Lunar New Year Celebration

Our arrival at Namsan Honok Village
NewYear.jpg 2010-02-14

Tuho, which involves throwing arrows into a pot
A number of folk games, or minsok nori, are played on the New Year.This is one of the favorites.

IMG_4341.JPG
IMG_4341.JPG 2010-02-11

Tanya and I attempting at the odd see-saw game
IMG_4345.JPG 2010-02-11

Getting nervous!
IMG_4347.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4348.JPG
IMG_4348.JPG 2010-02-11

This guy knew how to fly!
IMG_4349.JPG 2010-02-11

Look at that height!
IMG_4355.JPG 2010-02-11

David's first attempt
IMG_4357.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4360.JPG
IMG_4360.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4361.JPG
IMG_4361.JPG 2010-02-11

Now its the battle between husband and wife!
IMG_4362.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4364.JPG
IMG_4364.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4365.JPG
IMG_4365.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4367.JPG
IMG_4367.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4368.JPG
IMG_4368.JPG 2010-02-11

Lots of kids were smacking these tops around
IMG_4572.JPG 2010-02-11

Father teaching his son how to push this wheel around
IMG_4599.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4600.JPG
IMG_4600.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4601.JPG
IMG_4601.JPG 2010-02-11

Traditional singing
IMG_4568.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4417.JPG
IMG_4417.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4418.JPG
IMG_4418.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4420.JPG
IMG_4420.JPG 2010-02-11

This is the game that David played on Tv! These guys are giving us a demonstration of what's about to come.
IMG_4422.JPG 2010-02-11

Meet your contestants...
IMG_4456.JPG 2010-02-11

The first round is off!
IMG_4458.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4459.JPG
IMG_4459.JPG 2010-02-11

Look at these men go!
IMG_4465.JPG 2010-02-11

That's one determined look
IMG_4472.JPG 2010-02-11

And she wins!
IMG_4479.JPG 2010-02-11

Lets get this show on the road
IMG_4489.JPG 2010-02-11

The Puerto Rican against the Korean!
IMG_4492.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4493.JPG
IMG_4493.JPG 2010-02-11

And David wins!
IMG_4496.JPG 2010-02-11

Now he's pitted against the 70 year old
IMG_4501.JPG 2010-02-11

And he's out!
IMG_4503.JPG 2010-02-11

But he's good natured about it.
IMG_4504.JPG 2010-02-11

Accepting their trophies
IMG_4514.JPG 2010-02-11

Interviewing the American about his thoughts on Korea
IMG_4519.JPG 2010-02-11

Traditional clothing
IMG_4406.JPG 2010-02-11

Another portion of the Lunar holiday is writing down you wishes to your ancestors.
IMG_4537.JPG 2010-02-11

We're not sure what they were making...
IMG_4383.JPG 2010-02-11

Seafood pancakes...I think...
IMG_4388.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4391.JPG
IMG_4391.JPG 2010-02-11

Making of some time of wind instrument
IMG_4548.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4550.JPG
IMG_4550.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4552.JPG
IMG_4552.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4554.JPG
IMG_4554.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4557.JPG
IMG_4557.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4558.JPG
IMG_4558.JPG 2010-02-11

The stage David performed on
IMG_4563.JPG 2010-02-11

Dressing up in some sort of traditional gear
IMG_4607.JPG 2010-02-11

Charye
The
charye is an ancestral rites ceremony held in the early morning of major holidays, particular Seol and Chuseok. A table is set with seasonal foods - for example, rice cake soup (
tteokguk) for the Lunar New Year - and ancestral tablets, incense is burnt, wine offered to the ancestors and bows performed.
After the
charye, the younger members of the family pay their respects to their elders by performing three deep bows. This is called
sebae. For their troubles, younger performers of the
sebae will often receive a small gift from their elders - some money, usually. It is traditional to perform these bows in newly made or purchased sets of Korean traditional attire, or
hanbok.

IMG_4413.JPG
IMG_4413.JPG 2010-02-11

Dress up begins!
IMG_4527.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4531.JPG
IMG_4531.JPG 2010-02-11

Tanya and I primping
IMG_4534.JPG 2010-02-11

NewYear-15.jpg
NewYear-15.jpg 2010-02-14

NewYear-16.jpg
NewYear-16.jpg 2010-02-14

NewYear-17.jpg
NewYear-17.jpg 2010-02-14

NewYear-21.jpg
NewYear-21.jpg 2010-02-14

NewYear-24.jpg
NewYear-24.jpg 2010-02-14

NewYear-11.jpg
NewYear-11.jpg 2010-02-14

NewYear-12.jpg
NewYear-12.jpg 2010-02-14

NewYear-13.jpg
NewYear-13.jpg 2010-02-14

NewYear-14.jpg
NewYear-14.jpg 2010-02-14

David ordering his favorite street snack. That bread is full of hot sugar and cinnamon sweetness.
IMG_4627.JPG 2010-02-11

Korean bbq time! All of the sides that come with the meat.
IMG_4631.JPG 2010-02-11

Cooking the meat and kimchi
IMG_4632.JPG 2010-02-11

IMG_4634.JPG
IMG_4634.JPG 2010-02-11

NewYear-3.jpg
NewYear-3.jpg 2010-02-14
Puppy cuteness

IMG_4260.JPG
IMG_4260.JPG 2010-02-06

IMG_4225.JPG
IMG_4225.JPG 2010-02-06

IMG_4295.JPG
IMG_4295.JPG 2010-02-06

IMG_4247.JPG
IMG_4247.JPG 2010-02-06

IMG_4261.JPG
IMG_4261.JPG 2010-02-06

IMG_4272.JPG
IMG_4272.JPG 2010-02-06

IMG_4292.JPG
IMG_4292.JPG 2010-02-06

IMG_4297.JPG
IMG_4297.JPG 2010-02-06

IMG_4300.JPG
IMG_4300.JPG 2010-02-06
Itaewon: The Sights, Sounds and People

This is the hill I walk down each morning. Its a daily adventure with the ice and snow.
At the bottom of the hill is our North Face where we buy our clothes to keep us warm. Directly across is our Starbucks, McDonalds and American Diner. Living in a city where everything is just a few yards away is pretty awesome. I haven't even driven a car in 7 months!

Both sides of our streets are lined with carts selling every kind of clothing or accessory
Often you see the owner of the cart sitting and reading, playing cards, eating or, in this case, drinking hot tea. Their carts are motorized so at night they close shop, turn the cart on, and push it down the street to their home. You see dozens of men and women rolling their carts home at night.

As you can see...carts, carts...everywhere...
This is literally across the street from our apartment.

This is our favorite portion of our street.
Here sits our Starbucks, McDonalds, fruit stand, American Diner, and-- across the street--Thai food.
MOM-this is where I stand in the morning and hail a cab whilst talking to you.

All over Korea, shops advertize their wares by placing them OUTSIDE
Clearly, America this is not. Even more expensive stores like North Face trust passerbyers not to swipe their goods. Snow or rain pushes the store employees to rush outside and wheel the clothes to safety.

This is one of the many Korean ladies that walks down the street selling hot tea to cart owners
She was tickled pink that I wanted to take a picture of her.

We have 6 homeless people that we interact with daily. This man spends his day rolling up and down the street playing music.
I did tip him in order to snap this shot. Its pretty sad to see him every day. I often wonder what assistance to the homeless is like in Korea... While a couple of the homeless men on our street are more like clever con-men; I feel for this man.

This is one of the many men that stand on the sidewalk and ask,"Would you like a custom made suit?"
Every day David tells them, "Not today. Thank you." I often wonder if one them will exasperatedly sigh, "Then what day sir?!"

Seoul is twice as big as you think. Everywhere you walk there is an underground shopping center below.
IMG_3874.JPG 2010-01-15

A chemise anyone?
IMG_3873.JPG 2010-01-15

This is one of the MANY gaudy-god-awful formal dress stores.
I've yet to see a Korean woman dresses so poorly or cheaply. I can only surmise that these stores are for the many Russian and Philippine prostitutes that live and work in Itaewon. Just based on the large amount of shops like this is a good indication of how prevalent prostitution is around here.

My metro stop and daily portal to work. Hi-ho-hi-ho...
IMG_3896.JPG 2010-01-15

This now begins the food portion of our journey together. This joint serves a mean breakfast or burger.
Previously, I featured our breakfast in the album "A Day at the Zoo."

This is our FAVorite Thai restaurant. Its also 50 feet from our house!
We're the next building over and if I'm not cooking at home...we're eating here. They know us.

This is where a Texas girl far away from home gets a fix for her cravings
The tacos al pastor are AM-AZ-ing here! YUM

I've never eaten here but thought I'd feature the variety one finds in Itaewon.
IMG_3931.JPG 2010-01-15

What? You thought this was in Boston?
IMG_3929.JPG 2010-01-15

Itaewon road; the main drag. I live at the far end of the picture near the trees.
Actually, the trees hide a portion of the Army base. You can faintly see the wall of the base towards the top of the trees.
Note the Coffee Bean on the left. This is also one of our fav hangouts. Below it sits a Cold Stone, Quiznos, and sushi place. The Mexican restaurant is on the same corner. Time stops at this little intersection.
This side of Itaewon (in the forefront) now begins to become the seedier side of life.

These are the clubs run by the Russian and Chinese mafia. This is also the bottom of the famed Hooker Hill.
RIO- The Russian club run by the mafia. Other Russian establishments are off-limits to soldiers because the Russians were drugging their drinks. Over 29 of the bars on this street and side alleys are off-limits to soldiers because of prostitution of trafficked women. Heartbreaking. This is a mile from my house.

Hooker Hill
Hookers are "featured" in the windows of these bars at night.

Octopus anyone?
IMG_3885.JPG 2010-01-15

The top of the club street.
Moulin Rouge, Apple, and Cabin are off limits to soldiers.

Every expat knows to come to this little treasure to find English books.
Nestled right next a trafficking ring...not your average trip to Barnes and Noble.

Ahhhhaaaaaaahhhhhhhh!!!! Heaven parts and there are books!!!
IMG_3915.JPG 2010-01-15

Lots of Africans in Itaewon. This is down a side alley where they can get their fav munchies and stores.
IMG_3928.JPG 2010-01-15

Back to my side of the street. Lots of people just milling about and shopping.
IMG_3954.JPG 2010-01-15

One of the other homeless men that lives near us.
This man and his friend always dress in Army wear. Often they are both dressed in uniform or 'digitals.'

Korean friends often walk arm in arm or holding hands.
IMG_3967.JPG 2010-01-15

Love this captured moment.
IMG_3973.JPG 2010-01-15

I'm 100% this guys is NOT blind. I watched him for awhile...not sure what his end game is...
IMG_3952.JPG 2010-01-15

IMG_3955.JPG
IMG_3955.JPG 2010-01-15

Note the face mask
IMG_3971.JPG 2010-01-15

IMG_3976.JPG
IMG_3976.JPG 2010-01-15

IMG_4002.JPG
IMG_4002.JPG 2010-01-15

IMG_4009.JPG
IMG_4009.JPG 2010-01-15

IMG_4025.JPG
IMG_4025.JPG 2010-01-15

IMG_3981.JPG
IMG_3981.JPG 2010-01-15

IMG_4005.JPG
IMG_4005.JPG 2010-01-15

Korean's favorite dog, small and acessorizible (a word that exists in my dictionary)
IMG_4020.JPG 2010-01-15

IMG_3864.JPG
IMG_3864.JPG 2010-01-15
A Day Celebrating Me :)

All dressed up with somewhere to go
Yes, our picture frame is crooked...

Yum! The Seasons
IMG_3829.JPG 2010-01-14

What is French food if not paired with a good bottle of wine?
IMG_3814.JPG 2010-01-14

Banana Flambe made at our table. DE-LI-cious!
IMG_3824.JPG 2010-01-14

David's out-of-focus apple tart
IMG_3817.JPG 2010-01-14

Giant spinning Christmas tree
IMG_3830.JPG 2010-01-14

My fabulouso husband
IMG_3834.JPG 2010-01-14

Jesus and presents under the Christmas tree
IMG_3835.JPG 2010-01-14

They had this amazing two-tiered- train set wrapped around the tree.
IMG_3845.JPG 2010-01-14

My loot!
IMG_3850.JPG 2010-01-14
Living in a Winter Wonder Land

My roof covered in snow
IMG_3130.JPG 2009-12-25

Dindy LOVED the snow. He ran laps and jumped and hopped and then ate the snow.
IMG_3148.JPG 2009-12-25

IMG_3164.JPG
IMG_3164.JPG 2009-12-25

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!
IMG_3134.JPG 2009-12-25

IMG_3138.JPG
IMG_3138.JPG 2009-12-25

IMG_3142.JPG
IMG_3142.JPG 2009-12-25

Superman!
IMG_3213.JPG 2009-12-25

IMG_3150.JPG
IMG_3150.JPG 2009-12-25

This is the best day EVer!
IMG_3178.JPG 2009-12-25

The city from my roof
IMG_3159.JPG 2009-12-25

Always remember to dig
IMG_3234.JPG 2009-12-25

IMG_3194.JPG
IMG_3194.JPG 2009-12-25

Talking Dindy on a walk. David is the orange guy in the background.
IMG_3574.JPG 2009-12-31

IMG_3643.JPG
IMG_3643.JPG 2009-12-31

Holding on...
IMG_3663.JPG 2009-12-31

On base
18764_1228058233217_1581910833_579017_4327113_n.jpg 2010-01-12

18764_1228058273218_1581910833_579018_4502694_n.jpg
18764_1228058273218_1581910833_579018_4502694_n.jpg 2010-01-12

18764_1228058313219_1581910833_579019_3902064_n.jpg
18764_1228058313219_1581910833_579019_3902064_n.jpg 2010-01-12

18764_1228058353220_1581910833_579020_3250685_n.jpg
18764_1228058353220_1581910833_579020_3250685_n.jpg 2010-01-12

18764_1228058393221_1581910833_579021_1459125_n.jpg
18764_1228058393221_1581910833_579021_1459125_n.jpg 2010-01-12

Lights on base
18764_1228285878908_1581910833_580001_432263_n.jpg 2010-01-12

Decorations on base
18764_1228285958910_1581910833_580003_1838619_n.jpg 2010-01-12

Kids building and igloo!
18764_1228058833232_1581910833_579032_1227944_n.jpg 2010-01-12

Prettttyyyyy
18764_1228285918909_1581910833_580002_2152804_n.jpg 2010-01-12
Literally Ringing in the New Year

Dinner locale
IMG_3355.JPG 2009-12-29

Smart people watching from the heated indoors.
IMG_3405.JPG 2009-12-29

The stage
IMG_3409.JPG 2009-12-29

Police ready for action
IMG_3421.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3432.JPG
IMG_3432.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3436.JPG
IMG_3436.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3439.JPG
IMG_3439.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3462.JPG
IMG_3462.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3477.JPG
IMG_3477.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3483.JPG
IMG_3483.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3485.JPG
IMG_3485.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3492.JPG
IMG_3492.JPG 2009-12-29

Happy New Year!
IMG_3444.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3503.JPG
IMG_3503.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3506.JPG
IMG_3506.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3445.JPG
IMG_3445.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3447.JPG
IMG_3447.JPG 2009-12-29

IMG_3509.JPG
IMG_3509.JPG 2009-12-29
Christmas fun

Everyone makes street snacks...
IMG_2976.JPG 2009-12-10

IMG_2978.JPG
IMG_2978.JPG 2009-12-10

Four levels of the cutest boutiques.
IMG_2981.JPG 2009-12-10

Koreans love taking pictures!
IMG_2983.JPG 2009-12-10

IMG_2985.JPG
IMG_2985.JPG 2009-12-10

Isn't this what everyone expects to find when looking down a stairwell?
Seriously, one of my favorite things about Koreans is how the do everything with excellence and are so aesthetically focused.

Christmas equals sugar cookies for the kids!
IMG_3016.JPG 2009-12-21

IMG_3018.JPG
IMG_3018.JPG 2009-12-21

Almost done!
IMG_3020.JPG 2009-12-21

Yum
IMG_3025.JPG 2009-12-21

IMG_3026.JPG
IMG_3026.JPG 2009-12-21

The presents for the kids
IMG_3029.JPG 2009-12-22

So excited to see Santa!!
IMG_3032.JPG 2009-12-22

Behold, I give you the worlds scariest santa.
IMG_3041.JPG 2009-12-22

IMG_3043.JPG
IMG_3043.JPG 2009-12-22

Julie euing Santa as he reads her letter.
IMG_3045.JPG 2009-12-22

Andrew
IMG_3051.JPG 2009-12-22

Alex
IMG_3054.JPG 2009-12-22

Joey
IMG_3060.JPG 2009-12-22

Claire--really not happy about Santa
IMG_3063.JPG 2009-12-22

IMG_3064.JPG
IMG_3064.JPG 2009-12-22

Present exchange!!
IMG_3065.JPG 2009-12-22

IMG_3066.JPG
IMG_3066.JPG 2009-12-22

IMG_3067.JPG
IMG_3067.JPG 2009-12-22

IMG_3068.JPG
IMG_3068.JPG 2009-12-22

IMG_3069.JPG
IMG_3069.JPG 2009-12-22

IMG_3070.JPG
IMG_3070.JPG 2009-12-22
Decorating our Christmas tree

Putting the tree together
IMG_2734.JPG 2009-12-03

Working away
IMG_2735.JPG 2009-12-03

Hot chocolate to help bring in the Christmas cheer!
IMG_2745.JPG 2009-12-03

Dindy loves cuddle time
IMG_2753.JPG 2009-12-03

Please play with me
IMG_2750.JPG 2009-12-03

Time for the lights!
IMG_2771.JPG 2009-12-03

What are those?
IMG_2769.JPG 2009-12-03

Ornament time
IMG_2780.JPG 2009-12-03

Its a very serious process
IMG_2864.JPG 2009-12-03

IMG_2866.JPG
IMG_2866.JPG 2009-12-03

IMG_2869.JPG
IMG_2869.JPG 2009-12-03

Finishing touches
IMG_2807.JPG 2009-12-03

Dancing to Christmas music
IMG_2852.JPG 2009-12-03

Finished! (they're twinkling lights so that's why its blurry)
IMG_2819.JPG 2009-12-03

IMG_2862.JPG
IMG_2862.JPG 2009-12-03

All finished so now its time to watch Home Alone
IMG_2878.JPG 2009-12-03

Our bare room now sports a Christmas tree.
IMG_2895.JPG 2009-12-03
Our first Thanksgiving!

IMG_2700.JPG
IMG_2700.JPG 2009-11-26

Look at that juicy bird
IMG_2699.JPG 2009-11-26

IMG_2692.JPG
IMG_2692.JPG 2009-11-26

The dinner table
IMG_2703.JPG 2009-11-26
Random fun photos

Every night there is a light show on Namsan tower. They make the tower itself appears as if it is on fire.
IMG_2147.JPG 2009-10-01

IMG_2148.JPG
IMG_2148.JPG 2009-10-01

The view of Itaewon from Seoul Tower/Nansam mountain
IMG_2156.JPG 2009-10-01

More of the laser light show
IMG_2161.JPG 2009-10-01

How cute is she playing with the light!
IMG_2171.JPG 2009-10-01

IMG_2174.JPG
IMG_2174.JPG 2009-10-01

IMG_2178.JPG
IMG_2178.JPG 2009-10-01

IMG_2179.JPG
IMG_2179.JPG 2009-10-01

IMG_2188.JPG
IMG_2188.JPG 2009-10-01

I really loved the red on this building.
IMG_2324.JPG 2009-10-22

I took this shot looking down from our apartment.
This is the tree outside our window.

IMG_2486.JPG
IMG_2486.JPG 2009-11-17

Making Kimchi on the sidewalk
I mean, where else would you make kimchi? This is in Osan, which is a small town about an hour south of Seoul. An Air Force base is stationed there and I went to visit a friend. We were walking along and stumbled across these women working away.

IMG_2586.JPG
IMG_2586.JPG 2009-11-19
Dindy's fall photo shoot. :)

IMG_2557.JPG
IMG_2557.JPG 2009-11-17

IMG_2503.JPG
IMG_2503.JPG 2009-11-17

IMG_2515.JPG
IMG_2515.JPG 2009-11-17

IMG_2485.JPG
IMG_2485.JPG 2009-11-17

IMG_2486.JPG
IMG_2486.JPG 2009-11-17

IMG_2559.JPG
IMG_2559.JPG 2009-11-17
Legs (see journal entry below)

IMG_1940.JPG
IMG_1940.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1914.JPG
IMG_1914.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1945.JPG
IMG_1945.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_2320.JPG
IMG_2320.JPG 2009-10-22
Halloween with the kiddos

Julie as a fairy, Claire as a witch, and Andrew as a Halloween something.
IMG_2422.JPG 2009-10-28

Alex as Darth Vader. He's costume made the breathing noises and everything. He was in heaven.
IMG_2424.JPG 2009-10-28

Lining up to get candy from my boss, Mrs. Lee.
IMG_2431.JPG 2009-10-28

Rocky. I made the mask for him since his parents didn't dress him up.
I was actually really annoyed at all the parents of the kids who weren't dressed up. How mean is it to send your kiddo to school for a Halloween party and not dress them up? The ones not dressed up were so disappointed and felt awkward.

IMG_2433.JPG
IMG_2433.JPG 2009-10-28

IMG_2434.JPG
IMG_2434.JPG 2009-10-28

IMG_2435.JPG
IMG_2435.JPG 2009-10-28

IMG_2439.JPG
IMG_2439.JPG 2009-10-28

Jamie. He's in a different class.
IMG_2441.JPG 2009-10-28

Jane. Also not one of my students.
IMG_2442.JPG 2009-10-28

Emily. She is in the afterschool program that I teach.
Fashion is everything for this little one. She daily sits in my lap and asks me about my clothes, jewelry, hair and eyes. She remembers all my clothing and notices if I wear new jewelry. She also loves to eat my hair.

Tae Yeon. Also one of my kids in the after school class. He is as adorable as he looks.
IMG_2444.JPG 2009-10-28

Ryan is in the back and also part of my after school class.
Spiderman or Jonathan isn't one of my students.

Andrew bobbing for the apple. One of two allowed bobbers.
IMG_2451.JPG 2009-10-28

IMG_2455.JPG
IMG_2455.JPG 2009-10-28

IMG_2458.JPG
IMG_2458.JPG 2009-10-28

Painted faces!
IMG_2459.JPG 2009-10-28

Andrew purposefully posed eating his cookie cause he thought he'd look cooler.
IMG_2460.JPG 2009-10-28

IMG_2461.JPG
IMG_2461.JPG 2009-10-28

IMG_2462.JPG
IMG_2462.JPG 2009-10-28

My coworker Issac scaring the kids in Gail's class.

Gail painting her kiddos faces.
IMG_2463.JPG 2009-10-28
Changdeokgung Palace and Biwon Secret Garden

Entrance to Changdeokgung Palace
IMG_2299.JPG 2009-10-22

Walking inside the Palace.
IMG_2347.JPG 2009-10-22

IMG_2349.JPG
IMG_2349.JPG 2009-10-22

Blue roof is the sign of dragons which means leadership and power.
IMG_2354.JPG 2009-10-22

Inside the King's room for official business.
IMG_2360.JPG 2009-10-22

Ceiling of the King's business room.
IMG_2361.JPG 2009-10-22

IMG_2362.JPG
IMG_2362.JPG 2009-10-22

IMG_2364.JPG
IMG_2364.JPG 2009-10-22

More buildings within the Palace.
IMG_2367.JPG 2009-10-22

These figurines were thought to warn away evil spirits.

IMG_2374.JPG
IMG_2374.JPG 2009-10-22

IMG_2378.JPG
IMG_2378.JPG 2009-10-22

Part of the Queen's area.
More humble buildings that belong to the Queen's family. Royalty lived in these rooms until the 1980s.

IMG_2381.JPG
IMG_2381.JPG 2009-10-22

Entering the Secret Gardens
IMG_2386.JPG 2009-10-22

The library and publishing house in the garden.
IMG_2388.JPG 2009-10-22

The bookstore in the garden
IMG_2392.JPG 2009-10-22

IMG_2397.JPG
IMG_2397.JPG 2009-10-22

IMG_2399.JPG
IMG_2399.JPG 2009-10-22

IMG_2404.JPG
IMG_2404.JPG 2009-10-22

IMG_2410.JPG
IMG_2410.JPG 2009-10-22

IMG_2313.JPG
IMG_2313.JPG 2009-10-22

Looking into the traditional neighborhood.
IMG_2310.JPG 2009-10-22

Traditional house
IMG_2305.JPG 2009-10-22

IMG_2316.JPG
IMG_2316.JPG 2009-10-22

Traditional house. Blue means royalty
IMG_2306.JPG 2009-10-22

Street with traditional houses.
IMG_2307.JPG 2009-10-22

Traditional house with a modern twist.
IMG_2314.JPG 2009-10-22
With the kiddos in Seoul Park

Andrew, Alex, Julie, and Claire jumping like frogs.
IMG_2225.JPG 2009-10-13

Claire
IMG_2223.JPG 2009-10-13

Julie in a game of tag.
IMG_2209.JPG 2009-10-13

Rocky and Alex digging for mushrooms
IMG_2262.JPG 2009-10-13

Rocky eating lunch
IMG_2250.JPG 2009-10-13

Claire inspecting her cookie
IMG_2254.JPG 2009-10-13

Ta-da! (Alex)
IMG_2255.JPG 2009-10-13

IMG_2249.JPG
IMG_2249.JPG 2009-10-13

My coworker Gail playing with her kiddos.
IMG_2257.JPG 2009-10-13

IMG_2268.JPG
IMG_2268.JPG 2009-10-13

IMG_2241.JPG
IMG_2241.JPG 2009-10-13

IMG_2243.JPG
IMG_2243.JPG 2009-10-13

IMG_2270.JPG
IMG_2270.JPG 2009-10-13

IMG_2271.JPG
IMG_2271.JPG 2009-10-13

IMG_2274.JPG
IMG_2274.JPG 2009-10-13

IMG_2276.JPG
IMG_2276.JPG 2009-10-13

IMG_2294.JPG
IMG_2294.JPG 2009-10-13

Claire and Julie
IMG_2297.JPG 2009-10-13
Myeongdong and Namdaemun

Myeongdong
IMG_1905.JPG 2009-09-06

We saw a parade in Myeongdong. Supposedly its a wedding parade.
IMG_1906.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1907.JPG
IMG_1907.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1908.JPG
IMG_1908.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1909.JPG
IMG_1909.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1910.JPG
IMG_1910.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1911.JPG
IMG_1911.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1913.JPG
IMG_1913.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1927.JPG
IMG_1927.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1928.JPG
IMG_1928.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1930.JPG
IMG_1930.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1932.JPG
IMG_1932.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1933.JPG
IMG_1933.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1935.JPG
IMG_1935.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1936.JPG
IMG_1936.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1942.JPG
IMG_1942.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1944.JPG
IMG_1944.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1948.JPG
IMG_1948.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1954.JPG
IMG_1954.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1955.JPG
IMG_1955.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1956.JPG
IMG_1956.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1995.JPG
IMG_1995.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1973.JPG
IMG_1973.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1974.JPG
IMG_1974.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1975.JPG
IMG_1975.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1976.JPG
IMG_1976.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1988.JPG
IMG_1988.JPG 2009-09-06

This woman cooks up whatever dish you request. The meats and produce are for sale in front of her.
IMG_1993.JPG 2009-09-06

This is the food you can have cooked up on the spot.
IMG_1968.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1971.JPG
IMG_1971.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1980.JPG
IMG_1980.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1982.JPG
IMG_1982.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1986.JPG
IMG_1986.JPG 2009-09-06

This guy was selling women's dresses and was wearing them as advertisement
IMG_1990.JPG 2009-09-06

IMG_1991.JPG
IMG_1991.JPG 2009-09-06
My Korean Kiddos

My kids and I at the park!
Left to right: Rocky, Alex, Claire, Andrew, Julie, and Julie Yoon.

Pushing Julie on the swing.
100_1766.JPG 2009-09-15

Claire
IMG_1223.JPG 2009-09-22

Claire with one of Korean helpers.
My friend and coworker Gail is in the background.

Alex and Andrew
100_1760.JPG 2009-09-15

Rocky in our classroom.
100_1676.JPG 2009-09-13

Alex
100_1677.JPG 2009-09-13

Andrew
100_1678.JPG 2009-09-13

Julie
100_1679.JPG 2009-09-13

Claire
100_1680.JPG 2009-09-13

Julie Yoon
100_1681.JPG 2009-09-13

IMG_1221.JPG
IMG_1221.JPG 2009-09-22

IMG_1235.JPG
IMG_1235.JPG 2009-09-22

Rocky digging at the playground. His favorite pasttime
IMG_1238.JPG 2009-09-22

Alex. This picture makes me laugh!
IMG_1239.JPG 2009-09-22

My boys!
IMG_1240.JPG 2009-09-22

Walking back to the school from the playground.
IMG_1242.JPG 2009-09-22
A Korean Wedding

The Wedding Hall
IMG_1166.JPG 2009-09-18

The Bride
Before the ceremony all the guests take turns having their picture taken with the bride.

IMG_1169.JPG
IMG_1169.JPG 2009-09-18

A picture of the Korean traditional formal attire.
IMG_1170.JPG 2009-09-18

Inside the wedding hall
IMG_1171.JPG 2009-09-18

The groom about to walk down the aisle.
IMG_1173.JPG 2009-09-18

The bride and her father about to walk down the aisle
IMG_1174.JPG 2009-09-18

They walked under this canopy of roses.
IMG_1175.JPG 2009-09-18

Getting married!
IMG_1177.JPG 2009-09-18

The pastor. It was a Christian ceremony.
IMG_1178.JPG 2009-09-18

Her friends performed this dance for them after they were officiated.
IMG_1181.JPG 2009-09-18

The groom jumped in and joined the dance surprising Jinny.
IMG_1185.JPG 2009-09-18

Part of the dance
IMG_1186.JPG 2009-09-18

Blowing out the candles on the cake
IMG_1194.JPG 2009-09-18

As they walked out the guest threw streamers and confetti.
IMG_1198.JPG 2009-09-18

The flowers that lined the aisle
IMG_1201.JPG 2009-09-18

Mr. and Mrs!
IMG_1202.JPG 2009-09-18

IMG_1203.JPG
IMG_1203.JPG 2009-09-18

The cake
IMG_1204.JPG 2009-09-18

Family photo
IMG_1207.JPG 2009-09-18

Don't really know what this is but it was outside the ceremony room.
IMG_1208.JPG 2009-09-18

Picture with all the friends
The family insisted that the teachers join this photo. The four of us are on the right. (in case you don't notice the Americans. :) )

IMG_1211.JPG
IMG_1211.JPG 2009-09-18

Throwing the bouquet
IMG_1212.JPG 2009-09-18

Part of the buffet
IMG_1213.JPG 2009-09-18

IMG_1214.JPG
IMG_1214.JPG 2009-09-18

IMG_1215.JPG
IMG_1215.JPG 2009-09-18

IMG_1216.JPG
IMG_1216.JPG 2009-09-18

IMG_1218.JPG
IMG_1218.JPG 2009-09-18

Another room in the wedding hall
IMG_1219.JPG 2009-09-18

IMG_1220.JPG
IMG_1220.JPG 2009-09-18
New puppy!

IMG_2103.JPG
IMG_2103.JPG 2009-09-11

IMG_2105.JPG
IMG_2105.JPG 2009-09-11

IMG_2107.JPG
IMG_2107.JPG 2009-09-11

IMG_2108.JPG
IMG_2108.JPG 2009-09-11

IMG_2109.JPG
IMG_2109.JPG 2009-09-11

IMG_2102.JPG
IMG_2102.JPG 2009-09-10

IMG_2030.JPG
IMG_2030.JPG 2009-09-10

IMG_2032.JPG
IMG_2032.JPG 2009-09-10

IMG_2059.JPG
IMG_2059.JPG 2009-09-10

IMG_2051.JPG
IMG_2051.JPG 2009-09-10

IMG_2048.JPG
IMG_2048.JPG 2009-09-10
A Day at the Zoo

Our big American breakfast
IMG_1629.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1630.JPG
IMG_1630.JPG 2009-09-03

Entrance to the zoo
Notice all the street vendors lined up on both sides of the path. Street vendors selling food is seen everywhere here.

Woman selling food
She is selling common snacks that Koreans love to munch on. She has kimbop (Korean sushi made with cooked meats and veggies), rice cakes, cinnamon twists, dried octopus, roasted corn and roasted beans.

IMG_1643.JPG
IMG_1643.JPG 2009-09-03

Dried octopus
IMG_1900.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1901.JPG
IMG_1901.JPG 2009-09-03

One of David's favorite street snacks; cinnamon twists
IMG_1903.JPG 2009-09-03

On the cable cars heading towards the top of the zoo
IMG_1645.JPG 2009-09-03

The amusement park
IMG_1647.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1649.JPG
IMG_1649.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1650.JPG
IMG_1650.JPG 2009-09-03

All the tops of the buildings on the right are part of the zoo
IMG_1651.JPG 2009-09-03

Korean family having a togetherness day
IMG_1652.JPG 2009-09-03

More of the zoo down below
IMG_1653.JPG 2009-09-03

The woman keeping watch while the men sleep
IMG_1656.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1663.JPG
IMG_1663.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1666.JPG
IMG_1666.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1676.JPG
IMG_1676.JPG 2009-09-03

Sleeping is goooooood.
IMG_1681.JPG 2009-09-03

Playing in the water
IMG_1693.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1695.JPG
IMG_1695.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1696.JPG
IMG_1696.JPG 2009-09-03

Hello
IMG_1698.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1699.JPG
IMG_1699.JPG 2009-09-03

I don't remember this guy's name but he's related to the panda.
IMG_1706.JPG 2009-09-03

A brown bear
IMG_1710.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1711.JPG
IMG_1711.JPG 2009-09-03

These bears were hysterical! They would beg to be fed by sitting up on their hind paws and putting their front paws together as if begging. The crowd would cheer and throw food into the cage. The bears clearly loved the food and attention.

Putting on a show for food.
IMG_1723.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1728.JPG
IMG_1728.JPG 2009-09-03

What?
A black bear

A baby monkey!
This zoo has an animal nursery with all the little ones hanging out. This monkey hardly sat still long enough for me to get a shot.

Baby lion
There were three of them in the nursery. Between the crowds of people and the cubs running around I never got a great shot.

IMG_1761.JPG
IMG_1761.JPG 2009-09-03

Otters!
IMG_1768.JPG 2009-09-03

Life in the water is good.
IMG_1771.JPG 2009-09-03

Sea Lions
There was a dolphin show going on the other side of the wall the sea lions are staring at. I swear they were dancing to the music and pretending they could see the performance. They bobbed with music and never once turned around to face the crowd during the dolphin show.

IMG_1791.JPG
IMG_1791.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1807.JPG
IMG_1807.JPG 2009-09-03

I thought this family was sweet.
IMG_1817.JPG 2009-09-03

Resting pavilion
All over the zoo one can rest in one of these pavilions. Koreans of all ages would take off their shoes and then lay or sit down for a respite.

IMG_1825.JPG
IMG_1825.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1828.JPG
IMG_1828.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1829.JPG
IMG_1829.JPG 2009-09-03

This is a type of sheep. I love their habitat!
IMG_1834.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1835.JPG
IMG_1835.JPG 2009-09-03

Playing in the water
IMG_1853.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1860.JPG
IMG_1860.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1863.JPG
IMG_1863.JPG 2009-09-03

"I have something on my face I can almost reach..."
IMG_1877.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1880.JPG
IMG_1880.JPG 2009-09-03

Flamingos
Flamingos are the skinniest birds ever!

IMG_1886.JPG
IMG_1886.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1888.JPG
IMG_1888.JPG 2009-09-03

Leaving the park
IMG_1893.JPG 2009-09-03

Watching the cable cars go by
IMG_1895.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1897.JPG
IMG_1897.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1899.JPG
IMG_1899.JPG 2009-09-03

IMG_1644.JPG
IMG_1644.JPG 2009-09-03
New house

Bonus pic!
This has nothing to do with our new place. This was David's bday when we were on our way out to celebrate. We didn't know it then but it was our last night in the barracks.

Our entry way
This is the view when you first walk in. Note the closets on the left. Its for your shoes and coats. Not tracking dirt through your house? Win.

IMG_1598.JPG
IMG_1598.JPG 2009-08-06

Our living room.
This is the first room one walks into. The marble floors are heated in the winter and nice in cool in the summer. The room also has about 10 different lighting options...actually, every room has multiple lighting options. I end up getting confused on which of the six light switches I want to hit and in which order.

David's new tv
It took about ummm...24 hours to get this puppy. lol The room on the left is the entrance into the guest bedroom/study.

Shot from the living room into the kitchen and then our bedroom.
IMG_1606.JPG 2009-08-06

My new kitchen!
The sliding glass door leads to a small semi-balcony. In that room the laundry room is to the left and the right has a storage closet.

Small laundry room
This is our washer and dryer combo. Sorta works. I have dry it twice.

Little tv and radio in the kitchen
IMG_1616.JPG 2009-08-09

IMG_1619.JPG
IMG_1619.JPG 2009-08-09

Guest bedroom/study
Right off of the living room.

Guest bedroom/study
IMG_1602.JPG 2009-08-06

Bedroom!
IMG_1610.JPG 2009-08-09

Bedroom
Small semi-balcony off the bedroom. Closets on the right.

Slowly unpacking
Slowly moving everything into the closets.

Vanity off of the bedroom.
IMG_1613.JPG 2009-08-09

Master bath
IMG_1614.JPG 2009-08-06

Master bathroom
IMG_1627.JPG 2009-08-07

Electric toilet
This toilet has it all. It has heated seats for the winter, turns into bidet, will wash and dry your rear. I'm a little scared and haven't tried it. Oh, there is a spot light above the toilet for when you use the facilities in the middle of the night and don't want to turn on the lights. Not kidding.
Korean War Memorial

IMG_1460.JPG
IMG_1460.JPG 2009-07-27

Entrance into the main hall of the memorial
The sides of the building are flanked by two halls dedicated to all those who died in the War. The courtyard in front of the main hall is the Peace Courtyard.
(not my picture)

The Main Building
Inside this building one can see further artifacts about the war.

One of the two halls which have the names of those who perished
IMG_1485.JPG 2009-07-27

Koreans who perished
IMG_1520.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1461.JPG
IMG_1461.JPG 2009-07-27

Korean names of those who perished
I love this picture because on the plaque you can see the reflection of the flags flying. Then on the right hand side you can see the weapons used during the war.

Names of Americans who died during the war.
Sorry its blurry.

Texans who died
There were four plaques of Texans who perished.

IMG_1543.JPG
IMG_1543.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1547.JPG
IMG_1547.JPG 2009-07-27

Description of the memorials
Sorry its so hard to read. Its a blurry picture plus the type of stone makes it difficult to read.

Bronze Sword
IMG_1532.JPG 2009-07-27

Layout of the memorial directly in front of the Main Building
Layout of the Bronze Sword memorial in front of the main building.

IMG_1456.JPG
IMG_1456.JPG 2009-07-27

These statues surround the Tower of Korean War/Bronze Sword
IMG_1453.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1454.JPG
IMG_1454.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1458.JPG
IMG_1458.JPG 2009-07-27

Titled 'Two Brothers.'
Next to the Bronze Sword

IMG_1550.JPG
IMG_1550.JPG 2009-07-27

This just made me laugh
IMG_1447.JPG 2009-07-27

Pond in front of the Main Hall
The plane sits in the courtyard which showcases lots of the machinery used during the war.

IMG_1443.JPG
IMG_1443.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1462.JPG
IMG_1462.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1463.JPG
IMG_1463.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1496.JPG
IMG_1496.JPG 2009-07-27

Woot! US Airforce
IMG_1468.JPG 2009-07-27

Just thought he was cute!
IMG_1483.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1471.JPG
IMG_1471.JPG 2009-07-27

The monument of the Great King
Description on the next image.

IMG_1473.JPG
IMG_1473.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1481.JPG
IMG_1481.JPG 2009-07-27

The Chinese characters on the monument for the King.
IMG_1474.JPG 2009-07-27

Used to gun down plans
Description on next image.

IMG_1477.JPG
IMG_1477.JPG 2009-07-27

Not sure what it is but looks cool
IMG_1479.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1482.JPG
IMG_1482.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1487.JPG
IMG_1487.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1497.JPG
IMG_1497.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1498.JPG
IMG_1498.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1501.JPG
IMG_1501.JPG 2009-07-27

IMG_1506.JPG
IMG_1506.JPG 2009-07-30

IMG_1508.JPG
IMG_1508.JPG 2009-07-27

Symbolizing flight
IMG_1548.JPG 2009-07-27

Clock of Unification
The South is waiting to stop this clock the moment the North and South are unified. Description next image.

IMG_1563.JPG
IMG_1563.JPG 2009-07-27

Relaxing at the memorial
IMG_1560.JPG 2009-07-27

Morning calm lily
Floating in the pond which wraps around the main building.

Seoul Tower from the Memorial
IMG_1480.JPG 2009-07-27
Finally! Hiking to Seoul Tower

Seoul Tower
I took this from base one evening. This is our nightly view.

Seoul; at the entrance of Namsan park
The path we hiked uphill to get to the beginning point for our official hike.

The beginning of our hike up Namsan
These are the stairs the greeted us at the beginning of our hike. It was about a 1/3 of the hike up the mountain.

Half way done with the first 1/4
IMG_1362.JPG 2009-07-24

Finally! At the 1st lookout point.
We're now where all the buses and cabs drop everyone off to walk up the last 75 meters.

Joining the families for the last bit of the walk
IMG_1374.JPG 2009-07-24

We're here!
IMG_1376.JPG 2009-07-24

Beautiful views of the city
IMG_1380.JPG 2009-07-24

Far from home
Each window had the name and distance to a city in the world.

We love the mountains that surround Seoul
IMG_1388.JPG 2009-07-24

World Cup Stadium!
IMG_1395.JPG 2009-07-24

IMG_1399.JPG
IMG_1399.JPG 2009-07-24

IMG_1378.JPG
IMG_1378.JPG 2009-07-24

IMG_1380.JPG
IMG_1380.JPG 2009-07-28

IMG_1382.JPG
IMG_1382.JPG 2009-07-24

IMG_1384.JPG
IMG_1384.JPG 2009-07-24

IMG_1388.JPG
IMG_1388.JPG 2009-07-24

IMG_1389.JPG
IMG_1389.JPG 2009-07-24

The US Army base
All the buildings from the center of the picture to the right is the Army base.

Our barracks!
We found our barracks from the Tower. Its the short cream colored building in the center of the picture.

The bathrooms
The bathrooms have floor to ceiling windows with beautiful views. Wash your hands while admiring the panoramic views of Seoul.

Good luck locks
For good luck, thousands of Koreans and foreign visitors have place locks all over the fence. Each lock has a heart attached that they've written a message on. The locks are everywhere.

IMG_1425.JPG
IMG_1425.JPG 2009-07-24

IMG_1429.JPG
IMG_1429.JPG 2009-07-24

IMG_1430.JPG
IMG_1430.JPG 2009-07-28

IMG_1424.JPG
IMG_1424.JPG 2009-07-24

Walking home through the pine forest.
IMG_1436.JPG 2009-07-24

Pine Forest
IMG_1434.JPG 2009-07-24

Walking
IMG_1363.JPG 2009-07-24

On the way downhill
IMG_1368.JPG 2009-07-24
I Made My First Korean Dinner!

Beginning to cook
IMG_1335.JPG 2009-07-21

Almost done!
IMG_1337.JPG 2009-07-21

Ottogi sauce
IMG_1336.JPG 2009-07-21

Dig in!
IMG_1338.JPG 2009-07-21
Play ball!

Up to bat
IMG_1285.JPG 2009-07-17

IMG_1286.JPG
IMG_1286.JPG 2009-07-17

Hit!
IMG_1287.JPG 2009-07-17

IMG_1288.JPG
IMG_1288.JPG 2009-07-17

Running to first
IMG_1289.JPG 2009-07-17

IMG_1290.JPG
IMG_1290.JPG 2009-07-17

It was an easy 1st base
IMG_1292.JPG 2009-07-17

Ready to catch the ball
IMG_1308.JPG 2009-07-17

Easy catch
IMG_1269.JPG 2009-07-17

Stepping to give the pitcher a break
IMG_1329.JPG 2009-07-17

IMG_1330.JPG
IMG_1330.JPG 2009-07-17

Throwing to second
IMG_1331.JPG 2009-07-17

Other team up to bat
IMG_1321.JPG 2009-07-17

IMG_1323.JPG
IMG_1323.JPG 2009-07-17

Crack!
IMG_1324.JPG 2009-07-17

IMG_1325.JPG
IMG_1325.JPG 2009-07-17

I'll catch it!
IMG_1332.JPG 2009-07-17

I've got it!
IMG_1333.JPG 2009-07-17
Sound off, 1, 2

IMG_1242.JPG
IMG_1242.JPG 2009-07-28

IMG_1243.JPG
IMG_1243.JPG 2009-07-11

IMG_1244.JPG
IMG_1244.JPG 2009-07-11

IMG_1241.JPG
IMG_1241.JPG 2009-07-11
Korean kids are cute....okay, they're adorable

Morning reading lesson
Photo090713_000.jpg 2009-07-13

Reading homework assignment to the teacher
Today's lesson was on elephants from Africa and India.

Laughing at the teacher's antics
This little boy was hysterical the whole day. He loves to laugh and even performed for me his signature dance set to Funky Cold Medena.

Getting a stamp for a job well done.
Photo090713_004.jpg 2009-07-13

1st Korean food
Yep, been here two weeks and its my first time eating Korean food. My coworker ordered it for me. Its breaded pork with a sauce over it. It was really good.

Singing!
Each class learns an American song every week and then performs it for all the other classes. The children standing are some of the older "beginner" classes. Here they are performing 'The Wheels on the Bus.' Loves it!

More singing
You are my sunshine, my only sunshine. You make happppppy when skies are graaayyy....

Learning the new song of the week.
This little diddy is "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot."
Saturday night fun

211705_image2_1-1.jpg
211705_image2_1-1.jpg 2007-03-29

sheraton.jpg
sheraton.jpg 2009-07-12

bridge.jpg
bridge.jpg 2009-07-12
Possibly our new apartment!!

Living room
IMG_1171.JPG 2009-07-09

Kitchen
The kitchen is off of the living room. My back was to the living room to take this shot.

Balcony off of the living room.
IMG_1177.JPG 2009-07-09

Master bedroom
Its a bit bigger than it appears here.

Master bath
IMG_1172.JPG 2009-07-09

1st Guest bedroom or office
IMG_1175.JPG 2009-07-09

2nd Guest bedroom
IMG_1179.JPG 2009-07-09

Guest bathroom
IMG_1168.JPG 2009-07-09

Guest bathroom
IMG_1169.JPG 2009-07-09

Laundry room!
American sized washer AND DRYER!
Walking about

In Yongsan
This is right outside the base. The wall on the right is the parameter of base. I love that most of the sidewalks are so wide and green.

Advertizing their food
Restaurants and cafes everywhere advertise their food by placing these plastic replicas in their windows. It makes it easier for us!

Farmer's Market everywhere
Walking along the streets there are vendors selling produce and meets everywhere. Some are small farmers selling produce out of their trucks and others have little shops.

IMG_1014.JPG
IMG_1014.JPG 2009-07-01

Octupus anyone?
IMG_1016.JPG 2009-07-01

IMG_1017.JPG
IMG_1017.JPG 2009-07-01

IMG_1018.JPG
IMG_1018.JPG 2009-07-01

IMG_1021.JPG
IMG_1021.JPG 2009-07-01

Market
This area was full of little shops and food stands.

IMG_1024.JPG
IMG_1024.JPG 2009-07-01

IMG_1026.JPG
IMG_1026.JPG 2009-07-01

IMG_1028.JPG
IMG_1028.JPG 2009-07-01

IMG_1029.JPG
IMG_1029.JPG 2009-07-01

Garlic!

IMG_1032.JPG
IMG_1032.JPG 2009-07-01

Sausage
This sausage is sitting in a container that keeps it hot and ready to eat. Although the smell is less than appetizing.

IMG_1034.JPG
IMG_1034.JPG 2009-07-01

Seoul Station
Similar to our Grand Central Station and has a mall attached.

IMG_1037.JPG
IMG_1037.JPG 2009-07-01

Kiwi juice
Fresh kiwi juice at Bennigan's. Yes, Bennigan's.

Shopping Meyong-dong
Shopping, shopping and shopping. The streets are closed off to cars and thousands of Koreans mill about shopping and eating. Loved this place.

IMG_1043.JPG
IMG_1043.JPG 2009-07-01

IMG_1044.JPG
IMG_1044.JPG 2009-07-01

Loves it!
I got a pink pair. :)
For my mom

View from the front door.
As you can see; our bedroom is on the left and directly in front is the kitchen. To the right you can see our study.

Our front door and "living room."
IMG_0992.JPG 2009-06-29

The world's smallest bathroom.
IMG_0993.JPG 2009-06-29

Note the 'his side' and 'her side' of the shower.
IMG_0995.JPG 2009-06-29

The vanity
IMG_0997.JPG 2009-06-29

Our hallway.
We are on the top floor, which is the second floor. The door at the end of the picture leads outside.

Downstairs. The common area kitchen.
IMG_1001.JPG 2009-06-29

Common area kitchen and laudry room
IMG_1002.JPG 2009-06-29
Day 3

A picture of the I-Park's courtyard
I've stolen this picture off the web to give you an idea of how massive this mall is.

Another stolen picture of the courtyard
Note the benches and gardens for reading.

Outside iPark Mall
Standing on the steps of the entrance overlooking the city.

One of the entrances into iPark Mall and Yongsan Subway Station
This is the subway line right next to base.
Day 2

Photo090630_003.jpg
Photo090630_003.jpg 2009-06-30

Photo090630_000.jpg
Photo090630_000.jpg 2009-06-30

Photo090630_00100.jpg
Photo090630_00100.jpg 2009-06-30

Photo090630_004.jpg
Photo090630_004.jpg 2009-06-30
Day 1

IMG_0984.JPG
IMG_0984.JPG 2009-06-27

IMG_0985.JPG
IMG_0985.JPG 2009-06-27

IMG_0989.JPG
IMG_0989.JPG 2009-06-27