I'll be giving you my bestest

I'm in love with Barack Obama. I watched him address the US last night (USA Thursday morning) and felt surges of happiness course through my veins every time he finished a sentence. For the longest time I was so discouraged, even disgusted, knowing that George W. Bush was who represented the United States. I was, and still am, ashamed of all the unnecessary deaths and spending that took place the last 8 years he was in office.

It's really a bizarre, and wonderful, experience to watch Barack Obama from overseas. He really has captured the world's attention and there's a noticeable burden that has been lifted - I know it's not just in my head.

I was lucky enough to travel to several countries under Bush's watch and several after Obama took office. The difference in the world's perception is really something to be noted. Also, living in a foreign country has enabled me to see just how much the world looks to the US. I actually feel proud these days, and that's something I haven't ever experienced when abroad.

On a more lighthearted note about Barack: A co-worker last month said that she had a dream about Obama and he was "so sexy." ;) Ha!

Anyway, next week I head back to work and teach away! I'm eager to get going. I loved the past 2 or so weeks but lordy do I need more to do with my time! I met with my new co-teacher yesterday morning. Her name is Lee Youn-He and she is so adorable! I just know that we are going to work so well together. Her English is insanely good and she's 26 in Korean years, so just 1 year older than me (Korean's turn 1 they day they are born and then add another year on January 1st).

Also, my new teaching schedule is so much better than it was last semester! I only teach 20 hours a week (1 teaching hour = 40min.) and I have a reduced amount of lessons to plan as a result. Hoorah!

Ooh, and one thing I was worried about was the fact that Chung Nam was moving to a different school. She was like my lifeline - seemingly perfect English and very organized. She was in charge of the English department and was the one who ensured I got paid/answered my questions (even when I called her at 8pm on a Saturday because our electricity went out!).

Chung Nam has moved to a different school but the new English person (Mrs. Ha) is a women I have worked with and enjoy. She is famous in Gyeonngi-Do and has written books and won all kinds of English related awards -- now she's in charge of me! Communication is key with teaching overseas and I'm very grateful to have had 2 great people overseeing me.

Too much text in this post! I do have a few pictures, actually. Last week David and I went to the Seoul immigration office to get his greencard (long story) and then went to 63 City. Mrs. Ha actually bought David and I tickets to see 63 City when I first got here, so we finally made use of them, though we do need to go back to see the IMAX and skyart. We visited the indoor aquarium, ate lunch at the famous bistro and hung out with Julia for a while! Pictures:

Oh hello, sea princess!

These fish didn't move and they look just like leaves!


I love these colors!


I said to David, "Oh look! Lion Fish!" And he said, "It's you!"


Lobster


These fish eat your dead skin right off! They have manicure/pedicure places in Seoul where they use these fish -- totally going.


Jellyfish are so ethereal.


Pretty!


I love sea otters!

Anyeonhikeesayo! ^^*
Wendy

Our life is frittered away by detail. Simplify, simplify.

Oh Thoreau, your wisdom beguiles me! The title of this update is a Henry David quote and one of my favorites. Anyway, it's very true. I should simplify my life but that's not as easy as it sounds. Things are a let less whirlwind-ish, though, and I s'pose that's a skip in the right direction, eh?

Right now my head is kind of zigzagging everywhere so I apologize in advance for the randomness that is about to ensue.

This past week has been quite insane, but in a strange kind of way. I haven't had to go to work or anything because all the kiddos are on their Spring vacay. I'm happy for it, but lord there's only so much I can do to spend the time. I wrote letters, took walks, milled around the stationary store. I even went to my office to work on a few wedding things while David worked at home.

One thing I did a little too much of is played Pet Society. Miseducated has an article on it here if you want so more info, but basically it's this game on Facebook where you have a pet and you take care of it and make money/points by grooming and playing games and visiting friends! You get to decorate your house and by earning more points you earn more rooms in your house. It's wildly entertaining. Here are a few screen shots:

living room


bedroom


bathroom

I'm working on my kitchen and I'm going to do a garden room! Eeh...too much fun.

Back to reality. Yesterday I had the longest trip ever but it was definitely worth it. I finally made it to my voice lessons and I'm really glad I made the trek. It took me a whopping 3 hours, but I guess I went about it all wrong, taking the subway when I should have taken a bus. At least I know for next time, right?

The voice lessons themselves went really great. My instructor is named Ryan Goessl and he's a classically trained baritone with a Master's from UNC but has lived in Korea for 3 years. The lesson was very technical and I learned a lot about my voice that I didn't know, such as: I have a tendency to crescendo at unnecessary times during warm ups and my upper lip is often too tense. Hoorah for learning new things - Tasia would be proud. :)

I'll be going to lessons every other week for an hour. Ooh, and 2 interesting tidbit, Ryan has appeared on "How I Met Your Mother" and he also teaches a very famous Korean pop singer! How fun!

Hmm...other news. Well, I was recently approached by the publisher of "OFifteen Magazine." They wanted me to to provide one of my favorite recipes. So of course I offered up my yummy tomato soup delight! Click below:

Lastly, David and I decided to order a pizza last week since we were running low on groceries and so I got on the phone and did my best at ordering in Korean (I would call it a semi-success). The only thing that went wrong was the fact that we got a Coca-Cola when I clearly said AHN-EE-OH COKE! which means "No Coke!"

Anyway, I thought I was ordering the right size when I ordered an XXXL. See, they have 2 sizes - Large and XXXL. I thought if I ordered the XXXL it would be like a regular large. Turns out it's really like an XXXL pizza. I laughed very hard when the delivery guy came to our door with the bohemoth "delicious concept for family." Pics:

^that's a regular sized notebook there.

We got plenty of meals out of that one...

Adios! Wendy

The Cutest Cafe in Bangkok

Anyeonhaseyo! Or, more appropriately for this post, Sawatdeekah (Thai)!

I know I've been out of Thailand for 2 weeks now, but I wanted to share a short passage I wrote in my free time about a cute cafe I happened upon on one of the first few days in lovely Bangkok.

The Cutest Cafe in Bangkok

A Detailed Encounter and Review of Sorts

I was about a week into my stay at a hostel in Bangkok, Thailand, when I happened upon the most darling cafe I'd ever laid eyes on. It was a Sunday and, consequently, the cafe was not open.I cupped my fingers around my eyes and pressed gently against the glass window to get a closer look. My eyes spanned the cozy room from one end of the cafe to the other, absorbing all the decadent and perfectly placed decor that filled the space.

Despite it being dim, I noticed beautifully detailed chandeliers dripping from the ceiling. Eager to see it all, my eyes quickly moved to the vibrant orange and deep, royal-purple fabrics that cascaded from the ceiling lit up as if the were interrupting spotlights. Their golden tassels hung loosely, remaining steady with nobody inside to bother them. Each square table was covered in a wide pink gingham and vases redder than snow white's pouty lips perched upon the soft fabric. Each provided a home for a bounty of dried, lilac-hued flowers, whose delicate buds spilled upward into the quiet air. Perched along side each tiny table were two sleek bone-white, armless chairs that complemented the entire space.

I promptly made a mental jot to visit the place and order an icey beverage.
Several days later I skipped right back to Decho Cafe's pretty stained glass door. Toes first, I stepped in and let the ambience engulf me. The quarters were quiet, but I didn't mind a bit. In fact, I think it made for a better sensory experience. Mental state in prime position, I surveyed the place once more, this time from the inside, running my fingers along the shimmery, golden rococo-inspired wallpaper while enjoying the light coffee aroma that filled my nostrils.

I made slow strides toward the register, a young Thai woman worked away. I felt tiny, like a miniature Alice who just tasted an "eat me" cookie, as I surveyed the large menu displayed above me. I opted for my tried and true iced mocha, with whip. The 65 baht was a little more expensive than street coffee, but $2 for a gourmet cup of joe really can't be disputed.

I was elated. A piece of cafe heaven and a much needed resting place from the bustling Bangkok city. It just goes to show that planning ahead is not always the best way to enjoy your time in a foreign place. Decho Cafe was not on my list of things to do or see, nor was it on anyone else's list, I suspect, but it quickly became a daily habit for me to stop by. That, darling, is better than any tour you can book (no matter how good a price you find)!

PS. And if you're interested in stopping by for yourself:
Location: BTS stop Chong Nonsi. 4 Decho Road, next to Lub D. Hostel.
Hours: Monday - Friday 8am-8pm

Cheers,
Wendy Rose!

사랑해 yeah yeah!

Oh, hello! Let's get straight to the point! The other day I received a lovely letter from Miss Amber Renee (who I always seem to talk about in my posts). We've been writing back and forth which is always a blast and reminds me of my old-school penpalling days. Because her letter was so pretty, and because I was in the mood to take a few pictures, I snapped away:

Who knew that $2.20 could bring so much joy!

And, of course, while I was shooting away little Goguma decided to join in on the fun! I couldn't resist her cuteness and had to let her stay for a while.

I think she was drawn to a sticker that fell off the letter from Amber.

Anywho, yesterday was the rainiest I've ever seen Korea and most definitely the warmest it's been in a while! The high was 63 degrees and it literally rained all day. David and I needed to go grocery shopping at E-Mart 1 day early so we got ourselves around and headed out shortly after we woke up (which was very late, by the way). Don't you hate it when you go grocery shopping and in your head you bought so many things and honestly believe it will last you for weeks? And then 2 days later you realize you don't have enough food in the pantry or in the fridge?

Yeah, well that happened last weekend and it was quite a bummer. So David and I made a goal to make more things from scratch. Yesterday we opted for a homemade potato, corn and clam chowder. As my kiddies would say, it was so delicious! The only thing that would keep me from making it again is the fact that we bought fresh clams that were still alive and David was opening one up and a LITTLE CRAB CRAWLED OUT. We actually found two crabs. Ew ew ewwww! Picture of the finished product (sans crabs):

Cheers, lovely!

when i woke up this time

First of all, I want to plug a really excellent website started by my dearest Amber Renee. She's one of the most unique and creative artists I've ever met and, just like a true creative person, has a certain twinkle the runs through all her work. In other words, you know when something is hers.

Anyway, we've been working together on a website (I really only do writing and photography, she's the mastermind) and it's turning out to be quite successful. So, with that said, check out www.miseducated.net. ^^*

And, while I'm plugging away, I want to mention a really cool website that I happened upon the other day while browsing Michelle my Belle's blog (which is a fun place, too - check it out). It's called "Madebygirl.com" and is ultra-dollesque, which is a new word by the way. I need to copyright that thing.

Anyway, I've been on a paper frenzy looking for the best wedding invites, save the dates, etc. and I'm just a fan of stationary in general. If you don't believe me I recommend you check out my overflowing collection. Sadly, Madebygirl doesn't make wedding invitations, but she does make the chicest of cards and posters. Here are a few that caught my eye:

"Hello Hubby-licious."
I love this because it's hard to find a young and hip card for your spouse once you tie the knot.


"Just wanted to say thanks."
I'm a fan of random.



"I love hue."
Perfect for any painter, ha!

Mm, okay I have a story for you. You see, before I moved to South Korea I was quite obsessed with tomato soup. In fact, it was something I ate at least 2 times a week, often with grilled cheese to accompany and crushed crackers inside. I'm telling you, the stuff is better than dessert. Anyway, I've literally been searching for the stuff since we moved from the States and no luck. Even when we went to Thailand I looked at every place imaginable and honestly, I can't believe Southeast Asians are willing to miss out on the vegetably goodness.

Okay I have to admit to something: I found some tomato soup at "foreigner" grocery store in Itaewon maybe 3 months ago, but I didn't buy it because I figured it wasn't that difficult to find and I wasn't looking very hard. AND the can was like 10 pounds and like 15,000 won and I really didn't feel like doling out that kind of money or carrying a weight around for the rest of the afternoon.

Fast foward to this week. I finally thought, "HEY! We can try to make tomato soup!" Well, ladies and gents, I'm definitely a genius because that is the best idea I've ever had in my life. So David and I got all the supplies necessary and whipped up a batch of tomato soup (made from scratch) which fresh tomatoes and all.

It. tasted. like. heaven. We even splurged on 5 pieces of American cheese ($2ish) to make grilled cheese. I will be making this at least once a week from here on out. I think it will get me through the hard times. Picture:

I apologize for not setting my white balance. I was too excited.

Oh, and one last thing. I know this whole post has been randomly composed but it fits with my current mood.

I mentioned before we left for Thailand that I had rearranged my office at work and wanted to post pictures. Never got around to doing that. So, yesterday I rearranged my classroom (just the desk area) and took pictures of everything. I honestly love my workspace here in Korea, it's so quirky and fun and the open space/splashy colors make for a fun day:

My office - the desk space is in the corner there.


Better view of the desk space area. There are two desks and I'm unsure as to why that is so.
I'm the only one who sits in there! The students sit on the green/yellow sofa thing when I give them speaking tests. I love my little corner.


Welcome to English Class! A view from the door.


My classroom and office are separated by foggy glass doors which is very convenient.


And a view from the back of the classroom.
The tables are nice but conducive to chatter which is a huge drawback.


My desk in the classroom.
I share it with the co-teacher, but since Young Shin had her baby it's all mine.


A view of the classroom from my desk.

And while we're on the topic of classrooms, I thought I'd share a book that came in from a recent order. It's an "Alice in Wonderland" book which I love anyway, but this one is a popup and so fun! I have it proudly on display in my office so it won't collect dust on the bookshelf:

Seriously, how rad?

Mmk, I'm off. Vacation starts tomorrow since today was the last day in the winter semester. The kids (and I) don't have school again until March 3. I've decided to use the spare time to start my book.

Cheers!

keep it kind, keep it good, keep it right

Warning: This is an update that talks about wedding stuff. Be ware!

I've been working really diligently on wedding nonsense and have made quite a bit of progress, thank you. It's been a lot of fun, I just hate the fact that everything has a price tag on it. Still though, we're doing pretty well and I feel like everything is right on schedule. According to the fierce Martha Stewart I only have a 140-something more things to check off my to do list! Hoorah!

Over the past several months I've made massive strides with bookings and whatnot. Let me divulge:

Florist: Miranda from Bloomz. Miranda was my neighbor in Indianapolis (which Ms. Amber and Ben are keeping warm until we get back) and owns Bloomz in Irvington. I've heard great things and so I'm eager to work more with her! Nothing is finalized, but I've been talking with my grandmother, who was a florist for many years, and I'm so far I'm letting this ensemble inspire my color palette and flower choices:

Musicians: In all my childhood wedding dreams, I always envisioned a live, string trio or quartet to play at my wedding. Well, I acted on that desire and booked a string trio (violin, viola and cello) for our reception. We hired the Troika String Trio because I've heard rave reviews and also I've actually performed with Sarah Atterson before (when I performed an aria from Copeland's "Tenderland").

As for the ceremony, a church friend, Sabrina Falls, will play the harp (beautifully, might I add), my Aunt Grace and sister (and maid of honor) Jessica will sing with a church friend, Linda Showalter, accompanying with piano. Lovely!

Photography: Kris Arnold, a dear friend and staff photographer at NUVO Newsweekly, will shoot the wedding. His style is uniquely him, quirky and always eye-catching. Here are some of my favorite pieces of his:

Stunning, right?

And of course, David loves Kris because he shoots bands like Slayer:



For more of his work, check out his Flickr (a great way to spend your afternoon!)

Tents/etc.: I've learned more about tents and supplies than I ever wanted during this whole process! I literally talked to 5+ tent renters in Indianapolis and settled on Montgomery Tents and Awnings because a) They were incredibly kind and prompt, b) They've worked at The Benton House before and c) They had everything we needed.

We went with a 40x60 pole tent with cathedral-window siding, 10 round tables, 5 cocktail tables, space for musicians, wedding white chairs and of course tables for the party/food/cake! Outside there will be room for 130 or so and inside the actual house there's room for 50! Perfection. I assume people will flow from one space to another since it's a cocktail type event. Here's a diagram:

Are you worn out yet? :) Now we're working on food items, hair/makeup stylists, wedding party attire, favors (organic, hand made soap with autumnal ribbons) and a few other odds and ends things. Oh, which reminds me. INVITATIONS. Wanna help? David and I have narrowed the styles down to these (from WeddingPaperDivas.com - awesome). Colors will obviously be of the autumn variety!

What's your fav.?

'Tis all for now. Ciao!