Whenever I think of Korea, I would always think of the drinking culture. I think it goes hand and hand. Koreans drink so much that they should have a city named after 'soju' (their most prized drink..).
There are a couple of occassions I fell victim to this infamous drinking culture. But before anyone start to judge me, I'll stress the fact that I am not an alcoholic nor a heavy drinker. I always think that drinking comes with occassion, in relation to this, I acknowledge that I drink occassionally.
Studies show that there is nothing wrong with drinking, unless you become a slave to alcohol. I regularly drink a glass or two of my favorite Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Sweet Wine. It helps me relax a bit when I'm tired or stressed. From time to time, my friends and I would would go to a bar to unwind and would drink beer (I leave the 'hard-stuff' to the boys). I hate the calories it gives, but it's all part of socialization.
But this changed when I got to Korea. I'm not really good at drinking hard liquor so there were several occassions when I got really drunk. One time with my old friend Mcqueen (an english name he took from Alexander McQueen), a student from the academy where I taught in Q.C. He introduced his friends from Anyang over grilled meat and soju. It tasted like vodka and it went down pretty easy. After a couple of shots, I felt dazed. I had to take a taxi from Ansan to Suwon cause taking the subway felt difficult. Another occassion was with B.J., a university guy who befriended me at the plane.. Together with 3 of his friends, we went to Jongro for a swig. I was surprised how well korean girls drink. Bottles after bottles of soju and the worst they got was slurred speech. Again, I got drunk after 4 - 5 shots. I had to meet Chris in Bupyung with his high-school classmates at that time and I was drunk. So I took a taxi from Seoul to Incheon and fare costs a staggering 40,000 won. Two more occassion came, but good thing it wasn't far from home. But in those two occassions, I woke up not remembering how I was able to go home that night. After that, I sort of made a promise to myself to stay away from soju.
It has been more than 3 months since I last tasted any form of alcohol, but I'm about to break that tomorrow when I go to Embassy for a girls night out. I'm actually not in the mood to party.. But I'll be away for a while and wont be able to see them, so might as well enjoy my time while I'm still here.
11.27.2008
A girl and her surgeries.
So I finally met an old friend over a cup of coffee. She was my group-mate in prosthetics/orthotics class back in college. She has gotten so much prettier from the last time I saw her years ago! There was definitely something different in her face but I thought it's rather impolite to ask if she went under the knife.
I guess she noticed my puzzled expression, so she disclosed she had surgery ( and I think some skin bleaching too.. ) not too long ago. She had her nose done and some chin implant to balance everything out. The plastic surgeon did a good job cause it looked really natural...
This started rumors in our college reunion early this year. I guess 'crab mentality' is one classic filipino trait that will always be present in our society. I can't understand why some people can't be happy for others. Plastic surgery is more than just being vain or dissatisfied with what God has given us. It's being happy and feeling good about yourself. It's a personal preference, and it's not for others to question, speculate, or see as debatable. I'm sure given the right finances, a lot of people would readily jump to the bandwagon to feel good about themselves and the way they look at the mirror.
In Korea where plastic surgery is as normal as getting a haircut, this wouldn't stir any discussion. In this light, I remember an interview of a famous plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills regarding plastic surgery being insubstantial and superficial (or something like that..) What he said next surprised me... "yes it is superficial", "but nobody walks down the street showing their inner beauty".. and I couldn't agree more.
I guess she noticed my puzzled expression, so she disclosed she had surgery ( and I think some skin bleaching too.. ) not too long ago. She had her nose done and some chin implant to balance everything out. The plastic surgeon did a good job cause it looked really natural...
This started rumors in our college reunion early this year. I guess 'crab mentality' is one classic filipino trait that will always be present in our society. I can't understand why some people can't be happy for others. Plastic surgery is more than just being vain or dissatisfied with what God has given us. It's being happy and feeling good about yourself. It's a personal preference, and it's not for others to question, speculate, or see as debatable. I'm sure given the right finances, a lot of people would readily jump to the bandwagon to feel good about themselves and the way they look at the mirror.
In Korea where plastic surgery is as normal as getting a haircut, this wouldn't stir any discussion. In this light, I remember an interview of a famous plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills regarding plastic surgery being insubstantial and superficial (or something like that..) What he said next surprised me... "yes it is superficial", "but nobody walks down the street showing their inner beauty".. and I couldn't agree more.
11.26.2008
Off to see a Doctor.
So today I'm going to the doctor's office to check my condition ( have cold symptoms for 2 weeks now! ). I'm leaving for Korea very soon so I have to make sure that everything's fine. As much as possible, I don't wanna be sick when I'm there. Foreigners aren't covered by the national insurance so we have to pay a lot for the doctor's fee and medicines.
During the 2 years of going in and out of Korea, I've been sick countless of times, usually during the summer season when it gets really hot and in winter when it's cold. Chris and I love going on a date or traveling almost every week but extreme temperature makes me sick. As a result, I visit the doctor's office quite often and it costs a lot of money.
My most recent visit to a doctor's office happened last October. It was a clinic in Maetan-dong near Samsung. For a check-up that didn't last more than 30 minutes (including the waiting time and a shot in the tushy^^), I was charged 45,000 won and the medicine (mostly antibiotic) was around 12,000. The other clinic I usually visit charges 40,000 won however, they have such unfriendly nurses. But in any case, it's still expensive. For those who have insurance, it'll be much cheaper, although I'm not exactly sure how much. Dental Care Clinics are also expensive. I remember a time when some of my brackets were displaced after eating crabs for dinner. They charged me just as much for gluing it back. The dentist, a beautiful woman (despite an obvious addiction to plastic surgery) in her early 40's asked what happened and after I explained to her, she blurted... "CRABS?" in long and winding tone. Her eyes widened in disbelief then she said.. "you know you're not suppose to eat crabs." Till now, I still remember her face vividly.
With these experiences, I can't help but think of those foreigners working in Korea. It can be tough for them to get sick. So it's really a blessing that some NGO's created 'goodwill clinics' to help migrant workers. I heard consultation and medicines are for free... But what about those who are working illegally? I'm sure there are a lot of 'undocumented' people who need medical attention and treatment but are not getting any. I hope the government can do something about it.
During the 2 years of going in and out of Korea, I've been sick countless of times, usually during the summer season when it gets really hot and in winter when it's cold. Chris and I love going on a date or traveling almost every week but extreme temperature makes me sick. As a result, I visit the doctor's office quite often and it costs a lot of money.
My most recent visit to a doctor's office happened last October. It was a clinic in Maetan-dong near Samsung. For a check-up that didn't last more than 30 minutes (including the waiting time and a shot in the tushy^^), I was charged 45,000 won and the medicine (mostly antibiotic) was around 12,000. The other clinic I usually visit charges 40,000 won however, they have such unfriendly nurses. But in any case, it's still expensive. For those who have insurance, it'll be much cheaper, although I'm not exactly sure how much. Dental Care Clinics are also expensive. I remember a time when some of my brackets were displaced after eating crabs for dinner. They charged me just as much for gluing it back. The dentist, a beautiful woman (despite an obvious addiction to plastic surgery) in her early 40's asked what happened and after I explained to her, she blurted... "CRABS?" in long and winding tone. Her eyes widened in disbelief then she said.. "you know you're not suppose to eat crabs." Till now, I still remember her face vividly.
With these experiences, I can't help but think of those foreigners working in Korea. It can be tough for them to get sick. So it's really a blessing that some NGO's created 'goodwill clinics' to help migrant workers. I heard consultation and medicines are for free... But what about those who are working illegally? I'm sure there are a lot of 'undocumented' people who need medical attention and treatment but are not getting any. I hope the government can do something about it.
11.25.2008
The Underage Dilemma.
Fact is, a lot of people in Korea have mistaken me for being an underage girl. I'm not sure why this thing happened a lot, but sometimes it can be embarassing (especially the part where I have to reveal my real age and people gasp in disbelief).
I'm pushing 30 in a couple of years, still young like others would say. But when I was younger, 30 was my idea of being old. Well, not now..
My first brush with the 'Age Dilemma' was at the plane, during my first time to visit my bf. A korean university guy befriended me. He kept on talking and telling me stories in his broken english, which I thought was very funny. After a while, he asked me how was I able to secure my parents permission to visit my bf in Korea... He also asked about school and everything, and if my parents are ok with me missing school. All the while he thought I was a high-school student (strange but true, blame it on my hello kitty bag!!) and was shocked to find out I'm older than him. I told this funny story to my bf and he explained to me that most Pinay look younger than their real age, and the fact that Koreans aren't well aware of foreign people's age just by looking at their faces.
Another occurence was at my bf's grandmother's house. The first time I met his 'halmmoni', she fondly called me "hakseng". I didn't know what it meant at that time so I just let it pass. Until now, she still calls me "hakseng" even if the people around her kept telling I'm not.
Sometimes, it can be quite inconvenient too, like for example going to Ministop or Family mart to buy cigarettes or beer has always been a hassle. They would always ask me for an ID card so whenever Chris would ask me to buy those things while he's at the office, I always recline. Another funny story was when we went to a nightclub after dinner to celebrate our 3rd year anniversary and we couldn't enter the place. The 'bouncer' asked for my ID card (which I left at home) so Chris told him I'm already at the legal age to drink. He kept on looking at Chris who was wearing a coat and tie at that time and towing a girl who seems to be under-age. The bouncer was suspicious that he might be a 'teen-age predator'. He was asking a lot of questions, and Chris was utterly embarassed that he decided to just go home. On the way home, I was laughing like crazy.
But it has benefits too, like discounts and cheaper entrance fees, whenever we travel. Who wouldn't want that?
Truth is, there isn't anything youthful looking with my appearance. It's just that, I always maintain a cheerful disposition which makes me feel and look younger than I really am (and also the fact that I'm wearing braces at this AGE..!). It beats all other age-defying and anti-wrinkle creams available in the market!
I'm pushing 30 in a couple of years, still young like others would say. But when I was younger, 30 was my idea of being old. Well, not now..
My first brush with the 'Age Dilemma' was at the plane, during my first time to visit my bf. A korean university guy befriended me. He kept on talking and telling me stories in his broken english, which I thought was very funny. After a while, he asked me how was I able to secure my parents permission to visit my bf in Korea... He also asked about school and everything, and if my parents are ok with me missing school. All the while he thought I was a high-school student (strange but true, blame it on my hello kitty bag!!) and was shocked to find out I'm older than him. I told this funny story to my bf and he explained to me that most Pinay look younger than their real age, and the fact that Koreans aren't well aware of foreign people's age just by looking at their faces.
Another occurence was at my bf's grandmother's house. The first time I met his 'halmmoni', she fondly called me "hakseng". I didn't know what it meant at that time so I just let it pass. Until now, she still calls me "hakseng" even if the people around her kept telling I'm not.
Sometimes, it can be quite inconvenient too, like for example going to Ministop or Family mart to buy cigarettes or beer has always been a hassle. They would always ask me for an ID card so whenever Chris would ask me to buy those things while he's at the office, I always recline. Another funny story was when we went to a nightclub after dinner to celebrate our 3rd year anniversary and we couldn't enter the place. The 'bouncer' asked for my ID card (which I left at home) so Chris told him I'm already at the legal age to drink. He kept on looking at Chris who was wearing a coat and tie at that time and towing a girl who seems to be under-age. The bouncer was suspicious that he might be a 'teen-age predator'. He was asking a lot of questions, and Chris was utterly embarassed that he decided to just go home. On the way home, I was laughing like crazy.
But it has benefits too, like discounts and cheaper entrance fees, whenever we travel. Who wouldn't want that?
Truth is, there isn't anything youthful looking with my appearance. It's just that, I always maintain a cheerful disposition which makes me feel and look younger than I really am (and also the fact that I'm wearing braces at this AGE..!). It beats all other age-defying and anti-wrinkle creams available in the market!
Just Venting.
Today has been tough. I had fever (yet again!) from yesterday. I can barely move out of my bed. But then I had to go out and drag myself to Chinabank and make an urgent deposit. It couldn't wait so I called up my mom who is doing her grocery at the supermarket nearby and told her that I'm going to the bank. The place is near, about 5-8 minutes away from home. I should've taken a tricycle but my mom insisted that I should get a taxi to go there.
Hailing from a cab, I arrived at 11:22 am. The branch where I went is fairly small so there are only few people there (about 3 including myself). As a customary, I sat down and waited till my number appears on the screen. Finally it was my turn, I hurried to get to the teller's booth (with ailing ankles and elbows!) and to my surprise the woman (teller) didn't budge and just continued doing whatever she's doing. Politely, I waited till she finishes, thinking I have enough time before 12 pm. 2 minutes have passed, 2 precious minutes wasted on the most uncomfortable silence there is. I finally told her, "I need to make a deposit before 12, it's important", then I handed her the money and the deposit slip. Before she could answer, one middle-aged Chinese woman came and went directly to the teller without securing a number first. She gladly entertained her while I'm standing there, looking annoyed. I was in awe when she asked me to sit down and wait. 10 minutes later, the transaction was done and the Chinese woman went outside. I hurried back to the teller and calmly asked what's the reason why I needed to wait that long. She then answered, "we prioritize our account holders more than anything else". I answered, "Am I not here to make a friggin* deposit?!" while fighting the urge to bad-mouth her even more.
When she handed me the reciept, it read 12:11 pm. With an angry face I asked her, "didn't I tell you it's important?", again, she didn't budge. I got her name then stormed my way out of the bank. I was more than pissed when I narrated the story to my mom. She's clearly the worst teller I have ever known!
To ease whatever I'm feeling, I decided to get a massage. After an hour, my head is clearer and felt better, but I still can't forget the incident with the teller.
Hailing from a cab, I arrived at 11:22 am. The branch where I went is fairly small so there are only few people there (about 3 including myself). As a customary, I sat down and waited till my number appears on the screen. Finally it was my turn, I hurried to get to the teller's booth (with ailing ankles and elbows!) and to my surprise the woman (teller) didn't budge and just continued doing whatever she's doing. Politely, I waited till she finishes, thinking I have enough time before 12 pm. 2 minutes have passed, 2 precious minutes wasted on the most uncomfortable silence there is. I finally told her, "I need to make a deposit before 12, it's important", then I handed her the money and the deposit slip. Before she could answer, one middle-aged Chinese woman came and went directly to the teller without securing a number first. She gladly entertained her while I'm standing there, looking annoyed. I was in awe when she asked me to sit down and wait. 10 minutes later, the transaction was done and the Chinese woman went outside. I hurried back to the teller and calmly asked what's the reason why I needed to wait that long. She then answered, "we prioritize our account holders more than anything else". I answered, "Am I not here to make a friggin* deposit?!" while fighting the urge to bad-mouth her even more.
When she handed me the reciept, it read 12:11 pm. With an angry face I asked her, "didn't I tell you it's important?", again, she didn't budge. I got her name then stormed my way out of the bank. I was more than pissed when I narrated the story to my mom. She's clearly the worst teller I have ever known!
To ease whatever I'm feeling, I decided to get a massage. After an hour, my head is clearer and felt better, but I still can't forget the incident with the teller.
11.24.2008
A picky-eater and a cook.
I don't consider myself a picky-eater, but people close to me think otherwise. My bf would always complain how difficult it is to feed me and how choosing a restaurant becomes a tedious task. I don't cook a lot at home so we don't have choice but to eat outside most of the time. Imagine spending an hour or so, deciding on which restaurant we should go to. This happens most of the time so he can't help but complain. I'm really not like him when it comes to food. He's very adventurous and I haven't seen an occassion, where he refused to eat something. When he was in the Phil, he heard from someone that eating 'balut' would increase his virility and it didn't take much prodding before he took his first bite. In my case, I never had the courage to eat balut, so the taste still remains a mystery.
So we wouldn't argue anymore, we came up with an agreement to let me cook whatever I want to eat. I liked the idea at first, but then who knew finding ingredients in the supermarket can be tough?! I'm not in any way a great cook, I think 'decent-cook' sounds more operative. I wanted to impress him with my so-called kitchen flair, so once I tried cooking adobo but the end result tasted nothing like it. When I heard from a friend that there are several kinds of soysauce and vinegar in Korea, I was dumbfounded! From then on, I started to scrutinize the labels first before putting it in the cart.
I already gave up cooking pinoy dishes to impress him (there was also a case of 'Beef Caldereta gone bad' where I put spaghetti sauce cause I couldn't find any tomato sauce!!!) and to feed my 'food-sickness' issue. Now, I just cook korean dishes for him, it's somehow easier to prepare and I know he'd appreciate it more. As for me, I make a schedule of what I should cook in all 7 days. We have what we call Kimchi Chigae mondays or Sundubu Chigae sundays.. like that. Those 7 dishes (the only dishes I can prepare..) will then be rotated the next week. But I get tired of eating the same 7 meals week by week and I would really love to try something else. Back to square one, we'd eat outside. Now, arguing on where we should eat takes an hour and a half!
So we wouldn't argue anymore, we came up with an agreement to let me cook whatever I want to eat. I liked the idea at first, but then who knew finding ingredients in the supermarket can be tough?! I'm not in any way a great cook, I think 'decent-cook' sounds more operative. I wanted to impress him with my so-called kitchen flair, so once I tried cooking adobo but the end result tasted nothing like it. When I heard from a friend that there are several kinds of soysauce and vinegar in Korea, I was dumbfounded! From then on, I started to scrutinize the labels first before putting it in the cart.
I already gave up cooking pinoy dishes to impress him (there was also a case of 'Beef Caldereta gone bad' where I put spaghetti sauce cause I couldn't find any tomato sauce!!!) and to feed my 'food-sickness' issue. Now, I just cook korean dishes for him, it's somehow easier to prepare and I know he'd appreciate it more. As for me, I make a schedule of what I should cook in all 7 days. We have what we call Kimchi Chigae mondays or Sundubu Chigae sundays.. like that. Those 7 dishes (the only dishes I can prepare..) will then be rotated the next week. But I get tired of eating the same 7 meals week by week and I would really love to try something else. Back to square one, we'd eat outside. Now, arguing on where we should eat takes an hour and a half!
11.23.2008
Love knows no boundaries...
Since I consider my blog as a journal of my life, I write things that I wish I wouldn't forget. And among hundreds of posts I wrote, I almost never mentioned about my bf. I'm actually saving our story for one 'special' post like this one.
He is a Korean and I'm a Filipina. His name is Chris and he's a year older than me...He was a senior engineering student at Hanyang University when we met. I call him my greatest love, my happiness, my everything. We've been together for more than 3 years now and been working on getting married in the future.
It all started when I'm still working as an English Teacher at a language school in Q.C. It was right after our lunch break when I first saw Chris. He was walking towards the travel agency nearby when some of my colleagues started calling his attention. He was carrying a big luggage at that time and he seemed lost. Out of goodwill, my friends offered help. I admit, he looked really cute that day, that's why my friends kept on talking to him. I was the only one who seemed distant and quiet. In my head, I hated all the attention my friends were giving him cause I didn't want him to think that we were so into him. He kept on glancing at me and asked a couple of things. I was surprised how well he speaks in English, probably the best I've ever heard (he didn't sound a typical korean at all!)... For some reason, my friends disappeared and we were left talking to each other.
When the bell rang, I said goodbye and I thought that was it. After the next break, my friends and I gathered to the same exact spot. I was surprised to see him again... He looked as if he's waiting for someone but I didn't know he was actually waiting for me. After I finished my work, he was still there and that's the time he asked if I could have dinner with him. I didn't think twice cause I secretly liked him a little bit so I said yes, provided that I get to bring along a friend. So all 3 of us went to the restaurant and ate. It was raining hard at that time and the air is a bit cold. I don't know why but he offered his hooded jacket. I politely said no but he kept on insisting. That night, I felt that he's really interested in me.
He was supposed to enter a boarding house before meeting me. But he ended up renting a unit in the same condominium where my sister and I are staying. We then became inseparable. He made each day special and then I slowly realized I'm falling hard for him. Each day I grew more and more nervous as his departure day gets closer. The night before his flight, I cried so much. I woke up the next day with swollen eyes from too much crying. Still, tears ran down my cheeks as we said our goodbyes at the airport. I thought, that was the end of it till I recieved a mail from him. In his letter, he mentioned how crazy in love he is and he can't wait to come back for me. True enough, 2 months later he's back but he stayed for only a week. Still, I cried so much when I took him to the airport. True to his word, he came back frequently (5 times in a year) to see me. The last time he visited Manila, he stayed for a month. After he entered Samsung, it became very difficult for him to visit me so he asked me to visit him instead. From then on, Korea has been my second home.
Being in an inter-racial relationship is not easy. There are so many things to think about. I spent so many sleepless nights thinking whether this relationship is worth the fight or not. Chris would always say yes... I hold on to his answer and would just brush this idea away from my head afterall, love knows no boundary, nor culture, nationality, or even race.
He is a Korean and I'm a Filipina. His name is Chris and he's a year older than me...He was a senior engineering student at Hanyang University when we met. I call him my greatest love, my happiness, my everything. We've been together for more than 3 years now and been working on getting married in the future.
It all started when I'm still working as an English Teacher at a language school in Q.C. It was right after our lunch break when I first saw Chris. He was walking towards the travel agency nearby when some of my colleagues started calling his attention. He was carrying a big luggage at that time and he seemed lost. Out of goodwill, my friends offered help. I admit, he looked really cute that day, that's why my friends kept on talking to him. I was the only one who seemed distant and quiet. In my head, I hated all the attention my friends were giving him cause I didn't want him to think that we were so into him. He kept on glancing at me and asked a couple of things. I was surprised how well he speaks in English, probably the best I've ever heard (he didn't sound a typical korean at all!)... For some reason, my friends disappeared and we were left talking to each other.
When the bell rang, I said goodbye and I thought that was it. After the next break, my friends and I gathered to the same exact spot. I was surprised to see him again... He looked as if he's waiting for someone but I didn't know he was actually waiting for me. After I finished my work, he was still there and that's the time he asked if I could have dinner with him. I didn't think twice cause I secretly liked him a little bit so I said yes, provided that I get to bring along a friend. So all 3 of us went to the restaurant and ate. It was raining hard at that time and the air is a bit cold. I don't know why but he offered his hooded jacket. I politely said no but he kept on insisting. That night, I felt that he's really interested in me.
He was supposed to enter a boarding house before meeting me. But he ended up renting a unit in the same condominium where my sister and I are staying. We then became inseparable. He made each day special and then I slowly realized I'm falling hard for him. Each day I grew more and more nervous as his departure day gets closer. The night before his flight, I cried so much. I woke up the next day with swollen eyes from too much crying. Still, tears ran down my cheeks as we said our goodbyes at the airport. I thought, that was the end of it till I recieved a mail from him. In his letter, he mentioned how crazy in love he is and he can't wait to come back for me. True enough, 2 months later he's back but he stayed for only a week. Still, I cried so much when I took him to the airport. True to his word, he came back frequently (5 times in a year) to see me. The last time he visited Manila, he stayed for a month. After he entered Samsung, it became very difficult for him to visit me so he asked me to visit him instead. From then on, Korea has been my second home.
Being in an inter-racial relationship is not easy. There are so many things to think about. I spent so many sleepless nights thinking whether this relationship is worth the fight or not. Chris would always say yes... I hold on to his answer and would just brush this idea away from my head afterall, love knows no boundary, nor culture, nationality, or even race.
Done with it
I'm finally done transferring my humble friendster blog here.. Now, I'm happy how things are going..
11.21.2008
Mixed thoughts
As my departure day gets closer and closer, I'm having mixed thoughts. I absolutely hate not being here for Christmas, and this time it'll be more than that. My younger sis is going to get married on the 26th and I won't be here to attend the ceremony.
There are so many things happening here that l somehow feel depressed to pack my bags and leave. One of the things I do to fight this feeling is to think about the things I'm looking forward to do in Korea.
I'd love to visit Busan again in winter... then take a boat-ride (while drinking some lukewarm beer..! I've seen a lot of people doing that so I would like to try it next time^^) and go to Jeju perhaps?! I heard it's possible... it'll be a nice change to take the boat instead of the usual crampy plane that only serves juice : )
Camping in front of the beach sounds good hmm.. probably too cold. Camping by the river or lake and go fishing? Ice fishing perhaps or fish sleeps in winter? It's probably too cold to go camping and should forget about it. Hm... I know, log cabins..right! I'd love to visit a log cabin in the middle of a forest and sit in front of a fireplace drinking some wine while it's snowing hard outside. That sounds cool.
Should I visit a themepark? Lotteworld, SeoulLand? No those two are a waste of time to visit, should stick with Everland... but for the 9th time? Fact is, I haven't visited Everland in winter so it's probably worth the visit... even for the 9th time. The Safari there is good, I had fun with the bears.. which makes me think about visiting a zoo. Right! There's one huge zoo beside SeoulLand... should definitely visit there next time.
Visiting a Hot Spring Resort has always been my plan. I know that in Japan, hot spring resorts are luxury-leisure activity that a lot of people love but not all people can afford to. I'm not sure if that's the case in Korea.
There are so many things happening here that l somehow feel depressed to pack my bags and leave. One of the things I do to fight this feeling is to think about the things I'm looking forward to do in Korea.
I'd love to visit Busan again in winter... then take a boat-ride (while drinking some lukewarm beer..! I've seen a lot of people doing that so I would like to try it next time^^) and go to Jeju perhaps?! I heard it's possible... it'll be a nice change to take the boat instead of the usual crampy plane that only serves juice : )
Camping in front of the beach sounds good hmm.. probably too cold. Camping by the river or lake and go fishing? Ice fishing perhaps or fish sleeps in winter? It's probably too cold to go camping and should forget about it. Hm... I know, log cabins..right! I'd love to visit a log cabin in the middle of a forest and sit in front of a fireplace drinking some wine while it's snowing hard outside. That sounds cool.
Should I visit a themepark? Lotteworld, SeoulLand? No those two are a waste of time to visit, should stick with Everland... but for the 9th time? Fact is, I haven't visited Everland in winter so it's probably worth the visit... even for the 9th time. The Safari there is good, I had fun with the bears.. which makes me think about visiting a zoo. Right! There's one huge zoo beside SeoulLand... should definitely visit there next time.
Visiting a Hot Spring Resort has always been my plan. I know that in Japan, hot spring resorts are luxury-leisure activity that a lot of people love but not all people can afford to. I'm not sure if that's the case in Korea.
11.20.2008
Need Haircut ASAP
I need to get a haircut soon! I'm tired of living with my 'style-less' (read: no style) hair. The lenght basically weighs it down, making it look dull and lifeless so I'm thinking of cutting it really short, sexy, and bouncy. The problem is, I don't know what type of haircut I should get. Or should I just have it permed, rebonded or relaxed? In any case, it should be low-maintenance cause I hate fixing my hair in the morning (I'm a wash and brush kinda girl...).
My idea of a nice haircut is something like shoulder lenght, layered, with side swept bangs. I've done it a couple of times and it clearly works for me... but it's kinda boring. I want something edgy, funky and has an attitude but I don't wanna end up looking futuristic, wannabe rockstar or emo babe.
I really can't decide on which haircut I should have. I browsed thru different website but nothing applealed to my taste. I'm so lost now I'm even considering having my hair bleached and dread-locked for a change.
My idea of a nice haircut is something like shoulder lenght, layered, with side swept bangs. I've done it a couple of times and it clearly works for me... but it's kinda boring. I want something edgy, funky and has an attitude but I don't wanna end up looking futuristic, wannabe rockstar or emo babe.
I really can't decide on which haircut I should have. I browsed thru different website but nothing applealed to my taste. I'm so lost now I'm even considering having my hair bleached and dread-locked for a change.
Boob-tube blues.
It's such a pain watchin my favorite 'idiot box' these days. It's just loaded with crap all day long! Nobody can't stop talking about Bolante and Dela Paz who are obviously guilty but the government isn't doing something about it other than their so-called investigation. F*ck due process in cases like this! They are the reason why people commit crime cause of poverty. The Senate is just one big stage where everybody is acting out, pretending they're doing something in front of the media. And then there's this senate coup d' etat they're talking about, which make them look like a bunch of elementary school students fighting over who is smarter. Having the faces of everyone involved, plastered in every channel makes me wanna gag.
I'm plain numb to everything, almost indifferent. But who can blame me? Being bombarded with things like recession everywhere, corruption, crime, war, and a whole lot more on a daily basis is just too much! I need a break, but it seems like TV is no fun anymore. I hope they allot a day for good news alone, cause people are sick and tired of hearing bad things happening all the time.
I'm plain numb to everything, almost indifferent. But who can blame me? Being bombarded with things like recession everywhere, corruption, crime, war, and a whole lot more on a daily basis is just too much! I need a break, but it seems like TV is no fun anymore. I hope they allot a day for good news alone, cause people are sick and tired of hearing bad things happening all the time.
Hamasaki Heaven.
I'm currently hooked with Ayumi Hamasaki's "Heaven". When I heard this song, I kept on thinking where I heard it first cause I can't seem to remember. It turns out, it was the theme song of "Shinobi, Heart Under Blade", a Japanese movie I watched not so long ago. Yukie Nakama played the lead girl here and she's also my favorite Japanese actress. I first saw her in "The Ring", then I watched her in Tokyo Wankei (again, a personal favorite) where she played a 'Zainichi Kankokujin' (how can I forget?). I even tediously downloaded all of Gokusen cause she's in it.
You can go check out this song here, I'm sure you guys will like it!
http://www.imeem.com/ska8boi/video/iNVYr41r/heaven_ayumi_hamasaki_music_video/
Ayumi is such a talented singer, some would even say she's the best in Japan. So I hate it when others say she's too old cause good music doesn't come with age. I totally dig her voice! To me, it's like a lullabye... soft, calm and soothing, doing something more than just putting me to sleep!
You can go check out this song here, I'm sure you guys will like it!
http://www.imeem.com/ska8boi/video/iNVYr41r/heaven_ayumi_hamasaki_music_video/
Ayumi is such a talented singer, some would even say she's the best in Japan. So I hate it when others say she's too old cause good music doesn't come with age. I totally dig her voice! To me, it's like a lullabye... soft, calm and soothing, doing something more than just putting me to sleep!
Love Defined
What does love mean to me. The dictionaries meaning is to have a strong attachment induced by that which delights or commands admiration, pre-eminent kindness, a devotion to another person, of deep affection and tenderness …The only way for us to truly understand the definition on love is to present you with my current situation. I’m in love, yes and it hit me like an avalanche. I never expected it to happen; all I wanted was a bit of change in my life. What a drastic change! He told me for the first time he loved me, they were right to say that missing each other is a test of love; I get so emotional sometimes and I started to cry, why? cause no one has made me feel this wanted, needed and loved. Love is all about sharing, understanding and allowing someone into your “personal space” of your heart, I know it does not always work out this way. Love is about sacrifice and compromise. I myself gave up on love, was tired of chasing it and not finding what I desired so much and in the end, it found me in the most unexpected place. And why I chose to fall in love, even though it’s been so difficult now, with him a million miles away, the answer is quiet simple, and the heart does not ask how to feel. The heart was not meant to wither away and by allowing one to open up ones heart to another, it’s the most splendid feeling of all. What would the purpose of ones existence be without love and appreciation, without sharing your sorrows and pleasures with, without having the opportunity to express yourself in more ways than one. I know love and relationships can be difficult, but I look at it like a business, if you don’t work at it, you will not succeed. There were times when I thought, to hell with this, why let yourself feel all these need and desire, when you don’t know whether it will succeed or not, but then I look within and found that once you start loving yourself, others will notice and feel and love will soon come knocking at your door …wait, I’m not yet done. Whether my present relationship is only for us to be together so that we can give each other support and understanding, to be each other pillars of strength, to be there for each other when life just gets too much or for some other deeper more meaningful reason, this I can’t answer. Our paths have crossed for a reason, but what lies ahead, well, no one can say. You never loose by loving, you only loose by holding back, really. I have noticed one major difference in myself and the way I love now, compared to the way I did. You know when you're younger, you think you’ll live forever and you think that when you have someone in your life, you feel as if you will never feel about another person the way you feel about that specific person that very moment and when your paths divide you feel like your whole world is going to fall apart, you promise yourself not to allow love to ever knock on your door and what happens, the heart heals and you fall in love all over again. I’m not saying I fall in love with each and every guy I meet, NO!, to me it’s a special bond and my degree of love for each is different in a way. I can honestly say that right now, my love is more mature, we have a greater understanding of each others needs, wants and desires. We basically are ready to accept each other with our lives. I am basically at a stage in my life where I feel I need to share my life and my love with someone. I’ll end off by saying: ‘To love is to admire with heart, to admire is to love with the mind”.So there you have it, my definition on this phenomenal factor called love, a question no human being can ever define properly, only accept it and learn from it as life goes on.
Facts about blogging...
I'm not a total newbie when it comes to blogging and I'm currently maintaining a humble friendster blog. I think, I just need to expand my horizon, having another venue for writing down my thoughts.
I have a lot of things goin on in my head and I wish to put that into words. Someday when I'm old (if this is not yet obsolete by then^^ ), I would love to read all my blogs and remember vividly how I lived my life. It may not be a big thing but the way I look at this, it's some sort of an achievement in my part.
I have a lot of things goin on in my head and I wish to put that into words. Someday when I'm old (if this is not yet obsolete by then^^ ), I would love to read all my blogs and remember vividly how I lived my life. It may not be a big thing but the way I look at this, it's some sort of an achievement in my part.
11.19.2008
Ramyeon fix gone bad?!
Earlier today, I was craving for something hot and spicy. After a strenuous workout on an empty stomach, I craved for something hot to warm me up. It's really hot these days and eating a bowl of piping hot soup seems a bit far-out but I still thought of getting my ramyeon fix, so I went to the grocery and got a pack of Ramyeon.
I felt really hungry as soon as I open the door home, so I immediately boiled water and excitedly waited till it's about time to put the noodles in. It's done in less than 8 minutes, then I brought out some familiar chopsticks and started eating. While I'm in the middle of sipping the hot soup and chewing on the noodles, I examined the wrapper and saw something weird. The expiration date looked different! It's as if someone erased the original date and printed another one. Judging from the ink smear evident in the wrapper, I felt suspicious. The prior date is still embossed while there's a newly printed one on the right side. Then I remembered reading from a friend's blog about expired korean goods here in the Phil.. and this might just be the perfect example. Read on http://www.buhaykorea.com/2008/10/16/expired-korean-products-in-the-philippines/
My bowl was already half-empty before I realized the scary fact. I really regret buying that ramyeon cause I'm now nursing an upset stomach, and who knows what more will I get from eating a probably expired ramyeon.
I felt really hungry as soon as I open the door home, so I immediately boiled water and excitedly waited till it's about time to put the noodles in. It's done in less than 8 minutes, then I brought out some familiar chopsticks and started eating. While I'm in the middle of sipping the hot soup and chewing on the noodles, I examined the wrapper and saw something weird. The expiration date looked different! It's as if someone erased the original date and printed another one. Judging from the ink smear evident in the wrapper, I felt suspicious. The prior date is still embossed while there's a newly printed one on the right side. Then I remembered reading from a friend's blog about expired korean goods here in the Phil.. and this might just be the perfect example. Read on http://www.buhaykorea.com/2008/10/16/expired-korean-products-in-the-philippines/
My bowl was already half-empty before I realized the scary fact. I really regret buying that ramyeon cause I'm now nursing an upset stomach, and who knows what more will I get from eating a probably expired ramyeon.
11.18.2008
The Notebook (2nd round)
Just finished watching "The Notebook" and eventhough it was my 2nd time, it was still worthwhile. It's probably not the best movie I have ever seen but it scores high in my list.
The story is predictable and even sharing the same concept with couple other movies. But there's something extraordinary about it. I guess it's the proven and tested familiar storyline (rich girl meets poor boy) which all people can relate, made more vivid and moving. But that's not all... The places where the scenes were shot are all beautiful. So beautiful that I totally agree when Allison said, "Like a dream". I also admire how they came up with the music that accompanied each and every scene... It's very moving.
I can go on and on with the things I love about this movie. But the thing that captivated me the most is the script. I think it's well thought of. Especially the part where Noah said, " So it's not going to be easy. It's going to be really hard. And we're going to have to work at this every day. But I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, forever, every day. " Isn't that the sweetest line ever?
All of this wouldn't really matter if not for the people who played them. Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams cleary make a good pair (reel/real life). They look so good together that my knees feel limp whenever they kiss, so I'm not surprised they even won an award for it! ^^
Check this video out if you got a few minutes to kill...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTLDLWhgV1c
11.17.2008
A view on Assisted Suicide..
Endless controversy hit Oregon when they made a law called Death With Dignity Act of 1994 and it was all over the papers a few years back. I happen to brush on this topic while making a special report back in college where I'm taking up a 5 yr medical course. I actually forgot all about it till Washington recently passed a similar law and therefore, stirring similar controversy again in all parts of U.S. This particular law is all about helping terminally ill patients die with the assistance of a doctor or what is now called assisted suicide.
I searched Wiki for a narrative description about this law to give a better insight, and so it says:
***
" Under the law, a capable adult who has been diagnosed by a physician with a terminal illness that will kill them within six months may request in writing, from his or her physician, a prescription for a lethal dose of medication for the purpose of ending the patient's life. Use of the law is voluntary and the patient must initiate the request. Any physician, pharmacist or healthcare provider opposed on moral grounds does not have to participate. "
" The request must be confirmed by two witnesses, one of whom cannot be related to the patient, be entitled to any portion of the patient's estate, be the patient's physician, or be employed by a health care facility caring for the patient. After the request is made, another physician must examine the patient's medical records and confirm the diagnosis. The patient must be determined to not suffer from a mental condition impairing judgement. If the request is authorized, the patient must wait at least fifteen days and make a second oral request before the prescription may be written. The patient has a right to rescind the request at any time. Should either physician have concerns about the patient’s ability to make an informed decision, or feel the patient’s request may be motivated by depression or coercion, the patient must be referred for a psychological evaluation. "
" The law protects doctors from liability for providing a lethal prescription for a terminally ill, competent adult in compliance with the statute restrictions. Participation by physicians, pharmacists, and health care providers is voluntary. The law also specifies a patient's decision to end his or her life shall not "have an effect upon a life, health, or accident insurance or annuity. "
***
The nature of this law is inescapable to a lot of argument as it defies certain moral standards in our society. We were brought up knowing that suicide in all forms or ways is basically unacceptable, but for people who are ill and suffering, think of it as a deliverance from all the pain.
I understand why some people would like to end everything because death can sometimes be convenient. But in my opinion, a lot of things can happen in those 6 months so I do not agree a hundred percent. Having 3 months to live is a rather different case and I think it's the most appropriate time if a patient wishes to undergo this certain procedure. By this time, the patient may be experiencing the greatest pain and suffering.
Experiencing someone very close to my heart taken away by sudden death is unbearable. Like what I used to say, I can give up everything to have my father's life 'extended' for one more day and be with us. I'm sure, people who are close to the patient feel the same way so why cut everything short?
I'm not in the position to judge a person whether this is acceptable or not for I didn't experience the pain they're going through. But isn't knowing you're still gonna see the faces of your loved ones, talk to them, and touch their hands worth living even just for a little bit longer?
I searched Wiki for a narrative description about this law to give a better insight, and so it says:
***
" Under the law, a capable adult who has been diagnosed by a physician with a terminal illness that will kill them within six months may request in writing, from his or her physician, a prescription for a lethal dose of medication for the purpose of ending the patient's life. Use of the law is voluntary and the patient must initiate the request. Any physician, pharmacist or healthcare provider opposed on moral grounds does not have to participate. "
" The request must be confirmed by two witnesses, one of whom cannot be related to the patient, be entitled to any portion of the patient's estate, be the patient's physician, or be employed by a health care facility caring for the patient. After the request is made, another physician must examine the patient's medical records and confirm the diagnosis. The patient must be determined to not suffer from a mental condition impairing judgement. If the request is authorized, the patient must wait at least fifteen days and make a second oral request before the prescription may be written. The patient has a right to rescind the request at any time. Should either physician have concerns about the patient’s ability to make an informed decision, or feel the patient’s request may be motivated by depression or coercion, the patient must be referred for a psychological evaluation. "
" The law protects doctors from liability for providing a lethal prescription for a terminally ill, competent adult in compliance with the statute restrictions. Participation by physicians, pharmacists, and health care providers is voluntary. The law also specifies a patient's decision to end his or her life shall not "have an effect upon a life, health, or accident insurance or annuity. "
***
The nature of this law is inescapable to a lot of argument as it defies certain moral standards in our society. We were brought up knowing that suicide in all forms or ways is basically unacceptable, but for people who are ill and suffering, think of it as a deliverance from all the pain.
I understand why some people would like to end everything because death can sometimes be convenient. But in my opinion, a lot of things can happen in those 6 months so I do not agree a hundred percent. Having 3 months to live is a rather different case and I think it's the most appropriate time if a patient wishes to undergo this certain procedure. By this time, the patient may be experiencing the greatest pain and suffering.
Experiencing someone very close to my heart taken away by sudden death is unbearable. Like what I used to say, I can give up everything to have my father's life 'extended' for one more day and be with us. I'm sure, people who are close to the patient feel the same way so why cut everything short?
I'm not in the position to judge a person whether this is acceptable or not for I didn't experience the pain they're going through. But isn't knowing you're still gonna see the faces of your loved ones, talk to them, and touch their hands worth living even just for a little bit longer?
The Peel
So I recently had derma peel for my face to get rid of those annoying dead skin cells. Little did I know, that it would create a great deal of discomfort while I'm hitting the gym and getting all sweaty. I didn't have any problem with it right after the procedure, problem arises when I'm working out. It still feels kinda raw so when it gets in contact with perspiration, I feel a certain kind of sting all over my face. And since I love going to the sauna every so often, the discomfort gets even worse! I tried washing my face with ice cold water to help lessen the redness and soreness and it helped a little. But the weather is so hot and humid that sweating (my biggest pet peeve!) is inevitable. How I wish I could just stay in a cold room with AC in full blast the whole day...
Notions on leaving and holidays...
I'm leaving in 2 weeks to spend the winter season in Korea, but I'm yet to purchase my tickets cause I'm still waiting for the dollars to drop again. I thought there will be a significant change on the foreign exchange right after Obama was elected, guess I was wrong. I'm not sure what to expect, except that it'll be a nice relief from the scorching, blazing, draining, and excruciating heat of Manila.
Hm.. This will be the third time I'm spending the Christmas season in Korea. It makes me sad a little that I wont be here for that special occassion. I surely missed noche buena and everything that has to do with Christmas cause spending Christmas Eve in Korea is boring... Spending New Years Eve in Korea is even more boring if you're not going to Jongro to hear the ringing of the bell. I don't know what's the significance of that but going there looks fun on TV cause there are so many entertainers performing while thousands of people are gathered, watching nearby. At the stroke of midnight, they'll bang the huge bell for reasons God only knows. Then there'll be fireworks display and that's it. Time to go back home... tired, sleepy, hungry. In any case, I would rather spend the New Years eve beside the bell than spend it beside the computer.
Hm.. This will be the third time I'm spending the Christmas season in Korea. It makes me sad a little that I wont be here for that special occassion. I surely missed noche buena and everything that has to do with Christmas cause spending Christmas Eve in Korea is boring... Spending New Years Eve in Korea is even more boring if you're not going to Jongro to hear the ringing of the bell. I don't know what's the significance of that but going there looks fun on TV cause there are so many entertainers performing while thousands of people are gathered, watching nearby. At the stroke of midnight, they'll bang the huge bell for reasons God only knows. Then there'll be fireworks display and that's it. Time to go back home... tired, sleepy, hungry. In any case, I would rather spend the New Years eve beside the bell than spend it beside the computer.
11.13.2008
Red Hot Room
After a good workout, I just love going to the red-hot room where it reaches 57 degrees! I'm sure by now, you guys know what I'm talking about. The first time I tried it was at Clark Hatch Fitness Center located at the 2nd floor of Dusit Hotel. Sis and I were members there for a year, and we visit the sauna each and every time we were there.
The current gym I'm going to doesn't have a spacious sauna unlike in Clark Hatch... But it's decent enough to accomodate 4 people, maximum of 6. It's nice and quiet so sometimes I can't help but doze off for a few minutes!
Other than breaking a good sweat, what is really going on when we enter the sauna room... here are some facts I read..
* During a 10-20 minute sauna session, your heart rate increases by 50-75%. This provides the same metabolic result as physical exercise. The increased cardiac load is the equivalent of a brisk walk. There is a nominal effect on blood pressure because the heat also causes the blood vessels in skin to expand to accomodate blood flow.
* Blood vessels become more flexible and there is increased circulation to the extremities. During a sauna, blood flow to the skin increases to as high as 50-70% of cardiac output (compared to the standard 5-10%). This brings the nutrients to the subutaneous and surface tissue reulting in glowing healthy skin.
* Steambaths and Sauna induce sweating to provide a comprehensive cleansing of the skin and sweat glands. Skin is the largest organ in the body. 30% of the wastes are passed thru the skin. Profuse sweating enhances the detoxification capacity of the skin y opening pores and flushing impurtities from the body.
* When taking a sauna, skin temperature rises to 40 degrees celsius and internal body temperature rises to about 38 degrees celsius. Exposure to the high heat creates an artificial fever state. Fever is part of the body's natural healing process. Fever simulates the immune sysytem in resulting in increased production of white blood cells, antibodies and interferon (an anti-viral protein) with cancer fighting capability.
* Spas and other such therapeutic facilities utilize saunas and steambaths in conjunction with massage to loosen fatty tissue and sssist in the battle against cellulite.
* Many regular steam and sauna users claim that 'a good sweat' at the onset relieve and ward off the most severe symptoms of cold or flu.
The current gym I'm going to doesn't have a spacious sauna unlike in Clark Hatch... But it's decent enough to accomodate 4 people, maximum of 6. It's nice and quiet so sometimes I can't help but doze off for a few minutes!
Other than breaking a good sweat, what is really going on when we enter the sauna room... here are some facts I read..
* During a 10-20 minute sauna session, your heart rate increases by 50-75%. This provides the same metabolic result as physical exercise. The increased cardiac load is the equivalent of a brisk walk. There is a nominal effect on blood pressure because the heat also causes the blood vessels in skin to expand to accomodate blood flow.
* Blood vessels become more flexible and there is increased circulation to the extremities. During a sauna, blood flow to the skin increases to as high as 50-70% of cardiac output (compared to the standard 5-10%). This brings the nutrients to the subutaneous and surface tissue reulting in glowing healthy skin.
* Steambaths and Sauna induce sweating to provide a comprehensive cleansing of the skin and sweat glands. Skin is the largest organ in the body. 30% of the wastes are passed thru the skin. Profuse sweating enhances the detoxification capacity of the skin y opening pores and flushing impurtities from the body.
* When taking a sauna, skin temperature rises to 40 degrees celsius and internal body temperature rises to about 38 degrees celsius. Exposure to the high heat creates an artificial fever state. Fever is part of the body's natural healing process. Fever simulates the immune sysytem in resulting in increased production of white blood cells, antibodies and interferon (an anti-viral protein) with cancer fighting capability.
* Spas and other such therapeutic facilities utilize saunas and steambaths in conjunction with massage to loosen fatty tissue and sssist in the battle against cellulite.
* Many regular steam and sauna users claim that 'a good sweat' at the onset relieve and ward off the most severe symptoms of cold or flu.
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