the hot water and replace with cold water to rinse. Wash it like you are washing clothes to remove starch. Repeat twice or three times. Then drain the water out for the final time.
As you do the final draining, separate them into serving size. Pick out a handful and roll it around your 3 fingers to make ball of sorts (just like when one eats spaghetti rolled around the fork)


Putting it Together: Put a round of noodle in a bowl.
Add the toppings. Add the sauce. Then pour over the broth. Then add the gim/laver. Or how whatever sequence you choose. Hahaha...

That is the way we made our chanchi gukso.

Do not follow this very well since I cannot guarantee how yours will taste. This was written to refresh my own memory for later or to give someone a general idea how to make it. I repeat, there is no guarantee to a good tasting output. Please check other more reliable websites like Aeris Kitchen. LOL. ⊙•⊙
(even the name for the dish is not consistent.. Changchi, chanchi, or chamchi, go figure) :)</sup>

posted from Bloggeroid

(originally posted from a smartphone, 

4/1/2014 -edited on pc)

I Like Going to Korean School

That was what I heard from my son telling his best friend last night as they talk for the first time in viber. "I wish there was no Saturdays and Sundays," he further added. And I was like 0.0 surprised and wondering out loud if that would he be saying the same thing after a year? :}

I am just glad that he likes school and still thinks that school is cool. He is usually positive about it in general even back in my home country. The only subjects that he didn' t like studying whenever I would remind him to are Fil and Social Studies, both taught in the local language.
But here, where almost everything is in Korean, is another matter. I'm hoping that he will get the hang of the language soon to be able to enjoy school more.
He was suddenly looking for someone to talk to last night and it prompted me to check out another line of technology, voice chatting. Luckily, his forever techie girl best friend has viber and is online. They were able to voice chat for quite a while.
I had to play my mommy role to let them quit and get to sleep. It was a bit hard to get him settled down to sleep since he cannot contain his excitement of being able to chat with his friends. I bet it's going to be more fun when he gets the chance with the DeJaguer brothers.

I hope to milk that interest into some fruitful one, specifically finally writing letters to his other friends. I have to prepare the paraphernalia for tonight.

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