Sunday 27 June 2010
Never ask a Korean woman for menu selection advice!
This weekend our original plans were to go on a bus tour on Saturday and strolling downtown. (its a two hour stroll one way) However, it rained on Saturday and several hours of the bus tour were outside. So Saturday we just relaxed in the apartment, went to the PC room, and watched a million episodes of Flashpoint. Trav's new fave American show) We decided to go out for dinner. We wanted (Travis) to get chicken and beer. Jk Jk Trav! He wanted beer though and I do love chicken, and lucky for us they go together here. We walked across the street, and I think they saw those crazy white people coming, so by time we got to the door it was locked. There was a place a few doors down, so we settled on it. The lady brought us our menus, we asked for chicken and she informed us No Chicken :( and pointed down the street.(the locked door) We attempted to ask her what she would reccommend. BIG MISTAKE! Our "appetizers" came those little rice puff cereal type things, peanuts, and small fish.(heads and all) Mom, you may want to stop reading since you have a weak stomach and I would hate for you to think less of your little princess. But if I want to really experience true Korea, I had to eat that little fish. SO after like 5 attempts, he landed in my mouth and after about 5 minutes, I was actually able to swallow it. It did not help that she only brought us three large beers and no water. While, my dad and seester enjoy the occasional beer, I absolutely do not! However, I had reached my lowest of lows (with the obvious exception of my hospital trauma) so I enjoyed a few glasses of beer. The use of enjoy in this context is equivalent to making the most hideous face with every sip. Needless to say our main entree comes out and it is "fishbread" as Trav so perfectky described it. It was pieces of fish that had to be pulled away from the hard (not really scales) but most outer part of the fish. Then gnawed on to allow for swallowing. We stomached the delic dish, becasue we did not want to hurt our hostess's feelings, afterall it is her favorite! Needless to say, we picked up some chicken before heading home.
ATW- Across the World
As promised this post is ATW or Across the World. I was originally going to title it Around the World, but since I will only be comparing South Korea and the US, it seems "around" would be a bit of a false representation.
1. The first ATW is dirty men which allows for the other related ATW prostitutes. Yes, yes the US and S Korea are both booming with the business of dirty men and their prostitutes. Every evening just like magic there are little pamphlets littering the street with ladies in their panties and phone numbers. A picture of such pamphlet must be posted as soon as I a) get the nerve to actually pick one up and b) have internet in our apt to upload for your viewing pleasure. Don't have a hard attack Granny they are wearing underwear :)
2. The second ATW is Jesus. Before someone starts to say a special prayer to save my soul from the fiery pits of hell, I do not mean this in a literal sense. It is simply the depictions of Jesus, whether he be a Caucasian man with brown hair, or an African American man, or a Korean man with Asian features.
3. Third ATW is those ear deafening recorders. JCD hands them out in the fifth grade, I believe. If the point is to instill appreciation of music in children, well maybe another instrument should have been chosen. Every lunch period at my school, I have the choice of listening to my students attempt to play those shrieking instruments or tune it out with Jack Johnson and Brett Dennen. Sorry Hyein girl middle schoolers, but I would like to keep my hearing intact.
4. Fourth ATW are those ridiculous women who try to treat their puppy like an accessory. Before going on, I would like to say that just because Delilah may own two sweaters, I am not in this category ;) In the US, you have women like Paris Hilton carrying around her pooch in her purse, and in Korea you have a lady who has dyed her dogs fluffy ears and tail bright pink. I saw this woman and her dog a few days ago. Today, I saw them both again and the dog's ears were orange and her tail was pink. At least color coordinate for the poor pooch :(
I am forgetting a few and Trav is in the apt. and not here to remind me. So I apologize for the loss of sleep that you will all have to endure until my list is finished ;)
1. The first ATW is dirty men which allows for the other related ATW prostitutes. Yes, yes the US and S Korea are both booming with the business of dirty men and their prostitutes. Every evening just like magic there are little pamphlets littering the street with ladies in their panties and phone numbers. A picture of such pamphlet must be posted as soon as I a) get the nerve to actually pick one up and b) have internet in our apt to upload for your viewing pleasure. Don't have a hard attack Granny they are wearing underwear :)
2. The second ATW is Jesus. Before someone starts to say a special prayer to save my soul from the fiery pits of hell, I do not mean this in a literal sense. It is simply the depictions of Jesus, whether he be a Caucasian man with brown hair, or an African American man, or a Korean man with Asian features.
3. Third ATW is those ear deafening recorders. JCD hands them out in the fifth grade, I believe. If the point is to instill appreciation of music in children, well maybe another instrument should have been chosen. Every lunch period at my school, I have the choice of listening to my students attempt to play those shrieking instruments or tune it out with Jack Johnson and Brett Dennen. Sorry Hyein girl middle schoolers, but I would like to keep my hearing intact.
4. Fourth ATW are those ridiculous women who try to treat their puppy like an accessory. Before going on, I would like to say that just because Delilah may own two sweaters, I am not in this category ;) In the US, you have women like Paris Hilton carrying around her pooch in her purse, and in Korea you have a lady who has dyed her dogs fluffy ears and tail bright pink. I saw this woman and her dog a few days ago. Today, I saw them both again and the dog's ears were orange and her tail was pink. At least color coordinate for the poor pooch :(
I am forgetting a few and Trav is in the apt. and not here to remind me. So I apologize for the loss of sleep that you will all have to endure until my list is finished ;)
Friday 25 June 2010
"Teacher what is your chest size?"
June 21-25: It was my second week of school. Because of last week's schedule changes, I had yet to meet three of my classes. The week overall went well. It is still hard to decide whether the students are being unmotivated or simply do not understand me. I think the latter occurs more frequently. The students are very familar with "ok" and "yes." So, while those of us who understand the English lesson would say "yes" or "ok" if we understood. My students think that since this is the appropriate response in a conversation, they should say it repeatedly even if they have no clue what I have just explained. So while I stand up there teaching the lesson, I either hear an echo of every word I say or "ok ok ok teacher" "yes yes yes teacher." Being the rookie that I am, I took this to mean that they understood, and I could pass out the in class work. After this, out of 35 students, there a typically 4-6 students doing the work I handed out, 8-10 doing work for other classes, and the remainder are reading comics, pulling eachother's leg hairs out with tweezers, admiring their reflection in the mirror, recurling their bangs, talking and laughing with others, or hitting the student (who is always their friend) who is sitting next to them. Ay Ay Ay ! We had a discussion regarding the use of "ok" and "yes" in my class, but I am sure that was lost in translation as well! I have one 3rd grade class with a student who speaks fluent English, so she always translates for me. Apparently, this would be the role of a co-teacher..... if I had one.
One of my third grade classes was new to me this week. I answered the standard questions. Do you have a boyfriend? When I answer they cover their mouths and say ahhh! The second question is older or younger? Well this response is most likely the funniest, the fact that I have a younger boyfriend, apparently makes me extra "sexy" Next, what color are your eyes? When I show them that I have blue eyes, they are insistent that I have lenses. (contacts) SO then I have to proof to them that indeed I have no lenses. Many of the girls have blue lenses, which is so funny, because the brown shows right through them. But, I understand during high school I got brown contacts, and the blue of my eyes was much larger so I had brown eyes with blue around them! I'm sure at the time I thought it was really cool. However, this class decided to also ask me....My chest size! I blushed and walked to the front of the classroom, and began to teach the lesson. Lesson number possibly four or five, Korean middle school girls always say what is on their minds.
Before I left a very intelligent friend of mine (Lee-Ann) told me that you can always tell people about your travels and show them pictures, but you can never share the sounds, smells, and tastes. She is so insightful! So I thought that although I can not let you experience such things first hand, I would attempt to describe them in writing.
First we will start with the sounds. On my walks to and from school in the morning, the usual sounds are cars honking and children talking as they walk or run to school. As I am walking up the steps to my school, there are usually at least three voices yelling "hello Lin-ji." The girls have a difficult time getting their mouths to form the sound of Lin-z, so my Korean name is Lin-ji. I can empathize, because I fail getting my mouth to correctly articulate their names. When English speakers talk, our mouths tend to open fairly wide and words carry out for a longer period of time. When Koreans speak it seems to come through clenched teeth and every syllable/word is short and precise. So when I try to pronounce their names it turns into a sing-song instead of a very short and precise name. I am also aware that my voice is much slower than the typical English speaker. (thank you sorority sister who so "nicely" pointed that out one night and Osgood for catering to such slow talking) On with the purpose of this paragraph, during passing periods which are ten minutes long, it is sheer and utter chaos. Girls are running, skipping, yelling, and singing down the halls. These sounds can also be heard in Lin-ji's class. These sounds are NOT heard in other classes, I have walked around during my free periods, and it is silent!
A few days this week, I decided to listen to my headphones on the walk to and from work. This was actually really interresting experience, because I am always trying to listen so intently on conversations (of which I may catch one word) and miss out on the gestures and body language. While, waiting to cross the street I was able to understand the relationships of the people around me. A mom was explaining to her son (who was probably six) how to get to school every day and which route to take. Korean children are much more independent than children in the US. Two little girls were flirting with a little boy. The only way children know how to flirt pointing and laughing and then the boy gave the girls the finger.
On to the smells of Mokpo. Depending what day it is, upon leaving my apartment my nose is assaulted with the smell of garbage. In Korea, you pile your trash up, maybe in certain areas or maybe it is random I have not decided yet. The trash is just in bags so the smells seep out into the streets. It also is rainy seaon which aids in the dispersion of the raunchy gargage scent.
The smells at lunch are always a nice reprieve. In my opinion, it is typically a spicey aroma. I do not have many smell observations, I will continue to sniff out more to share.
Finally the tastes of Mokpo. Every day at lunch, is a new adventure for my palate. Chef Travy is very jealous, that everyday I eat an authentic Korean lunch for free :) So far I have had so many different dishes. Many of the soups have a fishy taste to them, and I am not all that crazy about them. The first day we had a pork tenderloin, it was very tasty. The kimchi, which I eat daily, is a spicey cabbage. I really like it, however at some of the restaurants it tastes a little different. The fish is served with scales and bones, you do not eat them, but you have to pick at it, so I avoid fish as well. The other meats pork and beef are usually smokey tasting and are usually good. Unfortunately for me, chicken is not a huge deal at our school or the smaller restaurants. There are numerous chicken and beer joints. Trav and I ate at one last Sunday, and it was a honey barbeque flavored. It was good, probably my fave thus far in regards to eating out. The school has had several delicous dishes.
I am aware that I have neglected the senses of sight and touch. When we get the internet, you can share in the sights as we will be able to post pictures. As far as feels, I assume that Korean people feel the same as all other humans (oh Karol with a K) do, and I am not going to rub on them to test this assumption. I have not felt any other textures that need to be explained, but if I come across some, I will let you know!
Ok well my fingers say it is quitting time! I received my alien card Friday, will be getting paid on Monday, and hopefully Trav and I will be able to get internet in our apt and cellphones! Also next week Tuesday through Friday is test week, so I only have to go to school in the mornings! Yay for me! I will have many more adventures to post next week as well as a special entry "ATW" or "Across the World" aspects of life that are both in the US and Korea. This will mostly be a light hearted sarcastic list, so fair warning do not be suprised or insulted, afterall this is the UNEDITED VERSION!
One of my third grade classes was new to me this week. I answered the standard questions. Do you have a boyfriend? When I answer they cover their mouths and say ahhh! The second question is older or younger? Well this response is most likely the funniest, the fact that I have a younger boyfriend, apparently makes me extra "sexy" Next, what color are your eyes? When I show them that I have blue eyes, they are insistent that I have lenses. (contacts) SO then I have to proof to them that indeed I have no lenses. Many of the girls have blue lenses, which is so funny, because the brown shows right through them. But, I understand during high school I got brown contacts, and the blue of my eyes was much larger so I had brown eyes with blue around them! I'm sure at the time I thought it was really cool. However, this class decided to also ask me....My chest size! I blushed and walked to the front of the classroom, and began to teach the lesson. Lesson number possibly four or five, Korean middle school girls always say what is on their minds.
Before I left a very intelligent friend of mine (Lee-Ann) told me that you can always tell people about your travels and show them pictures, but you can never share the sounds, smells, and tastes. She is so insightful! So I thought that although I can not let you experience such things first hand, I would attempt to describe them in writing.
First we will start with the sounds. On my walks to and from school in the morning, the usual sounds are cars honking and children talking as they walk or run to school. As I am walking up the steps to my school, there are usually at least three voices yelling "hello Lin-ji." The girls have a difficult time getting their mouths to form the sound of Lin-z, so my Korean name is Lin-ji. I can empathize, because I fail getting my mouth to correctly articulate their names. When English speakers talk, our mouths tend to open fairly wide and words carry out for a longer period of time. When Koreans speak it seems to come through clenched teeth and every syllable/word is short and precise. So when I try to pronounce their names it turns into a sing-song instead of a very short and precise name. I am also aware that my voice is much slower than the typical English speaker. (thank you sorority sister who so "nicely" pointed that out one night and Osgood for catering to such slow talking) On with the purpose of this paragraph, during passing periods which are ten minutes long, it is sheer and utter chaos. Girls are running, skipping, yelling, and singing down the halls. These sounds can also be heard in Lin-ji's class. These sounds are NOT heard in other classes, I have walked around during my free periods, and it is silent!
A few days this week, I decided to listen to my headphones on the walk to and from work. This was actually really interresting experience, because I am always trying to listen so intently on conversations (of which I may catch one word) and miss out on the gestures and body language. While, waiting to cross the street I was able to understand the relationships of the people around me. A mom was explaining to her son (who was probably six) how to get to school every day and which route to take. Korean children are much more independent than children in the US. Two little girls were flirting with a little boy. The only way children know how to flirt pointing and laughing and then the boy gave the girls the finger.
On to the smells of Mokpo. Depending what day it is, upon leaving my apartment my nose is assaulted with the smell of garbage. In Korea, you pile your trash up, maybe in certain areas or maybe it is random I have not decided yet. The trash is just in bags so the smells seep out into the streets. It also is rainy seaon which aids in the dispersion of the raunchy gargage scent.
The smells at lunch are always a nice reprieve. In my opinion, it is typically a spicey aroma. I do not have many smell observations, I will continue to sniff out more to share.
Finally the tastes of Mokpo. Every day at lunch, is a new adventure for my palate. Chef Travy is very jealous, that everyday I eat an authentic Korean lunch for free :) So far I have had so many different dishes. Many of the soups have a fishy taste to them, and I am not all that crazy about them. The first day we had a pork tenderloin, it was very tasty. The kimchi, which I eat daily, is a spicey cabbage. I really like it, however at some of the restaurants it tastes a little different. The fish is served with scales and bones, you do not eat them, but you have to pick at it, so I avoid fish as well. The other meats pork and beef are usually smokey tasting and are usually good. Unfortunately for me, chicken is not a huge deal at our school or the smaller restaurants. There are numerous chicken and beer joints. Trav and I ate at one last Sunday, and it was a honey barbeque flavored. It was good, probably my fave thus far in regards to eating out. The school has had several delicous dishes.
I am aware that I have neglected the senses of sight and touch. When we get the internet, you can share in the sights as we will be able to post pictures. As far as feels, I assume that Korean people feel the same as all other humans (oh Karol with a K) do, and I am not going to rub on them to test this assumption. I have not felt any other textures that need to be explained, but if I come across some, I will let you know!
Ok well my fingers say it is quitting time! I received my alien card Friday, will be getting paid on Monday, and hopefully Trav and I will be able to get internet in our apt and cellphones! Also next week Tuesday through Friday is test week, so I only have to go to school in the mornings! Yay for me! I will have many more adventures to post next week as well as a special entry "ATW" or "Across the World" aspects of life that are both in the US and Korea. This will mostly be a light hearted sarcastic list, so fair warning do not be suprised or insulted, afterall this is the UNEDITED VERSION!
Sunday 20 June 2010
June 12-13: Our first weekend in Mokpo. First before, I forget my favorite encounter with a Korean, thus far occurred Friday when we were walking home from the grocery. First of all, I am sure two white people walking in Mokpo was enough of a reason to stare, but secondly, we were carrying boxes of groceries. The lady, who checked us out, would not bag our groceries, and kept repeating BOXES! BOXES! So we boxed up those groceries and started the trek to our apt. We passed a little Korean girl on the way, she was probably about seven or eight and was enjoying her chocolates. She stopped and stared at us, which by this point was a very normal response. However, she continued to stare, and well me being me, continued to turn around to look back at her. She stood almost frozen with her little chocolately mouth hanging open until we had rounded the corner at the end of the street. I did not allow my curiousity to get the best of me, but I am almost certain she was still standing there for several minutes after.
On to the events of Saturday and Sunday. Saturday we hiked around the city for a few hours. It was nice. We saw a few dogs, yes contrary to popular belief dogs are the new pet in Korea and not commonly found on the dinner plate. We went to HomePlus (no translation that is what is printed on the side of the building) and its pretty much like a Wal-Mart and got sheets, blankets, and pillows. Those items did not make the cut to be provided by the school. The lavish apartment came with two dining chairs (BONUS: one more than stated in the contract) a table, a twin bed, and a closet. No cookware either, so we purchased one pot, one pan, two cups, two bowls, two plates, and two sets of a fork, spoon, and chopsticks...we are most definitely not hosting any dinner parties anytime soon! Sunday we relaxed and explored the town for a few hours. The most exciting part of Sunday was visiting the PC room which really translates to a room full of young boys wasting their lives away playing online games or a new found paradise for others with Trav's interests!
June 14- My first day of school! Trav and I walked together to school. If you are thinking oh how cute its more like Lindsey would have been lost in Korea without a little help! I arrived about a half an hour early, first impressions are important you know?! I also arrived dripping sweat and Trav insisted on taking my "first day of school picture." Lucky you Mom someone carried on your tradition! During the teacher's meeting ( all of which is conducted in Korean) I had to sit on a blue stool in front of the meeting. I also had to get up and introduce myself which I told them English would have to do. I managed to get a few laughs, and most importantly I survived! I was told on Friday NUMEROUS times, that I would not be teaching on my first day. Well the bell rang at 8:50, and my class filled with about 35 students. If teachers in the US think students are direspectful well fly on over to Korea. My students talked, ran around the room, sang, danced, pretty much anything one could imagine that is not appropriate for a classroom. My first two classes were dreadful (this is the nicest way I know to state the facts) My third class was grade 3, in a middle school that translates to about 8th greade. The students are 16 in Korea, they would be 15 in the US and possibly almost every other country in the world. Lunchtime came and I struggled with my chopsticks. They told me I could use my spoon(no fork in the entire school, but I could bring my own) But again me being me, I continued to struggle with those ridiculous metal chopsticks. Lunch was suprisingly good. It was a fried pork tenderloin, rice, kimchi, veggies, and soup (which the lady would not serve to me because I had not left the designated spot free). The worst part about lunch was their food is spicey (to me not to Trav he's way cooler than me) and you do not drink during. You fill up a metal cup after and take like four gulps and thats it.
The next entry is well unedited, you have been warned, but it must be shared with the world, since it was my most dreadful part of this overall dreadful day! I had to go to the hospital for my medical clearance. Ms Park and I left before my 7th and 8th period classes. So instead of six classes, I only had to teach four on my first day! We arrived at the hospital and my blood was taken. I am sure the burse gave a warning in Korean, but all of the sudden I was just stabbed with a syringe and then I realized what was going on. After, I had to give a urine sample. Well, sometimes yoiu just do not have to use the restroom. So I tried and I tried, and I mean after about three trips to get something to drink and about thirty minutes...finally! The doors in the restroom were like accordian type and they slid shut. Most ladies were not even shutting the doors, obv I did. I am getting ready to come out and this lady kicks the door and my sample spills all over my lap. I think this is when I made the decison that Korea was just not for me and I would be flying home the next day. I don't think I said more than five sentences that evening to Travis. It was my no good, very bad, horrible day.(or whatever that book was called Aunt B.. am sure you know what I am referring to)
June 15-17- Tuesday through Thursday at Hyein Girls Middle School
Since this is the unedited version, it is only fair that it is a real account of the events of my life in Mokpo. During the 20ish minute walk to school on Tuesday, I wore my sunglassses, not because it was extra sunny, but because I was trying not to cry or was crying the whole way to school. I would like to blame my emotional state on the effects of jet-lag and my belly not being happy about the switch in foods, and since I am the author of this blog lets just go with that theory.
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday were all good days at school. I established class rules, and enforced them. I threw students' food away and consifcated their work from other classes, and even made them stand with their arms out for 5 minutes. This was suggested by a Korean teacher and I used it in place of the stick that the Korean teachers whack students' arms with. Its really not as cruel as it sounds, the girls usually giggle and try to dodge the stick. I also learned which food goes where on the tray, and that you must never put rice in a small section, and the soup lady even served me! I carry around a large water bottle, and although I am the only one, I take it with me to lunch. I did get scolded on Wednesday, for not taking attendance although it was never explained to me, however, these types of misunderstandings are common in Korean schools. (so I have heard) I was introduced to the director of the school, which is the wife of the owner. She actually runs the school, he just signs the check. She gave me a juice box and wanted to talk about her daughters who live in the US and are of the Rutheran Christian faith. I told her, that I did not know about such a Christian religion, and she looked at me "like how could you not know if you are really a Christian" Luckily, looks are pretty much universal, even if I have no idea what people are actually verbally communicating. However, in Korean the the r/l sounds go together ALAS! Lutheran! Ok ok we are going to head out of the PC room for the day....nevermind Trav is joining the forces and signing in to Guild Wars, which means I have hours to write ;)
June 18-20: Our second weekend in Mokpo!
Friday was an ok day at school. I have a supplementary class, which happens 8th period from 4:05 to 5pm. No one told me that these students would all see me in regular classes during the week. I have these supplementary classes Monday, Wednesday, Friday, its still up for debate whether its every week three days or every other two. This is also common place in Korean schools, depending on who you ask about a certain topic you will undoubtedly get several answers. Anways, back to the point (oh Candace I miss our ADD moments) these girls had all either already seen me once if not twice that week. I did not realize this, so I had to try and create a new lesson in a few minutes. Well, when in doubt play an English game right?! My students enjoyed the game, and about 8 of them actually listened to the directions, the others thankfully caught on within a few minutes. (my students are often disrespectful and often lazy but I can not argue that they are not smart and quick) After the game, they decided that they would rather socialize than particpate in class, I tried several strategies to no avail. Finally, with about ten minutes to go, I wrote on the board that the class would sit in silence for 5 minutes, and for everytime someone talked an additional minute would be added. Intersting enough, my students will say they do not understand me or its a common occurrence for them to cross their hands in an X across their chests and say "no english no english." However, they can read almost anything on the board and follow the instructions. We began our five minutes and got to 3 minutes before two minutes were added within seconds of each other. As I was walking up to add one of the minutes, I tripped (in my room there is a platform in front of the board) and almost fell there were a few giggles, but lets be honest I really just wanted to join in the giggling! I mean if a certain English teacher of mine would have tripped I would have been in hysterics...oh milkshakes ;) They ended up staying after the bell for two minutes, which may have been more painful for me. It was 5, and I wanted to go home and celebrate my survival.
Let's talk about that celebration. I told Sacachewa (for you Soulmate and anyone else that loves history...so just Soulmate it is!) known as Travis that I wanted to go downtown to the movie theater and out to dinner. We walked around for over two hours, I can not even begin to wrap my head around the route that we ended up taking. After about an hour and forty-five minutes, we saw a pizza place (yes I wanted Korean pizza to celebrate) but by that time all I wanted to do was gooooooo home! So celebration consisted of seeing half of Mokpo (but no movie theater), one Korean man very excited to see us (possibly intoxicated), two very sore feet, and one very grumpy Lindsey :( (home video of two year old birthday party grumpy Lindsey)
Saturday was a relaxing day. We had that pizza, although it was not Mr. Pizza which I suggested but Ishmil's Pizza which Travis chose. He likes me to think that I am choosing :) In the US, we would call food before the meal appetizers, but in Korean you do not pay extra for such food, but you always eat three to four types of food before you actually eat what you ordered. Usually its kimchi, turnips, or some other type of veggies, however at the pizza place it was a type of rice cereal, pickles(there is a god and he loves me), and a type of salad. These dishes are shared with others at the table. We had Bulgogi (beef) pizza. Honestly, I will stick with Korean food from now on, it was not bad, but authentic Korean food is much better.
On Sunday, well when in Rome do as the Romans do, the same principle applies here in Korea as well, we hiked. Everyone in Korea hikes that means children who can walk, (no wories if you can't you are just strapped to your dad) old women with backs curved more than Granny's, women with two inch high heels on and their fancy jewelry, and everyone else. We hiked Yudalson Mountain, I was dripping in sweat and smelled pretty fresh. Koreans do not use deodarant, well there is a legitimate reason for that: THEY DONT REALLY SWEAT! So sweaty white girl with her stunna shades, they are prescription and I wanted to see no I do not think I am a rockstar, on was quite the sight! We also hiked to the Sculpture Park. There is a section with about 20-30 sculptures and descriptions of each sculpture and the artist's name. I really enjoyed it, Sacachewa did very very well ! And despite all my teasing, am very very glad he is with me :)
On to the events of Saturday and Sunday. Saturday we hiked around the city for a few hours. It was nice. We saw a few dogs, yes contrary to popular belief dogs are the new pet in Korea and not commonly found on the dinner plate. We went to HomePlus (no translation that is what is printed on the side of the building) and its pretty much like a Wal-Mart and got sheets, blankets, and pillows. Those items did not make the cut to be provided by the school. The lavish apartment came with two dining chairs (BONUS: one more than stated in the contract) a table, a twin bed, and a closet. No cookware either, so we purchased one pot, one pan, two cups, two bowls, two plates, and two sets of a fork, spoon, and chopsticks...we are most definitely not hosting any dinner parties anytime soon! Sunday we relaxed and explored the town for a few hours. The most exciting part of Sunday was visiting the PC room which really translates to a room full of young boys wasting their lives away playing online games or a new found paradise for others with Trav's interests!
June 14- My first day of school! Trav and I walked together to school. If you are thinking oh how cute its more like Lindsey would have been lost in Korea without a little help! I arrived about a half an hour early, first impressions are important you know?! I also arrived dripping sweat and Trav insisted on taking my "first day of school picture." Lucky you Mom someone carried on your tradition! During the teacher's meeting ( all of which is conducted in Korean) I had to sit on a blue stool in front of the meeting. I also had to get up and introduce myself which I told them English would have to do. I managed to get a few laughs, and most importantly I survived! I was told on Friday NUMEROUS times, that I would not be teaching on my first day. Well the bell rang at 8:50, and my class filled with about 35 students. If teachers in the US think students are direspectful well fly on over to Korea. My students talked, ran around the room, sang, danced, pretty much anything one could imagine that is not appropriate for a classroom. My first two classes were dreadful (this is the nicest way I know to state the facts) My third class was grade 3, in a middle school that translates to about 8th greade. The students are 16 in Korea, they would be 15 in the US and possibly almost every other country in the world. Lunchtime came and I struggled with my chopsticks. They told me I could use my spoon(no fork in the entire school, but I could bring my own) But again me being me, I continued to struggle with those ridiculous metal chopsticks. Lunch was suprisingly good. It was a fried pork tenderloin, rice, kimchi, veggies, and soup (which the lady would not serve to me because I had not left the designated spot free). The worst part about lunch was their food is spicey (to me not to Trav he's way cooler than me) and you do not drink during. You fill up a metal cup after and take like four gulps and thats it.
The next entry is well unedited, you have been warned, but it must be shared with the world, since it was my most dreadful part of this overall dreadful day! I had to go to the hospital for my medical clearance. Ms Park and I left before my 7th and 8th period classes. So instead of six classes, I only had to teach four on my first day! We arrived at the hospital and my blood was taken. I am sure the burse gave a warning in Korean, but all of the sudden I was just stabbed with a syringe and then I realized what was going on. After, I had to give a urine sample. Well, sometimes yoiu just do not have to use the restroom. So I tried and I tried, and I mean after about three trips to get something to drink and about thirty minutes...finally! The doors in the restroom were like accordian type and they slid shut. Most ladies were not even shutting the doors, obv I did. I am getting ready to come out and this lady kicks the door and my sample spills all over my lap. I think this is when I made the decison that Korea was just not for me and I would be flying home the next day. I don't think I said more than five sentences that evening to Travis. It was my no good, very bad, horrible day.(or whatever that book was called Aunt B.. am sure you know what I am referring to)
June 15-17- Tuesday through Thursday at Hyein Girls Middle School
Since this is the unedited version, it is only fair that it is a real account of the events of my life in Mokpo. During the 20ish minute walk to school on Tuesday, I wore my sunglassses, not because it was extra sunny, but because I was trying not to cry or was crying the whole way to school. I would like to blame my emotional state on the effects of jet-lag and my belly not being happy about the switch in foods, and since I am the author of this blog lets just go with that theory.
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday were all good days at school. I established class rules, and enforced them. I threw students' food away and consifcated their work from other classes, and even made them stand with their arms out for 5 minutes. This was suggested by a Korean teacher and I used it in place of the stick that the Korean teachers whack students' arms with. Its really not as cruel as it sounds, the girls usually giggle and try to dodge the stick. I also learned which food goes where on the tray, and that you must never put rice in a small section, and the soup lady even served me! I carry around a large water bottle, and although I am the only one, I take it with me to lunch. I did get scolded on Wednesday, for not taking attendance although it was never explained to me, however, these types of misunderstandings are common in Korean schools. (so I have heard) I was introduced to the director of the school, which is the wife of the owner. She actually runs the school, he just signs the check. She gave me a juice box and wanted to talk about her daughters who live in the US and are of the Rutheran Christian faith. I told her, that I did not know about such a Christian religion, and she looked at me "like how could you not know if you are really a Christian" Luckily, looks are pretty much universal, even if I have no idea what people are actually verbally communicating. However, in Korean the the r/l sounds go together ALAS! Lutheran! Ok ok we are going to head out of the PC room for the day....nevermind Trav is joining the forces and signing in to Guild Wars, which means I have hours to write ;)
June 18-20: Our second weekend in Mokpo!
Friday was an ok day at school. I have a supplementary class, which happens 8th period from 4:05 to 5pm. No one told me that these students would all see me in regular classes during the week. I have these supplementary classes Monday, Wednesday, Friday, its still up for debate whether its every week three days or every other two. This is also common place in Korean schools, depending on who you ask about a certain topic you will undoubtedly get several answers. Anways, back to the point (oh Candace I miss our ADD moments) these girls had all either already seen me once if not twice that week. I did not realize this, so I had to try and create a new lesson in a few minutes. Well, when in doubt play an English game right?! My students enjoyed the game, and about 8 of them actually listened to the directions, the others thankfully caught on within a few minutes. (my students are often disrespectful and often lazy but I can not argue that they are not smart and quick) After the game, they decided that they would rather socialize than particpate in class, I tried several strategies to no avail. Finally, with about ten minutes to go, I wrote on the board that the class would sit in silence for 5 minutes, and for everytime someone talked an additional minute would be added. Intersting enough, my students will say they do not understand me or its a common occurrence for them to cross their hands in an X across their chests and say "no english no english." However, they can read almost anything on the board and follow the instructions. We began our five minutes and got to 3 minutes before two minutes were added within seconds of each other. As I was walking up to add one of the minutes, I tripped (in my room there is a platform in front of the board) and almost fell there were a few giggles, but lets be honest I really just wanted to join in the giggling! I mean if a certain English teacher of mine would have tripped I would have been in hysterics...oh milkshakes ;) They ended up staying after the bell for two minutes, which may have been more painful for me. It was 5, and I wanted to go home and celebrate my survival.
Let's talk about that celebration. I told Sacachewa (for you Soulmate and anyone else that loves history...so just Soulmate it is!) known as Travis that I wanted to go downtown to the movie theater and out to dinner. We walked around for over two hours, I can not even begin to wrap my head around the route that we ended up taking. After about an hour and forty-five minutes, we saw a pizza place (yes I wanted Korean pizza to celebrate) but by that time all I wanted to do was gooooooo home! So celebration consisted of seeing half of Mokpo (but no movie theater), one Korean man very excited to see us (possibly intoxicated), two very sore feet, and one very grumpy Lindsey :( (home video of two year old birthday party grumpy Lindsey)
Saturday was a relaxing day. We had that pizza, although it was not Mr. Pizza which I suggested but Ishmil's Pizza which Travis chose. He likes me to think that I am choosing :) In the US, we would call food before the meal appetizers, but in Korean you do not pay extra for such food, but you always eat three to four types of food before you actually eat what you ordered. Usually its kimchi, turnips, or some other type of veggies, however at the pizza place it was a type of rice cereal, pickles(there is a god and he loves me), and a type of salad. These dishes are shared with others at the table. We had Bulgogi (beef) pizza. Honestly, I will stick with Korean food from now on, it was not bad, but authentic Korean food is much better.
On Sunday, well when in Rome do as the Romans do, the same principle applies here in Korea as well, we hiked. Everyone in Korea hikes that means children who can walk, (no wories if you can't you are just strapped to your dad) old women with backs curved more than Granny's, women with two inch high heels on and their fancy jewelry, and everyone else. We hiked Yudalson Mountain, I was dripping in sweat and smelled pretty fresh. Koreans do not use deodarant, well there is a legitimate reason for that: THEY DONT REALLY SWEAT! So sweaty white girl with her stunna shades, they are prescription and I wanted to see no I do not think I am a rockstar, on was quite the sight! We also hiked to the Sculpture Park. There is a section with about 20-30 sculptures and descriptions of each sculpture and the artist's name. I really enjoyed it, Sacachewa did very very well ! And despite all my teasing, am very very glad he is with me :)
Friday 18 June 2010
"You are much more beautiful than your picture"
June 10th: On Thursday evening around midnight we arrived in Seoul, South Korea. My contact, who we shall just refer to as Mr. Kang which is undoubtedly the name of a million Korean men, misunderstood and thought we would be arriving on Friday afternoon. He informed us we would need to get a hotel for the night and start our journey to Mokpo in the morning. We were greeted by a very "eager" taxi driver who insisted on taking us to our destination. He also insisted that our destination was not a good choice, and therefore he would take us to another one. We pleaded with him to drop us off at the specified hotel, he refused and politely pulled the taxi over to continue to argue his point. First lesson, never argue with a Korean taxi driver, he will always win. We arrived at his hotel of choice and as promised were driven to the airport to catch the bus to Mokpo the following morning.
June 11th: After waiting for the bus for about an hour all the while getting long glances from Koreans, we boarded the bus. Luckily, faithful travel partner Travis Tanner asked the bus driver if it would take us to Mokpo. By asked I mean awkwardly pointed to our bus ticket and the bus driver nodded. Even more lucky, the nod in fact meant yes this bus was going to Mokpo! On the bus ride, we stopped for a bit, and the bus driver offered us ice cream, Mr. Show-Off (otherwise known as Travis) replied Kamshamneeda. (Thank you in Korea) The bus driver turned back around and began to chat in Korean as we attempted to explain that was about the extent of our Korean language skill. Lesson two, don't flaunt your Korean unless you can at least say three or four additional sentences.
At the bus stop Ms. Shin and Ms. Park from Hyein Girls Middle School picked us up in their very small car. We rode with suitcases on our laps, and our new friends giggled at the silly Americans in the back. I feared for my life several times. Lesson three, red lights in Korea are optional. Also if a driver wants over, he/she simply honks and then proceeds over regardless of cars in the other lanes. Apparently, a honk is fair enough warning to get out of the way. We arrived at our apartment and by apartment I mean a bathroom, with no defined shower or bathtub and equipped with a washer, and another small room, which serves as kitchen, living room, bedroom, and every other room one would have in their home. Ms. Park told me that "I was much more beautiful than my picture" well unfortunately her English isn't exactly clear and the elevator didn't allow for the most conducive listening environment, I misunderstood and thought she was referring to our baggage as being "much more." So I was like "Yeah, I know." Lucky for me, these reponses in Korea are common (at least among my middle school girls) but when I realized I tried to explain, but maybe that was also lost in translation!
More to come, but I have to go because we are getting hungry ! My first weekend and first week of school in Mokpo will be posted in a few days hopefully!
June 11th: After waiting for the bus for about an hour all the while getting long glances from Koreans, we boarded the bus. Luckily, faithful travel partner Travis Tanner asked the bus driver if it would take us to Mokpo. By asked I mean awkwardly pointed to our bus ticket and the bus driver nodded. Even more lucky, the nod in fact meant yes this bus was going to Mokpo! On the bus ride, we stopped for a bit, and the bus driver offered us ice cream, Mr. Show-Off (otherwise known as Travis) replied Kamshamneeda. (Thank you in Korea) The bus driver turned back around and began to chat in Korean as we attempted to explain that was about the extent of our Korean language skill. Lesson two, don't flaunt your Korean unless you can at least say three or four additional sentences.
At the bus stop Ms. Shin and Ms. Park from Hyein Girls Middle School picked us up in their very small car. We rode with suitcases on our laps, and our new friends giggled at the silly Americans in the back. I feared for my life several times. Lesson three, red lights in Korea are optional. Also if a driver wants over, he/she simply honks and then proceeds over regardless of cars in the other lanes. Apparently, a honk is fair enough warning to get out of the way. We arrived at our apartment and by apartment I mean a bathroom, with no defined shower or bathtub and equipped with a washer, and another small room, which serves as kitchen, living room, bedroom, and every other room one would have in their home. Ms. Park told me that "I was much more beautiful than my picture" well unfortunately her English isn't exactly clear and the elevator didn't allow for the most conducive listening environment, I misunderstood and thought she was referring to our baggage as being "much more." So I was like "Yeah, I know." Lucky for me, these reponses in Korea are common (at least among my middle school girls) but when I realized I tried to explain, but maybe that was also lost in translation!
More to come, but I have to go because we are getting hungry ! My first weekend and first week of school in Mokpo will be posted in a few days hopefully!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)