Angela's Ramblings

Feels like a life time...

2008-01-08T23:39:00.000+09:00

It almost feels like a lifetime since I last posted a blog on here. I guess I have just been so busy with my work, my new relationship and all of that to really get online, but then I read my friends' lovely blogs and I realize that it would be a good thing to keep in touch. I almost forgot the password for this account but by some miracle I remembered it...
So I am back folks... not that anyone reads this!! hehehe

Planning the Next Move...

2007-08-26T19:19:00.000+09:00

Okay, I've been in Korea for about 8 years now and I think it is enough. I love it here, really, I do but I think it is time for a change. Perhaps another international posting or even going back to Canada. I know my friends Sherilyn and Samantha are holding their breath starting as soon as they read the Canada bit, but really ladies, don't hold your breath... I've got until June left on my current contract!! :) But when I think about it, I haven't worked at home in 9 years. I've been in Korea or Oman that entire time. I've only got one year logged in education in Canada. My struggle with going home is landing a job in a timely manner and the costs involved in going home... I mean... there is the house (covered in international contracts), the car (usually not necessary in overseas job placements), and the loss of being extraordinary because I live somewhere besides Canada. *sigh* I don't know... but I do know that things in Korea are coming to a close for me. The future is wide open, scary and a little like jumping off a cliff... but isn't that kinda exciting!?!? So, if you are keen... check out my new website I am building in order to sell myself as a top educator out there. It is still under MAJOR construction at the moment, but I am working on it... :)

www.angelacollins.checkoutmypage.com

Another year

2007-08-25T10:59:00.000+09:00

Another year older and certainly not wiser... hehehe. Does anyone ever feel wiser when they age? I don't even feel older for the most part. That is, until I hop up to the gym and try and keep up with the 20 year olds and suddenly I've turned 95!! hehehe So, here it is my 32nd birthday and it's more of a non-event and I kinda like it that way... But I would like some wisdom to kick in, that'd be nice.

Kids

2007-07-22T14:11:00.000+09:00

Wow... so don't get me wrong once you read this. I love kids... I love being an auntie to my brother's kids and all my friends' kids... but I DO NOT WANT TO HAVE KIDS!!! I think that after eating, breathing and sleeping kids for 180 days of the year, I just don't want to deal with them. I don't want to hear the sound of a whine, whimper or cry when I am in a restaurant or somewhere else that I think should be equally quiet. I know it sounds harsh and cold... but it isn't. I do love kids. I love to cuddle with them, read to them, have them read to me, play with them, talk with them, write them letters and all that stuff... but once I am on holidays and at a beach or something, I DO NOT want to hear them... see them sure, but not hear them. You know that old saying: "Kids should be seen and not heard." My parents used to say that to my brother as I as kids and I used to get offended, feeling like they thought I was an inferior person or something just because I was a child... but now I realise they were just looking out for the fragile psyche of all those adults who had chosen a life without children of their own. Iam one of those people. I've never really wanted children, and while I think babies etc are cute, I do not want to hold them or carry them or be drooled on by them... So yea, time with my brother's kids and my friends' kids have really helped to cement in my mind that while I would make a pretty awesome mom, I DON'T WANT TO BE A MOM!!
Good thing I am still single then, eh? hehehehe

Too private

2007-06-12T21:48:00.000+09:00

Sounds intriguing, that title, doesn't it? Well... it isn't anything special. I just thought I should explain why I haven't been blogging. All the stuff I want to write about it too personal and close to my mind and heart to lay out there for the public. Lately, I've been doubting some things and people around me and it is causing some turmoil. Do I doubt with good reason... sure. Does it suck to doubt... SURE! I'm having to think hard about what I want and how I want to get that, and I think I have come to a decision, but I don't want to be rash... so cryptic, I know. *sigh* no worries, it isn't anything life shattering... it is just part of daily life. ^^

cross-roads and confusion

2007-05-19T23:27:00.000+09:00

Have you ever reached a stage in your life where you are unsure of what you want or where to go? Lots of little events and circumstances in my life have kind of brought me to that point... and while it sucks, I am sure I will grow from it. ^^

I have things to write about stuff I have been doing around Seoul, but I want to load pics to go with it... so be patient with me kids!! hehehe. I will get to it soon, but didn' t want anyone to think I dropped off the face of the earth. Just been busy and confused!! :)

Forwards

2007-04-21T17:29:00.000+09:00

You know, usually I just delete all forwards that end up in my email inbox unless they come from Ali, my mom or someone that just doesn't send them often. Today I got one from my friend Sonya (Shawanda... to those of you who know her alter-ego) and it really touched me... if you didn't get a forward from me or you deleted it... please check it out here. It's good stuff.

http://cjcphoto.com/can/

It's just like riding a bicycle...

2007-04-18T20:37:00.000+09:00

Oh it is, is it?! I don't know what you are thinking (dear reader), but I am talking about bicycles for real. Today, I decided that I was going to get one so that I can leisurely ride along the riverside near my house. I thought it would be a great way to get a little sun, "fresh" air and excercise all rolled into one. Let me tell you about how you go about getting a bicycle in Korea.
First of all, I mentioned it to those here who already have bikes. I asked them questions about where to get one for a decent price because all I needed was something that goes... no fancy-shmancy things... just wheels, a seat, and a frame holding it all together. So I got the word that Lotte Mart had some... now, those of you who have never been to the Lotte Mart in Chamsil cannot appreciate what an outing this can be, so let me paint the picture for you.
First of all, I drove, thinking that this would be the best way to get the bike home (I live about 10 minutes drive away). So, after ripping along the rode (at the rate that traffic would allow), I made a U-turn (totally legal at almost ALL intersections in Korea) and got in line to enter the parking lot under the Lotte World Hotel and shopping space. This is an entire city block, squared. Of course I had to be waved in by a man with white gloves... he made motions that would confuse the most amazing of all third base coaches and catchers in baseball and underground I went. Where I was greeted by a woman in white gloves who chattered at me in Korean, waved her hand in equally an exciting way as the man and then handed me my parking ticket. Yes, that's right, in Korea you don't lean out the window to press a button, you simply open your window and a worker in white gloves hands it to you.... although, just because some of you have dirty minds, please be sure that they were wearing other clothes as well, not just the white gloves. Okay... so then you spiral closer to the centre of the earth to find a parking spot and then take an elevator up into the bowels of the shopping centre.
Once you are in the shopping centre, aka the maze, you must find your location and there are few with the English skills to truly help you. First I was told that bicycles are sold on the first floor of Lotte Mart, but there seemed only to be make-up... so I went to B1, where I had to wander through all the food aisles and do a little charades to help the staff know that I wanted to buy a bike. Of course this caused endless amusement for the Korean shoppers and brought the PMS me to near tears... but then I just had to laugh. I knew how ridiculous I did look... so then the staff of B1 told me to go to the 4th floor... no, the 5th floor... no, no, the 2nd floor... no, no, no... wait! It was indeed on the 1st floor but because of the new good weather, it was outside the front doors near the "parking station" to quote the staff.
So, feeling spun around like a top, I found the escalator and made my way to the ground floor again. Out the doors I went to face the scared looking bicycle sales staff. The smiled... turned red and pushed the one with the most English at me. I found a bike that was in my price range, didn't look too hokey and that the salesman said was good. I purchased said bike with my credit card (don't tell my mom... I've been so good lately about using it... hahaha, yea right!!) and then told the guy I'd be back with my car. He smiled, nodded and said "see you lata"
So back through the bowels of the shopping centre, down the elevator to the earth's core and into my car. Since I had the receipt I didn't need to pay the exhorbitant fee for parking there and pulled my car around to where the bikes were. Trouble is that at the "parking station" there are no parking spots - they are all roped off for the sales, and so I illegally parked in a cross-walk and ran to find my helper guy. He smiled... wheeled my bike around and stopped short when he say my little car (it is a 4 door sedan, but not built to carry a mountain bike). At first he thought it was going to be impossible but then a light went on, his finger shot into the air and he said "one moment, puh-lease-uh." I smiled and said "okay-uh!" He scurried away and came back later carrying a wad of ribbon. With this he put my bike mostly in the trunk, strapped it down with ribbon and with a flourish, tied down the trunk... I was delighted and scared as hell to drive away like that...
So back onto the big road... trying not to sail over the bumps and home I went... needless to say, the bike and I arrived in one piece.
Now I just gotta ride it!!! Wish me luck.... hehehe

update on angst

2007-04-17T12:08:00.000+09:00

Many of you have either posted a comment here or emailed me about the angst issue. It's good to know that you support my lack of angst. In fact, I was speaking to the other person in the relationship via chat today and it came to me... I have no expectations for the relationship (and that is by design - so that things take their natural course without my or his pushing or pressuring) and neither does he and that is why there is no angst. We are happily getting to know each other as people and so the distance doesn't affect that. So yea... no angst, no worries, no overanalyzing... *sigh* seems simple, doesn't it? I like it... and the best part is that my partner in crime (hahaha, I am sure he'll love that) is on the same page. So thanks supporters!! hehehe

Spring Fever

2007-04-17T12:00:00.000+09:00

Yup, it's that time again where it doesn't matter what kind of work I have to do, all I want to do is be outside, enjoying the spring weather. Spring is finally peaking its face out and Korea is getting prettier by the day. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the plum blossoms too, and the magnolias have gone through one set of blooms and look ready to do it again. The trees are all sporting new green leaves and shrubs are blooming too. This is my favorite time in Korea, and my favorite time in the classroom.
Finally, all my students (well, ALMOST all) are independent and can be trusted to follow instructions and complete tasks on their own. It is so gratifying to see that 8 months of hard work, planning, blood, sweat and tears has paid off.
Recently I have been compiling their scores etc for my action study project so that I can track the success of my students and their achievements under the program I have begun to use and I was blown away. We are ahead of the other classes in the materials and outcomes covered and the kids can actually discuss themselves as students. They know their strengths and weaknesses and are learning ways to cope. It is amazing to see. Their parents were equally amazed when they saw them during student-led conferences. Which, by the way, you need to try if you are a teacher of young children. It is priceless!!!

Long time and long distance...

2007-04-14T23:52:00.000+09:00

Okay... it has been ages since I last really wrote on here. I guess I've been trying to journal in the real world instead of in cyberspace... but I like both. How to strike a balance? Hm... food for thought, that is.... the other part of this article is to seek advice or opinions about long distance relationships... I think I've found myself in one and I don't feel all the angst that people say I should... so am I really in the relationship then? I've been asked out by other guys though since I started the relationship and that doesn' t interest me... so... hm... more food for thought. Anyway... that's all the rambling I have for now

Bali Hali

2007-04-07T09:16:00.000+09:00

This is one of the gates near our resort... how cool looking is that?

More gate/pond thingy...
Super sunburned me... hot, huh?

My travelling co-horts...

Aw... so cute... but they are unpredictable.

The view from our hotel...

Crazy Signs in Tokyo

2007-04-01T18:06:00.000+09:00

Really this is the parking exit sign... but I think it is just telling people to pout... so... do it!!

Dunno what this is all about, but we saw it in Harajuku and I had to get a snap.

This might be my favourite sign from my time in Tokyo... how cute is that?!

So, if you haven't figured it out yet, I went to Tokyo. A couple of weeks ago, my friend Raymond and I went to a conference on Differentiation in Yokohama, which is just 40 minutes outside Tokyo. We made use of all our free time to hit the streets of Tokyo. We went to Shibuya (made famous in that movie, Lost in Translation), Shinjuku (very cool and loads of shopping), Harajuku (famous for their harajuku girls - made famous by Gwen Stefani - and all the crazy shopping there), and Asakusa (my favourite... lots of street markets, the temple, and little boutiques). Are you seeing a theme here? SHOPPING!!! hehehe. Tokyo is a blast, but I'm not sure I could live there...

Next entry? My trip to Bali and Singapore... yes, yes, I know.... you all hate me!! I can live with that. *^^*

posting...

2007-03-04T21:10:00.000+09:00

I realised how lazy I am at this when I looked up my friend April's blog... she rocks the house. I need to be better at it, but just can't seem to find the time. At least not this month. I'm travelling, taking my masters class, coaching and trying to stay sane!! haha So... be patient loyal readers (all 4 or 5 of you)!! hehehe

New things...

2007-02-24T00:38:00.000+09:00

My really good friend just sent me photos of her new thing... a beautiful baby girl named Alicia. She is gorgeous!! Seems like lots of people around me are getting new things like this. I guess it is just that stage in the phases of life. Before they all got married and now they are all having kids. I don't envy them though... it is a lot of responsibility and lost sleep. I know they will all argue with me and tell me it is the greatest thing in the world, but at this stage in the phases of my life... this is one new thing I can do without!! :)

Learning about faith...

2007-02-20T18:53:00.000+09:00

A few weeks back one of my students (7 years old) suffered a loss that I couldn't imagine. Her father died of an agressive form of cancer. She wasn't aware how sick he was and he passed away fairly soon after his diagnosis. It was a shock. She asked for me to come to the hospital and to be with the family at the time of the funeral (which in Korea can last from 1-3 days and consists of paying respects to the departed and his or her family and then eating with them and sitting with them during their time of official mourning). Of course I agreed (which meant the loss of a day of snowboarding for my friends and me - my first ever trip). When I got to the hospital, she greeted me and her mother and I spent some time in tears. Then the little girl took me into the room where the body and alter were. She told me what to do and I followed her instructions. It was sad. I prayed for that family as I layed the flower on the alter for the father, who was much to young to die and leave his family. I also prayed for myself, to be honest. I prayed that I could teach this little girl and help her through her grief. All through that funeral time and ever since, she hasn't cried... not once, not a drop. Nor has she complained or been sad. Her mother questioned me about it and I looked to the research on grief and grief counselling and I found that it comes in waves for kids and that just maybe she didn't get it. So I spoke to her about it as did another teacher. Her response? "Do you wanna know why I don't cry? Because, my daddy is in heaven now. He isn't sick anymore and I'm gonna see him later so it's okay."
Faith. That was her answer: Faith that her daddy was okay; faith that her daddy wasn't hurting or sick anymore; faith that he was somewhere she could go; faith that she would see him there when the time was right. I have been learning a lot from her, learning that she posesses the kind of faith we are all called to have and that it's easy for her because she has the uncomplicated view of a child. She isn't stupid or brain-washed. No one told her to say those things, it came straight from her heart, her heart of faith.

Rough week...

2007-02-03T02:26:00.000+09:00

So today I was suposed to try out snowboarding for the first time ever.... I was nervous but excited... and then in came the call. One of my students, her dad passed away. The mom asked me to please come to the funeral, which is not the same as in western cultures. I couldn't refuse, my student asked for me specifically. So I went. It was so sad... my student is just 7 years old. Her dad isn't that much older than me and he suddenly passed from cancer. I can't image being that young and without a dad. It sure makes me appreciate my blessed childhood and life so much more. I offered to do what I could for the mother... she is just about the sweetest lady ever. My student said we were like sisters and in a strange way I felt like we were. Those of you who were praying and sending your thoughts, thank you. I believe that the dad went quickly and with less pain because of them... I also believe that the family has more comfort because of them. Keep praying for this family, it is a tremendous loss.

Clapton in Concert

2007-01-23T23:28:00.000+09:00

Yup, that's right folks... you read it here first. Eric Clapton had a concert here in Korea tonight and I went... for a huge price of course, but it was fun. I went with a huge group of people from school and it was so much fun. We danced, clapped, laughed and shared a quick drink before going. Although, Clapton only gave one "ankle - Korean for encore."
Maybe there will be more odd concert details in the future, but for now... gotta go to sleep... two late nights in a row (I am beginning to sound like such a grandma!!).

Nighty-night dearies.

A New Diet and Money Saving Plan!!

2007-01-20T23:50:00.000+09:00

That's right all you diet hungry folk out there... here is the new plan, and it won't cost you anything... in fact, if you work it like I did, you will actually save money!! Ready for it? Here it is: Get the flu that keeps coming back!! I have had it twice this week and so instead of dropping in on a wine party, birthday party and a going away party, I am sitting at home in my sweats doing my best to keep the little I am able to eat down... gross, I know... but there is always a positive side, right? Well... here is my take on the positive side of this: I've been wanting to jump start a more healthy eating lifestyle by monitoring my portions and I've also been concerned about going out too much and spending too much money. Well, the flu that keeps coming back is so the answer!! I can't go out because I feel horrible for the moment (seems to go away after 24 hours and come back in 4 or 5 days for another round) and so that saves me money and from injesting huge numbers of calories at all these gatherings I am supposed to be at. See? There is an up side... there is always an up side!!

Too Many Passwords...

2007-01-18T15:22:00.000+09:00

Have you ever come to the realisation that you have too many passwords? I have recently... I have this site, myspace.com, a couple of friend sites, my 3 email addresses (not counting the school ones), my student blog site, a couple of shopping sites and a WAYN.com site... and all of them have slightly different passwords!! Do you think I can keep track?! Of course not... I am utterly lost most of the time and have to ask the computer to send it to my email (which I do remember all of the time, amazing how important communication can be, isn't it?) almost every other week. Yikes!
Here is the real shame though, that we need to have all these cryptic passwords in the first place. I understand the need, but what does that say about society in general? No honor in the honor system anymore is there? Hm... deep thoughts... ha ha ha... yea, right!
Well, something for you to chew on. Enjoy.
Next time... existentialism....

Getting ready to leave...

2007-01-11T08:00:00.000+09:00

Just a couple more days before I go home. Sounds strange to say it like that, but Korea is more home to me than Canada at the moment. I love coming here, and I love being with friends and family, but I miss my life in Korea... believe it or not folks, I actually have one!! So back to that in a few days!!!
For all you in Seoul, I'll be home on Saturday evening! See you then.

Another year come and gone

2007-01-01T09:36:00.000+09:00

So the year is almost over... just hours away (about 7.5 hours to be exact) and I sit here and wonder what I have accomplished, and then my mind wanders to what I will resolve not to do or to do for the next year. So... accomplishments: hm... well, I have definitely accomplished the unwanted and unnecessary gain of weight... and I have accomplished almost all of my masters degree (just 3 more courses and a thesis paper to go). So it isn't all bad stuff. But I haven't accomplished as much as I maybe wanted to... I don't know.
Resolutions: hm... I think these are dangerous to make because they kind of set you up for failure, don't they? So I think I will resolve to just try harder in the things that I do and to have a longer list of positive accomplishments this time next year.
Oh... did you hear this one? Apparently (listen up single and desperate ladies) if you wear red undies tonight when the clock strikes midnight you will be guarateed to fall in love and/or get married over the course of the next year... I think as a matter of scientific experiment my friends and I are going to try it... ha ha ha!!! Just kidding!

Merry Christmas and all that jazz...

2006-12-27T13:14:00.000+09:00

So Christmas has come and gone... Christmas Eve around here was a bit of a pain in the arse... my parents succumbed to the stress and just got annoyed with each other which left a feeling of tension rather than peace in the air. That is always worth the 10 hour flight and $1,700 in cash that you pay to get here!! *wink, wink, nudge, nudge* Oh well, that stuff happens to the best of us from time to time.
Christmas Day was different though, they worked side-by-side in the kitchen to produce an AMAZING meal for me, my grandmother, my two friends (Eric and Flora) and their friend Kiyo. It was a blast. We all sat around, ate and drank and told stories about our lives. I think my friends were a little overwhelmed though. It was their first real Canadian Christmas... and in this house that means a drink in hand at all times (usually with something in it at all times... aka booze) and food at every turn. Needless to say, it was jovial.
Then today was Boxing Day.... always fun. Mom and I spent some time hanging out, another family friend dropped by for a drink and dinner (which turned into more drinks as well) and more stories of the past and the present.
I think that might be one of the things that I enjoy most about this season... time spent with friends, family... remembering the best parts of the past, the best parts of the people around you and the best parts of the present. It really is a beautiful time.
I hope you all (my loyal two readers... thanks Kris and April *^^*) had a great holiday and that you took as much joy as I have so far!!!

Ciao!!

Home for the holidays

2006-12-24T11:05:00.000+09:00

So yesterday I arrived home. My dad was there to pick me up and take me to my parent's house so that I could surprise my mom. It was like the stuff on talk shows, you know... the ones with the big family reunions. I waited around the corner from the door and my dad told my mom to come downstairs to help him with a Christmas present. He told her he couldn't get it in the door by himself. She thought it was the fridge they had thought about buying and couldn't understand how she could help him. But she came anyway. Once she got out the door, she saw me and totally lost it... she just cried and hugged me and cried some more. It might be the best gift I have evrer given anyone!
SO yea... I'll be here from now to the 12th of January.

Have a good one!!!

Long tme no blog...

2006-12-14T20:57:00.000+09:00

It has been a long time since my last entry. I've just been so busy with school stuff, and I have started taking yoga a couple times a week as well. I know, I used to think that yoga was on the easy side, but it is really, REALLY hard if you do it right. My teacher is this tiny Korean woman who is incredibly, if not inexplicably, strong. She pushes us hard but also knows when we need to rest, so I appreciate her a lot. She is super nice and we actually have some friends in common, so that is cool.
What else has been going on? At work I've been diving in to getting the kids more tech savvy (I am sure I spelled that wrong), we now have a class blog page. So check it out at: www.sis-1b.blogspot.com It is pretty cool. There are pictures of all my hairbrained ideas for projects and some of their poems.
Other than that, I am just plugging along with life. I've been trying to be social and not too social, if that makes sense. I just want to be able to hang out without feeling dragged out.
Okay... enough for now...

American Thanksgiving in Korea

2006-11-28T22:07:00.000+09:00

With 50 years of American influence in Korea and bases full of Americans all over the country, you would think that most Koreans, especially those living in the cities that have bases would know a little about Thanksgiving. It's true, they are selling more and more turkeys, cranberry sauce etc in all the groceries now (although at incredible price hikes) but still... they don't really get it. Perhaps they just want to fushion the cultures together a little more, or make it more Korean, I don't know. But there is kimchi at the Thanksgiving feasts, talk about exchanging gifts and and general blank stares. I did have two awesome Thanksgiving dinners over the course of the weekend, so I am NOT complaining... just noting an observation. Here is my favorite observation: one of the parents at the school buckled under cultural pressure (Korean) and gave all the teachers and staff a Thanksgiving present... nice, isn't it? Wanna know what it was? How does an 11 pound box of Korean sweet potatoes strike you? That's right... 11 pounds per apartment. Um... what am I, a single person, going to do with that much sweet potato??? Oh well.... I've been getting pretty creative (so has the rest of the staff... you should have seen our Turkey Bowl football tailgate party potluck dishes). Anyway, just thought I'd share.
Ciao

Almost missed it...

2006-11-12T21:38:00.000+09:00

I've been so incredibly busy and insane with all the stuff that I have going on that I almost missed it. I almost missed fall in Korea. Korea gets notorioulsy short fall and spring seasons, so if you blink too long or stay inside too much, you might miss it. And I almost missed fall this year. But today, as I rode the bus home from nabbing a few little gifties for my friend Sharon, I saw it. I saw the gorgeous yellows of the ginko trees, the bright oranges of the persimmons and the misxed reds, oranges and browns of the rest of the trees. It was so pretty but almost done... imagine if I'd taken my head out of the books or away from stressing over every little thing just a few weeks earlier... I could have enjoyed it all. But, at least I got to see some of it... Must sound silly to most of you, but if you are visual like I am, then you know that seeing the change of a season is wonderful and leaves an impression in your mind... something I don't want to miss!!

Ah... the single life!

2006-11-10T22:22:00.000+09:00

You know, I am 31 years old and almost all of my friends that are my age are married or in relationships right now. Part of me thinks that sucks, and then the other part of me (the sensible, less emotional part) thinks "good for them, better for me!" I think the reason why it sucks sometimes is because I get tired of being the single third wheel sometimes. I mean, I really and truly enjoy my friends' spouses or relationship partners. They are all good people and we have fun when we hang out, but I can't help but feel a little left out. And then when I have an opportunity for a relationship, I either muck it up or run the other way... or my personal favorite, I run head-long into it and he runs the other way!! Ha ha ha! Oh well, what can you do. Isn't there that saying that all good things come to those who wait? Question is: How long do I gotta wait to get the good stuff?!
Actually, for the most part I enjoy being single, I'd mostly want a relationship just for the companionship, you know... someone to travel with, cook dinner with and just hang out with. Again, all good things to those who wait... and I am still waiting so I KNOW it is gonna be REALLY GOOD when it gets here!!! hee hee.

Shanghai in a blur!

2006-10-31T21:29:00.000+09:00

So this last weekend I went to Shanghai, China for a whirlwind of professional development. You can stop rolling your eyes already!! I did go there for a series of workshop sessions about the Primary Years Programme. It is part of the International Baccalaureate programme that is slowly taking many schools by storm. It was an intensive introduction to the elementary part of the programme. I was in Shanghai for 3 nights. It was super busy. I had very little time for anything outside of the classes. We had a social event the one night with the other delegates, so that was good. It was a great way to network and meet new people as well as see the city. Of course, I forgot my camera so I really only have a few shots on my camera phone. I think I can download them, so I will try. The other main night being there was spent hanging out with my friend Rachel who lived here last week. It was great to see her and have her show us around a little!!
My overall impression of Shanghai was that it is a cool place to visit, but that I DO NOT ever really want to live there. The pollution was horrendous... I could barely breath and I am used to Seoul air!

It's official...

2006-10-24T22:36:00.000+09:00

Get your heads straight folks... not an engagement or anything even as fun as a real date... the thing that is official is that my body is falling apart! On Monday I went out for my morning walk which I hadn't done but once the week before. I felt good and it was cold out so I did a little jogging... big mistake!! My back seized up by the end of the day and has been getting worse. I couldn't even do circuits today and could barely stand-up from a chair!! Sucks... because if anything I NEED more exercise. Oh well...

Work, Work, Work!!

2006-10-12T19:05:00.000+09:00

You know, usually I look at October as a fun month where the kids and I have settled into the classroom groove. But not so this month. We just finished a week of Chusok holidays (not that I am complaining) and I am back at work working tirelessly. Well, that isn't entirely true, I work like that but I AM TIRED!! I have to coach still, begin work on the pre-assignments for my next masters class, buy a pressie for my nephew and a late pressie for my neice, attend a wedding, two birthday parties, a team dinner, a Gi Therapy session (more on this when I know what it is... alternative medicine for back problems etc) and plan for a sub so that I can attend a full weekend + training session... and that is just the stuff I have to do this weekend. *sigh* But it is all good, at least I am not bored, right?

A little of this, a little of that...

2006-10-09T21:46:00.000+09:00

THis blog is going to have a lot of different topics in it... so if you get bored, don't tell me, just stop reading.

First... let me tell you about going to Thailand. It was quite the harrowing trip. First we got to the airport on the busiest day of the year. The airport was packed and lines took forever. We almost didn't even make the airport bus because all the seats were full. Luckily they found a place for us. So, we got to the airport and the ovelry pushy person who wanted us to take her kid found a way to get her on the plane so we weren't responsible for her anymore... thank goodness. But that was the one really nice thing about our trip there. Like I said, lines were long and people were plentiful. Finally we got on the plane and then came the fun. There was a lot of turbulence but the best was right before we got ready to land in Hong Kong. The turbulence was so bad that the plane dropped hard to the right and then hard to the left. It was horrible. I was never so frightened. But we landed and then took off again for Bangkok. We landed at the new airport and they didn't let us off the plane for about 30 minutes or more. Not sure why, I think they just couldn't figure out how to attach the door to the little tunnel thingy (yes, I am sure that is the technical term, hee hee). However, we got off, got transfered and then sat on the tarmac for an extra 40 minutes or so... Apparently small planes with propellers aren't allowed to take off in typhoon winds and lightening... hm... go figure. Eventually we arrived in Koh Samui only to find out that our luggage was still in Bangkok. So we had to wait all the next day in dirty drawers before we got our luggage.

Let's go to Koh Samui... that was GOOD!! The weather wasn't too hot and it was lovely. We just relaxed all the time and swam in the pool at our villa. I tried to get a massage just about everyday. I loved it!

Coming home... I realised that I am a CRANKY traveler at the end of the week. I was just tired of traveling and trying to be happy. I needed alone time. I love the people I went with, but you know how it is, you just need a little alone time. All our transfers went smoothly and we got our luggage in Seoul so things were good.

North Korea... so I am sure that you heard that they set of a nuclear bomb in a test. Isn't that lovely? Dang it! I wish all the world leaders would get their heads out of their arses and start being responsible adults instead of bratty little kids with egos that need constant stroking. Really, I am not that worried about things at this moment. South Korea has heigtened their military status in response, but other than that, I haven't noticed too many changes and no one has said anything about getting ready to leave... home they don't.

Okay... that is all that is wandering around in my brain for the moment... gotta go and finish that load of laundry and tidy up the kitchen and some of my stuff from Thailand...

Ciao!!

Rudest person award...

2006-09-29T21:33:00.000+09:00

Usually I can be forgiving of people who are somewhat rude, but people who are over the top really know how to push my buttons. I work with one such person. Thankfully we aren't on the same teaching team because if we were I might have to strangle her. It all started this past summer when I stayed in Korea for the break and helped a couple friends out by taking care of their pets. One night around 8:30 or 9-ish I get a phone call and this woman is on the phone. She asks me to look after her small pets for the summer. I ask when she is leaving and she says that her family is leaving the next day and they just don't have anyone else to ask. I feel inconvenienced but bad for her situation. So I do it... Later I find out that she never even asked anyone else, once she knew that I was going to be here for the summer, it was as good as settled in her brain. So, I learned my lesson and moved on, not the end of the world. You just have to cut inconsiderate people as losses at that time.
But, oh.... it gets better folks. Earlier in the school year she asked if I was doing anything for the Chusok break (Korean thanksgiving, we get a week off this year) and I said that I was going to Thailand. She perked up at this and said that her daughter was going to visit her natural father in Thailand at that time too. I just smiled and said that was great and how nice that she and her hubby were able to take a holiday just the two of them. That was the last I heard of it until last night(bear in mind that I leave tomorrow morning for Thailand). This woman called one of my travel partners and basically told her that she wanted us to escort her daughter on the plane. She didn't ask either of us if we were comfortable with that or offer compensation for being responsible for her 12-year-old. She just assumed that once we heard her sob story of not checking into the ticket her daughter would be using (a return ticket from before that was not listed as an unaccompanied minor) that we would jump for joy to help her. What teacher do you know who would jump for joy to accompany a minor on their first holiday of the year that was taking them to Thailand? What person do you know who would jump for joy to do that for a person who has already proven herself to be rude and selfish? Well, I don't know any. So we told her that we weren't comfortable being responsible for her daughter and sorry. Well, this woman had already changed her daughter's flight to match ours and had told her ex-hubby and kid that we were doing this (did I miss something? Were we even asked? Did we ever say yes?!). In fact, the last thing we had heard was that she would discuss it with her current hubby and the ex to see what they could do on their own. Then we get an email at 1:30 this afternoon at school that she would meet us at the Thai Air ticketing counter with her daughter the next morning!! What the .....?!?! I was and am still infuriated. I tried to think if I knew of another parent that would act this way or do this, I even asked some friends that are parents and they think it is the rudest thing to do... so what do you think? Does she deserve the award?

Two more sleeps...

2006-09-27T22:00:00.000+09:00

For some reason, this year, the holidays don't seem to come fast enough. Maybe it is because I stayed in Korea or maybe it is because my students are really, really hard this year. But whatever the reason, the holidays that we get in the international schools feel few and far between... I know that they aren't, but I feel like they are. But regardless, on Saturday I will be boarding a plane and heading out for a spa in Thailand for a week... aw... yea!!! I was supposed to do a cleansing fast when I got there, but I think I am too tired and I haven't had time to do the pre-fast so.. .I think the order of the day is sleep, sunshine, massages and swimming. I know, I know... you are reading this and some not-so-nice words are going through your mind... sorry! If I could take you with me, I would!!!

Okay... I need to crash. I promised to meet people at 5:30 am to workout... I know, I know... now you are reading it and laughing at my stupidity in giving up sleep a full hour before I have to... *^^*

Lesson Learned

2006-09-17T18:52:00.000+09:00

SO this morning, I get up at the crack of dawn to get ready for the Terry Fox Run here in Seoul. Yup, that's right... there is a Terry Fox run here and it is HUGE!! All the money goes to local cancer research and thousands of people come out. It's really great and it is the second year I have done it in Korea. And this time I was ready to run, so I was all excited about the run. I got up, got ready and then debated on taking and small bad or not for my phone and Ipod. I decided against it because it would be annoying. Instead, I took a light hooded jacket with pockets. Well, it got warm and the jacket ended up tied to my waist by the time I was ready to start. I actually ran almost to the half point when my breath and shinsplints got to be too much. So I slowed down and grabbed for my very expensive, very new cell phone to check the time. WHat!? No phone!?!? Crap! Fortunately, one of the new teachers was with me and we went back to look, so we walked all the way back to the start and didn't find it, so we walked all the way to the half way point and back again. Then I borrowed someone's phone and called my phone. Someone picked it up on the run and turned it in to a photographer who held it for me until I got there. Blessings!! I was so thankful... but the lesson, you ask? Take the bag, dummy, take the bag!!

Aw... Yea!!!

2006-09-14T23:01:00.000+09:00

So, I have lived in Korea for almost 7 full years now and I have coached volleyball for about 5 of those years. And year after year I have never managed to beat one certain school and they are the ONE I want to beat more than the others... There are other schools that I haven't beaten (mostly base schools because put a team of westerners against a team of Asians... who do you think will have more atheleticism and height?!) but that school... SFS.... ooOOooo how I have wanted to beat them. So we played them last week and lost the first set. It was close, but a loss nonetheless, so I got ready to just get all my girls some court time, especially when it looked like we were going to lose the second set. But then my girls came from behind to take the win... and then another set and then another!!! Yes, that's right... my fantasy win happened!!! We see them for two more games in the season so I am hoping to be consistent. But in the mean-time... WOOHOO!!!

Random Weirdos

2006-09-08T19:23:00.000+09:00

Okay... so I belong to a couple of websites for meeting people. Lots of times, it is just interesting people who want to be friends and sometimes there are the freaks. I have managed to avoid most of those and never meet them in person. But I did start emailing some guy and we had one or two conversations and it just wasn't working. We rubbed each other the wrong way. No big deal. So then I get a mass email from a former student and it sends out to your list when you open it. He was still on my list and sends me some nasty reply about how I don't know how to have relationships of substance since I sent out a forward. SO I sent a reply to him asking why he was so rude. He proceeds to tell me that I am the rude one and so on and so on... random weirdness...

I am terrible...

2006-09-06T20:28:00.000+09:00

I know most of you knew that already, but today I realised it. Today, my new school (SIS) went to my old school to play volleyball. I used to coach at the old school before they had their new beautiful facilities and it was great... but we never won games and it was hard on the girls and on me. So, I took my girls from the new school and I made them promise that we wouldn't lose. Isn't that bad? But I couldn't stand the thought of losing to my old school in their new facilities... So, I worked the girls hard and we won!! Our varsity teams lost, but we won... GO JV! But isn't it terrible to want to win out of spite?! Oh well, I guess the truth of my nature shines through!

But I will say this, the new facilities for ICS are WONDERFUL!!! They finally have the campus they deserve and I am happy for them. Those kids and teachers are like family to me and I couldn't be happier for them. It was weird to see the little kids that I used to teach in 4th grade or higher. Even some alumni were there. So, Sanders, if you read this... all our darlings say hi. They are just so cute even though they are growing! And J9... our old JV girls who are still there doing varsity say hey... so does Crystal. And... if Beth ever reads this Sharon and Hannah from the old Varsity team send their love...

Whew! All those little shout outs tired me out! ha ha ha. Okay... gotta grab some grub!

Ciao

Meet the Parents

2006-08-30T23:00:00.000+09:00

Okay, tomorrow should be interesting. We are having an Open House at our school. Typically, this means that we give a 20 minute presentation to the parents of our students. They all come dressed to the 9s in suits and Prada this and Gucci that. So this means that all the teachers need to "dress for success", aka wear a suit. Do I own one? Nope... well, didn't until tonight. I rushed into Itaewon to find that my favourite lady's store wasn't open and I new that my favourite adjushi was having his store remodeled... argh! So I hopped over to my most-unfavourite lady to see what suits and insults she had going. But to my surprise, the new favourite lady was moving her shop over there!!! Woo hoo!!! She found me a dark grey suit with a pinstripe in it. The pants are very wide-legged and the jackets is more cropped and fitted. Makes me a little slimmer, I think. I still need to drop like 100lbs, but looking good... Of course, while in there, I couldn't help but see the nice linen tunics she had and the new workout pants... dag-nab-it. Oh well, I'm happier and spent less than I budgeted for just the suit. So, I can be proud in my cheap but decent fitting suit tomorrow evening when I meet the Prada Parents :), knowing that I have 2 shirts and a pair of pants to boot! hee hee

Happy Birhtday to me...

2006-08-26T14:04:00.000+09:00

Hee hee... so it is my birthday. Or was last night but I plan on getting as much out of it as possible. Went out for dinner with Raymond (that's my best friend in Korea) and then went to a really nice, relaxing martini bar with some other friends. It was good. I love just being with my friends and hanging out. I'm not keen on making a huge deal out of my birthday usually. I just like for friends and family to call or write an email saying Happy Birthday and that's it. Gifts... don't really need them. Cake... hate it (unless it is an ice cream cake... yummy). Big bruh-ha-ha parties... don't need them either. Just time with friends and/or family, sharing laughs and memories. That's all I need and want for my birthday.

Thoughts on church

2006-08-20T11:13:00.000+09:00

I don't know what has come over me, but I just don't want to go to church these days. It doesn't have anything to do with my faith at all... I still believe and love God so much, I just don't feel the need to go to church. I tried really hard this summer to get really involved in serving and helping out but I just couldn't seem to get connected the way I wanted to. I don't know. I loved being of use and serving the people in the church and giving back to God but I still felt like I didn't belong or something. I've really struggled to develop close relationships with people at church and that makes it hard for me to want to go there. I mean, I have always loved church for the worship and the fellowship with other believers, but lately I feel like there is no connection at all. I don't know. It has been 3 weeks since I last went and, you know what, I've really enjoyed the quiet, peaceful time at home. But I feel a little guilty not going, like I'm a bad Christian or something... I don't know. Maybe it is time to look for a different church, or maybe I should not beat myself up about this and take a little time for myself. Like a vacation from church (not God... just church). I don't know... random thoughts...

Worries

2006-08-19T02:48:00.000+09:00

Thanks to those of you who expressed concern over my last post. Really, it isn't something that I feel like I want to talk about. But in order to alleviate your worries, I'll go so far as to say that there is drama, but nothing concerning health or whatnot. I am fine and things will be fine... I have faith and I know that God is in the situation somewhere. Thanks for your thoughts and your prayers... *mwah* much love my friends.

Ciao for now (it's 2:45 am and I need to sleep).

bottoms

2006-08-15T21:12:00.000+09:00

Again, don't get any saucy ideas folks... just a question that popped into my brain today...

What do you do when the bottom drops out? I mean, when you feel the rug underneath your feet move, and not in a good way...

Today, I got some news that was shocking and I really feel like, for just a second, I could feel the rotation of the earth. It was odd. It actually wore me out. The emotional stress, which incidentally was not mine to have necessarily, made me sick to my stomach and so tired. I spent the day in coping mode and it was weird.

I know, I know... pray. Okay, did that, didn't feel better. Wait... talk to someone you say? Yup, got that covered, but it made me feel worse. I found that talking to those directly involved was gut wrenching at first but brought me the most peace in the end. But I am still exhausted. Just a good thing I had the day off today.

So, think about it. How would you handle it when the bottom drops out? Because it does all the time... when someone close dies, when you argue with a loved one over something serious, when someone you love goes away for a long time, when there is divorce in your family or close friendships, when a job is lost, or you fail at something you thought you could do. Today I learned that I am not as strong as I thought, which was a lot weaker than some of you thought I was... so be careful... but also know that there is always a way up and out of the bottomless pit!! *^^*

Ciao

BICTORY!!!

2006-08-12T13:10:00.000+09:00

Okay, for those of who don't know any Koreans or haven't been here. Most Koreans can't make the 'V' sound so when they say victory, it sounds like bictory. And since I live here in Korea, I thought it made sense to title this blog that way. I fianlly got my links to work!!! muahahahaha... Kris, thanks for prodding me to take a fresh look at them to make them work. Ha ha ha. Happy, happy, joy, joy!

Okay, time to actually get some real work done.

Ciao

Links and http or whatever

2006-08-10T21:54:00.000+09:00

Okay... I cannot figure out how to get links on here. I know this is my second post of the day, but I have been working on getting my friends' blogs linked to my page and even though I entered them all in identically, the only one that shows up is Kris's. Argh! HTML is really hard if you aren't all that computer literate.... I need help, friends!

First Days and Technology

2006-08-10T21:27:00.000+09:00

Much less interesting title isn't it? But that is how interesting my day has been. Today was the last day to prep before the little darlings come into class for the first time. I just found out that I have identical twins in my class (April, did you read that, this time I have them both!!) and also the most energetic child from the kindergarten. It's going to be interesting to say the least. I joked with colleagues today that I may need to tattoo the forehead of one of the twins just to tell them apart because their parents like to dress them identically as well. *sigh* I know, I know, once I get to know them, their personalities will set them apart. But until then? Maybe not a permanent tattoo, just a jiffy marker one.

The other part of my title has to do with school as well, but the lovely technology of it all. Last year before we left we were told to make sure to save our files on the fileserve bank and I did (at least I am sure that I did, I had so much work on there... work I was COUNTING on being able to use again). When I got back, I checked and all my documents were there... yippee!! right? No. The next day, I boot up the computer again and go hunting for my gorgeous newsletter that my friend April developed and I pirated and have used now for over 2 years. Lo and behold!!! All my documents have been erased. Yup, every single one of them. Overnight, blink, just like that. *sigh* Technology is my friend, technology is my friend, technology is my friend. If I make that my new mantra, will it be true? How many times must I chant it in order for it to be true?
Well, in times like these all I can think of to do is make a joke, smile or laugh. No point in having a mental breakdown... no, no... we save those for when our laptop dies in the middle of our multi-media masters course (like mine did in June). Okay, enough ragging on tech... if I keep it up, my smart new computer will figure out what I am saying and go on strike. Then I'll really be up you-know-what creek without a paddle.

Ciao.

What's red, hot and soaking wet?

2006-08-09T19:24:00.000+09:00

I hope that you didn't let your mind go somewhere dirty with that title... Slap on the wrist if you did! But, if you guess that the red, hot and soaking wet thing was me after an afternoon workout, then you are CORRECT!!!
Some of the new staff are keen to get their workout schedules in motion and it is providing just the right amount of motivation for me to drag my sorry butt to the gym! I was going by myself before but I wasn't pushing myself very hard and finding excuses not to go was all too easy. But, these girls, Lizzy in particular, are right into keeping me accountable. Even once coaching has started, one of the other girls, Christa, is willing to go after practice with me. So things are looking good from that angle.
They still aren't looking good from my angle of staring into the mirror... but soon *rubbing hands together*, soon my pretties... mwhahahaha.

Updates to come...

Hot, Hot, Hot

2006-08-06T16:36:00.000+09:00

It is so hot these days. Actually, it isn't the heat but the 95% humidity that is getting to me. So when I think of moving somewhere tropical next year, I am also thinking that I need a place with little to no humidity... hm... sounds like Dubai is the place for me. I don't know though. I never know where I will end up. Not really in my control entirely, is it? I guess for those who don't believe in God, they think that all things are their choice. I, on the other hand, do believe in God and so I believe that he orchestrates the choices that are offered before me... .and hopefully I choose things that please him (at least some of the time!)!! hee hee.

Okay... I am going to lay very still in front of the fan.

Ciao

Just like a bad boyfriend...

2006-08-05T11:18:00.000+09:00

Okay... so it seems that my MSN Spaces is back up and running. I need to print the blogs off of there. I had some good ones and it was like journalling, you know? So, the space that was dumped like a bad bf is trying to come back into my life, like a bad bf.... will power! I will not go back, I will learn html if it kills me and I will survive *music playing in my head* as long as I know how to love... blah, blah, blah. So if you want to check my old blog out, you are more than welcome:

http://amramec10.spaces.live.com

Ciao again

Flower Market Fights

2006-08-05T11:02:00.000+09:00

So my friend Chris and I decided that our apartments were in need of something green. I have a car, so I volunteered to drive... because, knowing Chris, we were getting BIG plants. Well, the flower market at Yangjae is basically a series of green houses and with the heat wave, it was like a sauna in there. Maybe the most beautiful sauna with all the rows of orchids and other plants. We wandered around for over an hour, pricing the plants we liked and seeing what we wanted. The one shop we went to said that they use VISA but then her machine broke and neither of us had any cash (payday is still more than a week away). So we wandered and sweated a little more and then found almost the same plants at another stall. Her machine worked like a charm! So, plants purchased and loaded onto a trolley, we were happy, hot and sweaty. Now, it is important to note that up to this point we had only seen one other customer in the market. The adjushi asked where the car was parked so he could help us take the plants there and I (without thinking or looking, and with BIG plastic plant bases in my hands) motioned in the general direction of the car. And that is when I heard it... CRACK... I thought I'd hit a tree or a poll or something, but it never entered my mind that it was the side of some Korean girl's face!! Yes, that is right, I clocked a stranger in the flower market for no reason. Poor thing. I am sure it hurt like crazy. I apologised of course, but she wasn't having it. She just stood there and said nothing to anyone. Even her friend tried to tell me it was okay and not my fault (um... yes, it was my fault... but it was an accident). Poor woman. So the lesson here is that the next time you go to the flower market (wherever you live) don't go swinging plant bases around! Although, to be really truthful... part of me wanted to laugh after I hit her. It was like payback for all the whining I've endured from Korean women over the past 7 years... but I know that isn't right and I'll have to seek forgiveness for my evil thoughts later... hee hee

Ciao

Heat Wave

2006-08-03T10:01:00.000+09:00

It is August 2nd and Korea is experiencing a major heat wave. I know, I know, all of you in North America and Europe are saying, "big deal, we've had one going on for ages." I understand that, but here, the rains have just stopped and they were considered the worst in over 76 years. It was horrible. I've never seen flooding like there was in all my 7 years here in Korea. Kind of scary to be honest. But the rains have stopped and the air is hot and full of the mosture that has failed to seep into the ground. Standing water means more mosquitos and the heat combined with the high humidity makes it unbearable. I sweat just standing outside.... blech! But on the up side, it is gorgeous outside. The skies are incredibly blue and the sun is bright... and the heat makes my cat more passive, which is a good thing because she has taken to trying to escape on a regular basis.
I first discovered her desire to be outdoors when I came home from school one day in the late spring to find her sunning herself out on the rocks that are outside the balcony of my first floor apartment. I panicked because there are tons of dirty and diseased alley cats out there sometimes... and she is an indoor whimp, she'd get pulverized!! Not to mention the cars that seem to aim for cats in this country! So... what did I do? I found string and tied the screens to the posts and made it too small for her to get out. This worked great until the first horrible downpour of the monsoon. The string was cheap and basically fell off... so, I came home to find her gone yet again. This time she was laying in the shade under a tree at the front of my building. So... out came some thin rope and I tied the doors shut again. But, I have a clever cat and she knocked the screens off their tracks and pushed her way out! Darn thing. So I finally figured out how to wedge the screens so she couldn't do either. VICTORY!!!! *muah-ha-ha*
Unfortunately, Pixie(that's my cat) is much more clever that I give her credit for. Basically, she figured out how to push open the other side of the sliding doors where there is no screen... *sigh* I am defeated by the little monster. So... in the interests of keeping her satisfied with her need to go outdoors, I am buying a harness and leash today... yes, you read right, I am going to start walking my cat! Should make for excellent blogs in the future... the stories I will be able to tell about the shocked faces of the Koreans in my neighbourhood... hee hee.

Well, I am off... Ciao

Ex-boyfriends and blogs...

2006-07-31T22:26:00.000+09:00

So, today I got an email from one of my old uni roomies... I miss her (Hi Kris) and she said she was having trouble getting in to MSN Spaces... I thought I was the only one. And then she said that she began using this site for her blogs... funny thing is that my good friend April uses this site too... and so does my friend Katrina... so, I dumped MSN Spaces like a bad boyfriend and here I am. Wish me luck in the new space, I'll have a space warming soon... complete with photos!! ha ha ha.