Influenza School Shut Down
Good news and bad news... my school is shutting down nov. 4th to the 9th, so no teaching for several days! yay! ... but i have to actually be at school... that sucks (bad news). Can't complain... what will i do with all this spare time? Learn korean at school...
Guitar lessons?
While i was standing infront of the urinal... singing "bedroom, bathroom, living room, dining room, kitche!, not chicken!, its a kitchen!" i remembered i said i would learn korean and the guitar once im in Korea....
Monday, November 2, 2009
Saturday, October 31, 2009
2009.11.01
Its been two weeks since I blogged. Here's why:
1) Busy with work (really)
2) Been going out everyday and everyweekend
3) Preoccupied with studying Korean and Applying to teachers college
4) Lazy
Other things aswell.
Halloween Party
I went to this (crappy) university Halloween party on Thursday and it was the first time i actually went out since Canada. The place was dinky, it was smaller than my basement (at home in Canada), but damn were the girls cute. The college girls spoke fluent english... most of them were in foreign studies, even though they said they never left the country. I get what they are saying, do you? lol. Anyways, i was suppose to go to Hong Dae in Seoul for another Halloween party to meet other people, which would have been awesome... but i was way too tired to go to that... i kinda regret not going... but at the same time I didnt come to Korea to party... (thats a lie), im restraining myself from partying, I thought I left that life style back in Canada.
Korean Spa in Suwon
The reason why i was so tired was because Friday night i went out with some foreign friends, which asked me to stay and chill because she was sad. It was fun, we played drinking games and then saw Hulk Hogan (a guy in a costume) and well... the night was a disaster... i turned out babysitting... Later we went to a Jimjae bong... (spelling) which is a korean spa... it was only 9,000krw!! ($9) vs one i went to in canada for like $150. Here's what they have or what you can do for $9 entrance:
1) Free Locker (shoes and clothes seperate)
2) Private smoke room
3) the bathing room has 2 dry saunas, 1 steam sauna, 1 mini jet pool, 5 hot tubs and they are all at different temperatures, a row of tiled/granite flat hot beds... a scrub area, showers
In the next general room where everyone sleeps:
There are two huge HOT Sauana Igloos, really, at 88 degrees celcius, really. And in 2 minutes u turn into a prune. They also have a cold sauna, minus 2 degrees (other words, a fridge).
For a small and reasonable price, you can get the following paid services:
1) Access to internet
2) Foot massage chairs
3) Back massage couches
4) Hygiene stuff
5) Convenience store (inside the spa!)
6) Full body massage by maseuse?? (spelling)
Oh, and the place is open 24hrs so you can sleep there! Instead of getting ahotel or partying all night, come here for 9,000krw! Which we did. Its just hard finding a place to sleep on the floor with other people, theres couples, families and crying babies, but its so chill.
Pandorum
Also, i recently watch the movie "Pandorum". Loved it! Why? because it made me thinking, I wasnt only watching the movie, but the story aswell (close analysis of the movie). The whole time, and i've done this numerous times before, was thinking the possibilities of the end of mankind and his struggle for survival against time, space, resource and himself. Let me explain what mean in depth here. Pandorum, as they said in the movie was a pyschological break down and paranoia of a fear caused by long term space travel and trauma.
***Just for thought, dont read unless you take interest in philosophy and my rambles.
Alone in the Universe
I believe that we are alone in the universe. You can argue with me, but let me point out some interesting points. The alignment of our solar system is unique, rather to say its perfect. Why? Because if the Earth was any closer to the sun, we would all die and not exist. If we were further away, we would be absorbed by the gravitational pull of other planets and become a cold planet because the slight distance of the orbiting planets from the sun makes a drastic change in ... everything! Also... the moons, of not just our planet, but Saturn and Jupiter are important, (lets not get scientific here, i dont have my text book, but they are a shield that protected Earth from numerous bombardment from meteors and possibly small astroids. Do you not see the craters on the Moon? Remember how the dinosaurs died?) The point is... to find another liveable planet in another solar system, in this galaxy is near impossible... but possible... just not identifiable or reachable, because time and space is too vast. Time and space is infinite, to travel from 1 end of our galaxy (our solar system in in a galaxy which has millions, maybe millions of other stars, planets and solar systems combined) would be impossible, for the fact that we dont have enough resources to sustain long distance travel. The concept of travelling at light speed is ... unlreastic. Anything travelling at the speed of light breaks down and turns into particles... therefore and living creature , well inanimate objects aswell, would lose its original form from travelling at light speed. The particles would disperse and... you would die. Plus, we dont have the technology to transport anything at lightspeed from one point to another, how do you stop travelling at light speed? Get my point? We have yet the knowledge and resource to be successful in space travel. We can't even be efficient and organize in our own establishment of the transportation system, the system is diabolical... you ever get stuck in an LA (california) traffic? Planes crash, petroleum is now considered limited, no immediate and available energy or resource equaling the output of oil is easily and abundantly accessible cheaply to replace. How many more years left do we have before we use up all the resources? That was the issue in the movie "Pandorum". Earths population was 125+ billion in the year 2200+ and resource was scarce. Hence they built a ship, a Noah's arc, in hopes to survive on a new found Planet called Tanus to continue human life. Eventually, Earth blew up.
Suppose life does exist on a planet, in a solar system in our Galaxy (not the billions of other glaxies), they would have to be a highly advance civilization, we are not, to contact or even travel in order for us to encounter each other. And yet, what happens if we do contact each other... we become aggressive. Have u not see the movies? We are not very welcoming, we are afraid of what we do not understand. Anyways, its better that was are alone in the universe, we will F up every chance we get to be better in life.
Factors that will destroy life for mankind:
The Sun dying
Time runs out for everything
Resources are limited on Earth, in our solar system
Space - we are stuck and the possibility of space travel is foolish, we might not even have enough resource to travel to the end of our solar system and back, yet the thought of going to another solarsystem light years away (you cant travel at light speed). It's a wild goose chase to think of travelling anywhere. Stay at home!
Extraterrestials (i dont think they can reach us unless they can teleport lol)
Human error (we are flawed and we make mistakes and you get the point) we use up all our resources, we kill each other because of differences, and we press the nuke button out of stupidity. We kill ourselves basically.
Pyscological - we are mentally unstable... anybody can break down if the were pushed to the edge, experienced trauma (hence Pandorum )
The unknown - blackhole, rubberband theory (others),
Now im just rambling. End thought. I believe we are alone in the universe, do you? I have to go shopping for a winter jacket now... and clean the apartment. bye!
1) Busy with work (really)
2) Been going out everyday and everyweekend
3) Preoccupied with studying Korean and Applying to teachers college
4) Lazy
Other things aswell.
Halloween Party
I went to this (crappy) university Halloween party on Thursday and it was the first time i actually went out since Canada. The place was dinky, it was smaller than my basement (at home in Canada), but damn were the girls cute. The college girls spoke fluent english... most of them were in foreign studies, even though they said they never left the country. I get what they are saying, do you? lol. Anyways, i was suppose to go to Hong Dae in Seoul for another Halloween party to meet other people, which would have been awesome... but i was way too tired to go to that... i kinda regret not going... but at the same time I didnt come to Korea to party... (thats a lie), im restraining myself from partying, I thought I left that life style back in Canada.
Korean Spa in Suwon
The reason why i was so tired was because Friday night i went out with some foreign friends, which asked me to stay and chill because she was sad. It was fun, we played drinking games and then saw Hulk Hogan (a guy in a costume) and well... the night was a disaster... i turned out babysitting... Later we went to a Jimjae bong... (spelling) which is a korean spa... it was only 9,000krw!! ($9) vs one i went to in canada for like $150. Here's what they have or what you can do for $9 entrance:
1) Free Locker (shoes and clothes seperate)
2) Private smoke room
3) the bathing room has 2 dry saunas, 1 steam sauna, 1 mini jet pool, 5 hot tubs and they are all at different temperatures, a row of tiled/granite flat hot beds... a scrub area, showers
In the next general room where everyone sleeps:
There are two huge HOT Sauana Igloos, really, at 88 degrees celcius, really. And in 2 minutes u turn into a prune. They also have a cold sauna, minus 2 degrees (other words, a fridge).
For a small and reasonable price, you can get the following paid services:
1) Access to internet
2) Foot massage chairs
3) Back massage couches
4) Hygiene stuff
5) Convenience store (inside the spa!)
6) Full body massage by maseuse?? (spelling)
Oh, and the place is open 24hrs so you can sleep there! Instead of getting ahotel or partying all night, come here for 9,000krw! Which we did. Its just hard finding a place to sleep on the floor with other people, theres couples, families and crying babies, but its so chill.
Pandorum
Also, i recently watch the movie "Pandorum". Loved it! Why? because it made me thinking, I wasnt only watching the movie, but the story aswell (close analysis of the movie). The whole time, and i've done this numerous times before, was thinking the possibilities of the end of mankind and his struggle for survival against time, space, resource and himself. Let me explain what mean in depth here. Pandorum, as they said in the movie was a pyschological break down and paranoia of a fear caused by long term space travel and trauma.
***Just for thought, dont read unless you take interest in philosophy and my rambles.
Alone in the Universe
I believe that we are alone in the universe. You can argue with me, but let me point out some interesting points. The alignment of our solar system is unique, rather to say its perfect. Why? Because if the Earth was any closer to the sun, we would all die and not exist. If we were further away, we would be absorbed by the gravitational pull of other planets and become a cold planet because the slight distance of the orbiting planets from the sun makes a drastic change in ... everything! Also... the moons, of not just our planet, but Saturn and Jupiter are important, (lets not get scientific here, i dont have my text book, but they are a shield that protected Earth from numerous bombardment from meteors and possibly small astroids. Do you not see the craters on the Moon? Remember how the dinosaurs died?) The point is... to find another liveable planet in another solar system, in this galaxy is near impossible... but possible... just not identifiable or reachable, because time and space is too vast. Time and space is infinite, to travel from 1 end of our galaxy (our solar system in in a galaxy which has millions, maybe millions of other stars, planets and solar systems combined) would be impossible, for the fact that we dont have enough resources to sustain long distance travel. The concept of travelling at light speed is ... unlreastic. Anything travelling at the speed of light breaks down and turns into particles... therefore and living creature , well inanimate objects aswell, would lose its original form from travelling at light speed. The particles would disperse and... you would die. Plus, we dont have the technology to transport anything at lightspeed from one point to another, how do you stop travelling at light speed? Get my point? We have yet the knowledge and resource to be successful in space travel. We can't even be efficient and organize in our own establishment of the transportation system, the system is diabolical... you ever get stuck in an LA (california) traffic? Planes crash, petroleum is now considered limited, no immediate and available energy or resource equaling the output of oil is easily and abundantly accessible cheaply to replace. How many more years left do we have before we use up all the resources? That was the issue in the movie "Pandorum". Earths population was 125+ billion in the year 2200+ and resource was scarce. Hence they built a ship, a Noah's arc, in hopes to survive on a new found Planet called Tanus to continue human life. Eventually, Earth blew up.
Suppose life does exist on a planet, in a solar system in our Galaxy (not the billions of other glaxies), they would have to be a highly advance civilization, we are not, to contact or even travel in order for us to encounter each other. And yet, what happens if we do contact each other... we become aggressive. Have u not see the movies? We are not very welcoming, we are afraid of what we do not understand. Anyways, its better that was are alone in the universe, we will F up every chance we get to be better in life.
Factors that will destroy life for mankind:
The Sun dying
Time runs out for everything
Resources are limited on Earth, in our solar system
Space - we are stuck and the possibility of space travel is foolish, we might not even have enough resource to travel to the end of our solar system and back, yet the thought of going to another solarsystem light years away (you cant travel at light speed). It's a wild goose chase to think of travelling anywhere. Stay at home!
Extraterrestials (i dont think they can reach us unless they can teleport lol)
Human error (we are flawed and we make mistakes and you get the point) we use up all our resources, we kill each other because of differences, and we press the nuke button out of stupidity. We kill ourselves basically.
Pyscological - we are mentally unstable... anybody can break down if the were pushed to the edge, experienced trauma (hence Pandorum )
The unknown - blackhole, rubberband theory (others),
Now im just rambling. End thought. I believe we are alone in the universe, do you? I have to go shopping for a winter jacket now... and clean the apartment. bye!
Saturday, October 10, 2009
11.10.2009 Thanks Giving Dinner
Hi, has it been awhile? I've been busy.
Im soo happy. I met my old highschool friend Janice in Korea!! it has been nearly 7 years since we met!!! frigging LONG TIME. It was really good to see and hang out with her, miss her already lol. So she and her friend visited me in Suwon with Liz to attend Hwaseong Fortress Festival, it was fun! In comparison, its almost like Octoberfest (different theme). They had a huge parade, blocked off roads, lots of people, lots of vendors, it was great!. It was like Canadian Thanks giving here in Korea this weekend. Well, we literally made its Thanks Giving Dinner last night at Tom and Clairs place (other foreign friends also from Canada who i met here in Suwon). We had roast chicken (we bought), pasta, salade, and Pumpkin PIE!!!! ( Claire Slaved 8hrs for). After dinner, we chated and went to the park to play LAVA MONSTER on the jungle gym!!! it was fun, the people were looking at us but i think cuz they wanted to play too. Dont get touch by the monster on the ground, he can jump and touch and you're it. Then we play tag... then we were told to be quiet because it is exam week for Kyunghe Uni Students lol. Then we chillled at 7/ Eleven... Overall. Another good weekend.
Moped/Scooter
I saw this awesome 1 year old moped. Can fit 2 people, black, orange and white, a big moped with only 50cc (no license or insurance required) for only 800k KRW!!! (yeah only 800 lol). There was a junky looking one for 400K KRW... which i logically should get because im only here for a year.... yeah i should only stay for a year though i would love a 2nd year. But, logically i should not buy it now. How would i ride it? I need to buy a helmet, find parking at the apartment, and its winter (so i wont be able to ride it) and i know from experience that distant travels of more than 20km anywhere is very uncomfotable on a bike (versus a vehicle). The moped would just be for fun and convenience that would cost me 400-800k KRW. I should save my money. Dammit.
Application to Teachers College
So... being logical and rational, i did the right thing, i stuck to the plan (which got me here in Korea anyways) to apply to teachers college after one year of TESL in Korea. The rule and backup plan to a failed application acceptance is to stay and work in korea for a 2nd year. What would i do in canada if i didnt go back to school? Bum around looking for a lousy job... no thanks. So im hoping not to get accepted so i can stay... hahaha a part of me honestly wishes that... but this way, i am sticking to the plan, with a back up plan... its all about planning, research and dilegence.... whatever. haha.
Health.
I have mentioned, Koreans are very aware and concerned with their health and longevity here. They're very concerned with their appearance too. Nothing wrong withthat. The old are very strong, as are the young and it makes me re-evaluate my own health and longevity... which is pretty crappy. Im not obese, but i could use the exercise and cardio and rehab (from my accident). I like walking and talking the bus to school and places, i like going hiking on mountains, i like exercising every morning and night. I feel better. Trying to lose the weight. I joined a pack with Clair and Jess to lose a certain amount of weight by the end of this month. My goal is to lose 5lbs ( 1lb a week is good too). I think i look ok, but more running, crunches/planks and cutting back on calories wouldnt be a bad idea to slim the lil pouch belly i have hehehe. Anybody else interested? In comments, put your name, age, current weight and weight lost goal.
I will post more pictures and vids... but not just yet, busy. Bye.
Im soo happy. I met my old highschool friend Janice in Korea!! it has been nearly 7 years since we met!!! frigging LONG TIME. It was really good to see and hang out with her, miss her already lol. So she and her friend visited me in Suwon with Liz to attend Hwaseong Fortress Festival, it was fun! In comparison, its almost like Octoberfest (different theme). They had a huge parade, blocked off roads, lots of people, lots of vendors, it was great!. It was like Canadian Thanks giving here in Korea this weekend. Well, we literally made its Thanks Giving Dinner last night at Tom and Clairs place (other foreign friends also from Canada who i met here in Suwon). We had roast chicken (we bought), pasta, salade, and Pumpkin PIE!!!! ( Claire Slaved 8hrs for). After dinner, we chated and went to the park to play LAVA MONSTER on the jungle gym!!! it was fun, the people were looking at us but i think cuz they wanted to play too. Dont get touch by the monster on the ground, he can jump and touch and you're it. Then we play tag... then we were told to be quiet because it is exam week for Kyunghe Uni Students lol. Then we chillled at 7/ Eleven... Overall. Another good weekend.
Moped/Scooter
I saw this awesome 1 year old moped. Can fit 2 people, black, orange and white, a big moped with only 50cc (no license or insurance required) for only 800k KRW!!! (yeah only 800 lol). There was a junky looking one for 400K KRW... which i logically should get because im only here for a year.... yeah i should only stay for a year though i would love a 2nd year. But, logically i should not buy it now. How would i ride it? I need to buy a helmet, find parking at the apartment, and its winter (so i wont be able to ride it) and i know from experience that distant travels of more than 20km anywhere is very uncomfotable on a bike (versus a vehicle). The moped would just be for fun and convenience that would cost me 400-800k KRW. I should save my money. Dammit.
Application to Teachers College
So... being logical and rational, i did the right thing, i stuck to the plan (which got me here in Korea anyways) to apply to teachers college after one year of TESL in Korea. The rule and backup plan to a failed application acceptance is to stay and work in korea for a 2nd year. What would i do in canada if i didnt go back to school? Bum around looking for a lousy job... no thanks. So im hoping not to get accepted so i can stay... hahaha a part of me honestly wishes that... but this way, i am sticking to the plan, with a back up plan... its all about planning, research and dilegence.... whatever. haha.
Health.
I have mentioned, Koreans are very aware and concerned with their health and longevity here. They're very concerned with their appearance too. Nothing wrong withthat. The old are very strong, as are the young and it makes me re-evaluate my own health and longevity... which is pretty crappy. Im not obese, but i could use the exercise and cardio and rehab (from my accident). I like walking and talking the bus to school and places, i like going hiking on mountains, i like exercising every morning and night. I feel better. Trying to lose the weight. I joined a pack with Clair and Jess to lose a certain amount of weight by the end of this month. My goal is to lose 5lbs ( 1lb a week is good too). I think i look ok, but more running, crunches/planks and cutting back on calories wouldnt be a bad idea to slim the lil pouch belly i have hehehe. Anybody else interested? In comments, put your name, age, current weight and weight lost goal.
I will post more pictures and vids... but not just yet, busy. Bye.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
07.10.2009
Staying in Korea
I cant stop thinking whether to stay for a 2nd year or not, versus going home after 1 year to go to teachers college. I havent applied, just started, but i really dont want to go back to school already. I know im 25, going on 26 in March and i just spent 6 years in school, and obtaining a Bachelors in Education Degree would benefit my salary. If i go back to Canada... i will never find a job this good again. In my current working position here in Korea, its an easy job with average pay, but overall its an easy and relaxing life. What guy wouldnt like my job? It's good pay, an easy teaching job, less hours, pretty co-workers, dont pay rent, cheap and good food, freedom, get treated like a star, kids are adorable... i mean staying for 1 year is sort of a waste, 2 years is just right. It would be dumb of me to give up something this good for someone else to pick up... the thought of that sucks. I wanna hold on to this great opportunity that I planned and chased after for 3 years now. I'm finally doing what i said and wanted to do, and to give it up so easily after obtaining it for only 1 year seems a waste. However, that was the plan ( but I knew to be afraid of liking Korea too much and staying for a year prior to going) and sticking to the plan has gotten me this far. Now... what do i do? In so far, i have met and heard from other people's desire and reasoning to TESL overseas in Korea ( or elsewhere) to get away from a mundane routine life at home. They need change, not doing anything, etc... just looking for something better... and once you have it, do you give it up? I should apply anyways and figure it out 8 months later... that would be the rational thing but most undesirable right now lol. so sad...
Discovering more Korean Food
I just realize the Koreans will eat anything here, so do I so, thats why we get along :). For example, yesterdays lunch consist of kimchi made of veggies with pork and octopus.... yeah we never eat octopus with pork.. thats weired. Just now (literally) i was drinking milk with vinegar.... how gross it was , yak! (it was Ji-Sook and Vanessa) but its the same as Yokult (carbonated yogurt) they said, no its not. They eat dog (I have and will again if its available), and they eat rice cake for everything, desert, doboki ( rice cakes with hot sauce, usually served with liver, heart, lungs and esophagus ), in their soup, for breakfast and desert. This is only for some meals. They have sausage too! But its filled with noodles, not meat, so sad... ( i was like wth.... i miss Octoberfest sausage ... ). Don't get Korea wrong, they do have delicious food here like Kalbi, thats it, bulgogi haha... (Korean food in Canada is better i think, more meat) Meat here is really expensive, so the portions are small and their are no buffets, unless you go to Itaewon where u can get Indian Food Buffet. There is a pho restaurant in town, i should check that out today because i miss Pho and curious as to how it taste and if its made by real viet people. Maybe i can speak viet to someone, there are a few viet people here . Mostly women, from foreign-arranged marriages. Dying to speak viet to someone, as i was to speak English.
Home sick?
No not yet, it may sound like it but in so far im perfectly fine. I did have a dream that was half canadian and half korean. I mean to say... it was about my family in canada doing something in korea and i forget... but i suppose my dream is reminiscing life in Canada and Korea, like im torn between two countries. Which is normal for everyone, a friend here said he had the same type of dream. I haven't gotten ill yet, the food is good, i sleep well ( i was late today because i slept in!) and girls are pretty all around the world so not just Canada. This is home... but for how long?
I cant stop thinking whether to stay for a 2nd year or not, versus going home after 1 year to go to teachers college. I havent applied, just started, but i really dont want to go back to school already. I know im 25, going on 26 in March and i just spent 6 years in school, and obtaining a Bachelors in Education Degree would benefit my salary. If i go back to Canada... i will never find a job this good again. In my current working position here in Korea, its an easy job with average pay, but overall its an easy and relaxing life. What guy wouldnt like my job? It's good pay, an easy teaching job, less hours, pretty co-workers, dont pay rent, cheap and good food, freedom, get treated like a star, kids are adorable... i mean staying for 1 year is sort of a waste, 2 years is just right. It would be dumb of me to give up something this good for someone else to pick up... the thought of that sucks. I wanna hold on to this great opportunity that I planned and chased after for 3 years now. I'm finally doing what i said and wanted to do, and to give it up so easily after obtaining it for only 1 year seems a waste. However, that was the plan ( but I knew to be afraid of liking Korea too much and staying for a year prior to going) and sticking to the plan has gotten me this far. Now... what do i do? In so far, i have met and heard from other people's desire and reasoning to TESL overseas in Korea ( or elsewhere) to get away from a mundane routine life at home. They need change, not doing anything, etc... just looking for something better... and once you have it, do you give it up? I should apply anyways and figure it out 8 months later... that would be the rational thing but most undesirable right now lol. so sad...
Discovering more Korean Food
I just realize the Koreans will eat anything here, so do I so, thats why we get along :). For example, yesterdays lunch consist of kimchi made of veggies with pork and octopus.... yeah we never eat octopus with pork.. thats weired. Just now (literally) i was drinking milk with vinegar.... how gross it was , yak! (it was Ji-Sook and Vanessa) but its the same as Yokult (carbonated yogurt) they said, no its not. They eat dog (I have and will again if its available), and they eat rice cake for everything, desert, doboki ( rice cakes with hot sauce, usually served with liver, heart, lungs and esophagus ), in their soup, for breakfast and desert. This is only for some meals. They have sausage too! But its filled with noodles, not meat, so sad... ( i was like wth.... i miss Octoberfest sausage ... ). Don't get Korea wrong, they do have delicious food here like Kalbi, thats it, bulgogi haha... (Korean food in Canada is better i think, more meat) Meat here is really expensive, so the portions are small and their are no buffets, unless you go to Itaewon where u can get Indian Food Buffet. There is a pho restaurant in town, i should check that out today because i miss Pho and curious as to how it taste and if its made by real viet people. Maybe i can speak viet to someone, there are a few viet people here . Mostly women, from foreign-arranged marriages. Dying to speak viet to someone, as i was to speak English.
Home sick?
No not yet, it may sound like it but in so far im perfectly fine. I did have a dream that was half canadian and half korean. I mean to say... it was about my family in canada doing something in korea and i forget... but i suppose my dream is reminiscing life in Canada and Korea, like im torn between two countries. Which is normal for everyone, a friend here said he had the same type of dream. I haven't gotten ill yet, the food is good, i sleep well ( i was late today because i slept in!) and girls are pretty all around the world so not just Canada. This is home... but for how long?
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
28.09.2009
Changes
Theres more change, i have more work now to keep me busy, which is good. We got another female teacher, it's cool cuz im really out numbered by teachers. This new teacher speaks good English and it will be fun talking to her. And yes, she is cute. HAHA, gonna get in trouble. It's good because the original 4-1 class room with like 41 kids is finally split into two classes. Now im just waiting for them to split the grade 6-1 class cuz they are the worse. They give me the biggest headache but its ok, i had fun today playing 'Simon says' because today's lesson was about body parts and action. I finally got a curriculum from the Kindergarten teacher, dont know how she was teaching without one. She then said it was a headache making it up, she only did a curriculum for like 6 weeks and get most her stuff online... im like i have to do grade 1-6 lady, and i get a headache everyday, but its my job. She is lucky she is cute or else i'd bite her head off lol. Overall, constant changes are hard to adapt to but they can make you happy, hopefully.
My cell phone is awesome!
Did I tell you? I got my cell phone and im discovering how cool it is... let me brag, i mean list all its options: I got two cameras, one extra for self portraits, you can video call, FM radio, brain teaser games, golf etc... eng/kor dictionary with vocab and abbrev, subway map, unit convertor, world clock, stop watch, IrDA (wth is that???), avatar/font/background/signature/etc settings for text messaging, special sound and light effects, muvee and phot studio, and so much more. ANd i got this phone for like free (still cost me 50k for activation and sim card). Good deal right? (some kid is playing Maple Story beside me, damn i miss it but it took 3 years of my life, i was level 91 when i retired)
The 1/4 life crisis and supersition is over
My cousin told me that every 12 years is the worse year of your life. It happened around 12 years old and again around 24 (23-25). Alot of bad things happened to me prior to my graduation, moving to a new home, and completing my 2nd goal (which is to TESL in Korea). Bad relationships, family issues, personal-self evaluation, car accidents, financial disasters... all but the past. Things have been picking up and looking good. Im really happy that its over. But its true... every 12 years you face a terrible unlucky phase in your life which may make or break you for your 30's. I can finally live without worrying about the typical issues many face in their 1/4 life crisis (you can read about it if u search).
Visitor
WOW... i get lots of comments and interest from people who want to come to Korea now, hahaha my advertising skills are still sharp. It really turned out to be a good year to go to Korea, it just seems like everything has fallen in place, i get lucky with everything, alot of people are doing the same thing or just visiting in Korea this year, im happy. There are so many things i wanna show my sister because i know she will love it. Everything here is cute lol. I havent seen a whole lot of Korea, but in so far i love it and im sure anybody would too.
ChuSeok
Chuseok is a holiday here in Korea, its like thanks giving where everyone goes to there home town to spend time with family and do traditional stuff. That means, after last week i only worked 2 days and went to orientation, i work 3 days this week and get another 3 plus weekends... back on Tuesday, then work half day wednesday and get to go to Everland (like Wonderland) with the female teachers, who specifically said i would be the only male, shush! its a secret lol. hahaha... i love me job. Sucks for those who work in Canada ... im gonna get mine aren't I???? ahahahahaha im gonna enjoy this while i still can... ahahahahahaha. good night!
Theres more change, i have more work now to keep me busy, which is good. We got another female teacher, it's cool cuz im really out numbered by teachers. This new teacher speaks good English and it will be fun talking to her. And yes, she is cute. HAHA, gonna get in trouble. It's good because the original 4-1 class room with like 41 kids is finally split into two classes. Now im just waiting for them to split the grade 6-1 class cuz they are the worse. They give me the biggest headache but its ok, i had fun today playing 'Simon says' because today's lesson was about body parts and action. I finally got a curriculum from the Kindergarten teacher, dont know how she was teaching without one. She then said it was a headache making it up, she only did a curriculum for like 6 weeks and get most her stuff online... im like i have to do grade 1-6 lady, and i get a headache everyday, but its my job. She is lucky she is cute or else i'd bite her head off lol. Overall, constant changes are hard to adapt to but they can make you happy, hopefully.
My cell phone is awesome!
Did I tell you? I got my cell phone and im discovering how cool it is... let me brag, i mean list all its options: I got two cameras, one extra for self portraits, you can video call, FM radio, brain teaser games, golf etc... eng/kor dictionary with vocab and abbrev, subway map, unit convertor, world clock, stop watch, IrDA (wth is that???), avatar/font/background/signature/etc settings for text messaging, special sound and light effects, muvee and phot studio, and so much more. ANd i got this phone for like free (still cost me 50k for activation and sim card). Good deal right? (some kid is playing Maple Story beside me, damn i miss it but it took 3 years of my life, i was level 91 when i retired)
The 1/4 life crisis and supersition is over
My cousin told me that every 12 years is the worse year of your life. It happened around 12 years old and again around 24 (23-25). Alot of bad things happened to me prior to my graduation, moving to a new home, and completing my 2nd goal (which is to TESL in Korea). Bad relationships, family issues, personal-self evaluation, car accidents, financial disasters... all but the past. Things have been picking up and looking good. Im really happy that its over. But its true... every 12 years you face a terrible unlucky phase in your life which may make or break you for your 30's. I can finally live without worrying about the typical issues many face in their 1/4 life crisis (you can read about it if u search).
Visitor
WOW... i get lots of comments and interest from people who want to come to Korea now, hahaha my advertising skills are still sharp. It really turned out to be a good year to go to Korea, it just seems like everything has fallen in place, i get lucky with everything, alot of people are doing the same thing or just visiting in Korea this year, im happy. There are so many things i wanna show my sister because i know she will love it. Everything here is cute lol. I havent seen a whole lot of Korea, but in so far i love it and im sure anybody would too.
ChuSeok
Chuseok is a holiday here in Korea, its like thanks giving where everyone goes to there home town to spend time with family and do traditional stuff. That means, after last week i only worked 2 days and went to orientation, i work 3 days this week and get another 3 plus weekends... back on Tuesday, then work half day wednesday and get to go to Everland (like Wonderland) with the female teachers, who specifically said i would be the only male, shush! its a secret lol. hahaha... i love me job. Sucks for those who work in Canada ... im gonna get mine aren't I???? ahahahahaha im gonna enjoy this while i still can... ahahahahahaha. good night!
Friday, September 25, 2009
Reply: to comments
Hi... a reply to your comments.. hahahahahaha because i made alot of mistakes and im not hitting on my co-teacher/friend... not interested geeze. im not horny like you Thanh... if u want u can come over and i will introduce... yeah i dont proof read... ok i will improve my blogging.. ty for your comments, keep reading and commenting thanks guys!!
25th.09.2009
Howdy ya'll!!!
(this is long, to make up for have not been blogging)
Right... so i met some Americans, at my GEPIK training/orientation get away the past 3 days, t some rural military training academy. It was fun! Made lots of new friends, met many kinds of people from around the world, America, Canada, Australia, S. Africa and Britain who come to S. Korea to teach english like me. They all come from different backgrounds, have different reasons for teaching and have different perspective in life, teach and S. Korea. Think some of them should of stayed in their country because they wont last with their mentality... but its not my life so i dont care how they end up lol. However, i did meet like a crew of people in my area ( i'm finally having a geographical grasp of my province Gyeonggi-do) and we scheduled to hang out often.
Absent minded, going crazy?
I goofed though, i had most of the peoples contacts and then today when i got off the bus in a rush ( i fell asleep), i forgot my booklet and sandwich and was sitting at the bus stop pondering: "dammit, im forgeting something... (gasp!) the book (and sandwhich!) was left on the bus!!!! I got the biggest migrain for 10 minutes (inner voice kept repeating your a flacking idiot Allan... ) . I'm losing my cool... not good. Im so sad... its such a downer... i keep forgeting my camera, my papers, the things i have to do... im so stressed... so much to do. I hope its stress thats making me absent minded and that i am not going insane. I talked to Ji-Sook, she will try to ask the co-ordinator to locate the bus drive and find my book, it really is priceless because it has my only contact info of my new friends (i remembered 3 and found on facebook) and my ideas for lesson planing, class room management etc. ... i mentally told myself to put that damn book in the luggage before i forget on the bus.... didnt listen to myself... LISTEN TO YOURSELF PEOPLE!!
2nd year in S. Korea?
Speaking of listening to myself, i should stick to my plans... 1 year in korea ... 2nd year back in teachers college for my bachelors of education. Im currently weighing my options... i know damn well i would make more money in the long run and establish a solid career in teaching if i go back to teachers college in Ontario, Canada.... make 15K plus a year ( do the math for 10 years)... and i could always go back to S. Korea with 1 years experience, a bachelors edu. degree which all enables me to make more money in the long run if i just sacrifice 1 more year to go back to school... but there is always a BIG BUT.... i really like korea at the moment... i have an awesome job. I believe that no one can out-luck me in my current position with work and living situation. I get what i want... i am offered a 2nd job so an extra 4 bill a month... i dont work the full 22 teaching hours because its a new school, the kids are the cutest ever... dont argue with me... im telling you that my life is great and it doesnt get better than this... if i go back to Canada for school... its the same grind and a dead end part-time job... still... i cant make up my mind to choose either, 50/50... its too soon to know... OMG what if i meet a girl here... i know damn well, and so do you all, that i would be hooked easily by one of these gorgeous, smart and captivating korea girls here lol... i already met a few... i;ve never falling in love so manytimes in one day hahahahaha... just joking.
Korean people
They are absolutely different in personality than the rest of N. American... and other N.Americans have repeated this in my experience at GEPIK orientation. They are very concerned and kind when it comes to your happiness and wellbeing. They really know how to respect and treat other people with respect and care. Foreigners and elders are treated well in high esteem, we get the royal treatment. This is part of the reason why i would like to stay in korea... the people are pleasant... not to say Canada is not, just on a higher scale... you know we're not that nice, admit it. lol. Anyways... im a guy... and of course i will meet girls... i met some... they are all so nice to me... im hooked. I saw this girl at my orientation and im in love hahaha... (joke..???) she is the cutest, doesnt even look korea... a foreigner like me but i dont have time to chase girls... too busy chasing my career and settling down here...'work now, play later Allan'... being righteous is so hard these days hahahah load of crap...
How i spend my lonely time
Reruns of "Big Bang Theory"... i love it... 'holy crap on a cracker', 'bazinga!', 'rock,paper,scissors, lizard, spock!'... you have to love it... i gotta get internet next week. I try to hang out with people everynight, but obviously dont because that gets annoying, oh no, i dont get annoying ... it does... im cool... :) uhh... yeah but i have to spend more time blogging or learning korean and korea as a whole... time to bump up my game... been slacking. Need to be more productive i guess??? i spend too much time trying to keep my flat nice and clean... thats impossible. working 9-5, coming home 9 at night from outings and dinner. touring local cities and tourist spots... no time to hang dry, do dishes, be neat... its obserd to waste time cooking and cleaning... free time is meant
for relaxing, recovering and planning another outing lol. really... cutting back on the domestic
chores...so much to do, so much planning, living a double life as a teacher and tourist who wants to see and do it all... i cant get enough or be bored of the fantastic city lights here... its so eye catching everywhere you go... people are colourful here.
Completing ERRANDS!!!
They are endless here... they take forever to complete... something goes wrong... not organized?? who knows... i got my ARC (alien registration card) to open a bank account, get a cellphone, buy internet... (sign contracts etc..)
Cellphone!
Frigging FINALLY... i got a cellphone. felt so naked and lost, and i was for 3 weeks. I love my new celly, its white, it slides, 3.0 mega pixels cam, front (for self portraits)and back its techy options are cooler than N.americans... i got it for free! hahaha... well activation etc... 1 year contract... was it free... some feess.. whateves.. im happy. pictures and video record are just as good as my 10 mega pix Kodak cam... good focus... its awesome,... so happy.. ahhh....
Dancing in the Subway
WEIRD... this dude was wearing a girls pink skirt, pikachu face mask-bag... tank top and dancing to wondergirls routine, stereo in his backpack... it was in the subway basement with the 15 similar cellphone stores (yes they sell the same product but commission is a big deal here so they all do it). It was weird... maybe im weird... i dont get korea yet... maybe another 3 months.
Posted pictures and videos on facebook
I dont know how many times or who i should announce it... its there waiting lol. I went to Korean Folk village... awesome! if anybody comes to Korea... im taking you there! its like going back into feudal times. i went with Jess and JS. I hope everyone can access them.
I like taking pics and vids... i will try to satisfy your eye candy and preserve my current experiences of korea and post them on facebook. Time for bed... good night all from half way around the world, till next time.
Allan
(this is long, to make up for have not been blogging)
Right... so i met some Americans, at my GEPIK training/orientation get away the past 3 days, t some rural military training academy. It was fun! Made lots of new friends, met many kinds of people from around the world, America, Canada, Australia, S. Africa and Britain who come to S. Korea to teach english like me. They all come from different backgrounds, have different reasons for teaching and have different perspective in life, teach and S. Korea. Think some of them should of stayed in their country because they wont last with their mentality... but its not my life so i dont care how they end up lol. However, i did meet like a crew of people in my area ( i'm finally having a geographical grasp of my province Gyeonggi-do) and we scheduled to hang out often.
Absent minded, going crazy?
I goofed though, i had most of the peoples contacts and then today when i got off the bus in a rush ( i fell asleep), i forgot my booklet and sandwich and was sitting at the bus stop pondering: "dammit, im forgeting something... (gasp!) the book (and sandwhich!) was left on the bus!!!! I got the biggest migrain for 10 minutes (inner voice kept repeating your a flacking idiot Allan... ) . I'm losing my cool... not good. Im so sad... its such a downer... i keep forgeting my camera, my papers, the things i have to do... im so stressed... so much to do. I hope its stress thats making me absent minded and that i am not going insane. I talked to Ji-Sook, she will try to ask the co-ordinator to locate the bus drive and find my book, it really is priceless because it has my only contact info of my new friends (i remembered 3 and found on facebook) and my ideas for lesson planing, class room management etc. ... i mentally told myself to put that damn book in the luggage before i forget on the bus.... didnt listen to myself... LISTEN TO YOURSELF PEOPLE!!
2nd year in S. Korea?
Speaking of listening to myself, i should stick to my plans... 1 year in korea ... 2nd year back in teachers college for my bachelors of education. Im currently weighing my options... i know damn well i would make more money in the long run and establish a solid career in teaching if i go back to teachers college in Ontario, Canada.... make 15K plus a year ( do the math for 10 years)... and i could always go back to S. Korea with 1 years experience, a bachelors edu. degree which all enables me to make more money in the long run if i just sacrifice 1 more year to go back to school... but there is always a BIG BUT.... i really like korea at the moment... i have an awesome job. I believe that no one can out-luck me in my current position with work and living situation. I get what i want... i am offered a 2nd job so an extra 4 bill a month... i dont work the full 22 teaching hours because its a new school, the kids are the cutest ever... dont argue with me... im telling you that my life is great and it doesnt get better than this... if i go back to Canada for school... its the same grind and a dead end part-time job... still... i cant make up my mind to choose either, 50/50... its too soon to know... OMG what if i meet a girl here... i know damn well, and so do you all, that i would be hooked easily by one of these gorgeous, smart and captivating korea girls here lol... i already met a few... i;ve never falling in love so manytimes in one day hahahahaha... just joking.
Korean people
They are absolutely different in personality than the rest of N. American... and other N.Americans have repeated this in my experience at GEPIK orientation. They are very concerned and kind when it comes to your happiness and wellbeing. They really know how to respect and treat other people with respect and care. Foreigners and elders are treated well in high esteem, we get the royal treatment. This is part of the reason why i would like to stay in korea... the people are pleasant... not to say Canada is not, just on a higher scale... you know we're not that nice, admit it. lol. Anyways... im a guy... and of course i will meet girls... i met some... they are all so nice to me... im hooked. I saw this girl at my orientation and im in love hahaha... (joke..???) she is the cutest, doesnt even look korea... a foreigner like me but i dont have time to chase girls... too busy chasing my career and settling down here...'work now, play later Allan'... being righteous is so hard these days hahahah load of crap...
How i spend my lonely time
Reruns of "Big Bang Theory"... i love it... 'holy crap on a cracker', 'bazinga!', 'rock,paper,scissors, lizard, spock!'... you have to love it... i gotta get internet next week. I try to hang out with people everynight, but obviously dont because that gets annoying, oh no, i dont get annoying ... it does... im cool... :) uhh... yeah but i have to spend more time blogging or learning korean and korea as a whole... time to bump up my game... been slacking. Need to be more productive i guess??? i spend too much time trying to keep my flat nice and clean... thats impossible. working 9-5, coming home 9 at night from outings and dinner. touring local cities and tourist spots... no time to hang dry, do dishes, be neat... its obserd to waste time cooking and cleaning... free time is meant
for relaxing, recovering and planning another outing lol. really... cutting back on the domestic
chores...so much to do, so much planning, living a double life as a teacher and tourist who wants to see and do it all... i cant get enough or be bored of the fantastic city lights here... its so eye catching everywhere you go... people are colourful here.
Completing ERRANDS!!!
They are endless here... they take forever to complete... something goes wrong... not organized?? who knows... i got my ARC (alien registration card) to open a bank account, get a cellphone, buy internet... (sign contracts etc..)
Cellphone!
Frigging FINALLY... i got a cellphone. felt so naked and lost, and i was for 3 weeks. I love my new celly, its white, it slides, 3.0 mega pixels cam, front (for self portraits)and back its techy options are cooler than N.americans... i got it for free! hahaha... well activation etc... 1 year contract... was it free... some feess.. whateves.. im happy. pictures and video record are just as good as my 10 mega pix Kodak cam... good focus... its awesome,... so happy.. ahhh....
Dancing in the Subway
WEIRD... this dude was wearing a girls pink skirt, pikachu face mask-bag... tank top and dancing to wondergirls routine, stereo in his backpack... it was in the subway basement with the 15 similar cellphone stores (yes they sell the same product but commission is a big deal here so they all do it). It was weird... maybe im weird... i dont get korea yet... maybe another 3 months.
Posted pictures and videos on facebook
I dont know how many times or who i should announce it... its there waiting lol. I went to Korean Folk village... awesome! if anybody comes to Korea... im taking you there! its like going back into feudal times. i went with Jess and JS. I hope everyone can access them.
I like taking pics and vids... i will try to satisfy your eye candy and preserve my current experiences of korea and post them on facebook. Time for bed... good night all from half way around the world, till next time.
Allan
Thursday, September 17, 2009
2009.09.18
Learning as a Teacher
Its my first time teaching and im learning how to teach. Its hard not knowing the curriculum and making your own. On top of that, breaking new grounds at a new school and being the first English teacher is tough. Its not bad, because my work has been cut back, alot. They said public school is alot of work, i can see how it can be. But im lucky, because i dont have to teach a full load of class, i only have to create 3 of my own curriculum (1 is kindergarten lol). The only tough part was knowing what to teach (the curriculum), finding out the levels of the children and teaching in a different langauge. These barriers have been diminished as the days go by. Teaching is alot better now, you learn how to handle each class, each group and yourself as a teacher. I'm still learning, everyday will be work and new changes and its fun being a teacher. The kids are cute, happy and fun. They teach me stuff too!
Kids
The kids are smart, some are good, bad and i feel bad for some. There is always one student who is different from the rest, and you cant help but try to relate and think of something to do to make them be a part of the class. Again, not knowing the language is hard, but slowly i can almost read Hangul, been slacking with the PSP and going out alot. Yestaurday this lil girl gave me a heart, i was blushing, it was soo cute. Made the other teacher jealous, made me all giddy. That's one of the sweetest things ever, kids are great. Their smile makes you happy, they laugh at anything too. Being an adult sucks! I recently ran into drama with a teacher yestaurday, wants me to help him but its weired because we work together and its a commitment once you help them once. Not worth the time or trouble. I hate adults, give me a headache. Old people suck haha.
Racking in da money
I got paid yestaurday, in cash! i got like 1.7million krw, all in 10's so its like a stack of money. Not alot, i had more before but its fun to hold. Also, i got my new iron and rice cooker, it looks cool. Dont know how to use it yet, but i feel like its mine and i want to take it home. I cant because it belongs to the housing, contract rules... Im finally getting paid for the plane ticket, more money coming in. But, that 2nd job isnt coming for a while, a long while perhaps.
Habitat
I still havent got use to the days here. I did jump into Korea with the weather, food and culture, but its the person itself that needs adjusting. Been really tired, was wondering why. Realized Jet lag lasts for more than a week, maybe a month. I feel better today, not so tired, getting use to the routine life here. Also, my hip/SI joint is still dislocated from my accident in Oct, i feel it not bad, just trying to rehab it myself, that tires me out.
Shopping
So i got paid... gotta buy some new threads and a camera... next month, maybe a moped? haha... i should save and pay my bills in Canada. So next week i will have pictures of my place, maybe vids, everything that i see of Korea. If you have been following all this time, this a treat for you.
Travelling
I made a list of place i want to visit... not enough time lol. They have a holiday coming up in Oct 5th, its like thanks giving for 5 days. Just gonna visit Seoul, hang out with Jess/Clair. Not enough time and nobody to hangout with to go to Jeju yet. Everyone in Korea goes to there hometown or home to visit on holidays. This sunday we're suppose to go a Korean Folk Village, fun!
OMG i gotta go teach. bye
Its my first time teaching and im learning how to teach. Its hard not knowing the curriculum and making your own. On top of that, breaking new grounds at a new school and being the first English teacher is tough. Its not bad, because my work has been cut back, alot. They said public school is alot of work, i can see how it can be. But im lucky, because i dont have to teach a full load of class, i only have to create 3 of my own curriculum (1 is kindergarten lol). The only tough part was knowing what to teach (the curriculum), finding out the levels of the children and teaching in a different langauge. These barriers have been diminished as the days go by. Teaching is alot better now, you learn how to handle each class, each group and yourself as a teacher. I'm still learning, everyday will be work and new changes and its fun being a teacher. The kids are cute, happy and fun. They teach me stuff too!
Kids
The kids are smart, some are good, bad and i feel bad for some. There is always one student who is different from the rest, and you cant help but try to relate and think of something to do to make them be a part of the class. Again, not knowing the language is hard, but slowly i can almost read Hangul, been slacking with the PSP and going out alot. Yestaurday this lil girl gave me a heart, i was blushing, it was soo cute. Made the other teacher jealous, made me all giddy. That's one of the sweetest things ever, kids are great. Their smile makes you happy, they laugh at anything too. Being an adult sucks! I recently ran into drama with a teacher yestaurday, wants me to help him but its weired because we work together and its a commitment once you help them once. Not worth the time or trouble. I hate adults, give me a headache. Old people suck haha.
Racking in da money
I got paid yestaurday, in cash! i got like 1.7million krw, all in 10's so its like a stack of money. Not alot, i had more before but its fun to hold. Also, i got my new iron and rice cooker, it looks cool. Dont know how to use it yet, but i feel like its mine and i want to take it home. I cant because it belongs to the housing, contract rules... Im finally getting paid for the plane ticket, more money coming in. But, that 2nd job isnt coming for a while, a long while perhaps.
Habitat
I still havent got use to the days here. I did jump into Korea with the weather, food and culture, but its the person itself that needs adjusting. Been really tired, was wondering why. Realized Jet lag lasts for more than a week, maybe a month. I feel better today, not so tired, getting use to the routine life here. Also, my hip/SI joint is still dislocated from my accident in Oct, i feel it not bad, just trying to rehab it myself, that tires me out.
Shopping
So i got paid... gotta buy some new threads and a camera... next month, maybe a moped? haha... i should save and pay my bills in Canada. So next week i will have pictures of my place, maybe vids, everything that i see of Korea. If you have been following all this time, this a treat for you.
Travelling
I made a list of place i want to visit... not enough time lol. They have a holiday coming up in Oct 5th, its like thanks giving for 5 days. Just gonna visit Seoul, hang out with Jess/Clair. Not enough time and nobody to hangout with to go to Jeju yet. Everyone in Korea goes to there hometown or home to visit on holidays. This sunday we're suppose to go a Korean Folk Village, fun!
OMG i gotta go teach. bye
Saturday, September 12, 2009
2009.09.13
Itaewon
Saturday i met up with Ji-Sook at my place, then went to Coffee been to meet up with Jess and Clair to go to Itaewon, a town for foreigners. It was a long bus/sub ride, maybe 2 hours but i had good company. Right of the bat we got to know each other and comfortable and we plan to go to a Korean Fold village next week. Itaewon is fun, lots of foreigners, almost everyone around the world knows about Itaewon, its also a prostitution spot too. Besides that, shopping there is great, its fun. The town really caters to foreigners, i wish i had a camera to show you, maybe next week when i get paid i'll buy one. I bought a messenger/man purse/murse? its essential here for most of the guys here lol. your not a man if you dont have it? ahaha... i realized having a bad/murse is handy, you can carry a bunch of stuff in it lol. I bought some souvenirs and gifts for people... not sure when to sent it home though lol. Maybe all at once. I saw a nice black/yellow bike jacket (leather) for half price, so like less than $150 here... so many things i wanna buy there and sent it home lol. Then we just walked around a part of Seoul, saw a concert at one of the big malls, then we went to another city (im not paying attention, i forget names) which was really nice too. I finallay got a adapter for my laptop/shaver, now i need internet at home so i dont waste anymore money in PC room.
Saturday i met up with Ji-Sook at my place, then went to Coffee been to meet up with Jess and Clair to go to Itaewon, a town for foreigners. It was a long bus/sub ride, maybe 2 hours but i had good company. Right of the bat we got to know each other and comfortable and we plan to go to a Korean Fold village next week. Itaewon is fun, lots of foreigners, almost everyone around the world knows about Itaewon, its also a prostitution spot too. Besides that, shopping there is great, its fun. The town really caters to foreigners, i wish i had a camera to show you, maybe next week when i get paid i'll buy one. I bought a messenger/man purse/murse? its essential here for most of the guys here lol. your not a man if you dont have it? ahaha... i realized having a bad/murse is handy, you can carry a bunch of stuff in it lol. I bought some souvenirs and gifts for people... not sure when to sent it home though lol. Maybe all at once. I saw a nice black/yellow bike jacket (leather) for half price, so like less than $150 here... so many things i wanna buy there and sent it home lol. Then we just walked around a part of Seoul, saw a concert at one of the big malls, then we went to another city (im not paying attention, i forget names) which was really nice too. I finallay got a adapter for my laptop/shaver, now i need internet at home so i dont waste anymore money in PC room.
Friday, September 11, 2009
2009.09.11
Suwon Bus Station
I was suppose to get my ARC (Alien Registratrion Certificate) today but was too late because we hit rush hour. So instead of wasting a half hour bus ride, we decided to walk around Suwon Bus Station, and wow! Its a pretty place. There are so many small shops, an alley full of shops (which makes it famous?) The Suwon Bus Station is the center of Suwon? Its like Toronto, by Eatons center. I forgot the street name, a sign of me already forgeting about Canada! haha. They got expensive shops too, outrageous prices if you ask me, more expensive than Canada... wow and minimum wage is like 3,000-8,0000 krw?? 2-7$... i dont get it. I like Suwon Bus Station, its exciting, but sooo busy, more than Toronto i'd say... I need to get a camera, but dont want to buy one here because of the 220v and 110v plug difference... i rather get someone to send me one in Canada... but thats a hastle too, cost money... shit im just gonna buy a cheap one tomorrow. Here's why...
Itaewon!
I'm going to Itaewon! Didn't know what its about until An-Sung Ho told me the other day. Its a foreigner spot with lots of bizarre/cheap knock off stuff, prosititution lol. No wonder he told me about it hahaha. But im going with JS and Jessica, who is a friend of a friend of mines in Canada... I havent met her in person, just online lol. So its gonna be fun, i gotta go buy a camera tomorrow for sure to capture pictures for all of you people at home to see!!!
An-Sung H0
I have to make a category about him because he is extraodinary. This guy looks younger than my uncle (who does nails), he is like 43, but An-Sung Ho is 57... i thought he was like 40!!! wtf does he eat and do? well he said he exercise everyday... he apparently knows shiatsu or body mechanics... chinese medicine... he got some secrets and im gonna find out :) im gonna start to exercise more now .. dang. I will take a pic... if you will follow my blogs u will see one day.
Ooops, Corrections
I may have said some things about korea that was untrue... the price varies in cities and regions... something else but i forget... just remember what i say is based on my own narrow observations.
I forget what else i wanted to talk about... it was important.. brain fart. .... ah going to bed. good night all!
I was suppose to get my ARC (Alien Registratrion Certificate) today but was too late because we hit rush hour. So instead of wasting a half hour bus ride, we decided to walk around Suwon Bus Station, and wow! Its a pretty place. There are so many small shops, an alley full of shops (which makes it famous?) The Suwon Bus Station is the center of Suwon? Its like Toronto, by Eatons center. I forgot the street name, a sign of me already forgeting about Canada! haha. They got expensive shops too, outrageous prices if you ask me, more expensive than Canada... wow and minimum wage is like 3,000-8,0000 krw?? 2-7$... i dont get it. I like Suwon Bus Station, its exciting, but sooo busy, more than Toronto i'd say... I need to get a camera, but dont want to buy one here because of the 220v and 110v plug difference... i rather get someone to send me one in Canada... but thats a hastle too, cost money... shit im just gonna buy a cheap one tomorrow. Here's why...
Itaewon!
I'm going to Itaewon! Didn't know what its about until An-Sung Ho told me the other day. Its a foreigner spot with lots of bizarre/cheap knock off stuff, prosititution lol. No wonder he told me about it hahaha. But im going with JS and Jessica, who is a friend of a friend of mines in Canada... I havent met her in person, just online lol. So its gonna be fun, i gotta go buy a camera tomorrow for sure to capture pictures for all of you people at home to see!!!
An-Sung H0
I have to make a category about him because he is extraodinary. This guy looks younger than my uncle (who does nails), he is like 43, but An-Sung Ho is 57... i thought he was like 40!!! wtf does he eat and do? well he said he exercise everyday... he apparently knows shiatsu or body mechanics... chinese medicine... he got some secrets and im gonna find out :) im gonna start to exercise more now .. dang. I will take a pic... if you will follow my blogs u will see one day.
Ooops, Corrections
I may have said some things about korea that was untrue... the price varies in cities and regions... something else but i forget... just remember what i say is based on my own narrow observations.
I forget what else i wanted to talk about... it was important.. brain fart. .... ah going to bed. good night all!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
2009.09.10
Teacher Dinner Party
After school today all the teachers and some staff went out for their monthly dinner gathering, but this one was for the new teachers at the school, myself and 3 others. We had some duck stew with rice, kimchi, duck stirfry and it was alright. I eat anything. Sitting their, i figured out why i get alot of gas lately. Not from the milk, but from kimchi. Yes, kimchi gives you gas. Why? Its probably because its pickled and vinegar is a acid, and acid gives off gas. I eat ALOT of kimchi, but i mean the various kinds like potato, onion, garlic, radish etc. I dont know if will lay off the kimchi because its so good, it does help me digest food but i might rip a big one infront of all the lady teachers one day... is it worth the risk? Good food or embarrassment... I choose the good food.
Teaching
Haven't started teaching yet, still visitng class. As I predicted, there was more change today, I have to teach kindergarten, but i think it will be fun. Its just ABC, Family, Numbers and stuff... it would be their initial exposure to the English language and it would be a privilege for me to be their first English teacher. Another challenge but i love it. Kids under grade 4 are cute, the are always happy and curious. I finished creating my original curriculum/lesson plans for grades 3 and 4, its all i have to do. But I will obviously need to format the school and other teachers curriculum to fit my teaching style in English. Still, its not alot of work compared to everyone else, especially JS. She is like a teacher, secretary, and my personal translator (gets paid less than me and has more personal expenses which the school doesnt cover for, unlike for me they do). But i take her out to eat and hang out with her, teach her english, actually its mutual. We're good friends now.
Orientation week isnt what i thought it was. I have a REAL orientation by the Gyeonggi province on the 23rd to the 25th... so i dont work and have another accommodation to stay at for training... i dont know if i need it by now but oh well, i get paid and i have to go. It will be good because i get to meet other foreign teachers.
Influenza
She is sick and i feel bad, she blames it on me but im strong as an ox still, i clearly do not have influenza. Thats just their precaution because they currently believe, and its true, that Korean's who visit outside countries get influenza, so foreigners are to blame, true. I got my Tetanus shot and was already sick a few months ago, and i friggin eat, sleep and exercise well everyday so she is weak...but stressed from her work and life (now with me in her life, no wonder she is sick, i will stress anybody's life till you get sick and die muahaha hehe). Hong Eui Joo got sick too, not my fault, but they blame me because its funny? I said that's 'Pabo' (stupid), bullshit.
As a Foreigner
So often times i hear JS say she envies me, I shrug not fully understanding. Today the Vice Prez and the secretary say they envy me. I realize they envy us foreigners because as a TESOL instructor, i have all the luck, privilege, opportunity and good things coming to me, just because i can teach abroad and i am a foreigner. Its all true, in their observation i am truly fortunate to be doing what i am, been given what i got and freedom to do what i want. They can't. I feel bad now. But it makes me appreciate them more, and everything in life up to this point because i really get to do what i want, therefore, if i ever complain, smack me. I keep getting lucky, people are soo nice to me, always feeding me, approaching me openly and the kindness doesnt stop. What can i do to return he favor? I will figure it out.
That was my day... I'm planning a trip to Jeju Island, Itaewon, Japan, Korean Folk Town, trying to find the Hot Springs, Visit the mountain, go shopping, go to Seoul... buying a cell phone, moped/scooter/motorbike... so much to do!
After school today all the teachers and some staff went out for their monthly dinner gathering, but this one was for the new teachers at the school, myself and 3 others. We had some duck stew with rice, kimchi, duck stirfry and it was alright. I eat anything. Sitting their, i figured out why i get alot of gas lately. Not from the milk, but from kimchi. Yes, kimchi gives you gas. Why? Its probably because its pickled and vinegar is a acid, and acid gives off gas. I eat ALOT of kimchi, but i mean the various kinds like potato, onion, garlic, radish etc. I dont know if will lay off the kimchi because its so good, it does help me digest food but i might rip a big one infront of all the lady teachers one day... is it worth the risk? Good food or embarrassment... I choose the good food.
Teaching
Haven't started teaching yet, still visitng class. As I predicted, there was more change today, I have to teach kindergarten, but i think it will be fun. Its just ABC, Family, Numbers and stuff... it would be their initial exposure to the English language and it would be a privilege for me to be their first English teacher. Another challenge but i love it. Kids under grade 4 are cute, the are always happy and curious. I finished creating my original curriculum/lesson plans for grades 3 and 4, its all i have to do. But I will obviously need to format the school and other teachers curriculum to fit my teaching style in English. Still, its not alot of work compared to everyone else, especially JS. She is like a teacher, secretary, and my personal translator (gets paid less than me and has more personal expenses which the school doesnt cover for, unlike for me they do). But i take her out to eat and hang out with her, teach her english, actually its mutual. We're good friends now.
Orientation week isnt what i thought it was. I have a REAL orientation by the Gyeonggi province on the 23rd to the 25th... so i dont work and have another accommodation to stay at for training... i dont know if i need it by now but oh well, i get paid and i have to go. It will be good because i get to meet other foreign teachers.
Influenza
She is sick and i feel bad, she blames it on me but im strong as an ox still, i clearly do not have influenza. Thats just their precaution because they currently believe, and its true, that Korean's who visit outside countries get influenza, so foreigners are to blame, true. I got my Tetanus shot and was already sick a few months ago, and i friggin eat, sleep and exercise well everyday so she is weak...but stressed from her work and life (now with me in her life, no wonder she is sick, i will stress anybody's life till you get sick and die muahaha hehe). Hong Eui Joo got sick too, not my fault, but they blame me because its funny? I said that's 'Pabo' (stupid), bullshit.
As a Foreigner
So often times i hear JS say she envies me, I shrug not fully understanding. Today the Vice Prez and the secretary say they envy me. I realize they envy us foreigners because as a TESOL instructor, i have all the luck, privilege, opportunity and good things coming to me, just because i can teach abroad and i am a foreigner. Its all true, in their observation i am truly fortunate to be doing what i am, been given what i got and freedom to do what i want. They can't. I feel bad now. But it makes me appreciate them more, and everything in life up to this point because i really get to do what i want, therefore, if i ever complain, smack me. I keep getting lucky, people are soo nice to me, always feeding me, approaching me openly and the kindness doesnt stop. What can i do to return he favor? I will figure it out.
That was my day... I'm planning a trip to Jeju Island, Itaewon, Japan, Korean Folk Town, trying to find the Hot Springs, Visit the mountain, go shopping, go to Seoul... buying a cell phone, moped/scooter/motorbike... so much to do!
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Note to Readers!
Hi again guys,
Can you please leave comments/feedback or follow if you can? I want your input so that I may make my blogs better and more entertaining. Shpank you very much.
Allan
Can you please leave comments/feedback or follow if you can? I want your input so that I may make my blogs better and more entertaining. Shpank you very much.
Allan
2009.09.10
Constant Changes
The school keeps changing their minds about what I should teach, new school has lots of changes, not problems. In so far, the changes are good because i keep getting less work haha. I have to teach kindergartens now, which is alright because its their initial exposure to the English language, meaning they learn ABC, 123 and Shapes and Colours and that easy stuff. I was suppose to create my own curriculum, which is a pain in the ass for anybody teaching the first time and for a school which has absolutely no books written in English, im short on supplies. They understand. They know cut 2 more classes for me, and I now have to copy existing curriculums by the Korean teachers here, just need a translator and teach it in English. I honestly am not sure exactly what they want me to do at the moment. I bet I will encounter change everyday for the next few weeks. Oh, and good news! They offered me another job at the school, after school activities. They need someone to teach nursing, physical activities and such (not sure what they said, language barrier and a verbal offer). I need to see some paperwork before i agree to anything else. I was looking to make more money, like tutoring, but this sort of saves me the trouble. Just wondering how much they will actually pay me. Tutoring isnt so safe, could get in trouble so this is a sure way to do it. Not sure if i will take it just yet, havent really taught until next week. I should do it if they pay well, its at the school and so i definitely can save alot of trouble looking for a tutoring job. Damn, I really am lucky at this new school, like Ji-Sook said. I feel bad, for not doing alot inso far and she does a whole lot to help me... but that's just the way it is with fresh new starts.
Food
I ate the same thing 3 days in a row for dinner, which is fine because its soo DELICIOUS, soo filling and soo cheap, who wouldn't? I gotta try to bbq Kalbi and exotic looking bbq Fish restaurant. They got weired seafood i never seen before, but i eat anything. Food is food. Man, the lady who owns the restaurant next door, knows me as a foreigner and treats me well. She gave me free food today, on top of my regular order (of course i paid for). She stuffed my belly today, nice little old women. I couldnt understand what she was saying, but her gestures suggested "from me to you" 'Kim Bap', which was like sushi rolls. Then i had icecream as usual. Get this, i bought 6 ice cream bars, a chocolate bar and a bag of chips for guess how much? Less than 4,000 krw (if you havent figured it out by now, its apprx. less than $4.00). You cant get a deal like that anywhere... I spend way too much money on eating out... but its cheap so who cares!!! HAHA!! The school lunch today was HELLA good too! It was curry, rice, chicken, kim chi, spicy noodles, melon dew and... i got extra chicken. I dont get fat because i have good genes lol. (i like to think so) No i exercise like morning and evening because im afraid of getting fat. The food isnt high in calories either so thats cool.
Height and Appearance
I wish I was taller... I feel a lack of confidence when i see a bunch of asians who are actually taller than me now, significantly. Koreans are just a big as Westerners almost, i feel so short, hahaha... so sad.
A new teacher at school is supposively pretty is what everyone says, she is cute, but i dont know if thats her 'real face' lol. Her nose and eyes look... unnatural for her face? Nose is too perfect... i dont dare to ask, but maybe i should get one of those bratty kids to ask "did you get surgery on your face" because its what im thinking.
People dress nice for work, and they smell nice too! I need an iron asap! Possibly some new threads too, saw some nice fashion over here, very impressive. Very expensive too probably... i'll go shopping when i get paid...
I bought another pair of slippers today, cant wear my shoes all the time, its annoying. I bought one before for school, you can't wear street shoes at school. I respect how they like cleanliness, not to bring dirt in your house. JS asked why I and do westerners always wear their shoes in the house. I explain... 'no, its just me, im lazy. That was maybe true a few decades ago, but we dont believe in trailing dirt in our house either, its just me.'
Game
I KILLED BAAL in Diablo II today on single player Normal (Korean version)... (tap myself on shoulder) (i've played this game like 8 times in the last 5 years). I have to stop playing games now, i sort of have a life now. Need to study korean more. Still... my inner child says play... Cant wait till Diablo III comes out, when?
Neighbour
This morning I ran into my neighbour... gave a node because he seemed like a mute, technically so am I. Then i saw that mofo again, but he is a snob so i'm not gonna waste my time. I'm starting to think some of the guys here are snobby? Like before when i was in the PC room, as i am now because i have internet, i tapped this guy for some assistance, he straight out ignored me and gave me a 'fuck off' look, 'ok.... fuck you too'. Even today, i walk around and some fat dude try to stare me down, haters here man lol. Maybe im missing something, are they gay? They act like it lol. Always travel in packs of dudes only and touch each other... have you seen some of their vids? Its like no barriers between male companionship lol. Older people seem friendly. Im just teasing because im pissed at those who are inso far have been impolite to me. Who cares, i get along with the girls at school just fine. So meeting people will always have its ups and downs, again, its another learning experience.
Rambling
Oh yeah, i forget to brush my teeth again today, thats like 3 times this whole time i've been here. I dont stink, i shower like 3 times a day because i swet. I just forget... which is weired because in Canada i love brushing my teeth... who knows. Again, people still karaoke till 5 30am, how they do it i dont know. It doesnt bother me, i actually wake up because 5hrs of sleep is all i need and i get hella thirsty and drink water 3 times at night and pee twice a night... my sleeping and behaviour pattern have changed half way around the world... but i feel fine about it. Except my friggin hip still hurts from my accident in October... its acting up again... i have to rehabilitate it myself now because... im half way around the world. I went to the hospital here, its soo cool and big. University Hospital of Suwon or something... alot of the employees are students and speak English... maybe i should go there to meet people. I saw a really pretty girl there too, several... i try not to talk about girls here but this one was cute. hahaha. That's it for tonight. Thanks for reading again!
Allan
The school keeps changing their minds about what I should teach, new school has lots of changes, not problems. In so far, the changes are good because i keep getting less work haha. I have to teach kindergartens now, which is alright because its their initial exposure to the English language, meaning they learn ABC, 123 and Shapes and Colours and that easy stuff. I was suppose to create my own curriculum, which is a pain in the ass for anybody teaching the first time and for a school which has absolutely no books written in English, im short on supplies. They understand. They know cut 2 more classes for me, and I now have to copy existing curriculums by the Korean teachers here, just need a translator and teach it in English. I honestly am not sure exactly what they want me to do at the moment. I bet I will encounter change everyday for the next few weeks. Oh, and good news! They offered me another job at the school, after school activities. They need someone to teach nursing, physical activities and such (not sure what they said, language barrier and a verbal offer). I need to see some paperwork before i agree to anything else. I was looking to make more money, like tutoring, but this sort of saves me the trouble. Just wondering how much they will actually pay me. Tutoring isnt so safe, could get in trouble so this is a sure way to do it. Not sure if i will take it just yet, havent really taught until next week. I should do it if they pay well, its at the school and so i definitely can save alot of trouble looking for a tutoring job. Damn, I really am lucky at this new school, like Ji-Sook said. I feel bad, for not doing alot inso far and she does a whole lot to help me... but that's just the way it is with fresh new starts.
Food
I ate the same thing 3 days in a row for dinner, which is fine because its soo DELICIOUS, soo filling and soo cheap, who wouldn't? I gotta try to bbq Kalbi and exotic looking bbq Fish restaurant. They got weired seafood i never seen before, but i eat anything. Food is food. Man, the lady who owns the restaurant next door, knows me as a foreigner and treats me well. She gave me free food today, on top of my regular order (of course i paid for). She stuffed my belly today, nice little old women. I couldnt understand what she was saying, but her gestures suggested "from me to you" 'Kim Bap', which was like sushi rolls. Then i had icecream as usual. Get this, i bought 6 ice cream bars, a chocolate bar and a bag of chips for guess how much? Less than 4,000 krw (if you havent figured it out by now, its apprx. less than $4.00). You cant get a deal like that anywhere... I spend way too much money on eating out... but its cheap so who cares!!! HAHA!! The school lunch today was HELLA good too! It was curry, rice, chicken, kim chi, spicy noodles, melon dew and... i got extra chicken. I dont get fat because i have good genes lol. (i like to think so) No i exercise like morning and evening because im afraid of getting fat. The food isnt high in calories either so thats cool.
Height and Appearance
I wish I was taller... I feel a lack of confidence when i see a bunch of asians who are actually taller than me now, significantly. Koreans are just a big as Westerners almost, i feel so short, hahaha... so sad.
A new teacher at school is supposively pretty is what everyone says, she is cute, but i dont know if thats her 'real face' lol. Her nose and eyes look... unnatural for her face? Nose is too perfect... i dont dare to ask, but maybe i should get one of those bratty kids to ask "did you get surgery on your face" because its what im thinking.
People dress nice for work, and they smell nice too! I need an iron asap! Possibly some new threads too, saw some nice fashion over here, very impressive. Very expensive too probably... i'll go shopping when i get paid...
I bought another pair of slippers today, cant wear my shoes all the time, its annoying. I bought one before for school, you can't wear street shoes at school. I respect how they like cleanliness, not to bring dirt in your house. JS asked why I and do westerners always wear their shoes in the house. I explain... 'no, its just me, im lazy. That was maybe true a few decades ago, but we dont believe in trailing dirt in our house either, its just me.'
Game
I KILLED BAAL in Diablo II today on single player Normal (Korean version)... (tap myself on shoulder) (i've played this game like 8 times in the last 5 years). I have to stop playing games now, i sort of have a life now. Need to study korean more. Still... my inner child says play... Cant wait till Diablo III comes out, when?
Neighbour
This morning I ran into my neighbour... gave a node because he seemed like a mute, technically so am I. Then i saw that mofo again, but he is a snob so i'm not gonna waste my time. I'm starting to think some of the guys here are snobby? Like before when i was in the PC room, as i am now because i have internet, i tapped this guy for some assistance, he straight out ignored me and gave me a 'fuck off' look, 'ok.... fuck you too'. Even today, i walk around and some fat dude try to stare me down, haters here man lol. Maybe im missing something, are they gay? They act like it lol. Always travel in packs of dudes only and touch each other... have you seen some of their vids? Its like no barriers between male companionship lol. Older people seem friendly. Im just teasing because im pissed at those who are inso far have been impolite to me. Who cares, i get along with the girls at school just fine. So meeting people will always have its ups and downs, again, its another learning experience.
Rambling
Oh yeah, i forget to brush my teeth again today, thats like 3 times this whole time i've been here. I dont stink, i shower like 3 times a day because i swet. I just forget... which is weired because in Canada i love brushing my teeth... who knows. Again, people still karaoke till 5 30am, how they do it i dont know. It doesnt bother me, i actually wake up because 5hrs of sleep is all i need and i get hella thirsty and drink water 3 times at night and pee twice a night... my sleeping and behaviour pattern have changed half way around the world... but i feel fine about it. Except my friggin hip still hurts from my accident in October... its acting up again... i have to rehabilitate it myself now because... im half way around the world. I went to the hospital here, its soo cool and big. University Hospital of Suwon or something... alot of the employees are students and speak English... maybe i should go there to meet people. I saw a really pretty girl there too, several... i try not to talk about girls here but this one was cute. hahaha. That's it for tonight. Thanks for reading again!
Allan
Monday, September 7, 2009
2009.09.08
Another day at school.
Last day went well, again, its because it didnt consist of any teach, just orientation. Today i went to class to take notes of JS's teaching. In my observation, the children in grade 4 are more obedient and well mannered than those in grade 6. The older students think they rule the school, in a sense they do, they can get out of control, but it is always the few students who initiate bad behaviour. The most are usually supporters or audiences of the 'few bad students'. I think they can be controlled, i can atleast try some of my ideas on class and behavioural management.
Lunch!
Its nice to have cafeteria food that is hot, come with kimchi, rice, dumpling soup and fish. Healthy lunch is important, i dont remember my elementary or highschool make that much emphasis on eathing healthy. They had vending machines selling pop, chips and the cafeteria sells junk food. It was all a scheme to increase revenue at the school, than putting emphasis on health. In some ways, the educational and social system (in my short observation), is more advanced than westerns ideas to focus on the individual. I could be wrong, but i grew up in Canada, was taught this ideology and am certain of the differences in culture and society of the two countries.
Bad drivers!
My thoughts confirmed. JS said that Koreans are bad drivers. I noticed people dont obey the red light, when crossing or driving. I've seen alot of close calls, red lights ran and speeding but i cant say i have seen an accident yet. I cross the street when its red, when its safe (its never safe), but i wouldnt run a red light because in Canada its considered manslaughter (just recently). They probably dont have the concept yet, because maybe they dont get into accidents as much as Canadian? I've only been here for a week, so we will see how bad the drivers are over here.
Conclusion
I'm glad that i now actually go to school and work (sort of hahaha). Sitting at home was good, kinda vacation but a thing in the past i should not get comfortable with (who wouldnt?). Today i pretty much made plenty of notes, readings and brainstorming ideas on how to teach. I got my schedule, i'm lucky again because i dont have to teach a full load anymore since its a new school and there arent as many classes. 11/16 classes i only have to teach the school curriculum, meaning 5/16 is my own in a whole week (40 min classes). I cant do the math, for hours a week, now. I dont teach 40 hrs a week, thats ridiculous, i teach like 22 hrs a week, the rest is preparation so im at school 8:30-4:30 preparing a curriculum or materials for teaching at my desk. Its alot of work because this is my first time, of course it would for anyone. But its fun, thats what work is all about, keeping busy, not playng Diablo II in the PC room.
Last day went well, again, its because it didnt consist of any teach, just orientation. Today i went to class to take notes of JS's teaching. In my observation, the children in grade 4 are more obedient and well mannered than those in grade 6. The older students think they rule the school, in a sense they do, they can get out of control, but it is always the few students who initiate bad behaviour. The most are usually supporters or audiences of the 'few bad students'. I think they can be controlled, i can atleast try some of my ideas on class and behavioural management.
Lunch!
Its nice to have cafeteria food that is hot, come with kimchi, rice, dumpling soup and fish. Healthy lunch is important, i dont remember my elementary or highschool make that much emphasis on eathing healthy. They had vending machines selling pop, chips and the cafeteria sells junk food. It was all a scheme to increase revenue at the school, than putting emphasis on health. In some ways, the educational and social system (in my short observation), is more advanced than westerns ideas to focus on the individual. I could be wrong, but i grew up in Canada, was taught this ideology and am certain of the differences in culture and society of the two countries.
Bad drivers!
My thoughts confirmed. JS said that Koreans are bad drivers. I noticed people dont obey the red light, when crossing or driving. I've seen alot of close calls, red lights ran and speeding but i cant say i have seen an accident yet. I cross the street when its red, when its safe (its never safe), but i wouldnt run a red light because in Canada its considered manslaughter (just recently). They probably dont have the concept yet, because maybe they dont get into accidents as much as Canadian? I've only been here for a week, so we will see how bad the drivers are over here.
Conclusion
I'm glad that i now actually go to school and work (sort of hahaha). Sitting at home was good, kinda vacation but a thing in the past i should not get comfortable with (who wouldnt?). Today i pretty much made plenty of notes, readings and brainstorming ideas on how to teach. I got my schedule, i'm lucky again because i dont have to teach a full load anymore since its a new school and there arent as many classes. 11/16 classes i only have to teach the school curriculum, meaning 5/16 is my own in a whole week (40 min classes). I cant do the math, for hours a week, now. I dont teach 40 hrs a week, thats ridiculous, i teach like 22 hrs a week, the rest is preparation so im at school 8:30-4:30 preparing a curriculum or materials for teaching at my desk. Its alot of work because this is my first time, of course it would for anyone. But its fun, thats what work is all about, keeping busy, not playng Diablo II in the PC room.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
2009.09.07
First day at school!
Its Monday! Today was the first day at school for me. Currently still at school, it is 12:23, lunch time but i have a medical check so i can't eat until after the appointment. Today was an assembly in the gym for me, which i had to introduce myself with a 2 minute speech. It was easy, a lil nervous but fun because they were an audience of kids. I just came from a class i just visit, grade 4. Just substituting but it was fun to learn how a Korean class works. They all cheer each other on, clap when someone stands to speak, sing a song when teacher tells them to quiet. They speak good english too! Better than the adults, and it seems they have a good grasp of the language, more than i thought. They were able to ask me questions and understand my answer. At the same time, i'm thinking this might be tougher than i thought because of their high level of comprehension, which i underestimated because of their age. Makes me think, i really need to increase my learning speed in Korean to keep up with their ability to learn English. Its orientation week for me, but i still get paid for last week and this week, aint that sweet? hahaha.
Documents
Geeze, i have loads of paper work and documents i have to sort and complete. Some documents are for my residence and life teaching in Korea, and some are related to home in Canada. They want a residency card, i kinda delayed it because its difficult, but i better get that done this week. Annoying.
Sunday night
What a boring day, it was hot and humid so i stayed indoors all day. Until Ji-Sook came with her friend... wow i forget his name already. He spoke even better English than she did, he was also a teacher but his school was alot bigger than mine. We talked about our differences and similarities between Canada and Korea. He knows about motorbikes so if and when i decide to get one, he will help me purchase one. He went for out for dinner, i was hungry for chicken and the chicken was pretty good here. Fried chicken here is not greasy as KFC lol. It's cheaper too. We talked about food, eating meat and eventually i brought up how Koreans like to eat dog. He said he had it two days ago, sweet! Now we planned to eat some bbq dog next week... i had it in Vietnam. Taste like a mix of chicken, beef and pork. Imagine that, 3 meat in one. Also, their are cool and refreshing side effects to eating dog meat in hot weather, which is why they eat it here. Usually men eat it, not women. Same with drinking, it is said that Korean men love to drink and everynight when i walk Ji-Sook to her bus stop, i see drunkards stumbling everywhere. Oh yeah, last night i saw a young girl wear a T-Shit that said "Fuck Yourself", thats hilarious. I wonder if she knows what that means to be wearing that lol.
Phone
I need a cell phone, but not until I get my medical check, then alien registration card and so on... I dont have a home phone either, but i was able to call home to Canada earlier to speak to my mom with a phone card at school. Finally!
Technology
Again, it really seems that Korea is more capable of having access to technology because Suwon is the hometown of Samsung, like Blackberry/Rim is to waterloo, but times 10. So they have everything here. The classroom has a computer, printer and a frigging 50 inch flat screen TV!!! I also get my own desk and computer in the teachers office, the same as Ji-Sook... this is great.
Curriculum
In so far, i've seen and study a bit of the English books. Its hard for me because the book is written in Hangul but I will be teaching grade 3-6 English with her so that actually makes my life easier... Choosing a public school in Suwon was one of the best descisions i made. I hear horror stories about teaching overseas in Korea, but i got lucky. My school is new, i teach 22 hrs, i have a translator, i get stuff (desk, housing allowance, paid apartment etc) and its mostly girl teachers here. Its fun...
Things are looking good. I'm glad that things have finally turned up and that i am now working. I gotta get back to... work? I honestly am not teaching this week, just orientation (ie visiting classrooms and taking notes). I also remembered, i gotta apply to teachers college by November... thats might not happen if i like it here to much lol.
Its Monday! Today was the first day at school for me. Currently still at school, it is 12:23, lunch time but i have a medical check so i can't eat until after the appointment. Today was an assembly in the gym for me, which i had to introduce myself with a 2 minute speech. It was easy, a lil nervous but fun because they were an audience of kids. I just came from a class i just visit, grade 4. Just substituting but it was fun to learn how a Korean class works. They all cheer each other on, clap when someone stands to speak, sing a song when teacher tells them to quiet. They speak good english too! Better than the adults, and it seems they have a good grasp of the language, more than i thought. They were able to ask me questions and understand my answer. At the same time, i'm thinking this might be tougher than i thought because of their high level of comprehension, which i underestimated because of their age. Makes me think, i really need to increase my learning speed in Korean to keep up with their ability to learn English. Its orientation week for me, but i still get paid for last week and this week, aint that sweet? hahaha.
Documents
Geeze, i have loads of paper work and documents i have to sort and complete. Some documents are for my residence and life teaching in Korea, and some are related to home in Canada. They want a residency card, i kinda delayed it because its difficult, but i better get that done this week. Annoying.
Sunday night
What a boring day, it was hot and humid so i stayed indoors all day. Until Ji-Sook came with her friend... wow i forget his name already. He spoke even better English than she did, he was also a teacher but his school was alot bigger than mine. We talked about our differences and similarities between Canada and Korea. He knows about motorbikes so if and when i decide to get one, he will help me purchase one. He went for out for dinner, i was hungry for chicken and the chicken was pretty good here. Fried chicken here is not greasy as KFC lol. It's cheaper too. We talked about food, eating meat and eventually i brought up how Koreans like to eat dog. He said he had it two days ago, sweet! Now we planned to eat some bbq dog next week... i had it in Vietnam. Taste like a mix of chicken, beef and pork. Imagine that, 3 meat in one. Also, their are cool and refreshing side effects to eating dog meat in hot weather, which is why they eat it here. Usually men eat it, not women. Same with drinking, it is said that Korean men love to drink and everynight when i walk Ji-Sook to her bus stop, i see drunkards stumbling everywhere. Oh yeah, last night i saw a young girl wear a T-Shit that said "Fuck Yourself", thats hilarious. I wonder if she knows what that means to be wearing that lol.
Phone
I need a cell phone, but not until I get my medical check, then alien registration card and so on... I dont have a home phone either, but i was able to call home to Canada earlier to speak to my mom with a phone card at school. Finally!
Technology
Again, it really seems that Korea is more capable of having access to technology because Suwon is the hometown of Samsung, like Blackberry/Rim is to waterloo, but times 10. So they have everything here. The classroom has a computer, printer and a frigging 50 inch flat screen TV!!! I also get my own desk and computer in the teachers office, the same as Ji-Sook... this is great.
Curriculum
In so far, i've seen and study a bit of the English books. Its hard for me because the book is written in Hangul but I will be teaching grade 3-6 English with her so that actually makes my life easier... Choosing a public school in Suwon was one of the best descisions i made. I hear horror stories about teaching overseas in Korea, but i got lucky. My school is new, i teach 22 hrs, i have a translator, i get stuff (desk, housing allowance, paid apartment etc) and its mostly girl teachers here. Its fun...
Things are looking good. I'm glad that things have finally turned up and that i am now working. I gotta get back to... work? I honestly am not teaching this week, just orientation (ie visiting classrooms and taking notes). I also remembered, i gotta apply to teachers college by November... thats might not happen if i like it here to much lol.
Friday, September 4, 2009
2009.09.04
Starting the Day
I woke up hella early as usual, dont know why, cant stay up late in korea for some reason. Waking up, thinking 'yet another boring day, wtf should i do?' Turns out I had alot on my plate in the morning. Dishes from last night dinner that I had cooked for myself and Kim, Ji-Sook (Kim is last name, i goofed, I should refer her to Ji-sook L :), boink! ). So yeah, i'm a domestic foreigner... i cook and clean everyday, I didnt do this in Canada. I did my laundry, sorta figured out the 'Korean' on the washing machine and it works fine. Only problem, no dryer so the clothes dont come out of the oven smelling delicious... you hang dry them here. I could spend like 8 bills on a dry, which i also have no room to fit in my closet size mud room... something i have to live without. I figure if i got my lint roller/brush and a steam iron ( which i requested), i'll survive looking clean. Anyways, my days are like sitting at home while i wait to go to work on Monday. I think im getting paid too, because my contract states I work Sept.1st and I dont really work next Monday. Here's why. I misheard, micommunication, that they said it was I who could have swine flue and didnt want to infect the school. I clearly don't because im healthy and Ji-Sook visits me everyday, so she should be dead by now for coming in contact with me everyday for hours. Also, I have meetings, orientation and training all week next week. So really, thats like two weeks of non-related teaching pay? Life is good. Also, they just gave me my 300k krw for housing allowance, workNplay paid me back my 36k for transportation expense (for busing and finding the damn school myself from Incheon to Suwon, brave and risky of me but noteworthy of the accomplishment), im getting an iron, rice cooker (already got a toaster so thats a bonus), a telephone and a couch? Also, as soon as I get my credit card statement, i can show proof of the date purchase of my flight ticket for reimbursment, based on currency of the date. In so far, i can't complain.
Transportation
Lately, its been the old fashion means of transportation for me, walking. Im friggin afraid to get lost because i dont know how to take the bus (everything is written in Hangul and they dont really name their streets, im an agrophob who needs a map), dont know what or where to go in Suwon, can't speak the langauge and not feeling energetic because I may be sore and jet lagged. Therefore, I have spent my week in an internet cafe playng the old classic Diablo II ( I think i mentioned and repeated myself a few times, again im usually too tired by 10-11pm). Also, culture shock is my fear? Not really, because i still enter restaurants like a mute speaking gibberish and attempt failed conversations because i order 'gaw gee' and 'bap' (meat and rice) and they look at me weird.
Anyways, Ji-Sook notice how i stare at cars and bikes all the time when we go for our walks... its true. Cars are different here and i want to get a bike/moped.
I'm really considering on purchasing a moped/bike, something under 1,500,000 krw, after a month or so... Maybe. Its dangerous for me as a foreigner who is unfamiliar with the traffic, i didnt get the international drivers license, if i get in an accident its game over because im on a bike. Still, i'm not sure to taking the bus, its not bad, its just i got an itch to speed, i mean ride. I dont mind walking and busing, its fun. Plus, you notice more girls this way haha.
Meeting People
Havent really met people yet, for the fact i dont speak korean. I see foreigners, well white people, around Suwon. I sort of met Jess, only online. She was kind enough to offer to pick me up a converter for our 110v plugs in Seoul this week, for the 220v outlets here so i can finally use my new laptop that my good cousin brian got me as a going away present and an electric shaver i have ( i swear i mentioned this, gonna keep typing, too lazy to check). I appreciate that, gonna meet up with her next week. Other than the lil restaurant lady owner and grocery people who regconize my dumbfounded foreign face, I haven't truely yet been able to socialize the normal way with introduction and conversation other than Ji-Sook... thats cool though. I need the quiet life, i was living a pretty damn busy party life in Canada because i lived with an alcoholic and party animal (Earl). Things come to balance themself in life randomly i suppose... works for me.
Eating out
FINALLY, i got my pork bone soup!! Janet said it was called "Gum Jah Tung", asked Ji-Sook but she said its translated as potato soup, but has no potato's... Korean language can be friggin confusing with their translation and spelling, ie JeJu Island is also spelt CheJu Island... dialect? And my phrase book is incorrect... too formal and meaningless Ji-sook said... oh well. So yeah, its true, most of the Korean food is spicy. But, not numbingly spicy, just enough to make you swet-balls. I like it. They also love their pickled stuff, kimchi, with everything. Today i spent 4000 on lunch, and 5000 on Gum Jah Tung, not bad, for 9000 i was fed well and tahts eating out in a restaurant. 9000 is less than -$9 CAN. Try to find that in Canada... Anywho... im not gonna cook food anymore, its too much work for one person and groceries are hella expensive in Korea.... GD!!! (God Damn). But I knew this from hersay, had to experience it myself.
Cellphone!!!
Tomorrow I'm suppose to try to Bus to school on my own like a good boy, i better not get lost. Yes the school is open on Sat, only every other weekend. Staff meetings etc. After that, JS is going to take me cellphone shopping, I can get one for free? (Note to self: dont forget you passport tomorrrow) Probably contract... but just like Canada, prices range from like 50-1000 CAN $+... I dont need expensive stuff, life isnt about the luxuries. Yes it is... im just saying that cus im poor right now. UHHhhhhh........ oh yeah... its not like im gonna call anyone. I gotta call home soon too, havent yet because NOBODY has a home phone, korea doesnt have pay phones or garbage pins... a lack of public facilities and infrastructure... its ok... people learn how to survive... Yet, with that just said... people still contact each other, i still meet up with JS and the streets are still damn cleaner than Canada... That says something about taking something about the system, it works!
Overall, i'm a happy camper today (and awake for Bloggin). I just hope my life gets more exciting when i go to work on Monday, so called work, hahaha. I hope today's (lengthy) blog was more ... lively than previous blogs. Good Night !!!
I woke up hella early as usual, dont know why, cant stay up late in korea for some reason. Waking up, thinking 'yet another boring day, wtf should i do?' Turns out I had alot on my plate in the morning. Dishes from last night dinner that I had cooked for myself and Kim, Ji-Sook (Kim is last name, i goofed, I should refer her to Ji-sook L :), boink! ). So yeah, i'm a domestic foreigner... i cook and clean everyday, I didnt do this in Canada. I did my laundry, sorta figured out the 'Korean' on the washing machine and it works fine. Only problem, no dryer so the clothes dont come out of the oven smelling delicious... you hang dry them here. I could spend like 8 bills on a dry, which i also have no room to fit in my closet size mud room... something i have to live without. I figure if i got my lint roller/brush and a steam iron ( which i requested), i'll survive looking clean. Anyways, my days are like sitting at home while i wait to go to work on Monday. I think im getting paid too, because my contract states I work Sept.1st and I dont really work next Monday. Here's why. I misheard, micommunication, that they said it was I who could have swine flue and didnt want to infect the school. I clearly don't because im healthy and Ji-Sook visits me everyday, so she should be dead by now for coming in contact with me everyday for hours. Also, I have meetings, orientation and training all week next week. So really, thats like two weeks of non-related teaching pay? Life is good. Also, they just gave me my 300k krw for housing allowance, workNplay paid me back my 36k for transportation expense (for busing and finding the damn school myself from Incheon to Suwon, brave and risky of me but noteworthy of the accomplishment), im getting an iron, rice cooker (already got a toaster so thats a bonus), a telephone and a couch? Also, as soon as I get my credit card statement, i can show proof of the date purchase of my flight ticket for reimbursment, based on currency of the date. In so far, i can't complain.
Transportation
Lately, its been the old fashion means of transportation for me, walking. Im friggin afraid to get lost because i dont know how to take the bus (everything is written in Hangul and they dont really name their streets, im an agrophob who needs a map), dont know what or where to go in Suwon, can't speak the langauge and not feeling energetic because I may be sore and jet lagged. Therefore, I have spent my week in an internet cafe playng the old classic Diablo II ( I think i mentioned and repeated myself a few times, again im usually too tired by 10-11pm). Also, culture shock is my fear? Not really, because i still enter restaurants like a mute speaking gibberish and attempt failed conversations because i order 'gaw gee' and 'bap' (meat and rice) and they look at me weird.
Anyways, Ji-Sook notice how i stare at cars and bikes all the time when we go for our walks... its true. Cars are different here and i want to get a bike/moped.
I'm really considering on purchasing a moped/bike, something under 1,500,000 krw, after a month or so... Maybe. Its dangerous for me as a foreigner who is unfamiliar with the traffic, i didnt get the international drivers license, if i get in an accident its game over because im on a bike. Still, i'm not sure to taking the bus, its not bad, its just i got an itch to speed, i mean ride. I dont mind walking and busing, its fun. Plus, you notice more girls this way haha.
Meeting People
Havent really met people yet, for the fact i dont speak korean. I see foreigners, well white people, around Suwon. I sort of met Jess, only online. She was kind enough to offer to pick me up a converter for our 110v plugs in Seoul this week, for the 220v outlets here so i can finally use my new laptop that my good cousin brian got me as a going away present and an electric shaver i have ( i swear i mentioned this, gonna keep typing, too lazy to check). I appreciate that, gonna meet up with her next week. Other than the lil restaurant lady owner and grocery people who regconize my dumbfounded foreign face, I haven't truely yet been able to socialize the normal way with introduction and conversation other than Ji-Sook... thats cool though. I need the quiet life, i was living a pretty damn busy party life in Canada because i lived with an alcoholic and party animal (Earl). Things come to balance themself in life randomly i suppose... works for me.
Eating out
FINALLY, i got my pork bone soup!! Janet said it was called "Gum Jah Tung", asked Ji-Sook but she said its translated as potato soup, but has no potato's... Korean language can be friggin confusing with their translation and spelling, ie JeJu Island is also spelt CheJu Island... dialect? And my phrase book is incorrect... too formal and meaningless Ji-sook said... oh well. So yeah, its true, most of the Korean food is spicy. But, not numbingly spicy, just enough to make you swet-balls. I like it. They also love their pickled stuff, kimchi, with everything. Today i spent 4000 on lunch, and 5000 on Gum Jah Tung, not bad, for 9000 i was fed well and tahts eating out in a restaurant. 9000 is less than -$9 CAN. Try to find that in Canada... Anywho... im not gonna cook food anymore, its too much work for one person and groceries are hella expensive in Korea.... GD!!! (God Damn). But I knew this from hersay, had to experience it myself.
Cellphone!!!
Tomorrow I'm suppose to try to Bus to school on my own like a good boy, i better not get lost. Yes the school is open on Sat, only every other weekend. Staff meetings etc. After that, JS is going to take me cellphone shopping, I can get one for free? (Note to self: dont forget you passport tomorrrow) Probably contract... but just like Canada, prices range from like 50-1000 CAN $+... I dont need expensive stuff, life isnt about the luxuries. Yes it is... im just saying that cus im poor right now. UHHhhhhh........ oh yeah... its not like im gonna call anyone. I gotta call home soon too, havent yet because NOBODY has a home phone, korea doesnt have pay phones or garbage pins... a lack of public facilities and infrastructure... its ok... people learn how to survive... Yet, with that just said... people still contact each other, i still meet up with JS and the streets are still damn cleaner than Canada... That says something about taking something about the system, it works!
Overall, i'm a happy camper today (and awake for Bloggin). I just hope my life gets more exciting when i go to work on Monday, so called work, hahaha. I hope today's (lengthy) blog was more ... lively than previous blogs. Good Night !!!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
2009.09.2nd
It's... Wednesday here at 9pm... i forgot what day it was when i woke up. Still a bit jet lagged. Same day,... wake up at 7am and exercise cuz i need to get in shape and kill time. Again, i have absolutely no idea what to do. This is my third time on the computer in 1 day, sad. I shower like 3 times, becuz, well i swet alot from walking around all day and its still warm here in Suwon. My blogs sound tireing, less lively because im tired by this time lol.
Today i tried learning korean again, but the physical activities drained me. I pretty much sat at the PC (internet cafe) all day and played the classical Diablo II came to kill time again... so sad. I had a feeling Kim would be at my house around 5pm, though we arranged to meet at 6... i trusted my instincts and she was waiting on the stairs for me. Again i made her wait 10 minutes, lol. I have to get a cell phone, but i gotta save my money until i get paid. Again she helped me out, but tonight i cooked her dinner because i appreciate her company. Its lonely when noone speaks english!!! Then we went for a walk cuz my house was getting hot (from the cooking, only). Went for a walk in the warm summer night, got ice cream and walked her to her bus stop and i went home. Boring day... but read the notes below, i learned more today.
Prices ranges
Today i went window shopping, im poor right now, saving my money and budgeting because i havent got paid yet. waiting for my housing allowance, reimbursment for plane ticket, and we'll see where work goes. I already want to buy so many things. For example, a video camera ( but im not going anywhere for a month or two until im really settled in, no point), a moped for fun ( i can take the bus though cus its dangerous and im screwed if i get into an accident, no license... ) Anyways... some prices are outragous... you can end up paying 20-40% more than other stores for the same thing here... theres quite a gap between the rich and poor/middle class. Like a cellphone was like 450,000krwon.. im not paying 4 bills for a cellphone for which i will only call one person who speaks english at the moment, kim. Makes no sense. A used moped could cost me like 800,000 to 3,000,000+krw... but again, its risky riding it and i gotta save first and send money home... rice cooker, 50k-300k krw... i dont eat much rice... but still need one cuz im asian. lol. (im tired). Grapes were like (6,500) 6 dollars a bunch, bwahahaha... bananas like 3,000.... outrageous. Water bottles are cheap, 2L are like 1,000 krwon. (1 dollar)
Stores
So i found more stores around my neighbourhood, ( i want to take pictures or videos, but i cant right now). Hair salon, pizza parlour, shoe/tailor store, more small ma and pop homemade-authentic-korean-restaurants... im pretty lucky to have everything in a 1 minute walkind distance... its unheard of in Canada. Imagine, u walk out ofyour house and you see 5 stores of the same kind, thats what i see everwhere when i take 5 steps in any directions. But its quiet too! I found out my apartment, on the 2nd floor is a karaoke bar, didnt know that! but i hear nothing... 2 feet cement walls i guess.
Eating out
So today, i took janet and harry's advice to try janjangyam... its ok... gave me a stomach ache... its noodles with brown sauce... (wheres the meat!!!)... i want pork bone soup badly... even rice. I prefer to cook my own food really, i like korean food, but not right now. Im gonna try getting pizza tomorrow lol...
I gotta blog earlier... i feel like my blogs could be lively'er... i cant spell right now either... geeze... need sleep. Going to bed... goodnight.
Today i tried learning korean again, but the physical activities drained me. I pretty much sat at the PC (internet cafe) all day and played the classical Diablo II came to kill time again... so sad. I had a feeling Kim would be at my house around 5pm, though we arranged to meet at 6... i trusted my instincts and she was waiting on the stairs for me. Again i made her wait 10 minutes, lol. I have to get a cell phone, but i gotta save my money until i get paid. Again she helped me out, but tonight i cooked her dinner because i appreciate her company. Its lonely when noone speaks english!!! Then we went for a walk cuz my house was getting hot (from the cooking, only). Went for a walk in the warm summer night, got ice cream and walked her to her bus stop and i went home. Boring day... but read the notes below, i learned more today.
Prices ranges
Today i went window shopping, im poor right now, saving my money and budgeting because i havent got paid yet. waiting for my housing allowance, reimbursment for plane ticket, and we'll see where work goes. I already want to buy so many things. For example, a video camera ( but im not going anywhere for a month or two until im really settled in, no point), a moped for fun ( i can take the bus though cus its dangerous and im screwed if i get into an accident, no license... ) Anyways... some prices are outragous... you can end up paying 20-40% more than other stores for the same thing here... theres quite a gap between the rich and poor/middle class. Like a cellphone was like 450,000krwon.. im not paying 4 bills for a cellphone for which i will only call one person who speaks english at the moment, kim. Makes no sense. A used moped could cost me like 800,000 to 3,000,000+krw... but again, its risky riding it and i gotta save first and send money home... rice cooker, 50k-300k krw... i dont eat much rice... but still need one cuz im asian. lol. (im tired). Grapes were like (6,500) 6 dollars a bunch, bwahahaha... bananas like 3,000.... outrageous. Water bottles are cheap, 2L are like 1,000 krwon. (1 dollar)
Stores
So i found more stores around my neighbourhood, ( i want to take pictures or videos, but i cant right now). Hair salon, pizza parlour, shoe/tailor store, more small ma and pop homemade-authentic-korean-restaurants... im pretty lucky to have everything in a 1 minute walkind distance... its unheard of in Canada. Imagine, u walk out ofyour house and you see 5 stores of the same kind, thats what i see everwhere when i take 5 steps in any directions. But its quiet too! I found out my apartment, on the 2nd floor is a karaoke bar, didnt know that! but i hear nothing... 2 feet cement walls i guess.
Eating out
So today, i took janet and harry's advice to try janjangyam... its ok... gave me a stomach ache... its noodles with brown sauce... (wheres the meat!!!)... i want pork bone soup badly... even rice. I prefer to cook my own food really, i like korean food, but not right now. Im gonna try getting pizza tomorrow lol...
I gotta blog earlier... i feel like my blogs could be lively'er... i cant spell right now either... geeze... need sleep. Going to bed... goodnight.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
2009.09.02nd
It's my 2nd day here in Suwon. I woke up today after a straight 12 hours sleep from a long restless trip that kept me awake for almost 35hrs straight ( i had 20 min lousy naps here and there). I woke up at like 3am, a naturally well rested sleep forced me to be awake and begin exercising to keep my body in shape from a killer trip. Anyways, i couldnt stop thinking again, about what to do today. I had to go back to sleep because i didnt know if Kim, my new friend who helps me with everything, would come around to help me again. This is because i didnt know how to phone, email or talk to anyone.
Long Walks, A Long Day
So today, i basically spent time walking around town to figure out my new life in Suwon. I dont have to work today, scheduled to work sept 1st. but things arent working out as planned. Also swine flu is still around, i see people sick so for my safety the school kept me at home until next week... whatever their real reason it works out, im lazy. So, turns out, my neighbours are stores. To my right of my apartment door is a tailor/dry cleaners, left is a minimart, across the street is a line of small plaza like building stores: Hair salon, real estate office (who found my apartment), another minimart like 10 feet away lol, a PC store (where i currently get my access to internet), and 6 small ma and pop restaurants. And at the end of the street, in any direction is the main road with more stores. There is an abundance of stores in my neighbourhood in close proximities for some reason (like vietnam, there are a million stores of the same type lined up beside each other as far as the eye can see when u walk out of the house, if you been to vietnam).
Anyways, i needed a bank, out of dough. Bank no.1 i visited had cute girls but snobby service. It clearly said foreign currency exchange outside their windown, they turned me down and i was pissed. Then i went to the one near my house, IBK , and they were good to me, had like 5 people come up to me because i spoke english. This time the girls were cuter, and they giggle when i speak English... i feel good about that! But i had to run home to get my passport in order to exchange money, they only take US dollar, got 245,000 kr Won for 200 USD... Note: No country likes, favours or recognized CAN dollar over USD. So i took that 245,000krw and went shopping again... yet i still dont have everything and my fridge is still empty... now i realize living on your own is mad expensive and alot of work... All in all, i know my neighbourhood pretty well. I went home like 5 times today and out. Hardly anybody speaks english, thats my problem, meaning i gotta brush up on my korean asap.
Learning Hangul
Not that easy... pronounciation is probably the hardest thing, next to reading and writing Hangul properly, because there is so many different combinations... its weird. Im slowly learning it... i have this handbook that my cousins gave me for my birthday, Thanks Jane and Earl, its saving my sanity. My goal is to learn it in 4-5 months... not fully conversational... but atleast basic comprehension...
Boredom
It sort of kicked in, but blogging, talking to Kim, walking around the neighbourhood, learning Hangul, taking 2 naps, 3 showers, cooking.... it was a long day and I learned how to kill time... Still, like my cousin John said, its best to make friends asap because it can get lonely being lost in translation... nearly almost nobody in Suwon speaks English... except Kim and bank girls... I just met a girl name Jessica (Simpson) through my friends Brittany (Spears) and Hannah (Montana) (HAHAHAHA, special celebrity name Brian made up for them, inside joke), through email, turns out she lives in the same area as in do in this big city of Suwon, Yeongtong-gu.
Late Night
Its been a long day, since 3am, its now 12:15. I was with Kim at the bus stop to see her off as she went home. I really appreciate her company, any really. But especially for all the things she has helped me out with. I off to bed... good night.
Allan aka Choi, Song Yong (lol my korean name my aunt nick-named me... it means something else in viet, rude)
Long Walks, A Long Day
So today, i basically spent time walking around town to figure out my new life in Suwon. I dont have to work today, scheduled to work sept 1st. but things arent working out as planned. Also swine flu is still around, i see people sick so for my safety the school kept me at home until next week... whatever their real reason it works out, im lazy. So, turns out, my neighbours are stores. To my right of my apartment door is a tailor/dry cleaners, left is a minimart, across the street is a line of small plaza like building stores: Hair salon, real estate office (who found my apartment), another minimart like 10 feet away lol, a PC store (where i currently get my access to internet), and 6 small ma and pop restaurants. And at the end of the street, in any direction is the main road with more stores. There is an abundance of stores in my neighbourhood in close proximities for some reason (like vietnam, there are a million stores of the same type lined up beside each other as far as the eye can see when u walk out of the house, if you been to vietnam).
Anyways, i needed a bank, out of dough. Bank no.1 i visited had cute girls but snobby service. It clearly said foreign currency exchange outside their windown, they turned me down and i was pissed. Then i went to the one near my house, IBK , and they were good to me, had like 5 people come up to me because i spoke english. This time the girls were cuter, and they giggle when i speak English... i feel good about that! But i had to run home to get my passport in order to exchange money, they only take US dollar, got 245,000 kr Won for 200 USD... Note: No country likes, favours or recognized CAN dollar over USD. So i took that 245,000krw and went shopping again... yet i still dont have everything and my fridge is still empty... now i realize living on your own is mad expensive and alot of work... All in all, i know my neighbourhood pretty well. I went home like 5 times today and out. Hardly anybody speaks english, thats my problem, meaning i gotta brush up on my korean asap.
Learning Hangul
Not that easy... pronounciation is probably the hardest thing, next to reading and writing Hangul properly, because there is so many different combinations... its weird. Im slowly learning it... i have this handbook that my cousins gave me for my birthday, Thanks Jane and Earl, its saving my sanity. My goal is to learn it in 4-5 months... not fully conversational... but atleast basic comprehension...
Boredom
It sort of kicked in, but blogging, talking to Kim, walking around the neighbourhood, learning Hangul, taking 2 naps, 3 showers, cooking.... it was a long day and I learned how to kill time... Still, like my cousin John said, its best to make friends asap because it can get lonely being lost in translation... nearly almost nobody in Suwon speaks English... except Kim and bank girls... I just met a girl name Jessica (Simpson) through my friends Brittany (Spears) and Hannah (Montana) (HAHAHAHA, special celebrity name Brian made up for them, inside joke), through email, turns out she lives in the same area as in do in this big city of Suwon, Yeongtong-gu.
Late Night
Its been a long day, since 3am, its now 12:15. I was with Kim at the bus stop to see her off as she went home. I really appreciate her company, any really. But especially for all the things she has helped me out with. I off to bed... good night.
Allan aka Choi, Song Yong (lol my korean name my aunt nick-named me... it means something else in viet, rude)
Monday, August 31, 2009
Arrival to Suwon 2009.09.01st
Hello Blogger and Readers!
Im starting this blog for several reasons: to reflect, kill time, track my daily life in S. Korea and writing for readers as a leisurly entertainment. Same reasons for journaling.
Arrival to Suwon 2009.09.01st
Excitement! I just arrived to Suwon yestaurday, that was Aug. 31st, I left Canada on the 29th on Sat at. 2:30pm. Flight was delayed in Canada and Tokyo, therefore I arrived at Incheon Airport, Seoul, S. Korea. I stayed at the airport from 11pm till 5:30 am, a drag. Decided that it will be another 12 hrs before i can contact anyone and a driver to pick me up, so I winged it and test my survival skills. Bused and taxi to a school, nothing and nobody speaks english by the way... lost in translation. By chance, luck and some smarts, I randomly found the school, with help of course.
Met the teachers, very sympathetic for the trouble i went through on my own. Met a teacher who eventually is helping me settle in Suwon, Kim, Ji-Sook. They took me to my apartment, pretty sweet too. Fingerprint scanner to use elevator, electronic lock with pins, so no keys. I better take videos and pictures when i get paid to show everyone.
She tooke me shoping already, for bedding and some house hold supplies... im ghetto right now but no worries, im simple. But already 300 dollars in the whole since the day i step food in S.korea. Expenses include: travelling, meals, supplies only. I probably would spend more but not yet, gotta wait until i start working and get that pay check. Foolish to spend now so i dont bother settling in with the housing items... things are cheap here,... prices are similar to Canada. I wonder if they have a dollar store here.. lol.
I cant stop thinking of ways to settle in korea, a million ideas and thoughts right now... cant write or speak it all... gotta find the efficient way of doing things. Gotta go grocery shopping a 2nd time, not starving but bored. Things are different here, but the same in some sense, just hard to identify them.
Anyways, thanks for reading, keep you updated but i gotta go.
Tired of blogging... hungry, time to learn korean, got stuff to do... sorry. Again tomorrow.
Allan
Im starting this blog for several reasons: to reflect, kill time, track my daily life in S. Korea and writing for readers as a leisurly entertainment. Same reasons for journaling.
Arrival to Suwon 2009.09.01st
Excitement! I just arrived to Suwon yestaurday, that was Aug. 31st, I left Canada on the 29th on Sat at. 2:30pm. Flight was delayed in Canada and Tokyo, therefore I arrived at Incheon Airport, Seoul, S. Korea. I stayed at the airport from 11pm till 5:30 am, a drag. Decided that it will be another 12 hrs before i can contact anyone and a driver to pick me up, so I winged it and test my survival skills. Bused and taxi to a school, nothing and nobody speaks english by the way... lost in translation. By chance, luck and some smarts, I randomly found the school, with help of course.
Met the teachers, very sympathetic for the trouble i went through on my own. Met a teacher who eventually is helping me settle in Suwon, Kim, Ji-Sook. They took me to my apartment, pretty sweet too. Fingerprint scanner to use elevator, electronic lock with pins, so no keys. I better take videos and pictures when i get paid to show everyone.
She tooke me shoping already, for bedding and some house hold supplies... im ghetto right now but no worries, im simple. But already 300 dollars in the whole since the day i step food in S.korea. Expenses include: travelling, meals, supplies only. I probably would spend more but not yet, gotta wait until i start working and get that pay check. Foolish to spend now so i dont bother settling in with the housing items... things are cheap here,... prices are similar to Canada. I wonder if they have a dollar store here.. lol.
I cant stop thinking of ways to settle in korea, a million ideas and thoughts right now... cant write or speak it all... gotta find the efficient way of doing things. Gotta go grocery shopping a 2nd time, not starving but bored. Things are different here, but the same in some sense, just hard to identify them.
Anyways, thanks for reading, keep you updated but i gotta go.
Tired of blogging... hungry, time to learn korean, got stuff to do... sorry. Again tomorrow.
Allan
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