Monday, July 16, 2012
at this rate i'll be cleaning my kitchen soon
It's the evening before my first day of vacation! I don't remember how to blog! I am out of chocolate!
Well, now that I think of it I do have some chocolate chips and some hazelnut hot chocolate powder. I could consume these things. But I'm trying to not have a lot of caffeine today. I've been drinking lemon tea. It's basically really strong lemonade + hot water + ginger lemon sugar. A byproduct of my latest failed attempt to candy ginger and lemon zest, whoops. I mean I guess I had some success, but mostly a mess of sugar - which is, thankfully, still a potent sweetener when dissolved in hot water.
Guys, I have a lot of hot water! I have one of those office water cooler things in my apartment. The kind that is hooked up to the pipes, so I don't even need to order water. It filters stuff itself -- AND it was recently tuned up so I can trust that it is working as well as it ever could. Cheer.
It's almost vacation time and I have made no real plan. I have been preoccupied with preparing for and teaching classes. Also I'm busy reading books. I have a record of the books that I have read over the past few years - top record for a year is 36. Ain't nothing but a peanut! I gotta beat that, people. Have to beat my own personal best. I want to read at least 37 books before the year is out. Content I won't restrict because I derive so much pleasure out of so many different books - they all count to me. But I need to put some good things in my brain. Books make me feel calm and they make me a wee bit more informed and they keep me from wasting too much time on this fine computer and its lovely connection to the world wide web.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
eating in korea: taco bell
Okay, people! I know there was a lot of anticipation and discussion in the months when Taco Bell's coming to Korea was a mere rumor. Americans in the city were excited: Europeans, confused. Many, regardless of their nationality, didn't understand why anyone would desperately await the arrival of a taco chain that can no longer even call their taco meat "meat." But those people just don't understand Taco Bell, you see. Taco Bell is not about quality food. It's about deliciousness and wallowing in the pleasure of a truly American fast food experience.
For starters, Taco Bell is cheap. On my recent visit, I ordered a combo meal that came to 3,000 won. That got me two supreme hard shell tacos and a coke. Do you know how tasty the combination of taco and cola is? Really tasty!
Secondly, and maybe this is just my luck - the staff at Taco Bell in Itaewon was ridiculously nice. They spoke Korean, and seemingly a good bit of English too, because I was able to talk with them freely. They were super busy when I went in, but everyone was still smiley and helpful and lovely.
Thirdly! As already hinted at, my food was completely satisfying and wonderful. I especially loved the crunch of cold iceberg lettuce and the creamy tartness of cold sour cream. Combined with the satisfyingly crisp shell, the tasty "meat", and the adorable if superfluous diced tomatoes, a supreme taco really packs a power punch to knock out your hunger on a long day of shopping and strolling.
All that, and I got the added bonus of hearing the Korean couple seated next to me continually gush about how good the food was. Neither could get over how spicy or incredibly tasty their tacos were -- I think they talked about nothing else for the duration of my time next to them, say, 20 minutes. I sat next to the window on the ground floor since the place was packed, and let me tell you, I felt like I was in a Taco Bell commercial. No one pedestrian or bus passenger could resist openly staring into the window at the big line, and, perhaps, at the adorable couple next to me. And yeah, a few definitely checked me out too. I am sure watching someone who can't quite fit all that she is trying to bite off in her mouth is at least mildly amusing.
Moral of the story: I highly recommend the Itaewon Taco Bell if you love fast food, or are simply up for some cheap fun.
For starters, Taco Bell is cheap. On my recent visit, I ordered a combo meal that came to 3,000 won. That got me two supreme hard shell tacos and a coke. Do you know how tasty the combination of taco and cola is? Really tasty!
Secondly, and maybe this is just my luck - the staff at Taco Bell in Itaewon was ridiculously nice. They spoke Korean, and seemingly a good bit of English too, because I was able to talk with them freely. They were super busy when I went in, but everyone was still smiley and helpful and lovely.
Thirdly! As already hinted at, my food was completely satisfying and wonderful. I especially loved the crunch of cold iceberg lettuce and the creamy tartness of cold sour cream. Combined with the satisfyingly crisp shell, the tasty "meat", and the adorable if superfluous diced tomatoes, a supreme taco really packs a power punch to knock out your hunger on a long day of shopping and strolling.
All that, and I got the added bonus of hearing the Korean couple seated next to me continually gush about how good the food was. Neither could get over how spicy or incredibly tasty their tacos were -- I think they talked about nothing else for the duration of my time next to them, say, 20 minutes. I sat next to the window on the ground floor since the place was packed, and let me tell you, I felt like I was in a Taco Bell commercial. No one pedestrian or bus passenger could resist openly staring into the window at the big line, and, perhaps, at the adorable couple next to me. And yeah, a few definitely checked me out too. I am sure watching someone who can't quite fit all that she is trying to bite off in her mouth is at least mildly amusing.
Moral of the story: I highly recommend the Itaewon Taco Bell if you love fast food, or are simply up for some cheap fun.
Monday, February 14, 2011
shopping in korea: Zara
I've passed this place dozens of times as I go about my life here in SK, but it took me until today to actually set foot inside the joint. My friends have said good things about it, so I was curious to see what they had on the racks.
My general feeling is that Zara is very similar to H&M and Forever 21, but with higher price tags and less glitter. The clothing is certainly just as cheaply made, if not more so, so if you're looking for good quality, avoid this place. Sure, there are a few exceptions, but on the whole I was not impressed with material or make during by my admittedly brief observations.
Style-wise, things were fine. I did see a few items that were relatively unique on the Korean scene, so that was refreshing (items of note being tailored just-below-the-knee length skirts of muted colors). The clothing sale section also had a good amount of bigger skirt and dress sizes - I saw several things marked XL. Might be useful for those of you who have more trouble shopping in stores designed with tiny people in mind. Jeans run small if you're going by the US size listed below the European one on the tags. I'm a 0 or 2 at home, but I'm a 6 in Zara and Mango.
The shoes especially were kind of cool, and that was a surprise. Usually places that stock shoes below the clothing as a sort of afterthought don't carry things that wear that well. I liked some of the matte colors they came in, and they felt bendy with the potential to be comfortable. A few had that almost-vintage thick curvy heel, really much easier to walk in, and a much cuter look than the usual inexplicable stilettos that I see on the streets. They were not, alas, in my size. They did have smaller (7 and lower) and bigger (8-10), but unfortunately, no 7 1/2 in anything that I needed.
I already mentioned how Zara is like H&M and Forever 21. You could go to those places and find similar items. Mango would be an even better option, if you're okay with the slightly higher price tag and want more refined-looking clothing. Mango tends to be good about not dousing everything in sight with sequins, and their jeans are much better than Zara's, in my opinion.
What I bought:
My general feeling is that Zara is very similar to H&M and Forever 21, but with higher price tags and less glitter. The clothing is certainly just as cheaply made, if not more so, so if you're looking for good quality, avoid this place. Sure, there are a few exceptions, but on the whole I was not impressed with material or make during by my admittedly brief observations.
Style-wise, things were fine. I did see a few items that were relatively unique on the Korean scene, so that was refreshing (items of note being tailored just-below-the-knee length skirts of muted colors). The clothing sale section also had a good amount of bigger skirt and dress sizes - I saw several things marked XL. Might be useful for those of you who have more trouble shopping in stores designed with tiny people in mind. Jeans run small if you're going by the US size listed below the European one on the tags. I'm a 0 or 2 at home, but I'm a 6 in Zara and Mango.
The shoes especially were kind of cool, and that was a surprise. Usually places that stock shoes below the clothing as a sort of afterthought don't carry things that wear that well. I liked some of the matte colors they came in, and they felt bendy with the potential to be comfortable. A few had that almost-vintage thick curvy heel, really much easier to walk in, and a much cuter look than the usual inexplicable stilettos that I see on the streets. They were not, alas, in my size. They did have smaller (7 and lower) and bigger (8-10), but unfortunately, no 7 1/2 in anything that I needed.
I already mentioned how Zara is like H&M and Forever 21. You could go to those places and find similar items. Mango would be an even better option, if you're okay with the slightly higher price tag and want more refined-looking clothing. Mango tends to be good about not dousing everything in sight with sequins, and their jeans are much better than Zara's, in my opinion.
What I bought:
- "upholstery shirts" -- ridiculous, overpriced floral print shirts - 2 of them. when wearing them, i could either pretend to be a couch from the '70s or wallpaper from the '80s. nice tea colored background to the florals. the lack of glitter will help me retain my vision. i'll post pictures when i wear them out.
Friday, December 24, 2010
chickpeas
Chickpeas are some of my favorite things, people! And for the first time, I'm cooking them from the dried form. This is because until about two weeks ago, I couldn't find canned chickpeas in Korea. They recently materialized at Kim's Club - but are rather pricey.* I don't mind paying a lot for a food like that, since usually a few will go a long way with me (I mainly use them as a salad topping) but since I'd bought a bag of dried at the foreign food market in Itaewon, I haven't yet taken advantage of the newly available canned beans. Anyway, ha.
I bought the dried chickpeas to make chili. I made chili, they tasted great in it. Success, I guess.
Now I'm cooking some I had soaked at the same time as my chili chickpeas. These were a portion to be set aside for salads, but I just forgot about them in my refrigerator and they ... they started growing. This makes me think that my fridge is *still* not cold enough, despite the fact that it freezes portions of salsa and tofu. Must be really uneven air in there, or chickpeas just love growing in freezing temperatures. Not sure what the case really is.
I am excited about these legumes ~ they smelled great while boiling/simmering. Even though they aren't quite done, I've turned them off since I'm going to sleep soon, ha, and can't watch them through the night. Maybe I'll turn them on again when I shower in the morning, haha.
*Kim's Club also recently started carrying cannelloni (they already had kidney) ~~ so if you're a bean fan, you might want to stock up. Never know when they might disappear.
I bought the dried chickpeas to make chili. I made chili, they tasted great in it. Success, I guess.
Now I'm cooking some I had soaked at the same time as my chili chickpeas. These were a portion to be set aside for salads, but I just forgot about them in my refrigerator and they ... they started growing. This makes me think that my fridge is *still* not cold enough, despite the fact that it freezes portions of salsa and tofu. Must be really uneven air in there, or chickpeas just love growing in freezing temperatures. Not sure what the case really is.
I am excited about these legumes ~ they smelled great while boiling/simmering. Even though they aren't quite done, I've turned them off since I'm going to sleep soon, ha, and can't watch them through the night. Maybe I'll turn them on again when I shower in the morning, haha.
*Kim's Club also recently started carrying cannelloni (they already had kidney) ~~ so if you're a bean fan, you might want to stock up. Never know when they might disappear.
Monday, December 6, 2010
american boy and korean boys
Hi, peeps! So, it's Monday! I had a little work to do today. But now I am not working. No, now I am just humming along to "American Boy," so I am going to share it with you. I support nothing else this woman has done. Just this song. And Kanye's opinion on coats.
What? Embedding disabled? Hmm. so go here, mmkay? american boy
Regarding korean boys, ha, they are still just as adorable as ever. Nothing particularly new to report. Well, I did go to the YG Family concert, so I got to see some of those famous korean gentlemen (and ladies.) They were cute. But, some could not sing. At points, it was painful. Not the boys, no, they sang fine - the chicks, though. Ouuuuch. Not all could really pull off what they were attempting.
It all reminded me that I don't really dig the Korean tendency to belt things out - I mean, not everything needs a melodramatic crescendo to be cool. Just my opinion, yo. Maybe I'll write a more detailed report on the concert later, but probably not, haha.
What? Embedding disabled? Hmm. so go here, mmkay? american boy
Regarding korean boys, ha, they are still just as adorable as ever. Nothing particularly new to report. Well, I did go to the YG Family concert, so I got to see some of those famous korean gentlemen (and ladies.) They were cute. But, some could not sing. At points, it was painful. Not the boys, no, they sang fine - the chicks, though. Ouuuuch. Not all could really pull off what they were attempting.
It all reminded me that I don't really dig the Korean tendency to belt things out - I mean, not everything needs a melodramatic crescendo to be cool. Just my opinion, yo. Maybe I'll write a more detailed report on the concert later, but probably not, haha.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
perks of a small apartment
There are a lot of nice things about living in a tiny apartment. (There are a lot of bad things about living in a tiny apartment too, but let's think about the positive today.)
Good things that I'm thinking of right now:
My bed also takes up a huge amount of room. I constantly think how much easier (and more comfortable) it would be just to have a futon of some sort (Japanese/Korean style) but I'm stuck with this bed. At least it keeps me off the really hot floor, ha.
Today I spent a lot of time cleaning, but my apartment is still not clean. :( I am slow and messy, apparently. Maybe I can finish it up tomorrow morning.
Good things that I'm thinking of right now:
- Whenever I need something, it's always at hand.
- My food-related pleasures are only a glance away. For example, when I make a pie, it has to go on the table or the counter. That's where it will live until I eat it all. Its mere presence can make me happy. Tonight, I'm soaking three different kinds of beans. Every once in a while, I lean forward in my bed so I can check them out on the counter. Red kidney beans, white chickpeas, black ... black beans. Mmm.
My bed also takes up a huge amount of room. I constantly think how much easier (and more comfortable) it would be just to have a futon of some sort (Japanese/Korean style) but I'm stuck with this bed. At least it keeps me off the really hot floor, ha.
Today I spent a lot of time cleaning, but my apartment is still not clean. :( I am slow and messy, apparently. Maybe I can finish it up tomorrow morning.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
observations from the last class
The class I just finished tends to be one of my favorites: it's full of "characters." I have recently discovered that the main gangster of the room is really smart, and thank heavens, he seems to be generally on my side.
Things they said today, and how they made me feel:
:(
Jin Sol said: "Teacher, arms, oh no."
My hairy arms really bother this guy, apparently. It's like the tenth time he's mentioned it, but at least it's always with a smile. Initially it was funny, but now I'm like, geez, kid, my arms bothered me a little when I was at home with other hairy barbarians. Here in the land of the hairless I'm starting to feel a mite more insecure about it all.
:(
Frankenstein said: "Internet shopping ..." (other boys talking to my co-teacher, "internet shopping blah blah blah") -- finally, Frankenstein again: "Teacher, GMarket. You, internet shopping." Me: "Actually, I got this at Uniqulo. And this from Forever 21. But I do like internet shopping."
I am pretty sure that he meant my clothes looked cheap. I guess this outfit doesn't please them ... But it's so comfortable. Still, I know I could do better, style-wise. I think whether I wear it again will depend on how grouchy I feel, haha. I'll definitely wear it on grouchy days.
:) / :-O
Sweetheart: "Teacher! You girlfriend, my girlfriend! Come here baby." Me: "I'm a little old, and you're going to get yourself in trouble."
This kid is adorable, but he better watch it, ha. "Come here baby" is a phrase a lot of my boys try to use on me before I turn "death ray glare" on them. I've heard them say it to other female teachers too -- wonder where they picked it up. They just use it when they want help with their work, ha.
:)
Kid who actually has facial hair: "Teacher, me English, no." Me: "Okay. This one - where do you live? You house? I live in ---, you live in ---?" (blank gaze of confusion in response) I then proceeded to ask where his house is in Korean - freaked him out a little, haha. But he understood and gave me an answer, way too fast for me to catch it. So I sat down and tried to talk through things with him, but his main response was, "Mm.." with a vaguely distressed look of incomprehension. Which I understand. Poor guy. I think we made a little progress, and I'm surprised that I didn't notice him before today. Seems like a good kid.
Things they said today, and how they made me feel:
:(
Jin Sol said: "Teacher, arms, oh no."
My hairy arms really bother this guy, apparently. It's like the tenth time he's mentioned it, but at least it's always with a smile. Initially it was funny, but now I'm like, geez, kid, my arms bothered me a little when I was at home with other hairy barbarians. Here in the land of the hairless I'm starting to feel a mite more insecure about it all.
:(
Frankenstein said: "Internet shopping ..." (other boys talking to my co-teacher, "internet shopping blah blah blah") -- finally, Frankenstein again: "Teacher, GMarket. You, internet shopping." Me: "Actually, I got this at Uniqulo. And this from Forever 21. But I do like internet shopping."
I am pretty sure that he meant my clothes looked cheap. I guess this outfit doesn't please them ... But it's so comfortable. Still, I know I could do better, style-wise. I think whether I wear it again will depend on how grouchy I feel, haha. I'll definitely wear it on grouchy days.
:) / :-O
Sweetheart: "Teacher! You girlfriend, my girlfriend! Come here baby." Me: "I'm a little old, and you're going to get yourself in trouble."
This kid is adorable, but he better watch it, ha. "Come here baby" is a phrase a lot of my boys try to use on me before I turn "death ray glare" on them. I've heard them say it to other female teachers too -- wonder where they picked it up. They just use it when they want help with their work, ha.
:)
Kid who actually has facial hair: "Teacher, me English, no." Me: "Okay. This one - where do you live? You house? I live in ---, you live in ---?" (blank gaze of confusion in response) I then proceeded to ask where his house is in Korean - freaked him out a little, haha. But he understood and gave me an answer, way too fast for me to catch it. So I sat down and tried to talk through things with him, but his main response was, "Mm.." with a vaguely distressed look of incomprehension. Which I understand. Poor guy. I think we made a little progress, and I'm surprised that I didn't notice him before today. Seems like a good kid.
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