We decided to head back to Everland yesterday. That place is so much fun. It was even LESS crowded then our first trip!
I have found the new greatest thing - renting their strollers! For about $2 you can rent a stroller, they clean it for you, and it comes with a bike lock. You can lock your bags and stroller to poles and chains all over the park when you go on a ride. Not that you really need to - this place is NOT America. People just respect other's things. Wild concept, I know.
We decided to go on the Roaring Rapid ride with the boys. Keith had my wallet that I wanted to lock up, but he said he'll hold on to it. No really, just let me lock it up. No really, hurry up, I have it. Don't lose it. I won't. Gotcha.
We take Cole and Brad and have a blast. As we're walking down the exit, I asked Keith for my wallet. What wallet? I don't have it. Are you sure?
YES! He left my wallet with LOTS of cash and all my photo id's on the ride... that just took off... waiting to fall in the water!
For seven minutes I was in a complete panic suppressing the urge to vomit and strangle my husband.
The Rapid float came back around and the friendly Everland employee return my wallet to me. Oh my word. How that happened, I'll never know. Lesson learned. I'll carry my own wallet.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
More school thoughts...
He's in a class with his best friend here. I like him and his family!
He has a male teacher with a doctorate. I think it would be a good experience for Cole. Everyone is saying he's the greatest teacher.
I still hate the bus idea.
He's past kindergarten letter recognition and sounds, so I'm afraid he'll just be a cut up and disruptive to the class.
They are saying they are pretty flexible with attendance. We just got Everland passes so I plan on going.... often. We also want to do family trips. Keith's schedule is on 3 off 3, so he could work weekends and miss Cole all week and weekend. (1pm to 1am)
UGH!
There's a parent/teacher/child meetings all day on Tuesday. I think I might go and ask questions. Maybe talking with the teacher, he can help us weigh on this decision. School starts on Sept. 8th. As of now, we've been doing 1st grade work for 2 weeks already......
He has a male teacher with a doctorate. I think it would be a good experience for Cole. Everyone is saying he's the greatest teacher.
I still hate the bus idea.
He's past kindergarten letter recognition and sounds, so I'm afraid he'll just be a cut up and disruptive to the class.
They are saying they are pretty flexible with attendance. We just got Everland passes so I plan on going.... often. We also want to do family trips. Keith's schedule is on 3 off 3, so he could work weekends and miss Cole all week and weekend. (1pm to 1am)
UGH!
There's a parent/teacher/child meetings all day on Tuesday. I think I might go and ask questions. Maybe talking with the teacher, he can help us weigh on this decision. School starts on Sept. 8th. As of now, we've been doing 1st grade work for 2 weeks already......
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
They Called!
Gulp, I got the call today. There's a school slot open for Cole. He's enrolled for school (they are going off the papers Keith filled out to get him the waiting list) What do I do? What do I do?
I thought this was decided, but now I'm second guessing. I hate making decisions. I think I am a horrible decision maker. It all stems back to August of 1999 and a man named Doyle (if you know what I mean.) Now I always second guess myself. I can't make a big decision to save my life. I'll question and question over and over. The same pros and the same cons.......
I am a great follower. Just tell me and I'll do it. I don't want to be the one in charge. I so wanted to hear that I didn't have a choice. I even chickened out on the phone asking for a number I could call them back - like I was too busy to talk. Cluck, cluck.
Yesterday I followed some girls to a place called Happy Quilt. Happy Quilt is a fabric store. Some might go as far as calling it a shed. It has more patterned cotton then I've ever seen in my life. There was so much "stuff". My mother would have been in heaven. I was going to bring the camera, but lets just say that mine is temporarily out of order. Quite possibly for longer then a couple of years. There was a couple of things I fell in love with, but I didn't bring any won. (Won is the currency here - you probably knew that, but it looks funny so close to the word any)
Today I woke up, cleaned the house, separated lego men (more on that another time), made lunch, cleaned the bathroom, got ready, went to the commissary, got cash, walked down the street to exchange it for won, and set off to Happy Quilt on my own! Big Girl in a foreign country! As we drove up, I read the small English sign - open Wendsday and Saturday ONLY! Bummer. Cole said "That's ok Mommy, we can just come back Saturday.... after my game" Thanks baby!
He has a soccer game on Saturday, and we've only had one practice. He's got red jersey #3. Four boys and Six girls (who are taller and faster then all the boys put together!) make up the un-named red team. I hope Keith is up for taking pictures on his fancy camera. Dang you Cannon Powershot and your non-water loving ways!
I thought this was decided, but now I'm second guessing. I hate making decisions. I think I am a horrible decision maker. It all stems back to August of 1999 and a man named Doyle (if you know what I mean.) Now I always second guess myself. I can't make a big decision to save my life. I'll question and question over and over. The same pros and the same cons.......
I am a great follower. Just tell me and I'll do it. I don't want to be the one in charge. I so wanted to hear that I didn't have a choice. I even chickened out on the phone asking for a number I could call them back - like I was too busy to talk. Cluck, cluck.
Yesterday I followed some girls to a place called Happy Quilt. Happy Quilt is a fabric store. Some might go as far as calling it a shed. It has more patterned cotton then I've ever seen in my life. There was so much "stuff". My mother would have been in heaven. I was going to bring the camera, but lets just say that mine is temporarily out of order. Quite possibly for longer then a couple of years. There was a couple of things I fell in love with, but I didn't bring any won. (Won is the currency here - you probably knew that, but it looks funny so close to the word any)
Today I woke up, cleaned the house, separated lego men (more on that another time), made lunch, cleaned the bathroom, got ready, went to the commissary, got cash, walked down the street to exchange it for won, and set off to Happy Quilt on my own! Big Girl in a foreign country! As we drove up, I read the small English sign - open Wendsday and Saturday ONLY! Bummer. Cole said "That's ok Mommy, we can just come back Saturday.... after my game" Thanks baby!
He has a soccer game on Saturday, and we've only had one practice. He's got red jersey #3. Four boys and Six girls (who are taller and faster then all the boys put together!) make up the un-named red team. I hope Keith is up for taking pictures on his fancy camera. Dang you Cannon Powershot and your non-water loving ways!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Funny Kid
Cole came up with a new phrase that still has me laughing and a little sick to my stomach.
"Ketchup is Hot Dog Syrup"
I love the way his mind thinks, but hot dogs? Vomit son.
"Ketchup is Hot Dog Syrup"
I love the way his mind thinks, but hot dogs? Vomit son.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Home School Week 1
Last week we started school in building 104 room 302. The first few days Cole and I worked during Brad's nap. We adjusted our time and Brad joined the fun on Thursday and Friday. I'm still testing the waters to see where Cole is at academically. The workbook we're following has been mostly math and number reading/writing. We've done puzzles and other "shelf work" together, colored, and flash cards. We've started our Handwriting book and soon will start our reading.
Working with Brad has been a challenge for me. It's a little frustrating seeing how much he doesn't know. I realize it's early and he's young, so all that should change. But Brad has other ideas when it comes to following directions. Heaven help us.
We should be getting a call soon to let us know whether or not Cole has a school slot available. I'm nervous about that call. We're set on homeschooling, but it would be easier to hear there isn't a slot for him. I think I am just doubting if I can sustain this for an entire year. I'm worried I won't have him ready for 1st grade and am doing him a disservice. Is he missing out on an opportunity to go to school or would he be missing an opportunity to try homeschooling? Is he missing out on more time with friends or would he be missing out on traveling and spending time with his Dad?
I can do this! I will do this! And whatever I miss, he can quickly catch up right? RIGHT? Whew.
Overall, I think I really like it. The best part is.... after only a week of working, Cole has become MUCH more affectionate towards me. He wants to cuddle and hug. This is great. If it weren't for the whole learning issue, I would home school forever ;-)
Working with Brad has been a challenge for me. It's a little frustrating seeing how much he doesn't know. I realize it's early and he's young, so all that should change. But Brad has other ideas when it comes to following directions. Heaven help us.
We should be getting a call soon to let us know whether or not Cole has a school slot available. I'm nervous about that call. We're set on homeschooling, but it would be easier to hear there isn't a slot for him. I think I am just doubting if I can sustain this for an entire year. I'm worried I won't have him ready for 1st grade and am doing him a disservice. Is he missing out on an opportunity to go to school or would he be missing an opportunity to try homeschooling? Is he missing out on more time with friends or would he be missing out on traveling and spending time with his Dad?
I can do this! I will do this! And whatever I miss, he can quickly catch up right? RIGHT? Whew.
Overall, I think I really like it. The best part is.... after only a week of working, Cole has become MUCH more affectionate towards me. He wants to cuddle and hug. This is great. If it weren't for the whole learning issue, I would home school forever ;-)
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
No Mo Hoolala
There's a new chicken place that opened in our apartment complex. Hoolala Chicken. Who can mess up chicken? As we were discussing dinner plans, Cole was begging me "I want to eat at home, I don't want to go out" HA! Every time I put a plate in front of him at home he cries "I HATE this, I don't like it" (with the exceptions of red chicken, fruit, or pizza) I guess the Korean dinner last week really traumatized him. Don't worry little man, me too! We walked around the corner to the little chicken joint. I'm so happy all the menus come with pictures. The waiter tried his hardest to explain the chicken in English, but the closest thing I understood was something like "teriyaki". And the picture looked appetizing enough. So we picked that. We sat there waiting for the food and Keith made the comment that he would have liked to try the hot chicken. Maybe next time we said.
Everything here is served family style. One big plate and everyone shares. They bring us pickles (for some reason pickles are served with everything - even the pizza joint will give you a side of pickles), another corn dish that Brad liked, and some kind of fermented white cubes. Brad is our "Mikey." He ate it, but wasn't going back for seconds. For the record, I just don't throw things at my preschooler. I force my husband to eat it too... in case it's poisonous. I'm not sure of my line of thinking there, but maybe Keith will be able to explain why he's puking his guts out later in the evening so I have a better idea on how to take care of Brad. Thanks honey, because there was NO WAY I was going to try it.
Soon the chicken arrives. Interesting. I am really doubting this is chicken. It's too tiny. It appeared to be the size of a squirrel. There were wings that looked like Merlin legs chopped up and coated in seasonings. I've seen more meat on crab legs if you know what I mean! Speaking of the seasonings. Keith got his wish. It was FIRE hot. Apparently "teriyaki" means very spicy! Upon closer inspection of the menu, we picked the only picture with a red circle next to it. Leave it to the Americans to set their stomachs ablaze. Overall it wasn't too bad - as long as I convinced myself it was truly chicken. Keith says he's seen the size of chickens around here and they are tiny. I think he was just trying to be nice. I'm happy to say I ate it, AND we got the hot kind so we don't have to go back anytime soon.
Shortly after I got here, I decided I needed a new purse. I brought my small COACH bag, and it wasn't going to cut it for what I needed. We went to the PUMA store and I got a large bag to carry my venturing-in-a-foreign-country arsenal of supplies.
For some reason... (maybe this has to do with him being related to me), Cole became obsessed with wanting a bag too. Except he wanted a purse. Every store we would go in, my son was looking at the purses and crying for one. Keith immediately needed to put a stop to this. We went into a luggage and embroidery shop and found little backpacks. They got to pick the color, and what design they wanted on it. You can imagine, it involved fighting, crying, and switching the order 15 times before all was said and done. The worst part was leaving without the backpacks. They would be ready in 5 days. Let me just say, it was a MISERABLE 5 days. Cole asked, on average, 349 times a day if his backpack was ready and when we can go pick it up. This morning the day arrived. He was up at 7:01am and the first words out of his mouth were asking if the store was open.
We picked up the backpacks and my little men are so excited. Except now he wants to go camping and hiking with his new purchase. Forget that! I should have bought him a purse. Purses don't camp ;-)
I guess I should get use to all the roughhousing the boys keep doing. The other day Brad headbutted Cole right in the face. He even has a shiner to show for it. It hasn't slowed either of them down. I seriously sound like a crazy lady telling them to stop it. I repeat myself so often even I get sick of my voice. Is it wrong to secretly hope for a small blood inducing injury? Wait a sec.. we had one of those in Texas, so that's not gonna work. What will it take? I fear for them smashing through the glass windows here. I really don't know how we haven't been kicked out of the apartments yet.
Our neighbor above us is doing a little remodeling. The jackhammer has been on for two days straight. Today I found this outside our elevator - bags, lots and lots of bags full of concrete. Should I be worried they will come through the ceiling soon? That's alot of floor!
Oh, I should also introduce you to our newest pet. Meet Fuzz Ball Wuzzy, and yes, the boys named it.
He (or she) is a Banana Spider that lives outside their toyroom window. It's pretty tiny for a banana spider, but she's growing fast! Last night she shed her exoskeleton. The boys are in heaven. She's even caught a stink bug and has eaten the guts out. We can now see through the shell of the bug. It's kinda cool. Thank you Fuzz Ball Wuzzy for picking our window. Please don't leave and make me search out another spider friend for the boys. Thank you ever so much.
One more mentioning: If you ever worry that the cigarette industry is going out of business with all the million dollar settlements, don't worry. South Korea alone is supporting them. I'm not kidding. These people smoke like chimneys. I don't think they are up to date on the cancer risks and knowledge. I miss Amercia and all the laws and banning of smokers. It's not smog around here.. it's cigarette smoke! Oh my lands. So far, it's been the worst part of adjusting to life here.
Everything here is served family style. One big plate and everyone shares. They bring us pickles (for some reason pickles are served with everything - even the pizza joint will give you a side of pickles), another corn dish that Brad liked, and some kind of fermented white cubes. Brad is our "Mikey." He ate it, but wasn't going back for seconds. For the record, I just don't throw things at my preschooler. I force my husband to eat it too... in case it's poisonous. I'm not sure of my line of thinking there, but maybe Keith will be able to explain why he's puking his guts out later in the evening so I have a better idea on how to take care of Brad. Thanks honey, because there was NO WAY I was going to try it.
Soon the chicken arrives. Interesting. I am really doubting this is chicken. It's too tiny. It appeared to be the size of a squirrel. There were wings that looked like Merlin legs chopped up and coated in seasonings. I've seen more meat on crab legs if you know what I mean! Speaking of the seasonings. Keith got his wish. It was FIRE hot. Apparently "teriyaki" means very spicy! Upon closer inspection of the menu, we picked the only picture with a red circle next to it. Leave it to the Americans to set their stomachs ablaze. Overall it wasn't too bad - as long as I convinced myself it was truly chicken. Keith says he's seen the size of chickens around here and they are tiny. I think he was just trying to be nice. I'm happy to say I ate it, AND we got the hot kind so we don't have to go back anytime soon.
Shortly after I got here, I decided I needed a new purse. I brought my small COACH bag, and it wasn't going to cut it for what I needed. We went to the PUMA store and I got a large bag to carry my venturing-in-a-foreign-country arsenal of supplies.
For some reason... (maybe this has to do with him being related to me), Cole became obsessed with wanting a bag too. Except he wanted a purse. Every store we would go in, my son was looking at the purses and crying for one. Keith immediately needed to put a stop to this. We went into a luggage and embroidery shop and found little backpacks. They got to pick the color, and what design they wanted on it. You can imagine, it involved fighting, crying, and switching the order 15 times before all was said and done. The worst part was leaving without the backpacks. They would be ready in 5 days. Let me just say, it was a MISERABLE 5 days. Cole asked, on average, 349 times a day if his backpack was ready and when we can go pick it up. This morning the day arrived. He was up at 7:01am and the first words out of his mouth were asking if the store was open.
We picked up the backpacks and my little men are so excited. Except now he wants to go camping and hiking with his new purchase. Forget that! I should have bought him a purse. Purses don't camp ;-)
I guess I should get use to all the roughhousing the boys keep doing. The other day Brad headbutted Cole right in the face. He even has a shiner to show for it. It hasn't slowed either of them down. I seriously sound like a crazy lady telling them to stop it. I repeat myself so often even I get sick of my voice. Is it wrong to secretly hope for a small blood inducing injury? Wait a sec.. we had one of those in Texas, so that's not gonna work. What will it take? I fear for them smashing through the glass windows here. I really don't know how we haven't been kicked out of the apartments yet.
Our neighbor above us is doing a little remodeling. The jackhammer has been on for two days straight. Today I found this outside our elevator - bags, lots and lots of bags full of concrete. Should I be worried they will come through the ceiling soon? That's alot of floor!
Oh, I should also introduce you to our newest pet. Meet Fuzz Ball Wuzzy, and yes, the boys named it.
He (or she) is a Banana Spider that lives outside their toyroom window. It's pretty tiny for a banana spider, but she's growing fast! Last night she shed her exoskeleton. The boys are in heaven. She's even caught a stink bug and has eaten the guts out. We can now see through the shell of the bug. It's kinda cool. Thank you Fuzz Ball Wuzzy for picking our window. Please don't leave and make me search out another spider friend for the boys. Thank you ever so much.
One more mentioning: If you ever worry that the cigarette industry is going out of business with all the million dollar settlements, don't worry. South Korea alone is supporting them. I'm not kidding. These people smoke like chimneys. I don't think they are up to date on the cancer risks and knowledge. I miss Amercia and all the laws and banning of smokers. It's not smog around here.. it's cigarette smoke! Oh my lands. So far, it's been the worst part of adjusting to life here.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Class in Session
When I was younger my mom would ask me what I did at school today, and I never had an answer for her. Then Cole started preschool and everyday I would ask what they learned... he never could answer me. I guess the apple didn't fall far from the tree.
I think we've decided to home school Cole. He's still on the waiting list, but there's several reasons I hope he doesn't get in. He's already completed kindergarten so for him to repeat it would only be for social purposes. It's all day, and he has to ride a bus. He would leave at 7:15am and come home around 3:30. All for social purposes. It's on base and attendance would be taken. Keith's schedule is 3 days on, 3 days off 1pm to 1am. If he has to work a weekend, he would never see Cole. And, we would not be able to travel like we wanted to because of the attendance policy.
Then part of me wants to try it. I mean, there will never be another time where it would be logical to take him out and try homeschooling. I hope this time together this year will be priceless when I send him to 1st grade next year. I also found a homeschooling group that meets on base so the kids can hang out together. He really got along well with one of the girls there. I signed him up for soccer and his new friend Jake is on the team. We've signed up for MOPS and other social ventures for him to particapate. So for all these reasons and more, we're 99% sure even if a school slot is available, we'll home school.
Just to test the waters before the base school starts (Aug 31) we started class last Monday. We are working on handwriting, math, and spelling. We did a few pages out of the workbooks and did shelfwork. Keith came home and asked what he learned in school today.... guess what... Cole didn't have an answer. I take it to mean, we did a pretty good job!
I think we've decided to home school Cole. He's still on the waiting list, but there's several reasons I hope he doesn't get in. He's already completed kindergarten so for him to repeat it would only be for social purposes. It's all day, and he has to ride a bus. He would leave at 7:15am and come home around 3:30. All for social purposes. It's on base and attendance would be taken. Keith's schedule is 3 days on, 3 days off 1pm to 1am. If he has to work a weekend, he would never see Cole. And, we would not be able to travel like we wanted to because of the attendance policy.
Then part of me wants to try it. I mean, there will never be another time where it would be logical to take him out and try homeschooling. I hope this time together this year will be priceless when I send him to 1st grade next year. I also found a homeschooling group that meets on base so the kids can hang out together. He really got along well with one of the girls there. I signed him up for soccer and his new friend Jake is on the team. We've signed up for MOPS and other social ventures for him to particapate. So for all these reasons and more, we're 99% sure even if a school slot is available, we'll home school.
Just to test the waters before the base school starts (Aug 31) we started class last Monday. We are working on handwriting, math, and spelling. We did a few pages out of the workbooks and did shelfwork. Keith came home and asked what he learned in school today.... guess what... Cole didn't have an answer. I take it to mean, we did a pretty good job!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Something's Missing
Did you know that every time we leave, I have this odd feeling that something isn't right. I have the urge to make sure the dogs went outside and have water. It's so weird to not have them here. We will be running around town, and I have this nagging feeling we should head back soon to let the dogs out. I want to leave everything early because we've been gone too long.
I miss my puppies. I miss the cat too, but am totally enjoying the litter box I'm not cleaning.
I miss my puppies. I miss the cat too, but am totally enjoying the litter box I'm not cleaning.
Things I Already Love About Korea
1. I love kicking the foot plate to turn the water on the kitchen sink. I've since been kicking the bathroom cabinets when I brush my teeth. Gotta get this back in the States. I think Doctors have this when they scrub in for surgery. If I would have known this all along.......
2. I love there is a trash receptacle outside of our building. No rushing outside a 7am in my pj's because I forgot to take the cans down to the curb. I drop it off when I please. It's complete with recycling so I don't have to haul 4 cans to base every week.
3. I love the motion activation lights outside our apartment in the stairways and hallway. When you leave, they come on and then turn off once you get in the elevator. (I think my dad will love this too) Oh, and our entry light is motion activation too, so when you walk into a dark apartment the light comes on automatically. OR if a boogie man tries to break in, the lights will come on and scare him away.
4. I love the cool LED lights they have in the ground outside our apartments. The boys like them too because they change colors and flash patterns.
5. I love that the Baskin Robin's on base carries my all time favorite ice cream ever.... Citrus Twist Ice (formerly daiquiri ice)
6. The sinks are big and deep here. They're just pretty. And the shower in the master bathroom is bigger then the boys toy room.
7. If a small child or two get excited and press every button in the elevator, you can press them again and it "turns off" going to every floor on your way up. Genius!
2. I love there is a trash receptacle outside of our building. No rushing outside a 7am in my pj's because I forgot to take the cans down to the curb. I drop it off when I please. It's complete with recycling so I don't have to haul 4 cans to base every week.
3. I love the motion activation lights outside our apartment in the stairways and hallway. When you leave, they come on and then turn off once you get in the elevator. (I think my dad will love this too) Oh, and our entry light is motion activation too, so when you walk into a dark apartment the light comes on automatically. OR if a boogie man tries to break in, the lights will come on and scare him away.
4. I love the cool LED lights they have in the ground outside our apartments. The boys like them too because they change colors and flash patterns.
5. I love that the Baskin Robin's on base carries my all time favorite ice cream ever.... Citrus Twist Ice (formerly daiquiri ice)
6. The sinks are big and deep here. They're just pretty. And the shower in the master bathroom is bigger then the boys toy room.
7. If a small child or two get excited and press every button in the elevator, you can press them again and it "turns off" going to every floor on your way up. Genius!
Paiging Dr. Kim
Yesterday we almost had a flat Bradley. We heard a loud crash and one loud scream. Running into the room, we discovered Brad on the floor completely underneath the dresser. It fell over on him. Keith quickly lifted it off and we pulled Brad out from under it. We checked him all out and the only damage were a couple of bruises on his face.
This kid knows how to get our hearts pumping. The thing is... he's done this before! In Idaho we had everything bolted to the wall because he tried climbing up it last year. I even told Keith the first day we got here that the dresser needed to be anchored to the wall. He already tried but the walls are concrete. Wouldn't you know a week later, it's like he read our minds. So please, as a public service reminder for those with little ones - anchor all your furniture to the walls! And if you think your kids know better, just remember mine who have escaped serious bodily injury twice now.
On a positive note, we did find out our new neighbor is a medical doctor with her own clinic down the road. It's like God knew right where to put us! He name is Dr. Kim and in the elevator she said the only damage done (to Brad) were his tears. I think I like her!
Attached is the injury I sustained as I lifted the shelves off him faster than Wonder Woman. It looks MUCH worse than what's shown... just in case anyone cares about me ;-)
This kid knows how to get our hearts pumping. The thing is... he's done this before! In Idaho we had everything bolted to the wall because he tried climbing up it last year. I even told Keith the first day we got here that the dresser needed to be anchored to the wall. He already tried but the walls are concrete. Wouldn't you know a week later, it's like he read our minds. So please, as a public service reminder for those with little ones - anchor all your furniture to the walls! And if you think your kids know better, just remember mine who have escaped serious bodily injury twice now.
On a positive note, we did find out our new neighbor is a medical doctor with her own clinic down the road. It's like God knew right where to put us! He name is Dr. Kim and in the elevator she said the only damage done (to Brad) were his tears. I think I like her!
Attached is the injury I sustained as I lifted the shelves off him faster than Wonder Woman. It looks MUCH worse than what's shown... just in case anyone cares about me ;-)
Krazy Korea II
Today we went to the Orange Factory Outlet. I saw it from the side of the road and told Keith I wanted to go to the O Range outlet mall. Yes. I. Did.
I don't know how to Be Act, but it's apparent that not everyone can think at the O Range outlet mall.
These people are serious about their McDonald's. A 24 hour two story McD's. I doubt we venture into one of these during our time here. (we avoid this place as much as possible - Keith vomits just thinking of eating there)
But for those who can't live without it - McDonald's delivers
I don't know how to Be Act, but it's apparent that not everyone can think at the O Range outlet mall.
These people are serious about their McDonald's. A 24 hour two story McD's. I doubt we venture into one of these during our time here. (we avoid this place as much as possible - Keith vomits just thinking of eating there)
But for those who can't live without it - McDonald's delivers
BTDT
Saturday we ventured out and ate authentic Korean food. This was a well known and recommended place. I was looking forward to trying it out!
This is a picture of what our table looked like when they brought the food. There was a bowl full of lettuce, rice, and all the smaller bowls were the "fixings." You could make lettuce wraps or use the rice to make a rice bowl using the red chili paste as seasoning.
This is a picture of what our table looked like when they brought the food. There was a bowl full of lettuce, rice, and all the smaller bowls were the "fixings." You could make lettuce wraps or use the rice to make a rice bowl using the red chili paste as seasoning.
This is the "beef" they grilled at your table. It didn't taste like cow beef, but Keith says it was the marinade. Interesting.
Here is the after picture of our meal. Gee.. not much has changed from the before picture. That's because it was NASTY. I love Chinese food. I love Japanese food. I don't see myself ever even liking Korean food. All the "fixings" were fermented bean sprouts, fermented cabbage, corn in what tasted like frosting, noodles I couldn't even bring myself to try because of their smell alone, some thinly sliced green things that Brad promptly spit out.
Here are my boys after paying the tab and deciding to grab some ice cream instead. Korean food: Been There - Done That.
Not the Stinky Kids
Here's the boys taking a bath. Their clothes might stink, but I try my best to keep the bugs off them. I am so impressed with the bathrooms in this apartment. It's all tile everywhere with a drain in the floor under the sink (you can barely see it just right of the stool) Let's say.... IF a kid... or two, are prone to making a mess and "accidentally" get water outside of the tub - NO WORRIES, it goes right down the drain! And the tubs are really deep. If I were a bath person I guess that would be a plus, but only showers for me. And... we have been able to lower the shower head for the boys and we're teaching them to shower on their own! Could it be possible? A day when I say "get ready for bed" and they shower and brush their teeth all on their own?One day I will miss it.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Hello Kitty Krazy
I was told Brad's hair would be popular. I was warned the people here will want to touch him. I've seen them stare. I've witnessed all the grabbing and waving.
Today, a girl picked him up and carried him off - right in front of me!
We were at the park tonight and I was standing right under the playground equipment. These older girls were squealing and pointing like he was a rock star. It caused so much attention a lady who was bilingual came over to tell me what they were saying. They finally got up and were on the playground equipment trying to chase them and corner the boys. I felt so bad for them ten feet above my head. They tried their best English asking for their name. I told Brad to say "hello" in Korean and he did. They went CRAZY with delight. The girl who picked him up was a teenager. It turns out she was carrying him over to show her friends. She didn't mean any harm, but my heart dropped!
I am going to have to learn some polite Korean for please don't try to kidnap my youngest child. Cole was cute trying to protect him. He got between them and Brad and kept saying "no, no, no" The girls were excited he was talking to them.
Interesting night. I guess I will have to become the rude American. So far several people have come to the door, but I refuse to answer when Keith's not home. I know they hear us and they stay at the door for at least 3 minutes... just ringing (actually there's a camera at the door, so I can see them and it plays a cute little chime song. All of the electronics play a cute song. A pretty chime when the dishes are done, a happy song when the wash is finished. So much nicer then those awful buzzers back in the States. "BUZZ YOUR CLOTHES ARE DRY") I think it's so you will want to open the door and be pleasant to the strange man standing there. Sorry Charlie.
So far we know how to say hello/goodbye: Ahn-nyong ha-say-yo!
We know the name of our apartments : Pus-co
And we know what the elevator says when it gets to our floor: Sham Shing Mada
That's about it. I keep asking Keith over and over how to say please and thank you, but I keep forgetting. I took 4 years of Spanish lessons to tackle that small feat. We'll see how much I can learn in 11 months. Now, I'm off to tuck in my boys and deadbolt my door. Crazy Rude American.
Today, a girl picked him up and carried him off - right in front of me!
We were at the park tonight and I was standing right under the playground equipment. These older girls were squealing and pointing like he was a rock star. It caused so much attention a lady who was bilingual came over to tell me what they were saying. They finally got up and were on the playground equipment trying to chase them and corner the boys. I felt so bad for them ten feet above my head. They tried their best English asking for their name. I told Brad to say "hello" in Korean and he did. They went CRAZY with delight. The girl who picked him up was a teenager. It turns out she was carrying him over to show her friends. She didn't mean any harm, but my heart dropped!
I am going to have to learn some polite Korean for please don't try to kidnap my youngest child. Cole was cute trying to protect him. He got between them and Brad and kept saying "no, no, no" The girls were excited he was talking to them.
Interesting night. I guess I will have to become the rude American. So far several people have come to the door, but I refuse to answer when Keith's not home. I know they hear us and they stay at the door for at least 3 minutes... just ringing (actually there's a camera at the door, so I can see them and it plays a cute little chime song. All of the electronics play a cute song. A pretty chime when the dishes are done, a happy song when the wash is finished. So much nicer then those awful buzzers back in the States. "BUZZ YOUR CLOTHES ARE DRY") I think it's so you will want to open the door and be pleasant to the strange man standing there. Sorry Charlie.
So far we know how to say hello/goodbye: Ahn-nyong ha-say-yo!
We know the name of our apartments : Pus-co
And we know what the elevator says when it gets to our floor: Sham Shing Mada
That's about it. I keep asking Keith over and over how to say please and thank you, but I keep forgetting. I took 4 years of Spanish lessons to tackle that small feat. We'll see how much I can learn in 11 months. Now, I'm off to tuck in my boys and deadbolt my door. Crazy Rude American.
Monday, August 10, 2009
The Stinky Family
Today I tried to tackle the laundry. Keith showed me how to operate the new washer/dryer in our apartment. It's pretty complicated. The dryer takes all day - not kidding. It took us all day to finish ONE load. A friend here told me that she just takes hers to the laundry mat on base once a week. Sounds simple enough. I loaded up the van with clothes and kids and left. What a horrible idea.
I got three loads started and took the boys outside to run around while we waited. However, people smoke like it's going out of style over here. And, I suddenly remembered I was allergic to cigarette smoke. My nose became a faucet, and was was sneezing so often I couldn't yell at the boys for nearly running in the hole the construction crew was digging. We headed inside and then I got a stomach ache. I proceeded to use the restroom, only to find out as I was leaving, it was the men's. The boys were fighting, Brad fell off the chair and hit his head on the floor, they cried for everything in the vending machines, there was no a/c, and the changer wouldn't take my perfectly straight five dollar bill. To think of doing this every week makes me want to cry. There has to be another way. Until I figure it out, we will be known as the stinky family wearing the same dirty clothes for weeks straight.
Day two of laundry at the Mat on base. This time I enlisted help. He put Brad to sleep and made sure I stayed out of the men's room. Thanks honey! Please notice the sweat on Cole's head and on Keith's shirt. I'm not kidding when I say it was HOT in there!
I got three loads started and took the boys outside to run around while we waited. However, people smoke like it's going out of style over here. And, I suddenly remembered I was allergic to cigarette smoke. My nose became a faucet, and was was sneezing so often I couldn't yell at the boys for nearly running in the hole the construction crew was digging. We headed inside and then I got a stomach ache. I proceeded to use the restroom, only to find out as I was leaving, it was the men's. The boys were fighting, Brad fell off the chair and hit his head on the floor, they cried for everything in the vending machines, there was no a/c, and the changer wouldn't take my perfectly straight five dollar bill. To think of doing this every week makes me want to cry. There has to be another way. Until I figure it out, we will be known as the stinky family wearing the same dirty clothes for weeks straight.
Day two of laundry at the Mat on base. This time I enlisted help. He put Brad to sleep and made sure I stayed out of the men's room. Thanks honey! Please notice the sweat on Cole's head and on Keith's shirt. I'm not kidding when I say it was HOT in there!
Mama Llama at Shoparama
What a crazy world we live in. This is where we went on Sunday. A six level Costco. Really, 4 levels were parking so they didn't have too much more than the average store in America. We did find out the hard way they only accept a Samsung card (which we didn't have). After about 3 hours there we left with new tires, vitamins, a bathmat, gummy bears, and steering wheel cover. And you thought only in America.
I was very tempted by this little beauty. A Korean Dyson!! It was so small. And expensive. The DC22 Animal.
I was very tempted by this little beauty. A Korean Dyson!! It was so small. And expensive. The DC22 Animal.
Our next stop to visit:
Keith says it's like six Super Wal-Marts all under one roof. I know I should be exploring the country and taking advantage of the history that surrounds us, but I find this fascinating. I'll get to the learning stuff later. Oh, I did get a new Puma bag (real, sorry Keith) and a new Bvlgari watch (fake). It was such an experience getting the watch. We had to tell her a "friend" sent us. She pulled them out from behind her refrigerator and kept an eye out for The Law. It was very rushed and hush hush. I'll let you know if my arm turns green next month. Then I'll be taking orders ;-)
Calgon, Take Me Away
I can't make this up. This is my life. This is what I clean on a daily basis. I don't know why they have so much energy and make such big messes. I can't figure out how to stop it without locking them in small cages.
If you ever find me banging my head against a rock, this is why:
They are pretty cute. Even covered in Spaghetti dinner. Where was I you ask? The bathroom. This occured in 2 minutes flat.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Ahhh... that's more like it
On the other hand.... it looks like the boys have made themselves right at home.
Quick Recap of our week:
Sunday Night: Arrived in Korea
Monday: Not much sleeping. Brad stayed up ALL night long. In processing on base. Ration Cards, Enrolled in DIBS, Visas, SOFA stamps, Home Plus trip, Played in water fountains, toured local park
Tuesday: Less sleep. Commissary trip. Keith made the comment that the boys should NEVER go to the store again and we should work out a system of going when he's off work. Sounds great, but does he remember that I've been doing solo grocery shopping with them for 5 years now? Drove the Van for the first time, not too shabby!
Wednesday : Dropped Keith off at a meeting and drove around for 40 minutes looking for a parking spot at the BX. If I didn't have a sleeping child, I would have walked from the apartment faster. Came home boys refused to nap. Brad colored on the couch. Finished unpacking
Thursday: Laid low, hit a wall, must sleep
Sleepy Me
I **think** it's Thursday. When I worked for Southwest, I wore a watch all the time. In fact, it was part of our required uniform. I looked at the watch more often then most people. I couldn't live without a watch. I guess times have changed. When we left on Saturday, I went to the airport without a watch. I don't even own one anymore. It's so sad how much I've relied on my cell phone, car, and just sitting at home to be able to tell what time it is. So after a 24 hour flight and landing at who knows what time... my body clock was OFF!
Since I've been here, I haven't been able to tell what time it is anywhere! (All of our appliances are in Korean, so we can't set the clocks) Not a problem for the man with a watch, but I've been lost! I went to the BX and got the cheapest one I could find. Keith promises me a new fancy one. I'm pretty sure he's thinking he can get away with a knock off. Silly Husband.
Now that I know what time it is, we are slowly adjusting our schedules to this new time zone. The boys are taking it hard, and I'm taking it harder. I am so tired. I'm sure the boys will be excited once I'm rested and less grouchy. I will be when they are less whiny and crabby too. Poor Keith. He was living the dream till we showed up. Nobody warned him of the adjustment he had to go through again. I'm sure he was so excited to see us. Now we're all angry bears who would just like to eat him alive for being so chipper and well rested. Seriously, this phase alone is totally making me reconsider having more children. I forgot how mean I was without sleep. I'm meaner than normal. And if I notice it, you KNOW to watch out! Everyone here says it takes 2 weeks to become completely acclimated. Let's hope we all survive another 11 days of this!
Since I've been here, I haven't been able to tell what time it is anywhere! (All of our appliances are in Korean, so we can't set the clocks) Not a problem for the man with a watch, but I've been lost! I went to the BX and got the cheapest one I could find. Keith promises me a new fancy one. I'm pretty sure he's thinking he can get away with a knock off. Silly Husband.
Now that I know what time it is, we are slowly adjusting our schedules to this new time zone. The boys are taking it hard, and I'm taking it harder. I am so tired. I'm sure the boys will be excited once I'm rested and less grouchy. I will be when they are less whiny and crabby too. Poor Keith. He was living the dream till we showed up. Nobody warned him of the adjustment he had to go through again. I'm sure he was so excited to see us. Now we're all angry bears who would just like to eat him alive for being so chipper and well rested. Seriously, this phase alone is totally making me reconsider having more children. I forgot how mean I was without sleep. I'm meaner than normal. And if I notice it, you KNOW to watch out! Everyone here says it takes 2 weeks to become completely acclimated. Let's hope we all survive another 11 days of this!
More Krazy
Found inside the children's book.
This is an ice cream cake! Yes, from Baskin Robin's. They are so cute and tiny. If I had any idea how to convert the price, I would have bought it right then and there. Can you believe how much time they put into their ice cream cakes?
Another one. I would buy one every day
Brad agrees. Ice Cream. Amazing.
Krazy Korea
This is at Home Plus. They say "home prush" and once you hear the jingle, you will too. It's catchy. It's been two days since I've been there and I'm still singing it. You can purchase a very large bettle for a pet. Cole would be able to tell you the exact name of this insect. I made up some story for the boys as to why we couldn't buy it. I can't believe we were able to walk out of the store without a fit. Mental Note: Stay away from Home Prush, Home Prush!
This is a children's book. Nice. I'm not sure what they're teaching over here, but it's exactly why the boys will not be out of my sight. More pages of said book below.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Oh My Lands
We made it! Half a world away and we're slowly adjusting to the differences.
It's been a long journey to get here. I'm sure I'll go back and journal it when I find all that extra time. It might be better to write about the plane ride later when I've had a chance to forget all the "fun". We were delayed in Dallas for 4 hours and Brad threw 3 full out temper tantrums on the plane. Once we were off, it didn't get better. We waited in the Swine Flu line, the Passport line, downstairs to collect luggage, the Customs line, and then the bus line. After the almost 2 hour bus ride, awake for 24 hours straight, we made it HOME. It was all worth it to see the boys attack their Daddy. They missed him and couldn't quit saying it. It was pretty cute. We're right where we need to be.
I should have known if one of the kids would give me an issue it would be Brad. Poor kid. Cole did great on the plane and even made a friend. It's Brad and his obsession of the moment (OOTM), those dang little lego men. He cried when they fell, cried when he wanted a different one, cried when he wanted Cole's, cried just to cry. He slept through every meal they served on the plane so when he woke up he was hungry... when the food came, asleep.
We've been here for 3 days and the biggest difference I've noticed is how self indulgent Americans are. These people are so friendly, happy, and hard workers. They do with less, live with less (space, "things", laws - I'm talking about the driving around here!) less of everything and it works. Saying that, you can walk 100 yards in any direction and find ANYTHING you want. So they work harder and faster to cater to you. They know you can go right next door. True Story: Keith called our landlady to get our internet fixed and 10 minutes later he was at our door.
Driving: Good Heavens. It's worse than watching preschoolers play at the park. It's a near wreck every moment. Just waiting for someone to get hurt. I haven't seen a policeman yet. Everything is on camera, they'll mail you a ticket. So if people have someplace they need to be, then you can go through a red light. They park where ever they want to - in the street, on the curb, sidewalk, behind someone else. People zip around on their motorcycles with infants in their arms. They must think I'm crazy with my fancy car seats. To top it off, Keith bought a right seated van. I'm driving on the other side! It's all backwards. You reach for the seatbelt on the wrong side. I put on my blinker and the wipers come on. I've almost ripped the blinker off the side thinking it was my shifter. The emergency brake is by the door, not in the middle. Don't even get me started with the rearview mirror. To top if off, right in front of the main gate is a little section lovingly refered to as "the triangle of death". Yep. I'll be practicing on these roads with my children in the back. Lovely. The parking is the killer. Someone has come up with the smallest possible mathmatical measurement for parking spots. You are suppose to back into the spots. There's cars and pillars all over the place. They don't call them bumpers for no reason at all! It's my least favorite thing to do.
Our apartment is very nice. Keith was so cute to have it all ready and clean for us. He said he bought a new tv for me. I should have guessed he also treated me to a Bose surround sound. He spoils me so. I'm adjusting to the hardwood floors. My feet are sore from walking in the house! (no shoes inside please) And, the mess! Our feet stay black. I went and bought a mop sweeper, but there's no way to keep up with the dust. It's very visible from the dark wood. I miss my Dyson. Sweet Bluebell.
Oh, Keith did buy this floor fan that I'm in love with. It's so powerful. I'm already sad to leave her here. She's a 220, not made for the USA.
We're almost finished unpacking. Keith did a great job nesting, but I've had to slightly rearrange a few things. I wasn't prepared for all the gadgets and buttons in this place to be in Korean. Keith is teaching me "the third button press twice" "the lights are this button" "just don't touch this one". I've had to wake him up in the middle of the night to find things or tell me how to work stuff. I couldn't turn the water in the kitchen sink on. Who would have thought you kick a pad at your feet to turn it on and off. I'm already wondering how long I will be kicking the cabinets back in the States. We have a parking garage and elevator. The door is electronic and Cole already knows the passcode on it. He's really cute. As he opens the door he says "And don't tell anyone!" I'm working on putting the boys clothes away and I'm baffled that I brought so many. I'm also confused as to what size is who's... My little Brad is almost caught up to big brother. I think he's grown 2 inches since we've been here. There's been two separate instances in the middle of the night, I thought Brad was Cole just looking at his size.
Speaking of the boys, they are attention grabbers. We went to Home Plus (said home prush - actually sang and broadcasted LOUDLY throughout the store) and they were followed, ohhhed and pointed at. I'm not sure if it's their light hair and features or the way they are behaving. It very well could be the latter. Home Plus has some interesting items in it. My favorite are the shirts in English that don't make any sense. "You call this MODERN. ???"
I'll have to show you pictures of all the funny things we've seen, but for now I must finish unpacking. Keith works tonight so I need to make sure the kids are alive when he gets home.
It's been a long journey to get here. I'm sure I'll go back and journal it when I find all that extra time. It might be better to write about the plane ride later when I've had a chance to forget all the "fun". We were delayed in Dallas for 4 hours and Brad threw 3 full out temper tantrums on the plane. Once we were off, it didn't get better. We waited in the Swine Flu line, the Passport line, downstairs to collect luggage, the Customs line, and then the bus line. After the almost 2 hour bus ride, awake for 24 hours straight, we made it HOME. It was all worth it to see the boys attack their Daddy. They missed him and couldn't quit saying it. It was pretty cute. We're right where we need to be.
I should have known if one of the kids would give me an issue it would be Brad. Poor kid. Cole did great on the plane and even made a friend. It's Brad and his obsession of the moment (OOTM), those dang little lego men. He cried when they fell, cried when he wanted a different one, cried when he wanted Cole's, cried just to cry. He slept through every meal they served on the plane so when he woke up he was hungry... when the food came, asleep.
We've been here for 3 days and the biggest difference I've noticed is how self indulgent Americans are. These people are so friendly, happy, and hard workers. They do with less, live with less (space, "things", laws - I'm talking about the driving around here!) less of everything and it works. Saying that, you can walk 100 yards in any direction and find ANYTHING you want. So they work harder and faster to cater to you. They know you can go right next door. True Story: Keith called our landlady to get our internet fixed and 10 minutes later he was at our door.
Driving: Good Heavens. It's worse than watching preschoolers play at the park. It's a near wreck every moment. Just waiting for someone to get hurt. I haven't seen a policeman yet. Everything is on camera, they'll mail you a ticket. So if people have someplace they need to be, then you can go through a red light. They park where ever they want to - in the street, on the curb, sidewalk, behind someone else. People zip around on their motorcycles with infants in their arms. They must think I'm crazy with my fancy car seats. To top it off, Keith bought a right seated van. I'm driving on the other side! It's all backwards. You reach for the seatbelt on the wrong side. I put on my blinker and the wipers come on. I've almost ripped the blinker off the side thinking it was my shifter. The emergency brake is by the door, not in the middle. Don't even get me started with the rearview mirror. To top if off, right in front of the main gate is a little section lovingly refered to as "the triangle of death". Yep. I'll be practicing on these roads with my children in the back. Lovely. The parking is the killer. Someone has come up with the smallest possible mathmatical measurement for parking spots. You are suppose to back into the spots. There's cars and pillars all over the place. They don't call them bumpers for no reason at all! It's my least favorite thing to do.
Our apartment is very nice. Keith was so cute to have it all ready and clean for us. He said he bought a new tv for me. I should have guessed he also treated me to a Bose surround sound. He spoils me so. I'm adjusting to the hardwood floors. My feet are sore from walking in the house! (no shoes inside please) And, the mess! Our feet stay black. I went and bought a mop sweeper, but there's no way to keep up with the dust. It's very visible from the dark wood. I miss my Dyson. Sweet Bluebell.
Oh, Keith did buy this floor fan that I'm in love with. It's so powerful. I'm already sad to leave her here. She's a 220, not made for the USA.
We're almost finished unpacking. Keith did a great job nesting, but I've had to slightly rearrange a few things. I wasn't prepared for all the gadgets and buttons in this place to be in Korean. Keith is teaching me "the third button press twice" "the lights are this button" "just don't touch this one". I've had to wake him up in the middle of the night to find things or tell me how to work stuff. I couldn't turn the water in the kitchen sink on. Who would have thought you kick a pad at your feet to turn it on and off. I'm already wondering how long I will be kicking the cabinets back in the States. We have a parking garage and elevator. The door is electronic and Cole already knows the passcode on it. He's really cute. As he opens the door he says "And don't tell anyone!" I'm working on putting the boys clothes away and I'm baffled that I brought so many. I'm also confused as to what size is who's... My little Brad is almost caught up to big brother. I think he's grown 2 inches since we've been here. There's been two separate instances in the middle of the night, I thought Brad was Cole just looking at his size.
Speaking of the boys, they are attention grabbers. We went to Home Plus (said home prush - actually sang and broadcasted LOUDLY throughout the store) and they were followed, ohhhed and pointed at. I'm not sure if it's their light hair and features or the way they are behaving. It very well could be the latter. Home Plus has some interesting items in it. My favorite are the shirts in English that don't make any sense. "You call this MODERN. ???"
I'll have to show you pictures of all the funny things we've seen, but for now I must finish unpacking. Keith works tonight so I need to make sure the kids are alive when he gets home.
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