WENDY CITY

Keep me warm in your love

2009-10-23T20:22:00.004-04:00

I can't believe that the wedding was a week ago already. I must say, my nerves are more calm and I'm basking in the glow of that newlywed feeling.

So many people have been emailing/calling/messaging about pictures and so I thought I'd give you all a little sneak peak. These are from the wonderful photographer's proof page. All brides, no matter where you're located, should consider hiring AMANDA FALES of AmandaFales.com. Her and her husband, Andy, make a remarkable (and professional) team. Amanda and I went to the same college and my freshmen year we lived across the hall from one another! I still own some of the things she gave away at the end of the year!! :) Crazy how time flies.

Here are a few photos. Enjoy! :)

We held the wedding at Indianapolis' historic Benton House. It was built in 1873 on a charming, wooded lot by Mr. Benton, the founder of Butler University. I loved it for its vintage, Victorian qualities. You'll see:

The rings

David and I decided to do all our wedding photos before the actual ceremony. I got ready at our apartment and he got ready at The Benton House. Here is the moment after our "first meeting." Aw.

We enjoyed some quiet moments to ourselves.

I just love my expression there!

Steamy!

You can see my bouquet a bit in that photo. I absolutely loved it. Miranda at Bloomz in Indianapolis did a fabulous job with my requests and had lots of great ideas. Here's a zoomer:

There were so many portraits Amanda did with me. I really like how this one turned out!

And look at those shoes! People flipped when I told them my shoes were purple, but they totally go, right?

The wedding party was fantastic!

So handsome!

And there we all are.

Let's move on to the actual ceremony, held at Shalom Mennonite Church.

Whoa stained glass!

My grandmother maid the pew decorations.

I designed the programs. Thank God for InDesign for brides on a budget! :)

Me getting ready to walk with Mommy and Daddy. I sobbed like a crazy fool!

Pretty church.

The crowd got a few shots, too! ^^

My cousin, a bridesmaid, read from Song of Songs.

My Aunt Grace sang "Caro Mio Ben."

My sister sang "You Are the Sunshine of My Life."

And then it was over! :D

A congratulatory hug from my dearest professor from college, Hank Nuwer!

A few details from the reception (I had another photographer shoot the reception and am waiting on those. We had a live string trio, wine and desserts)!

My grandmother (who used to be a florist) also designed the centerpieces. The eating took place in a tent outside of the Benton House.

Tent!

More later. :)
<3,>

if you'll be my star I'll be your sky, I live to let you shine

2009-10-12T14:22:00.008-04:00

My dears, I apologize for the hiatus. America has turned me into a slacker. Well, not really. I've just been engrossed in wedding planning details, readjusting my life to the USA lifestyle and all that nonsense. But here I am, purple-clad with a mess of hair plopped on my head. Happy Monday. ^o^

Let's see, what's going on in my life these days. The most obvious answer to that question is: the wedding. I cannot believe it's encroaching so quickly. Saturday...Saturday, folks! Wow. I've checked the forecast rather compulsively over the past two weeks. There were a few days where I melted into a pitiful puddle of depression over "80% chance of rain and high of 44 degrees." But now, dearies, the forecast is only 5 days out and calls for a day full of sunshine with a high in the mid 50s. Still a bit chilly, but the sun will warm up the tent, me-thinks. And, if everything fails then I'll move things into The Benton House and we'll make due. I'd hate to put that $1400 tent to waste, though. Weddings are expensive, friends.

Well, instead of posting pictures of wedding details (let's wait until after the nuptials, mmk?), I thought it'd be nice to show you all my Indiana abode. We live in Irvington, an East-Side district of Indianapolis that can be described as quirky small town meets haunted historic neighborhood. David and I live on a quiet, cobblestone street in a duplex apartment/house. Hardwood floors, fire place, quaint and lovely. We've still got a bit of decorating to do (and have actually done some since the photos were taken).

In pictures:

What a pretty number

Autumn-blue sky

Our street

Across the street.

Furniture on our porch (which will be Halloween clad after the wedding)

We let Goguma play outside sometimes (with supervision, of course!)

She's made one friend already...a calico mix we call Bubbles

Goguma loves the windows

She is our spoiled little princess.

The living room. We had our first fire with Amy a few days after we moved in. S'Mores and Hot apple cider + rum.

The bedroom

Bedroom...!

I created these while in College. All you do is go to the local flea market or antique store and purchase some pretty sheet music. Buy a frame that will fit them (these frames push the picture all the way against the glass) and then hang 'em up. Simple!

Bedroom...reading nook.

Kitchen-times.

More kitchen. The painting on the top left is my first-ever color painting! A work of art (haha!).

Really long hallway. Goguma, David and I run back and forth at night. We just love all that space!! ^b^

Hallway closet houses cosmetics, toiletries, towels, blankets and a few clothing articles.

Bathroom...Where's Goguma?

"Office" this room is just awful. We need computer chairs and plan to put a high kitchen table up on the opposite side...perhaps a rug on the floor.

My car...David's is right behind it. It feels wonderful to drive again. It's like a pair of wings.

There she is. Her name is "Meow."

That's all. Wendy City signing out, from the Indy-City.

and this is all that's left, scraping paper to document, it's time to move on

2009-09-20T08:00:00.003-04:00

Welp. Here we are. The night before David and I depart for good ol' America. It's a bittersweet feeling, but I think I'm ready ready ready to go.

Goguma, the sweet little thing, is totally weirded out. She's looking around the vacant apartment, sniffing the suitcases and looking at me half inquisitively, half-disapproving. This is her home. But I'm sure that she'll love Naptown. There's lots of handsome felines roaming the streets on our block. Aw, our pretty block with cobblestone roads and shady trees. I can't wait to tend to our little garden. I know it's getting cold but perhaps I can grow at least one thing? We'll see.

I can't wait to arrange all the furniture, gather some firewood and start a fire in the fireplace (which David and I haven't done yet in our apartment!). And the wedding is so soon -- I'm viewing it as more of a welcome home party. I think I'll put together a slideshow and some other things to reflect our travels together. David, that good looking bugger, and I have had a wild year.

Anyway, as I said, it's a bittersweet feeling leaving Korea. I know that I'm ready to head home now, but I will miss everything that Hanam and Seoul have had to offer. From late night trips to grab kimchi mandu to children screaming our names to the friends we've made who are (quite literally) from all over the globe. It's especially sad to say goodbye to those people because the likelihood of us all getting together in one place again is quite small. Still, though, David and I have dates planned for Canada, the UK and South Africa. And of course those folks living in the States. Sigh Sigh Sigh.

What a year...

I figured that it'd be more appropriate to post photos that related more to going away. So, here they are. Photos from our going away party and a few other things.

A few phoos from the apartment...

Our refrigerator, full of love from the US.

Check out that rad pink blanket!!

I have grown to love this kimchi-smelling place, but I am looking forward to a more spacious domain! :P

Goguma loves looking outside. :)

Mmk - so for our goodbye party we went to Chicken/Hof and then went to noraebang (karaoke). Afterward we hit Lenny's for what everyone in Hanam calls "Lenny-bang."

David, Dante and Lenny make some noise to kill dead air!

Sing it!

Two South African's and a South Korean (A new sitcom?)

David fell in with this lovable Brit named Lenny Leneghan!

See?

Bertus found a new use for his pants. Kate asked, "How does he push the buttons?" The answer? "That's what friends are for." True statement.

Check out what is in David's hand!

Aw

Off to Lenny's we go.

That is beer. In a bowl. No questions were asked about this.

Hey, it totally works.

Oh god, I'm such a lucky lady.

I just got luckier.

I'm not sure where the hats came from...

But they inspired some American-like yee-haws.

David wanted to punch him all night.

Again...

Nice glasses!

BFFFFF

Okey dokey -- next set of photos. These two are from a lunch David and I had with my co-teacher and adviser on Saturday afternoon. It was a traditional Korean meal with all the side dishes/sit on the floor/etc. The food was outstanding! I will miss Korean food, and my Korean colleagues, for sure.

Yeon Hee, my co-teacher, is on the left. Joy (Mrs. Heo) is on the right.

Last, last last thing! On Saturday night, David, Kate, Gemma and I went to a Korea Hwe (raw fish) restaurant. We ate the traditional Korean meal called "Sannakji," which literally translates into Live (San) Octopus (Nakji). All they do to prepare it is grab the octopus out of the tank, cut its tentacles off and cut it into smaller pieces. Then they place it on a plate with oil/sesame and serve it to you. The catch is that the tentacles are still alive/moving around. They suction onto the plate/your mouth and so you chew it really, really well and then swallow it. There really isn't much taste. You dip it in a red chili pepper paste (the same we used for Chogae Goo-ee, grilled shell fish) which is actually really delicious.

I didn't take photos of it because I figured there'd be more of an impact if there was a video. There are two very short videos. Enjoy!

Take 1

and...

Take 2

So, Korea. I'm out. USA - prepare yourself.
Love, Wendy City

You were blowing kisses and I was waiting in the car

2009-09-14T06:46:00.008-04:00

Anyeong, dear hearts. Wow. I'm kind of in state of shock these days. David and I have less than a week left in Korea and I'm beside myself, lost in a chaotic, half-confetti drenched web of glee, fear, confusion, poignancy and obliviousness. I swear to God I can't picture my life back in the United States. I just can't do it...it's so, so strange. What a weird feeling I'm having...oh dear. I say to myself, "Well, maybe I need one more month, a few more weeks, blah blah." But then I know that if that were the case I'd yearn for the day to be closer. And then once it was, I'd have a repeat of this strange feeling. There should be a name for this feeling. I will coin one.

I'm not going to lie, I've been quite emotional recently. It's ridiculous, really. I mean, commercial's are bringing me to tears. And today I went to the teacher's conference, held every Monday, and started getting all weepy in front of all my colleages as a hearty thank you speech spilled from my lungs. Though less than 1/4 probably understood what I was saying, I think the lone tear that filled up the space between my eyelids demonstrated my love for Chunhyun. My school has been so, so good to me. I cannot express how blessed I was to have such a wonderful co-teacher, my friend, and an advisor, my friend and teacher, such great students. Sure, there are a few varments out there, but I love them just as much.

I didn't think I would get so attached to this country, to my students, to this lifestyle. I didn't realize I would break anyone's heart because I was leaving. I came into it all quite bad at teaching, heartbreakingly homesick, nervous, shy and scared. I surprised myself in Korea - I did something I never imagined I would do. And after a few months I did it with gusto and, I dare say, a bit of talent. It was strange to watch my anxiety melt into joy.

So here I am. 6 days away from my long anticipated departure.

Anyway, as promised, here are photos from the one and only Great Wall of China. It was an incredible trip and completely worth the spontaneous vacay to Beijing. I can tell you, after hobbling around the Pyramids on camels, camping out in the Amazon, cuddling next to Tigers in Thailand, hiking Mt. Sinai, seeing the Harajuku girls do their thing in Tokyo...the Great Wall of China surpasses them all in impressiveness. There are few things with such history and beauty that you have the opportunity to climb and walk all over. I'll never forget the long sweaty hike up all those stairs and the cool breeze (and kisses shared with David) in the watch towers of the Mighty Great Wall; the expansive landscape rustling around us. Remarkable. I hope that you can experience even an ounce of the energy we felt while roaming around the ancient landmark. Enjoy:

hola, it's me!

David + beer

Finishee, Wendy City

Far, far, there's this little girl

2009-09-07T06:52:00.002-04:00

Bonjour. I'm going to keep the text brief in this update because I am so behind in posting photos! Oops. Yesterday David and I went to the Korean DMZ (demilitarized zone). I took photos wherever I was allowed to and I'll post those at a later date. The experience was really cool. We were, in fact, able to see North Korea which was pretty cool.

In other news, today marks exactly 2 weeks until we board the plane to Chicago. In other words, I'll be on American soil two weeks from now. Whoa! :)

Mmk - on to the photos. This next back is from China. I'm going to post a small sampling from The Forbidden City and the Lama Temple and then you can check out the rest at my flickr. Just click the pictures and it'll take you there. I want to post most of the photos I took of the Hutongs, though. I'll explain what they are when I get to the photos!

Anything else to say? Hm...I can't think of anything. Took care of some more wedding things, bought bridesmaid's gifts (so adorable!) and everything for the wedding favors. My card got charged twice for those, though...ugh! :x I have to call and amend that one. Okay, nothing else to say. :)

Photos!

This first batch is from Beijing's famous Forbidden City.

The moat outside of the Forbidden City. So cool! You can see how hazy/polluted it is in Beijing with this photo. Yuck!

Us standing outside of the FC.

Inside of the Forbidden City. So you know, the Forbidden City was the Chinese imperial palace that served as a city for royalty beginning in the Ming Dynasty and lasting to the end of the Qing Dynasty. If anyone else entered besides those of royal blood, off with their head! :D

*We had our names hand engraved into little stamps. It's kind of touristy but super cool! If you want to be pen pals I'll sign my letter with my chinese name stamp.

Like I said, if you want to see more (and there are plenty), click on one of the photos! :)

The next set is from the Lama Temple, also in Beijing. It was built in 1694 during the Qing Dynasty and is the largest and best-preserved lamasery in Beijing.

Does David love me?!

This buddha (the Maitreya Buddha) is so rad! It's located in The Pavilion of Infinite Happiness and up until 10-15 years ago it was the biggest Buddha in the world at 26 meters tall (that's about 85 feet, folks)! Here's a photo with David in it to put the height into perspective.

Okay, I also want to include some photos from the Beijing Olympic area. There are only a few. It was actually really cool to see this modernly designed buildings. It was quite hazy the day we went, but what can you do? :)

This is the aquatic center, where Michael Phelps spent most of his time at the 2008 Summer Beijing Olympics. Rad!

This is me in front of the Bird's Nest. This is where the opening ceremony took place and other sports events.

Okay. And this last set of photos (for the blog) are of the Beijing hutongs. Hutong's are the name for Beijing's tiny alleys/streets and are part of what makes the city so unique. People live in these hutongs (and there is food, businesses etc. there, as well) and share a communal bathroom and whatnot. Very interesting place to wander and get a taste of "real Beijing." This hutong was located directly behind our hostel.

Mmk, that's all for now. The next update I'll post pictures from The Great Wall of China (so incredible!) and then after that photos from the DMZ. Until then, dearies.

Wendy City

Every day she writes words and more words

2009-09-01T07:09:00.002-04:00

Happy September! I was filled with anticipation and a little bit of shock as I turned the page on (all 4 of) my calendar(s) last night! Two questions: 1- Where did summer go? and 2- Seriously?

It feels so bizarre to see that bright pink circle taking up 3/4 of the space on September 21st. I made that circle months and months and months ago. Seems insane that I'm going to stare at it every day for the next 20 days. AND, I only have 11 more days of teaching left. That's 2 more times teaching each of my classes. I don't know what to do with myself!

Anyway, yesterday I paid a bajillion dollars worth of things for the wedding. At first I was jumping with joy that I finally paid off those "lasts," and then I got sick to my stomach thinking about what else David and I could have done with that money. And then I got really excited again because we're getting married and it's gonna be a big happy coming home party! I finished paying for the tent/chairs/linens/tables/etc. and I put in the last payment for the reception string trio. Then I set aside money for all that wine (winos!), food, hair and makeup.

Really, folks, I think I'm kind of starting to like this whole planning thing. So much so that I may plan a birthday bash or something similar in the future. I love coordinating all the details, thinking about the decorations and outfits. Wee! :)

So far we have about 100 RSVP's and we're waiting to hear back from 90 more people. I'm assuming that a good handful of those folks won't be able to make it because they're out of town or are busy or hate me (just kidding), but I'd be really content with a number in the 110-140 ballpark range. That would be a little under what we were expecting and that'll cut a few costs, too.

***For those who still haven't RSVP'd (the date was Aug. 31), don't worry. Just shoot me or David an email or something to let us know if you are/aren't coming! ^o^

Mmk - onto some photos. I am going to take a quick break from China photos (even though I have so many more to post), and show a few from a few weeks ago. I taught English summer camp and my sweet little kiddos were the cutest things ever. I shot a few class photos and then some while they were playing a "reading game." Enjoy!

I'm getting really poignant placing this series of photos. While I may not know every one of my student's names, each of their faces have made an impact on me. Excuse the weepy captions.

The boy on the left (yellow) said to me, "Oh, teacher, you go home soon?" and I said, "Yes, I go home in September." He got all somber and then said, "Oh teacher. I am very sad. very very."

The student in pink shorts once brought me gotgam, like prunes but made from apricots. I was too afraid to try them and too sentimental to throw them away. They got moldy. :(

The boy in the middle (glasses) is so hyperactive that he puts me into cardiac arrest twice a day. And he is obsessed with the hippo song (like most of my students) and is one of my most enthusiastic dancers.

The boy in the red shirt (back, right) is so bright. He reads non stop (I've even had to confiscate books during my class!!) and knows every answer to my questions. Once David and I ran into him at the grocery store. He said, "Hi teacher!" and I said, "Hello! How are you?" He said, "Not so good." After I asked why he said, "I am very tired." Aw.

The girl hiding her face in the back left goes by the name, "Lisa." She hates having her picture taken most of the time. One time she asked me about lesbians just to get a shock reaction.

The girl in the orange shirt, front, loves to hold my hand and the first time I met her she reached up and felt my face/nose/ears. I believe that was my second week here in Korea.

This class is something else. I suggest clicking on the photo to get a close look. I snapped this right after I said, "Act crazy!!"

Clearly, the boy in the blue, front, is a handful. He's a good student, though. The boy second from the left in the front is one of my favorites (I know I shouldn't have 'em). He lives near David and I and always says, "Hello Wendy teacher!!" One time I walked when the light was red and he told me I was very bad. He and I also coined the term, "Chicken in the kitchen," - a motto used to help them distinguish which was the food, which was the place since they sound so similar.

One more of that class:

There's my little Chicken in the Kitchen!

This lady is full of attitude! But always happy.

This class was ridiculously shy! But once class was over, a group of girls would always stay after and we would listen to K-pop (Korean pop) and they would sing and dance all around the classroom. Pure happiness! They would scuffle out the door and scream, "WENDY I LOVE YOU!"

See? Kids like me! :)

Cheers, city folk.
This is Wendy City saying adieu.

wake up where the clouds are far behind me

2009-08-28T05:49:00.003-04:00

Anyeong! Dear diary, things are super duper crazy these days. Not only are the season's changing (love love love), but my life is a changing, too! Twenty four (count 'em) days until I see my loved ones in the USA! This calls for a moment of reminiscing.

Okay this is way ridiculous and cheesy, but a few years ago someone was handing out superlatives about friends and I received the, "Most likely to live abroad," title. I laughed and my eyes did that whole eyebrow furrow that speaks a very loud, "uh, I don't think so, but whatever you say." A few years later and I'm sitting here at 11 months into residing in a foreign country. And I'm really all the better for it.

They say that you learn about yourself when you travel abroad... And while I think that's definitely true in some respects, I think you learn more about other people. At least in my situation that's how it's panned out. Or perhaps I'm just oblivious to any personal changes and I'm like this super shiny new woman now (dubious). But really, looking at my "old lifestyle" and "old friends" and "old problems" from the outside really puts things in perspective. You learn about the people who want to stay in contact and perhaps get a little sad about those who, just maybe, forget about you once your physical proximity has doubled in distance. You learn about just how different you and your country and your peers and elders are in relation to all these other people digging their feet into the soil around our pretty planet.

I can honestly say that I wouldn't trade this year for anything. Nothing. Okay well maybe a pair of Manolo's in every style and a--no. Nope. Nothing. I jumped into the decision to move to Korea way too fast, but it truly worked out for the best. With that said, I am quite eager to see my family and friends. I am looking forward to going to the bank without fretting about someone being able to speak English. I'm looking forward to a little more room in my living quarters. I'm looking forward to hanging out with my friends and family who I haven't seen in a year. I'm looking forward to hopping in my car and driving somewhere, anywhere. I'm looking forward to cheap fruit (and will never pay $5 for a peach). I'm looking forward to more diversity and acceptance of diversity. I'm looking forward to shopping for bra's that fit me. I'm looking forward to house parties with good friends. I'm looking forward to really starting my career. There are so many more!

Naturally, I need to list things I will miss about Korea:

I will miss walking down the street and seeing my students wave and shout "Wendy teacher" and "Wendy boy (aka David)." I will miss cheap sushi around the corner at all hours of the day. I will miss the ease of public transportation. I will miss seeing lots of people wandering the streets. I will miss feeling safe 24/7, even at 3:30am in a dark alley after I've had a little too much Soju (though I will not miss Soju). I will miss fresh, homemade tofu sold for pennies. I will miss not being able to understand people talking. I will miss my really big spacious office. I will miss my co-teacher and advisor who have become dear friends. I will miss free fruit, coffee and sweets from students and colleagues who make a habbit out of giving you things (I've received everything from a giant cake - no reason - to a cup of hot coffee to chocolate from another country to flowers to an apple). I will miss the ease of traveling to another country for super cheap.

Enough soggy nonsense. I'm going to switch gears here pretty drastically. Wedding talk. It's okay to click that "x" at the top.

Anyway, I did another draft of the wedding programs. They are quite different from the ones in the previous post. I decided to do something that matched with the programs more. This is phase 2 of the project so I still have a few more adjustments to make. Perhaps minor, not sure yet. I like the basic design of it though. And printed on a soft linen stock paper these'll be all classy and crap. Photo:

Thoughts?

Other weddings things:

RSVP's are rolling in now. I've asked that everyone RSVP by the 31st of August, but I did so because I figured there'd be lots of stragglers. I'm still waiting to hear back from quite a few people, but enthralled with those who are coming (even some I didn't expect would be able to make it!)
I'm still working out ideas for tent decor. If anyone has any ideas, please send me your thoughts. My grandmother (who was a florist and did many weddings) is putting together the centerpieces which are going to be so autumnal and lovely! As for the actual tent decor, I'm thinking of hanging paper lanterns and then making these pom-poms from the woman I worship (Props to Martha)!
I've got so many appointments scheduled for the week after we return. That first week I have a dress fitting, florist meeting, cake meeting, harpist meeting, hair appointment/makeup run through and wedding shower. David's coming with me to some (aka not the dress fitting or hair) and picking up a bajillion bottles of wine from Oliver Winery.
You don't care.

Mmk, last thing for this bohemoth update. Photos, as promised, from our recent vacation. These are from Beijing and just might be my favorite set. This particular set are shots from around the city, random captures of Beijing life and times.

Our hostel

Eating Chinese food! Mm!

Around the city

We stopped to get some coffee. Cute and delicious.

Then we happened upon this fellow near our hostel. He sold some pretty outrageous things...

Like scorpions on a stick

And larvae on a stick

And, well, you can see for yourself

Mm?

Chinglish?

Pretty building

My ugly Korean samseon slippers broke and David fixed it for me...it was an unfortunate situation.

One of my favorites.

Mao Tse Tung Memorial Hall

His body is still inside...

Guards pushing people back so they could lower the flag.

These next photos are from Wangfungjin Market where they sell the weirdest foods. The surrounding area is considered the heart of Beijing.

Yes, those are testicles. On a stick.

weird!

He screamed, "I love you," just as I took this picture.

Okay, that's all for now. This blog entry keeps growing and growing. I have a bunch more to post from around the city and then I want to do an update from both The Forbidden City, the Lama Temple and then another from THE Great Wall! Soon, soon.

Love, Wendy City

take these broken wings and learn to fly

2009-08-18T01:34:00.003-04:00

Bonjour, my love. Today is August 18th, a very special day. You see, I have 1 more month until I depart for red, white and blue soil and only 2 more months until the big wedding day. I've been finalizing and going over all sorts of nuptial-related details and also going over budget (blah) things to make sure we can afford this shindig!

For the past however many months we've been planning the event, it's seemed like a thing in the far future and that, my friends, hasn't made it very real (even though the numbers in my bank account are very real, har har). But now that I'm penciling in all kinds of dates and whatnot for when we're back in Naptown and thinking about the smaller details I'm started to visualize the whole thing more clearly.

Invitations went out a few weeks ago which is, according to invitation etiquette, a bit early, but I love to plan in advance and also I need to have a headcount early. Why? Well, I'm also planning a move 1/2way across the world less than a month before the wedding and I want to get it out of the way. We've received a handful of RSVP's at this point, which is so exciting! I'm not counting anyone until they officially RSVP. Anyway, I have that innate fear that a) people won't come or b) people won't RSVP and then show up and we'll not have enough of something.

As I mentioned in the last update, I am currently working on the wedding programs, wedding favors and then a few other things. I recently (finally, meh!) decided on the special music for the ceremony. Sabrina Falls, a harpist, will play the prelude, processional and recessional (still haven't chosen that music), and then my sister and my Aunt Grace are doing 2 separate vocal perfomances. My sister is a gospel-y type of singer and my Aunt has a classical style. Anyway, here are the two pieces I've chosen (with the help of David for the first one):

Jessie: You Are the Sunshine Of My Life (her own version)
Aunt Grace: Caro Mio Ben (One of my all time favorite art songs. It's Italian and is a love song that basically says my heart hurts without you here and I need you in my life).

Whatchya think?

I don't want to give away what the favors are for those who are coming to the wedding and reading this blog, but they are so lovely! It's a DIY project and I'm super excited. Here's a picture of the "thank you" note I'm included with them, though. I designed them and the programs, which I'll get to in a bit. The hatch-marks won't be there, I just took a picture while I was desinging them. They're super simple:

Mmk, and now on to the programs. They're still in the rough draft mode and I'll make a few adjustments so they look more clean/cohesive, but here's what I have for now. Also, there won't be a black border or anything, that's just bad cropping on my screen photo shot, haha.

Let me know if you like them:

front

back

Wee! ^o^

Anyway, enough wedding talk. I'm going to post some photos from our recent vacation. The past two entries were photos from Tokyo, Japan. This entry includes photos from Osaka, Japan and Kyoto, Japan. Enjoy, loves!

Our sweet hotel.

Our sweet hotel room.

Our hotel had one of the best views in Osaka, according to Lonely Planet! This is from our hotel window.

Our first night we went to the best little sushi restaurant

It's okay if your mouth is watering.

These next few are from Heian Jingu Shrine and Gardens in Kyoto, the historial area of Japan.

It didn't rain while we were at this shrine, but the thunder was clapping!

Prayers written on paper and tied to a tree.

Love!

Okay, after Heian Jingu Shrine we visited Ginkaku-ji Temple, one of Kyoto's premier sights that was constructed in 1482. It's a zen temple so it was ultra peaceful and full of nature's buds and blossoms. Despite the many roaming around, it was quiet and, well, full of zen. I could just imagine people walking around, resting in the shade of trees on hot summer days 100s of years ago. Really, an incredible place that I would recommend to anyone. Mmk, onto photos:

You enter by walking along this pathway

This meditation garden is the first thing you see. It's immaculate and simple design really catches you off guard.

Are you serious?

I love the money shimmering in the pond. ^o^

silly faces

handsome man.

really?

leaving...

we went looking for a place to eat after the shrines and temple visiting...

then we found this cute place

Later that night, in Osaka, we found a fun place for dinner!

This is a sushi place we went to the following night. The sushi rotates around on a color coded plate (depending on price). You take the sushi that sounds good to you!

Okay...that's all for now. The next update will have photos from Beijing! :) Look forward to that.
Love, Wendy City

You were only waiting for this moment to be free

2009-08-11T01:35:00.003-04:00

Hello, lovelies. It's a drizzly Tuesday afternoon here in Kimchi land. Normally I enjoy a good rain with every ounce of my body, but since this one is the remnants of Typhoon Morakot it's not as easy to enjoy. I am shocked at the havoc that ensued in China, Taiwon and even parts of Japan. Nature does not discriminate and South Korea was lucky to flee the storm's torrential reigns.

That last line reminds me of a book that I read in one of my Philosophy courses (I can't believe that was a year ago, by the way), about how everything and anything that takes place in this world is completely arbitrary. I know a surplus of people find refuge in the idea that there's a plan, that things happen for a reason, etc. etc. I just find a hard time buying into that idea. At the moment I'm rereading Hitchens' book, "God is Not Great," and came across this quote: "Now at last you can be properly humble in the face of your maker, which turns out not to be a "who," but a process of mutation with rather more random elements than our vanity might wish." This, of course, leads to the question: Are we vane for assuming that some of us are spared for a reason while others are not? Sorry to get all epistemological on you.

Anyway, as I said, it's a drizzly Tuesday afternoon. My classes for the day are finished and now I have 3 more days left of English camp. Then 1.5 weeks of vacation and then 3 weeks of teaching until I go back home. I'm sure you've noticed a trend in all of my entries -- it's like one giant countdown blog. Yes, I'm eager to get home. ^o^

Wedding stuff is falling into place. I've adopted a slightly more, "Eh, whatever," approach to everything. I'm tired of freaking out about the color of the linens or whether or not my Dad is wearing a bright purple zoot suit as he walks me down the aisle (which he's not, after my Mother talked him out of it). I have to admit, for being overseas and financing everything out of mine and David's own pockets, things have come together quite smoothly. The tent, chairs, linens, flowers, photographers, officiant, venues, wedding party, music, cake, food, invites, etc. they're all planned and that feels really good. Two more months to go. Can you believe it? The projects I'm working on at the moment include wedding programs, menu details and favors. And all the RSVP's are starting to come in which is equally as exciting.

In other news, I have, as promised to myself, been sifting through photos and editing them in groups of "location/sights." The following batch is also from Tokyo, Japan but this time in the Asakusa district.

The sky was a soft, silvery slice of grey the day we visited the area. Asakusa is a district of Tokyo renowned for its vibrant reds, delicious foods, winding gardens and quaint shopping. Visitors from around the world are especially lured in by Sensoji Temple, the famous five storied pagoda, and also by the traditional Nakamise shopping arcade there.

All that red...!

I'm not sure why we look so ridiculous here, but my favorite part of this photo is the squatting man in the background.

This is the shopping arcade. Two solid walls running parallel to each other, chock full of trinkets, food and other goods.

This is a lucky cat shop. I purchased a few post cards here and found my lucky cat at another place for slightly cheaper (I'm always in for a bargain)!

Can you see Sensoji? The 5 story pagoda? It's peeking out!

There she is! Magnificent! By the way, Sensoji is also referred to as Asakusa Kannon Temple. It was finished in the year 645 and is Tokyo's oldest temple, probably why it's so popular.

Because this is a Buddhist temple, people bring incense (3 total) and burn them during their worship. This is a picture of people doing just that.

I love this one. :)

Konnichiwa, Buddha.

In the gardens.

I know this photo doesn't scream, "Japan," but it really represents the tranquility found in the winding gardens behind the temples.

After we explored the Asakusa grounds, we decided to venture a little ways away to an area that sold wholesale pottery and other goods. Someone recommended it to us and we had time to spare and it was completely worth it. We had lots of fun looking at all the merchandise for sale and even bought a few pieces of dishware. ^o^

That is a real aisle. I made it about 3/4 of the way down before I literally couldn't go anymore. The pivot was a frightening moment in my life. :)

I'm going to assume that because he is running a business he is, indeed, organized in some fashion. Even if it's all in his head. :) Note, though, that each piece of merchandise was individually hand labled with its own unique price.

Kitty. :) One of my favorite parts about Buddhist areas/nations is that they have a deep respect for all the Earth's creatures. That means that even strays get treated well. This one is happy, fed, and basking the shade of a bicycle wheel.

Those are all the photos from Asakusa. After our shopping adventure we went on a mad hunt for tempura, Asakusa's specialty, and found a delicious (and inexpensive) place. Perfect ending to such a lovely adventure.

Cheers,
Wendy City

Oh pretty Love, don't worry

2009-08-07T03:09:00.002-04:00

Konnichiwa! Ni Hao! The vacation is over! David and I arrived back on South Korean soil after 2 weeks hopping around Asia and I must say, our time away was quite a success. Aside from a mild case of strep throat which kept me bed ridden for a few days, everything was 100% perfection.

I've decided to update my blog as I edit photos. I've narrowed my selection down to less than 1/2 and am still sifting through to find my favorites. But, before I move onto the photos, just a mini update sobre yours truly.

This week is English camp, which is identical to normal teaching only I'm 100% on my own, the classes are 1/4 of the size and it's a bajillion times more fun! Today I taught my sweet kiddos about different cultures around the world and then we played the game "musical chairs," which all those glossy-haired cuties were emphatic about. Especially since there was an unknown prize involved (unknown to me, as well..forgot I added that part on the "directions" portion of my powerpoint...I'll pick up something this weekend)! I even got an "I LOVE YOU, WENDY TEACHER!" as a few skidaddled out of the classroom.

Ooh, adorable story: We were talking about how to say, "Hello," in various languages and when we came to Mexico, the students saw, "Hola," written on the powerpoint. I said, "Does anyone know how you say, "Anyeonhaseyo," in Mexico. My ears were overjoyed at the chorus of, "HOLLA's!" sung out by the students. Holla! I died laughing. Like, seriously. Dead.

Anyway, it's really mega weird to say this, but David and I move back to the United States next month. Next. Month. As in, the one after this one. As in, oh my god. Honestly, I'm feeling good about it. I miss my family and friends. I miss my car. I want to get settled. I think as time progresses, though, I'll begin to feel more abivalent about leaving. I already get pangs of sadness. It's kind of like when you're about to graduate and you experience all those, "lasts."

I'm really eager for the wedding to happen, too, an event which occurs one month after we return. It's been a few years in the making, though most of the planning has occured within the last 6 months or so. I really hope everything goes smoothly. I have all these ideas floating around in my head and just want everything to be concrete, planned, scheduled, happening. And I hope that the burn across my chest (which forms a perfect square, mind you, despite slathering on a bucket of sunscreen) fades before I throw on that strapless wedding gown. Can you imagine?

Anyway, more updates about life things, later. For now, I'm going to post some photos from Harajuku, a district in Tokyo Japan that I was the most excited about visiting. It's considered a cultural hotspot, one of the most famous in the world, and breeds angsty asian teens in CosPlay (Costume Play) outfits. It's a shoppers paradise (especially if you're into quirky) and full of candy-fresh colors and eccentricity galore. Enjoy!

Cutest Miss ever!

This is "Condomania." A little risque, but nothing's too bold for Wendy. Check out the store signs! :P

I love the colors!

This is a darling, all-vegetarian cafe David and I randomly bumped into. Perfect for lunch!

And thus begins the shopping.

Tarina Tarantino = <3 href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/misswendycity/3779569459/" title="Tokyo, Japan Sights by wendyrgould, on Flickr">
H&M Harajuku!

Mmm...creperia. David and I couldn't resist the scents/sights/smells surrounding this joint!

Okay so I'm like 87% serious about starting a creperia when I get back to the states.

Harajuku Girls

And back to shopping...!

Why, hello!

"Take a look," she said with a coy smile!

Now, these next mini-series is also from Harajuku. This shrine is one of the most beautiful and famous in Tokyo, but it is often overlooked because of the vibrant colors across the way. It's called the Meiji shrine and is one of the most tranquil places I've been in quite a while. We perused the area, by accident (curiosity led us down a lush and winding trail) just before dusk set it. Enjoy!

It was interesting to see all the business men and women visiting the shrine after their long day at work.

Prayers in all languages.

I think this is my favorite from the temple. I love the stark contrast of her tiny red kimono against a palette of black, green, brown and white. I also love how the distance is so black, but it's a peaceful black that beckons you.

That's all! :D

Electricity flows from your hands into my bones

2009-07-16T06:41:00.004-04:00

My head is a spinning mess, my friends. I am literally spinning in circles like a fool. Really, I think I have too much on plate. :( Bah! I'm trying to talk myself out of it. If feels like I'm going through a wind tunnel and everything is zooming by me and I can't grab on to anything. You know how it is when you're working on so many projects at once and every thing is slightly neglected? I need to budget my time a little better.

Anyway, tomorrow is my last day of classes before summer vacation. It feels really insane to even see those words pop up on he computer screen. Everything is a bike ride down a hill from here on out. Excluding all those projects I'm working on...hrm!

Tuesday (that's 4 days, I think?) David and I head to the airport for our vacation to Japan and China. We have a bit more details laid out. I've given David the reigns on the "what should we do there?" project, which is a lot to say for this super mega control freak. So long as we eat some authentic sushi, visit Harajuku, go to a few bars, see some really cool historical sites and relax in our luxury hotel (which was an accident booking that I'm really ecstatic about) then I'm golden! I don't know if anything will compare to the ping pong show in Thailand (gag me!)... ^o^

Speaking of our super sweet hotel in Osaka, Japan, observe:

rad!

Anyway, the main purpose of this blog update is to showcase the photos I took last weekend at the 2009 Boryeong Mud Festival in Korea. The basic gist of this festival is this: roll around in the mud, drink alcohol, eat seafood and have a blast. David and I roomed in a minbak with about 14 other people (whoa) and then met up with others from Hanam while there. I was hoping to hang out with Julia more, who is leaving Korea soon, but time escaped me. I regret that a little bit. Despite, the weekend was so much fun and I would go again in a heartbeat.

Proof:

Technicolor starfish. These are totally legit. My eyes are still freaking out at the sight of them! So insanely beautiful...check out the rest:

My mom gets mad at me for taking my engagement ring off all the time...but it's so beautiful and so are all the things I want to place it in/on! ^.~

Despite the beautifully-hued baby starfish, my favorite part of this photo is the delicate water bead about to drip from my thumb. Brings me right back.

OKAY. On to the mud...

a bit blurrsys! Meh!

Paparazzi. They made David and I kiss for a photo! Weird!

Chogae-Choo-ee (Grilled Shellfish). So. Delicious.

Cheers! Wendy City

There are colors and shapes dazzling her eyes

2009-07-07T01:01:00.006-04:00

Mmk, so after approximately one month since my last blog update, I felt it appropriate to literally force myself to sit down and write. It's not that I despise blogging, it's just that I've got so much on my plate these days that it's hard for my to keep my bunnies all lined up. And before I get all woe is me, dear readers, let me assure you that all these obligations and must-do's aren't necessarily a bad thing. In fact, there are a lot of positive things going on my life these days.

I like to compare my projects/goals/blah/blah as packages I'm sorting, filling and tying up with pretty satin bows. It seems like the majority of my current projects (which I'll get to in a bit) are in the "place the lid on the box" stage or the "slowly tying the ribbon around the box" stage. Confusing? Sooorry (as my Canadian friends would say).

Let's see, m'dears. Whuddami working on these days? Let's break it down, real easy-peasy.

1.) Vacation
So in T- two weeks (exactly from today's date), David and I will be at Incheon airport in Korea getting ready to embody the jet-setters life. We're heading to Japan-land on July 21st where we'll visit Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and perhaps Hiroshima (if only for a few hours to see the Peace Museum). Then on July 28th we're packing our bags again and heading to Beijing, China. Ultimate purpose: Great Wall. How can you live in Asia for a year and not visit the Great Wall of China? Seriously folks, it would be tragic if my short little legs didn't kick up a little dust on the one of the world's most renowned man-made structures.

I'm devistatingly behind on my background reading for both countries. I should probably sit down these next few evenings and figure things out.

2.) Wedding
Despite the proximity of all other major upcoming events in my life, wedding plans envelope me on a daily basis. I fear I am turning into one of those Bridezillas. At least a mini one. After changing the colors of our reception tablecloths for the third time (and apologizing profusely for my indecisiveness which is totally a Bride's prerogative, right? Right?!), the woman at the rental facility stated that it's okay to be a princess for one day. I pray hope that wasn't a sarcastic comment! :P

But yes, weddings this, weddings that, soaking up my free time. Honestly, though, the planning process is almost 100% a joy. Right now I'm working on the final touches of my wedding attire (purchasing a birdcage veil for the ceremony, looking at possible shoes, considering an outfit change for the after party), food at the reception and miscellaneous details like guest books, fun elements to provide at the reception and wedding programs. 3 months out! :D

4.) Moving back to the States
I can't believe I just typed that. Yes. I'm moving back to the United States in a little over 2 months. I'm honestly shocked that David and I have dwelled in South Korea for nearly 10 months. Time has flown by more quickly than I ever imagined it would. Despite that, I'm ready to see my friends and family. And I'm ready to drive. And I ready to go to the bank and not worry about language barriers. :) Who knows where David and I will venture off to after we return.

--

Anyway, those are the three main projects in my life right now. I'm also gearing up for the end of the school year (1.5 weeks left), English Camp and the Boryeong Mud Festival - a riot in the mud that will occur this weekend at the beach. Fun times! ^o^

Mmk. I always sign out with pictures and I definitely have a months supply to post. I'll pick and choose. Enjoy!

Korean women eye-shopping in frolick-worthy sundresses.

Super shades and leggings.

Taxi Queens in Seoul City

The next few are from a series of photos I took inside of a cute little clothing boutique around the corner (literally) from my apartment. Lalala

More photos later. Perhaps it'll be a photo-only update when I see you next.
Cheers, Wendy City.

PS. Sorry for all the typos. I dare not re-read this post.

She was praying for something to happen to her.

2009-06-13T07:33:00.004-04:00

Hello, hello! It's Saturday here and a peaceful one, at that. I've had the day to myself since David decided to hang out with his Canadian comrade. They went to "shoot some hoops" at Hanam city hall and then to Itaewon to watch a hockey game with some other Canadians. I can't believe how sporty he is today!

Anyhow, all this time to myself has given me adequate time to do something I've been meaning to do for a while now. I finally started a website/blog that features DIY goodies from all over the internet. I've decided to update it every 2-3 days (probably more at first to get it going) and I'm going to include interviews with DIY queens, essays/poems/etc. from the public and then themed updates. For example, my most recent update is called 'Bird of a Feather' and all the DIY goods are all bird-related. Please, please check it out and tell your friends. I'd like it to pick up sooner rather than later. I promise it will be something quite extraordinary!

The actual URL is http://www.hellowendysgems.com and there is a picture for linking on the right side of this blog as well as on the actual website.

I don't have a whole lot to say in this update. I wanted to include a video of my students from yesterday. Yesterday was our school's English Song/Chant/Skit/Speech contest and I recorded a few performances. The following is my favorite and is of my dear, dear 3rd graders! They are my pride and joy. Hope you like it!

Mmk, that's all for now. I know it's a short update. More later! :D

with that breathless charm

2009-06-10T02:01:00.002-04:00

Oh my goodness! I have so much to say that I can't figure out where to start! After all, it's been nearly a month since I last took the time to type out my thoughts, feelings, lamentations and happenings! ~.^*

Let's see, Let's see. I'll start at the very beginning. I left off on mid-May and had just reported on my dreadful case of tonsillitis! I sounded like a heavy duty smoker, or at least someone who had been doing a lot of yelling. Perhaps all my attempts to shout over excited children finally caught up with me? Or maybe it was the Asian yellow dust that settled in my throat (and all my belongings ^^...). Who knows. At any rate, I sound healthy and happy again, so that's good.

Hrm, I also mentioned that we would be leaving South Korea in August, not September. Well, that too has changed, m'dears! We weighed our options and after much consideration decided that it would be best to stay in good old South Korea for one additional month. It was a matter of money and I'm glad we're doing it. It's going to be so strange living Stateside again. I fear that I won't know what to do with myself -- perhaps everything will be too easy? Perhaps I'll miss my kiddos? I wonder if they'll even remember me in a few years. I hope I made even a little impact. That makes me thing of a story:

About a week ago I was closing up a 5th grade class and sending all the students out the door. One student, who I'm sure is slightly off mentally, was upset because two boys were teasing her, taking her books and poking. As the adult figure I rushed to her rescue, of course. I gave her the biggest hug (because I really can't resist hugging all my students anymore - that's another story though) and turned to her and said (with my biggest smile), "How are you?" I watched her little teary face transform into the most genuine, happiest smile and she said, "Happy!" That, my friends, shows that even a hug and a "How are you?" can make a big difference in someone's day.

And about the hugging story, I finally decided that I can no longer hold back the unyielding urge to hug my students. At first I thought this may be interpreted as creepy or "yuk, girl germs," but everyone is happy all around when hugs take place! So if I see a cute little student walking the hallways I have no hesitations giving them a giant, happy hug! The rest of the world should follow suit, I think. *^^*

Anyway, in other news: Last week we had four visitors to South Korea. I hope they enjoyed their visit -- we put in a lot of effort and tried to be gracious hosts. Now they're off to Japan where I hope they are devouring lots of delicious sushi! Also, last weekend was a foreigner picnic in Olympic Park and they were able to join us. It was one of the best times I've had since being in Korea. Water guns, frisbee, picnic food and lots of laughing! I think it will become habit this summer. Olympic Park Picnic Time!

Lastly, before I post a gob of photos, I would just like to share that David and I decided to tag on four days in BEIJING to our summer holiday. We'll be in Tokyo for 4 days beginning July 21st, then 3 days in Osaka/Kyoto, then 4 days in Beijing. More details on that one to come.

On to photos:

Mmm...summer food!

Thea (from South Africa) and Nikki (from Canada) look so picnic-ready!

Dana bravely wondered over to the ajjumas who were looking for four-leaf clovers (cute)!

Clare (from Australia) means business.

I look like the plague struck me. Really it's just exhaustion!

summer.

Later that night....

Free hugs were offered in Gangnam

We partook

Then we went to Dr. Fish (where the fish eat your dead skin off your feet).

This warranted a few reactions

And last (but surely not the least), we took sticker pictures, too. This one was my favorite because it highlight Amanda (our recent Franklin College grad -- everyone who visited all went to FC--) and a strange headless creature who must have recently had a bowel movement.

Cheers, mates!
Wendy City

i wonder how often that happens

2009-05-16T09:00:00.003-04:00

Anyeonghaseyo! ^^*

It's a rainy Saturday night here and I've crossed off so many things on my to-do list. "Update blog" is literally the last thing to put a line through so here I am, blogging. This past week has been pretty low key, aside from the fact that I managed to get tonsillitis which wasn't fun. I started feeling scratchy on Sunday and then by Tuesday I was feeling super sickly. Luckily, I didn't have classes on Wednesday so I just took it easy at my desk. Afterward my adviser took me to the doctor. A few things about that:

1.) First of all, they asked for my weight and I had no idea what my weight is in kilograms. So I needed to go weigh myself. Anyway, the scale was in the lobby (yes, in the lobby) where 20 people were waiting. And it wasn't one of those scales where you look down and see a number, it was the kind that displayed the number in big, red, digital clock letters toward everyone sitting down. Seriously, an lol moment. Koreans, Koreans, Koreans. At least I now know my kilogram weight (so do 20 others).

2.) Um, Korean health care is awesome. I have health insurance here, but even if I didn't the cost would be considerably less than USA prices. It's because Korea has a governmental health care program that everyone must contribute to if they work. It comes out of your paycheck (my school covers mine, but it's only 4 or 5%) and makes health care affordable for everyone. Anyway, my doctor visit was 3500 won (About $3) and I had a prescription for 36 pills (4 different kinds of pills to be taken after every meal for 3 days) and it cost 2700 won (About $2.25). My entire medical fees were under $6.

I think the US should adopt universal health care - can you imagine how much people would save if they didn't have such costly medical bills? I mean, for giving birth, for vaccinations, for a common cold.

Anyway, while my adviser and I were waiting at the doctor's office (they call them all "hospitals") we were talking. To make a long story short, she told me that David and I could go home 1 month early. I'll explain a bit: David and I were delayed in coming to Korea by 3 weeks because it took forever to get our visa's. As a result, I started 3 weeks after the new semester started. My school wants the new contract to begin at the beginning of the semester (September 1st). So, after we go to Japan from July 21-28, I have a week off and then begin summer camp which last for 2 weeks. Then I go home on or around August 21st.

Honestly, I'm very excited. Don't get me wrong - I love Korea so much and I will miss it dearly. But when you haven't seen your friends and family in 8 months, seeing them 1 month earlier makes a huge difference. It will also make things easier for last minute wedding plans.

So, we now have 3 short months left in Koreaville that I know will fly by. We're already beginning to talk in "We should do this before we leave" sentences. :D

Okay, enough verboseness. I have a bunch of random pictures that I haven't posted but want to share. They're from the past few months, so enjoy!

Delicious and cute cow cookie from Himond Bakery (the one I always rave about).

Whatsdis?

Bath time.

The rest of these photos are from about a month ago. It was a "house warning" party for Dante who just moved to Hanam! ;D It's always so fun to go to parties/events with foreigners because everyone is so diverse.

Literally, people from South Africa, Canada, Australia, Hawaii, California, England, London...all in one room. And the funniest part: These people from all across the world are the people who I feel are the most like me here in Korea.

The man of the hour is the one holding a Miller Lite.

Vodka is expensive to come by in Korea. Soju, the green bottle with Korean on it, is cheap and plentiful. Too bad it tastes like acetone! That bottle was about $2, though.

Alphabet fridge magnets = cheap entertainment.

Coveted fridge shot.

Okay, one more picture to complete my "random, outdated photos" post. This is a take-out Japanese dinner from a place down the street. Everything you see was less than $10 and very delicious. Yummmm!

Mmk. Peace!
Wendy

i'm wondering if you read that story too

2009-05-08T07:08:00.002-04:00

For the past week or so I keep having these random bouts of what I like to call "whoa" moments. I don't know how to explain it, really. But for me, a "whoa" moment is when you're fully cognizant of what you're doing and making observations about what you're doing while you're doing your doings (ha!). For example, I'll be teaching or talking and all of a sudden I become fully aware of the fact that I'm talking. Does that confuse you?

Anyway... I always feel like saying "whoa" after one of those experiences. Especially when I realize that I live in South Korea. So weird. It's been nearly 8 months since we moved to "The Sparkling," but it still feels crazy to be here.

Eight months. That means we have a little over 4 months until we head home. I know 4 months may sounds like a lot, but the time is flying by so quickly and we have so much to look forward to while we're still here. For example, we have visitors at the beginning of June which will be exciting. And then in July we're going to Japan for a week which will be so much fun. We're also planning our wedding (going so well, by the way) and my summer vacation is fastly approaching.

Speaking of our July trip to Japan land, we've purchased airline tickets and will fly to Narita airport July 21 and get back to Seoul on July 28. We're staying in Tokyo for 4 days and then going to Osaka/Kyoto and possibly Hiroshima. We've already booked our hostel for Tokyo (Khao San Ninja - a winner!) and now we're thinking about a capsule hotel for Osaka. Like I said, so much to look forward to.

Oh, in the last few posts I've referred to a field trip that I went on with the 3rd graders. We went to a traditional Korean folk village that was tucked away from the city and so beautiful. It was a cold, rainy day but the clouds created a silvery light that made some of my pictures appear so soft and beautiful. I was very pleased with how they turned out, especially since I expected them to be a little murky. Let me share:

What a pretty smile.

Checking out the architecture.

Making straw baskets.

"Wendy teacher!"

One of my favorites. If you look at the large version you can see all the rain zooming to Earth.

Say, "Kimchi!"

Umbrellas

White sky, tiny children.

So cute!

Oh, spring.

Technology

Lunchtime. Everyone had gimbap!

Charm

Shoes off.

Pretty

Leaving.

Adieu!
Wendy City

i would have whispered all the things i can't tell you now

2009-05-03T04:05:00.006-04:00

I cannot tell you how much my hiatus from blogging has overwhelmed me with guilt. Dear, dear readers - forgive?

The honest to goodness truth is that I've been very preoccupied. You see, now that it's warmer outside, I've found that I'm more inspired to walk about and explore. For example, yesterday David and I ventured into Seoul to have a Western-ized lunch (Wolfhound again, for David's late birthday meal) and then went to Myeong-Dong, a district that is renowned for its shopping.

Seriously, they have the biggest Forever 21 store my eyes have ever beheld. I turned the corner and all I saw was the beautiful serif-script accompanied by three very large stories of merchandise. Bliss! I bought a pretty pink bubble hem dress and a black and white, super long tank top. David bought a white shirt. :)

Told you so!

And some pictures from the street...

After Myeong-Dong we met up with Julia and Nathan to check out the Lotus Lantern Festival happenings at Jogyesa Temple near Jonggak Station. The festival took place in honor of Buddha's birthday (Saturday May 2nd, thus my 5-day-weekend vacay) and it was a really interesting event. Many Koreans were dressed in hanbok, the traditional Korean garb, and everyone was chanting a song, lighting incense and bowing to Buddha. The whole city is decked out in colorful lanterns. A very beautiful sight. ^^*

Later that evening, after some delicious bibimbap, we went to the cheongaechung (man made river, like the Indianapolis canal) to see the lit up lanterns there. There was live music and it was so beautiful!

I have quite a few more pictures from a few weeks ago (field trip with 3rd graders and a housewarming party, plus a few misc. shots). Hopefully I can get those up here soon! ^^* In the meantime, enjoy!

Wendy

It seemed like rainbows would appear; Whenever you came near the clouds would disappear

2009-04-19T03:52:00.003-04:00

Hello! Happy Sunday, lass!

Not much to talk about, really. This weekend was really nice and I'm sad to see it's over. However, things should be pretty easy this week in terms of teaching and class load. Monday I'm going on a "picnic" (aka field trip) with all the third graders which should be a blast. It's supposed to rain but I'll make the most of it! ^^* I think I'll bring my video recorder.

Ooh, I've been reminiscing old music lately. I recall hours upon hours singing (and ahem...dancing) in the privacy of my own room to the best music. Get Up Kids, Saves the Day, Death Cab, Travis, and, of course, a little Garbage. Hence the inspiration behind the title of this blog. The song is about a mega-sexy cross dresser. Ooh lala!

Anyhow, I have a few pictures to post from yesterday. David and I hopped on the 30-5 bus from Hanam to Jamsil in order to check out world-famous Olympic Park, Seoul. The weather was ideal: A crisp 70s, wispy clouds dancing high above and lots of sunshine casting happy rays toward Earth. That's what you call weather-bliss. Many a photo op--and tasty dinner--later, we wrapped up our trip and headed back home. In pictures:

This guy is so friendly. He has bright yellow hair (obvious). I'm sure it's so that he matches the fruit that he sells. ^^*

Interesting style!

Pretty Seoul!

David.

Lovely color palette: Pink white and green

bzzzzzzz...

Thumbs up!

City life

Party at Olympic Park!

Olympic Park, Seoul

Ajuma's hard at work!

Such a busy day!

Cute couples!

We did enjoy some starbucks. It tastes (and smells) the same as home!

Giant Kimchi pot!

Dalki!

This girl was so cute!

!!!

Oh, hello!

Korean's have a strange fixation with all-things fecal.

My hair is so long!

David took my senior picture.

DDong bus, peace out!

I know it's disgusting but we couldn't help ourselves.

Okay. After all that fecal fun, we decided it was time to head back home. Along the way we came across Covent Garden. Needless to say, we were lured in by its laid back, colorful vibe. Plus it smelled delicious! We enjoyed the ambiance. It's one of those places that becomes your "regular go-to" place, I think. Sort of like Jockamo's in Irvington or Elbow Room on Pennsylvania Street in Indy.

The colors remind me of Thailand, but the food was very Italian!

The breeze was so, so lovely!

Really - how quaint? I think a review is in order for miseducated.

Dinner served! I had mare spaghetti in a tomato sauce. It had lots of seafood. David had an alfredo spaghetti that came with a side of caviar (the small plate with orange stuff) to mix in. Yum!

Aufiderzein, my friends!
Wendy City

I remember when the days were long and the nights when the living room was on the lawn.

2009-04-16T07:04:00.002-04:00

Hi Hi Hi. Zoom Zoom Zoom. This week went by so fast!

I can hardly believe it's the end of the week already. I really don't even remember what happened over the last 5 days - it's pretty insane! I can say, however, that I've accomplished a lot which is always a good feeling.

Let's see...what did I accomplish. Well, I successfully planned my lessons for the next several weeks (hoorah!) and David and I made major strides in wedding stuff. We are nearly finished registering for gifts which was a fun process! It would have been nice to go to the actual store, but there was something pleasant about sitting at home, snacking on popcorn and hollering, "register for that thing!" whenever we saw something that caught our eye.

See for yourself: Target and Kohls. ^^*

Hrm. While I'm on the subject of wedding nonsense, I'll share a few other things:

Bridesmaid's dresses

Also, the favors are going to be oh-so-adorable! I'm putting them together myself and buying the individual items. Small gift boxes (sturdy boxes the color of a paper bag) with a dabble of paper grass. Resting neatly inside will be 2 organic tea bags -- rosehips and chai -- and 2 cinnamon sticks. (I'm still contemplating on whether or not I want to add tea cookies.)

I'll tie them up with sweet satin ribbon, some the color of the bridesmaids dresses, others a burnt orange. To top it off, I'm having thank-you labels made with the date.

Ooh, and I've begun to work on the ceremony details and programs now. My sister will sing a piece (click here to hear some of her great work) and so will my Aunt Grace, who has a voice more like my own (classical). We'll have both a harpist and pianist. Really, it's so exciting! ^^

Anyway, in other news, I've decided that after I return to Indiana (in 5 months), I will begin a freelance journalism career. Over the past 4 months or so I've researched clients and applied for freelancing gigs at various places. Some are great, some are okay, some nothing to brag about.

However, I was recently hired by an organization that offers freelance writing assignments on a variety of topics. It pays quite well for the amount of time I would spend writing. Honestly, it's enough dinero to be considered part-time and will allow me to work on my book as well as other writing assignments. It's nice to know that I have a dependable source of income and it gives me a lot of flexibility, as well. I'm very excited to see where things go over the next year. Who knows!

Mmk, enough jabber. I have some photographs from last week. I took them on my day off -- the weather was perfect!

Where's the kitty?

my favorite

Hi David!

A student happy to see me!

Flower shop!

oh spring!

another favorite.

street food. yum!

these little trucks drive around with fruit in the back. people love fruit from trucks!

!!

Later!
Wendy City

PS. I changed the banner at the top. You like it?

Powerful moments aren't necessarily somber ones

2009-04-08T02:04:00.004-04:00

Hello, hello!

Quick update from this little Wendy Bird. First things, first: New articles up on Miseducated.net. Check them out, darling:

Peruse, freely. ^^

Secondly, I like to watch my "live feed" on here to see where my visitors come from and how often they drop by! It's been cool to watch my audience grow, and I noticed something the other day: 57% of my visitors are from the USA. The other 43% are from outside of the US. How cool! :)

Anywho, it's currently Wednesday, 73 degrees Fahrenheit and oh-so-sunny! Today's a holiday so I get a little time to myself which I've already taken full advantage of. Highlighted my hair, painted on some baby pink shadow and now I think I'll visit the coffee shop down the street. Isn't it lovely how a nice day improves ones mood?

I want to post a few pictures from this past weekend before I head out. Enjoy!

Glad to meet you, spring!

Goguma!

Gecko Garden in Itaewon, Seoul

Try a new angle!

The Coffee Bean! One of my favorites. Right above it is the hair salon I go to.

Bootleggers setting up shop.

Cute friends! ^^*

Fashionista's in the city!

Mmk, finished. Have a snazzy day!
Wendy City

everybody wants to be in love for real

2009-04-05T04:36:00.003-04:00

Bonjour! Happy Sunday, to you!

Things are wonderful in SK land. The weekend felt a bit longer than it has over the past month, giving me more opportunities to indulge in responsibility-free time. Friday night David and I met up with a new Hanam foreigner named Dante who hails from Milwaukee. We enjoyed Japanese cuisine down the street and then made ourselves comfortable at a local bar called "Livebench." We were serenaded by an friendly Asian man who referred to himself as the Korean Eric Clapton on a regular basis. Before his picture was taken he insisted on washing his face. It also must be noted that his English was spectacular. According to him it's a result of all the English songs he knows by heart (approximately 2-3000)!

Saturday I ventured to Yangjae district in Seoul for voice lessons, got my hair cut at Green Turtle Salon in Itaewon -- picture below -- and then David and I had a nice dinner at an Italian restaurant called "Gecko Garden." We devoured calamari appetizers and then I worked through a spicy seafood spaghetti dish (where I reluctantly encountered nameless sea creatures that, by the way, did not enter my oral cavity).

New hair. David hates my frilly thing. So does Amy.

Spring is so nice! There are so many more options for weekend fun! We've got some plans to go to Seoul Spring festival and a big Mud festival among other things! Oh, and we've begun planning our trip to Japanese territory! We're thinking about at least 4 days in Tokyo and then venturing out into more rural, historic areas. David and I are also expecting guests in June which will yield good times, too! So much to look forward to!

Anyway, before they get too outdated, I want to share some pictures from last weekend. To recapitulate, we perused the streets of Gangnam district in Seoul with Julia and Nathan. We ate yummy Indian food, enjoyed a hookah and then did a little norebong (Korean karaoke).

Pretty chairs at Bindya Indian restaurant (Gangnam)

My handsome prince (사랑해)!

The Norebong we went to (big white/gold building)

Flashing neon lights inside our little nore bubble.

A really awful picture of David and me. But it provides proof of our participation. David even sang a line of music: "Come on Barbie, let's go party."

Nathan giving it his all. I believe this was the Spice Girls. Oh wait, that's wrong.

After nore last weekend, David and I decided to (attempted/mission failed) take a bus home instead of the subway and happened upon these crazy "digital picture" booths. They are right on the street and you push a button, it counts down and takes your photo. Then you add pictures/text/whatever and email it to yourself!

Our finished product.

Those are all the words I choose to expel for now.
<3, Wendy City

Like Ophelia, you wave goodnight

2009-03-30T07:54:00.002-04:00

Oh what a transient weekend late March served up. My eyes did one of those cartoony eye-bulge things when I realized it was 8pm Sunday night. I guess time passes quickly when you're having a good time!

Friday night David and I stayed in, relaxed. You know. And then Saturday we ventured out into Seoul territory, Gangnam to be exact, for dinner with a few friends and then norebong (Korean karaoke). It was so much fun! It was a tad chilly, but I left home without a coat and did just fine. I feel better when I don't have a coat on dragging me down!

Today (that would be Monday) was a good day, even though it finalized the end of the weekend. My kindergarten class greeted me with a bright and cheery "HELLO WENDY TEACHER" and then the kindergarten teacher, who is my age, gave me a cake. Yes, a cake. It was so sweet of her (pun intented)! She even wrapped it in gold wrapping paper. :) It made me happy the rest of the day.

Hmm, let's see. Wedding plans are coming along. The flower details are all sorted out and I'm super excited. That was a big thing to finalize so I'm glad that's taken care of. So many surprising details go into a wedding. Really I can hardly believe how much there is to plan. It's no wonder a person can make a vocation out of planning weddings! It's hard work, cookie! This weeks plans: practice my calligraphy (hopefully I can revive my skills), get addresses from David's friends and figure out the groomsmen attire! Wee!

That's all for now. But, before I go, I have pictures. No surprise there:

Spring skies. This is the view from the school

Pretty blossoms at school. I meant to take pictures of them for a week straight and finally got around to doing so on Friday afternoon!

The sky probably doesn't get much bluer than this. ^^

Two of my lovely students who noticed me taking pictures of flowers. They said, "Miss Wendy! My picture!"

My little Korean corner. It's the only road that separates our apartment from my school! Those are high schoolers in their uniforms!

Rice cake! My co-teacher brought me rice cake last Friday (a parent brought it in) and we shared it and talked about life, Korea and whatever else you could think up! I really really like my new co-teacher. :)

This piece I brought home (she had 2 pieces)!

Next update I'll have pictures from Saturday's excursions! ^^
G'night! Wendy

I know what I'm after

2009-03-26T06:18:00.002-04:00

I've really enjoyed this week with the students. It's been pretty laid back and for some reason all of the kiddos are especially excited about English class! They are listening so well and being very respectful which is great! Hopefully they keep it up for the rest of the semester! ^^

Anyway, I don't have a whole lot to say (there's a new episode of America's Next Top Model waiting for me), but I did want to share a few pictures! You see, today David sent me an AIM at work to let me know that a certain Amy Korbe had mailed a package all the way from the Indy city to cozy Hanam si. (We would soon find out there were goodies from Ryan and Heather, too).

I love mail, of course. Really I can't imagine anyone who doesn't. But I was so eager to get off work so that David and I could open the package together! We couldn't contain our excitement -- what kind of goodies from the U.S. of A would we find enclosed in the sturdy brown box?

Well, Goguma fed off that same excitement. We all sat around the box (David waited patiently while I took some snaps!) and Goguma sniffed/kissed the box. Pictures:

(isn't Goguma funny?)

Everything that was inside! A gossip mag, some cheese wiz, mac n' cheese, pringles, sephora perfume samples, a kitty calendar, a postcard and a letter from amy/lilly (her sweet pup).

Amy explained that she wanted to get us things that epitomized America. And, well, she thought of "Junk!" ha! ^^

Letter from Lilly (or Rirry). She even signed it, as David pointed out!

David admiring the Pringles and mac n' cheese!

The Pringles made it semi-safely!

So...YAY!

That's all for now, lads and lassies!
Wendy City

Do you want to be my sidedish friend?

2009-03-24T05:31:00.002-04:00

Happy Tuesday, lads and lassies! I dear pray that this budding spring-time finds you full of joy! Today, despite it being a bit colder than I would like to have it, I noticed the daintiest pink and white blossoms scattered across a row of tiny naked branches. They reminded me of sugar candies floating atop a mound of fluffy, whipped frosting. I craved a camera in my hands.

I was talking to my dear from Amy-roo via Skype this past weekend and she mentioned that she has started a project to document spring. Every week she takes Lilly (her loveable pup) to their favorite park and then she takes pictures of the same objects. What a lovely idea, right?

Speaking of lovely, the other day I walked by the kitchen table and noticed a certain Sweet Potato looking up at me with the biggest, doughy-eyed expression you could ever imagine. So I dashed into the bedroom, grabbed my camera (charged and ready to go for a moment such as this), crouched down and took a snap of my orange princess! Gift for you:

Oh I love her!

Anyway, as I mentioned in my last update, David and I ventured off to Seoul-land this weekend for my voice lessons and then to treat ourselves to some good food in Itaewon! We went to one of Seoul's popular Irish pubs, Wolfhound. It did not disappoint and is now our favorite place to go! It used to be Oktoberfest (German, in Gangnam) or Three Alley (German, Itaewon). Here are some pictures from the excursion. I enjoyed fish and chips and a Nutty Irishman cocktail. David and a beer (of course) and a fish sandwhich. Peeks:

The names of the drinks make your eyebrows go up a little...! ^^*

Doesn't it look so delicious? I absolutely love school lunch and all the Korean food, but it's nice for a change of pace!

Lastly, and you can stop reading now if you'd like, I wanted to share a recent purchase I made! I love Forever 21 and was browsing their items a few weeks ago and saw probably a million "must have" items. So I bought some in celebration of spring! I can't wait til my order gets here -- I love mail! ^^* Picture of things I bought...relish in the color!

Oh, and FYI you State's people, the "Keen on Green" owl tote was only..$1.50 and they have 3-4 styles, I think. So please, purchase one and bring it with you when you're picking up a few things at the grocery! Or just wear it and be stylin'.

Asalam Olaykum (Peace be with you - Arabic).
Wendy

You're never too old to become younger

2009-03-22T04:08:00.003-04:00

Top of the morning, to you! Things have been much better this week, almost as if a burst of rainbow dust (not yellow sand) has been released into the air current to greet those below with good energy. Or maybe it's just the warm breeze and chirping birds that accompany Spring? Nay, I prefer the former!

Anyway, needless to say I'm over my stomach ailment and feeling a little better about my classes for the semester. I've made it a goal to work at least 3-5 days ahead of each class which seems to help things go more smoothly. Still though, you never know what you're going to get when you walk into a class.

Take my last class of the day on Friday, for example. It's a group of 30ish 4th graders who are very, very ornery. They were learning greeting phrases, such as introducing a friend to someone else and saying their name. Well that was hardly possible! Last week a brigade of 4 young boys assembled DIY toy guns and this week the same kiddos acted out. I just use them to my advantage. I had one of them sit with me up front the entire class period and he was my volunteer each time I needed one. He even had to pretend he was Julie's mom (who all the kids think is so funny).

And when he decided to inform me that he was "crazy," I simply replied, "I know - a crazy monkey!" and all the kids died laughing. It's so hard to be mad at them for more than 2 minutes.

Moving on... the weekend was nice. I had voice lessons yesterday and felt like I had a mini breakthrough which was nice. Ryan had me do a warm up that involved yawning before doing a 5 note scale and it kind of changed the way I think when preparing to breath. The "old way" is habit so it'll take a while to break.

Ooh, before I forget, Friday was such a nice day and the setting sun was letting off some really beautiful light so I decided to take my camera out and shoot a few things. I bought this lollipop on "White Day" last week (March 14) for the sole purpose of incorporating it into a shoot. I allowed Goguma to sit in and then took a few self-portraits. The result:

and me.

Next update I have pictures from an Irish Pub that David and I visited in Itaewon Saturday evening (food was sooo good...drinks too!).

Ciao!