A Foray into the Unknown

Ranch dressing recipe, as requested

2012-01-08T19:43:00.000-08:00

So, in case you haven't been on Facebook, you don't know the story about the ranch dressing. I found this recipe on Pinterest (the credit for the recipe is given at the end of this post) and thought, Hey, why eat preservative-laden dressing when I can make this pretty easily? So, I print off the recipe and go for it. BUT....my family tends to eat a lot and I'm really just accustomed to doubling recipes, so I automatically doubled it. Anyway, after mixing it up, I found an old glass milk jar and figured it would have plenty of room for the amount I made (it didn't look like too much in the mixing bowl). Well, it filled that liter jar right up to the tippy top! So, we now have a liter of fresh ranch dressing (well, less than that after tonight's dinner, haha!).

Note: I like to add ingredients to easy, tweakable recipes like this...you can add fresh chopped dill, chipotles in adobo sauce, bacon bits, etc to make different flavored ranch dressings.

Easy Ranch Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise
¾ cup sour cream
¾ cup buttermilk
1 Tbsp white wine vinegar
1 Tbsp lemon juice
1½ Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp chopped parsley
2 tsp chopped chives
1 clove garlic, crushed
½ chopped scallion
1 tsp mustard

Whisk ingredients together and chill for 30 minutes before serving.

See? Easy! Note that it doesn't taste right if you serve right away....the flavors need to meld for that 30 minutes....if you're adding in stuff, that will probably need to sit for a bit in the fridge as well. Enjoy!!

(recipe taken from http://culinaryarts.about.com/od/saladdressings/r/Ranch-Dressing.htm)

Resolutions

2012-01-03T18:25:00.000-08:00

Could I GET more cliche? I mean, everyone makes resolutions and then they are forgotten by the second week in January. But, I've had plenty of down time to think about what in my life I'd like to change and while the list is long, I'm only going to focus on a few things.

1) I'm going to focus on being more presentable when leaving the house. For those who know me well, I'm a t-shirt and yoga pants type of girl. Or, during the summer, t-shirt and gym shorts. I know, I know....I'm 29, but in all fairness, I've spent the last year in classes and babysitting. So, I usually come home at the end of the day with at least one child's snot or tears or something on my clothes. Plus it was crazy hot this summer and I didn't feel like getting all gussied up to go to class only to be soaked in sweat (great mental picture, eh?) by the time I got there. But, I digress. I started TODAY. I've been ill for several days now but pulled it together to meet a friend for pho. And, I put on real clothes and real shoes, people. The who shebang. I even wore a necklace. So, I've started, literally, with style.

2) I'm going to focus on being more active. No, I'm not resolving to lose 100 lbs. or run a marathon. Because that's just not going to happen. No matter what. Not. Happening. So, my more realistic resolution is to start by doing 3 hours of focused exercise a week. That might be dancing to Ke$ha with Paige and Kiley. That might be taking a walk with Miss Margaret. That might be me actually getting to the gym (insert *gasp* here) and doing some hardcore stuff, like the elliptical or something. Whatever form it takes, I will try and get in that 3 hours/week of exercise.

3) I'm going to make more time for friends. Let's face it, I'm a homebody. I love nothing more than to put on my moose pants and a sweatshirt and read or watch a movie. But, it's bad when I'm 29 and notorious for NEVER GOING OUT with my friends. I think I went out once this whole year. That's ridiculous. So, here's to more GNOs and chiminea nights.

4) I will get a big girl haircut. Hmmm...not sure how this one is going to pan out, but I need to look more professional and less......like a bum. Regular haircuts (regular being more than once a year), a style, etc...this is something that should have happened a long time ago, I realize that, but what better time than now, as I approach my 30's with zest and enthusiasm? I will NOT tell the stylist to "just take a little off the ends" or "make sure I can still get it in a ponytail". Oh no...this girl will have a big girl haircut.

5) I will be more organized. BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHA......by this I mean that I will have my sister-in-love come over regularly to make me organize my stuff. But, it's a good thought ;)

I definitely have more I want to work on, but I feel that these are obtainable and realistic goals. And, here I am, putting it out on the internets, so if any of you see me in Target wearing a ponytail, yoga pants, old t-shirt and flipflops, please direct me back to this post.

I know I'm being redundant.....

2011-10-14T08:38:00.000-07:00

But it's just so cool that Carolina keeps us reading by giving away TONS of books. So, if you're a book fanatic like me, enter at her website!

http://www.carolinavaldezmiller.com/2011/10/audition-sacrifice-and-signed-giveaway.html?showComment=1318606427170#c4966403197831422140

Sorry, I don't know how to make links look pretty :(

CVM

2011-10-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

http://www.carolinavaldezmiller.com/2011/10/review-of-future-of-us-and-signed-jay.html?showComment=1317914693437#c7982356224623116931

Another giveaway, people! She's really talking this one up, so jump on in!

Planning

2011-09-12T18:23:00.000-07:00

I might bemoan my busy life, but in part, I think it helps keep me sane. There is something comforting and familiar about looking at my planner and seeing it full of names and times to be places. Being one of those people who needs external motivation, perhaps this is how I get things done. 8am-drive to school, 11am-class, 12:12pm-lunch with A, 2pm-class, 4pm-pick up E kids at tutoring, etc etc etc. It's different every day and I am honestly with a different group of kids every day but it keeps things interesting. Am I a little bit crazy? Mmhmm. Is it fun? Pretty much, on most days. I homeschool the C kids, do laundry with the B kids, drive around the D kids....I mean, I'm big sister to practically every child I know. I like it.

Which is why looking at January + is scaring the heck outta me. There's nothing there. Not one notation or plan or date filled or anything. I will be student teaching in January and I have no clue where that will be. I know I'll be busy and hectic January-May but the fact that I have no control over where or how that will happen? Terrifying.

I'd like to order some motivation, please.

2011-09-11T18:46:00.000-07:00

I have this assignment. It's due tonight by 11:59pm. It's not hard. In fact, it's actually pretty easy and yet I just can't seem to get it done. My brain literally does not want to do it. It really should've taken me about an hour to complete it and yet here I am, 4 hours later, still procrastinating.

Why is it that some people can just do things? They have something they have to do so they do it. Me? Nah, I'll find at least 3 reasons why it can be done tomorrow or why something else is more important. I mean, I folded 3 loads of laundry for my brother today JUST to not do this assignment. This very easy, not hard, shouldn't-take-a-long-time assignment. Gah. How do I flip this switch in my mind?

On a happier note (and still procrastinating), I feel like I resolved some stuff today. See, I'm an angst-er. As in, I overanalyze everything to death, especially interpersonal relationships. What did So-and-so mean when she said ______? Was she trying to hint that _______? Or maybe she was feeling ________ and so she __________. I mean, it gets exhausting. So, when I can finally put something to bed, so to speak, it's like a physical relief. An unburdening, if you will. And I feel good. Relieved. Unburdened. Nice.

So, now I'm going to finish this blasted (easy) assignment, once and for all. Just get it over with. I mean, it's easy, right? Why am I still here? Still procrastinating?

Gah.

Blurgh

2011-09-08T16:17:00.000-07:00

Thursdays are NOT my favorite anymore. They used to be...they used to consist of awesome TV shows that I actually had time to watch (Grey's Anatomy, anyone?!) and reminded me that I was super-close to the weekend.

Not anymore.

I don't watch TV unless it's on Hulu and I'm at school for approximately 12 hours. Boo. That means I have to pack lunch AND dinner (if I don't want to pony up for both meals, which can get expensive, yo) and I don't get home until after dark. Yes, I know being uncomfortable (or just plain scared) of the dark is childish, but I hate walking around downtown after dark.

Anyway, today a friend and I were talking in the library and I mentioned how I've been feeling kinda down lately. Just a general feeling of blah-ness that pervades everything. I don't really want to do anything but sleep and I grind my teeth when forced to do anything BUT sleep. So, not only am I full of the blah's, my teeth are being systematically ruined.

I need to get out of this funk. Like, now. I know several things that would make it better (at least temporarily):

- relaxing beachside in a tropical location

- no homework

- a long playdate with my lovely niece

- a great bottle of wine (Black Puma, holla)

- a massage

- a real date (I mean, it's been awhile since I've been on a real date, people...)

Anyway, I'm sure this too shall pass, but until then, if you hear my teeth grinding or some subtle, under-the-breath cursing...it's me.

W.O.W.

2011-09-03T19:33:00.000-07:00

A few things I just feel I MUST share....

1) I loathe jeggings. I don't care if you like them. If you look like Gisele and can pull them off, all the more power to you. But, there are very few people who look like Gisele. I loathe jeggings.

2) I love Anne Riley. I truly think she's brilliant and pretty much trust her when she says "Go read this book" because she's usually right. She's throwing major props toward Beth Revis for ACROSS THE UNIVERSE (which is brilliant) and DIVERGENT by Veronica Roth (which is brilliant) and I'm right there with her. I even bought DIVERGENT....like, to own....on my bookshelf. Wow, so good. And Anne is a great writer as well, so I love reading her stuff too. In fact, DIVERGENT is on my shelf, very cozy and sweet-like next to THE CLEARING. I'm sure she'd like that.

3) I might just have the coolest dad in the world. He eats my food. He teaches me valuable skills. He is in love with his new granddaughter (little Magpie) and takes Me-maw to the gym. Best. Dad. Ever.

4) I need to clean and organize my room and my car.

5) It's been a hard week but I've seen how wonderful and supportive my friends and family are. Props to you all, dear ones.

Ok.....I think that's it for now. My angsty week is over and I've had a relaxing, chill day. I didn't really get anything done, but I'm a happy girl for now. Peace out.

Housekeeping

2011-08-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

This is not my strong suit. I mean, I can keep a house clean but keeping organized on all the little things? Yeah, I kinda suck at it. For example, I have needed to buy simple school supplies for a week or so now and I have yet to do it. I have several lists...here are two I just found in my purse and bookbag, respectively:

List #1

- buy: glue stick, scissors, tape, highlighters

- beta read friend's book

- update blog

- clean bathroom

- wash sheets

- return library books, pay fine

List # 2

- buy school supplies

- finish reading Chapter 3 for Lee Meadows

- sheets

- insurance

- beta beta beta

I mean, wouldn't it be easier to have just one comprehensive list instead of several that get lost? Herein lies my dysfunction: ADD. I suck at this stuff. I thrive when organized but find it very difficult to maintain a lifestyle that keeps a routine. I don't really know how I've gotten this far in life with this much dysfunction but I seem to make it work. I've made it through quite a bit of school and good jobs but I'm starting to feel stuck.

One can only hope that I'll get better as I get older, but there's no guarantee. I kinda feel sorry for my future kids.

I have a new person to stalk!

2011-08-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

Heather McCorkle is a new author for me but she comes highly recommended. Anne Riley, of The Clearing fame, plugs her and if Anne likes her, then so do I!

She is having a giveaway on her blog:

http://heathermccorkle.blogspot.com/2011/08/tour-of-secrets-prizes-rulesenter-here.html

So, head on over and enter!

Two Lives

2011-08-21T20:54:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, my family will celebrate two lives. One has been around for awhile and is always good for a laugh (tonight at family dinner, we had been discussing how ridiculous it was that all the people around the table were unarmed and the ever-present possibility of the beginning of the zompocalypse is looming [Dad would have to run to the back bedroom for his shotgun, my gun was upstairs, Mom's gun was in her office and Kevin didn't even bring his gun in because he figured we'd be well armed], and had been having the discussion for about 10 minutes when Me-maw pipes up and says, "What do zombies have to do with guns? Weren't we talking about guns?") and then other will be born via C-section at 12:15pm.

I truly can't wait to be an aunt. Little Noodle has two onesies (is that how you spell it?) that say "My auntie loves me" and it's so true. I've already started buying her books because one day, you will find the two of us ensconced in a corner somewhere in the house surrounded by fantastical books about far-off adventures and fairy-tale romances. I will teach her all my favorite things, like when to use "me" as opposed to "I" when tagging herself in Facebook pictures ("My boyfriend and I"....really?!), how to hang up all her clothes so she doesn't have to fold them, how to label all the countries in the world, except the 'stan countries and Eastern Europe because those are too confusing, how to read Korean, how to shoot a gun, when it is polite to belch and when it is not, how to make perfect pot roast......so many things! But, you're probably thinking, um Ansley, this isn't your kid....yes, I know. I'm just going to be the best aunt ever.

And Me-maw will teach her how to play Parcheesi. And then I will beat her mercilessly because it doesn't do kids any good to "let them win". So there.

Raw

2011-08-18T10:29:00.001-07:00

Here I am...another nameless face stuffed in a computer lab at UAB. I'm surrounded by people and yet feel strangely disconnected from all that's happening here. I just finished a class and honestly don't care about it. I have another class in an hour or so and I just don't care. To quote my favorite YouTube video (and if anyone has been around me lately, you've heard me say this), "Honey badger don't care."

I'm not sure if my lethargy comes from being done with this whole school thing or just the crap going down all around me. I feel emotionally bruised and battered, from a lot of differing emotions and situations. A dear friend of mine is hurting...hurting badly. She and I cried on the phone together this morning, both wondering when there is going to be a reprieve. I was sitting in the halls of UAB and she was probably in the car somewhere, both of us tied by this fragile string called love. An even more fragile string called hope, that may or may not be broken. My heart literally aches for her constantly and I dream of a day when she will have what she deserves.

The good thing about aching for her is that it helps me forget my own aches. So, in a way, sharing her pain is a semi-masochistic way for me to bear my own. I have some decisions to make and my heart is just sore thinking about the repercussions of my choices and how the things I do in this life affect more than just me. I kinda hate that about life. I hate that I have the power to hurt others, but it's a fact that I'm trying to come to grips with.

So, I sit here. Tears sting the back of my eyelids and I have that tight, unreleased feeling in my chest that comes from putting on a polite face for the world. I really want to just sit down and cry in a corner and be left alone, but that isn't how it works. I sit here, trying to remember how to pray. Trying to remember what hope feels like. Trying to remember that there is strength to be found in shouldering each others burdens.

Honey badger is really, really trying to care.

Redundant much?

2011-08-18T03:45:00.001-07:00

I promise I'll really blog soon....I just haven't had much to say that I think might interest people. BUT, free stuff always interests people, so check out Carolina Valdez Miller's blog for another review and giveaway :)

GIVEAWAY

Redundant much?

2011-08-18T03:45:00.000-07:00

http://www.carolinavaldezmiller.com/2011/08/review-of-possess-and-another-giveaway.html?showComment=1313664279818#c8980116927443744136

Can't get enough Carolina...

2011-08-11T15:20:00.000-07:00

Yet again, she comes at us with another fabulous giveaway (and her blog is pretty freaking awesome too)...check it out!

http://www.carolinavaldezmiller.com/2011/08/unbcoming-of-mara-dyer-and-arc-giveaway.html?showComment=1313100989446#c1011826375182389001

More Carolina Valdez Miller

2011-08-01T03:57:00.000-07:00

This girl just can't stop giving stuff away. Is she just really nice? Super rich? Running for president sometime soon? I'm not sure, but she's got my vote!

http://www.carolinavaldezmiller.com/

Anne Riley strikes again

2011-07-18T11:54:00.001-07:00

More Anne Riley....I swear I'm not a stalker....ok maybe I am but I'm the good kind, that brings you brownies and thinks you're the bomb dot com (yes, I just said that).

Anne has another giveaway! Two books that I really really really want, mainly because I'll be finished with this semester in a week (after I quit procrastinating by entering giveaways) and I'll need something to read! So head on over to her website :www.annerileybooks.com but DON'T ENTER because I want to win ;)

Holla at authors, yo!

2011-07-08T17:48:00.001-07:00

So, while I follow Anne Riley religiously (www.annerileybooks.com), I also follow a new blog, http://www.carolinavaldezmiller.com/, mainly because I get great recommendations on new books AND she has great giveaways. Right now, she has this marathon going on and I'm loving it. Head on over to her blog and check it out if you like YA novels or have kids that do.

Another giveaway!

2011-07-04T06:01:00.000-07:00

She's doing it again, folks...my dear friend, Anne Riley of www.annerileybooks.com is giving away two more books! Head on over to her blog and enter for a chance to win.

I know I've posted a bit about Anne and her giveaways but some of you may not know her. Well, let me introduce you :)

Anne Riley (formerly Anne Capitell of the Birmingham Capitells) is a force to be reckoned with. As a Spanish teacher at a prestigious private school, a doting wife and a supermom, she still manages to find time to write delicious stories that leave you wanting more. Characters jump off the pages and climactic scenes leave you on the edge of your seat. It's fairly addicting, people, and her writing makes me want to win the lottery and give her a ton of money so she can quit her day job and focus on getting me more books....'cause, you know she writes just for me ;)

Her debut novel, The Clearing, is fantastic and I can only hope that she has a sequel lurking in her brilliant brain somewhere. Her blog is entertaining and witty, containing book reviews, giveaways, "nonsensical musings", and familial anecdotes. So, like I said, head on over and enter to win a book or two. No, wait....if you enter my chances of winning go down.

Forget I said anything.

Bad blogger!

2011-06-19T14:24:00.000-07:00

Ok, I admit it...I'm a bad blogger. Part of it is because I don't feel like my life is exciting enough to blog about. Am I a burgeoning YA novelist on her way to superstardom? Nope, that's Anne Riley. Am I a mother to 6 and semi-married to one of the hottest men in the world? Nope, that's Angelina Jolie. I'm just a boring homebody who'd rather watch a movie while eating leftovers in my PJs than go out on the town. I'd rather read a good book and cook a yummy Asian-inspired meal than go to the movies. I love Publix. I love my library and the fantastic women who work in YA. I love my family and every bit of the craziness that goes along with being a Kniskern. I've got it pretty good people ;)

So, news? Um, I live in America again, I don't have a job, I'm halfway through my second MA, I'm living at home again (shhh, don't tell anyone), I'm going to have a niece soon (Holla, Margaret!!!), and I'm often too busy responding to online discussion board posts for my language development class to remember to call friends back. How are you?!

More later....I'm going to try to be more faithful on this thing....if anyone still reads it ;)

Lurve!

Yet more Anne Riley for ya

2011-05-06T14:20:00.000-07:00

So, in case you haven't noticed, I'm a big fan of my dear friend's writing. And, not only is she amazingly talented, but she is ALSO amazingly generous! She is doing ANOTHER giveaway, so you should go to her blog and enter! Her book is great and it's FREE!!!!!

www.annerileybooks.com

Go now!!!

Yet another Anne Riley special!

2011-01-20T08:24:00.000-08:00

My dear friend, Anne Riley, is a great woman, teacher, and new mommy....she also happens to be an author and got me hooked on her genre, Young Adult fiction. She wrote a book that I have been DYING to read for ages now, and I have a chance to win it! If you go to her website, www.annerileybooks.com, you might also have a chance to win!

ARC Giveaway!

2010-10-28T16:24:00.000-07:00

My dear friend, Anne Riley, is having an ARC giveaway on her blog. I'm entering and so should you! I've found that any book she recommends is usually pretty darn good, so enter to win now!
Go to www.annerileybooks.com and follow!

New Directions

2010-05-05T04:52:00.000-07:00

I title this blogpost in honor of Glee, because it's one of the few things that really makes me laugh and smile these days. Why are you blue, you might ask...

I am going in a new direction. One that leads me away from someone I have loved dearly. There was no big fight, no hurtful words said...but decisions were made that put cracks in our relationship and those cracks widened and now it's over. There are so many emotions that I'm numb...I'm happy in a way. I'm happy that God is in control (I have to keep telling myself this) and that there is a reason for everything. I don't regret the past year and a half. I don't regret coming to Korea. I don't regret loving him. I am a better person because of him, and I think he would say the same thing about me.

So, I'm going in a new direction...I just don't know where I'm going. My future now seems quite empty without him there.

God, please show me the way.

Anyway...that's that. If anyone cares to comment, please remember that I won't tolerate anything negative comments about him here. He is a good man and we separate as amicably as possible.

Much love from Korea.

I'm slow dancing in a burning room...

2010-01-28T09:27:00.001-08:00

It's not a silly little moment,
It's not the storm before the calm.
This is the deep and dying breath of
This love that we've been working on.

Can't seem to hold you like I want to
So I can feel you in my arms.
Nobody's gonna come and save you,
We pulled too many false alarms.

We're going down,
And you can see it too.
We're going down,
And you know that we're doomed.
My dear,
We're slow dancing in a burning room.

I was the one you always dreamed of,
You were the one I tried to draw.
How dare you say it's nothing to me?
Baby, you're the only light I ever saw.

I'll make the most of all the sadness,
You'll be a bitch because you can.
You try to hit me just to hurt me
So you leave me feeling dirty
Because you can't understand.

We're going down,
And you can see it too.
We're going down,
And you know that we're doomed.
My dear,
We're slow dancing in a burning room.

Go cry about it - why don't you?
Go cry about it - why don't you?
Go cry about it - why don't you?

My dear, we're slow dancing in a burning room,
Burning room,
Burning room,
Burning room,
Burning room.

Don't you think we oughta know by now?
Don't you think we shoulda learned somehow?
Don't you think we oughta know by now?
Don't you think we shoulda learned somehow?
Don't you think we oughta know by now?
Don't you think we shoulda learned somehow?
Don't you think we shoulda learned somehow?
Don't you think we shoulda learned somehow?
Don't you think we shoulda learned somehow?
Don't you think we shoulda learned somehow?

A very late Happy Thanksgiving :)

2009-12-31T22:42:00.000-08:00

Yep, it's 2 months after Thanksgiving but I just got the pictures (thanks, G) so I wanted to share!I went to a cabin/pension outside of Seoul for Thanksgiving with my Meetup group. Dear William was a wonderful planner and somehow, 60 people were fed and watered that weekend. I was on the cooking team and planning started way in advance. Saturday after Thanksgiving, I met up with Adrienne, William, and Jamaica to shop at Costco for all the things we needed to make it a truly wonderful Thanksgiving. While our shopping wasn't PERFECTLY smooth, we made it happen and finally got all the ingredients.

When we got to the pension, we cooks pretty much dove right in with chopping and preparing. We were so blessed to have great helpers, who became great friends (I'm talking about you, ROH!!!). I made Uncle Fred's Mac and Cheese (sooooooooo delicious) and a couple salads, Jamaica was in charge of mashed potatoes and gravy, Adrienne did the green bean casserole and a garlic and squash bisque (amazing) and we ordered the rest from the base. It was quite a feat to have so much going on and only having one real oven (and it was tiny), plus the fact we only have 6 stove-top eyes...I mean, logistical challenge much? It all turned out very good and we even had room for s'mores and wine afterwards!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-22T06:08:00.000-08:00

It's almost Christmas, folks. The weird thing is that it doesn't feel like it. I mean, I realize I'm in a different country but there just isn't a huge emphasis on Christmas and that is REALLY strange for me. I grew up with a mom who LOVES holidays. Any excuse to bring the family together and cook an amazing meal.

The past two years, I worked at the Gap, where Christmas just made me angry. Kids crying because they want more, people spending HUNDREDS of dollars while being completely rude, the horrible Christmas music (I really only like hymns ... there are very few exceptions), and long hours .... I hated it. BUT, this year, with no emphasis on Christmas whatsoever (I work Christmas Eve and tutor on Christmas Day!), Plus the fact that I'm a million miles from my family, I'm kinda wishing I was working another Gap Christmas this year. Don't get me wrong, I'm very grateful. I've been able to talk with my brothers and parents (and my dog) and I have AMAZING friends who sent me the best Christmas package ever (thanks, winos!). I also have good friends here and I won't be alone. It's just ... a little depressing to spend my first Christmas away from my family.

On a brighter note, I went skiing last weekend. I was really nervous because it's been 11 years since I last skiied, and I've really only been twice in my life. I thought I would end up hurt or stuck at the top of an incredibly steep run, but I actually did well! I'm a good skiier! Now, my dad told me not to pat myself on the back too much, but I am just really proud. I love the speed! I kinda hate the cold but there's always the promise of a steamy hot jimjilbang to warm the cockles of my heart (what ARE cockles, anyway?).

ANYWAY, I wanted to post a few happy Christmas memories:

Sam, Peter, Nanny, Mom, Brad, me, Adam, and Olivia

Christmas 2006

Me-Maw, Brad, Peter, Sam and me

I LOVE the bow on her head...she left it on there all morning :)
Quite possibly the best Christmas picture ever.

Miss Independent

2009-11-16T04:31:00.001-08:00

I think I have finally arrived into that strange world where you are an adult and can't call your dad to fix things at your place. I've never been much of a handy-woman, although my dad DID teach me how to paint a room like a pro, I can mow the lawn better than my brothers, I can check my oil, I can trim hedges, I can pressure wash, etc...all fairly simple things, but things my dad passed on. Things he didn't pass on: computer fix-it knowledge, plumbing knowledge, etc. So, when the chain to the toilet plug thingy broke yesterday and I'm a gazillion miles from my dad, what do you do???

You figure it out. I took a picture of said toilet plug thingy because I don't even know the word for it in ENGLISH much less Korean. I walked past a hardware-y kind of store and showed the man the picture. He gives me a replacement part for 1,000 won (like, 75 cents) and I'm on my way. I texted my boss to let him know of the problem, because I'm thinking there's no way I'm going to be able to put this thing together.

BUT I DID IT!!! I know this may seem like a trivial accomplishment to many of you, but I'm not a gadget girl...I don't do these things well. But, one new toilet plug thingy and 5 minutes later, I have a working toilet.

I am an independent woman.

Now, if someone will just come fix my computer for me ;)

Kimchi

2009-11-15T06:46:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged in quite awhile and that's because I've felt overwhelmed by everything I want to share. I feel like I've gotten to do some really cool things with some really cool people and I want to write about it, but then I sit down to do it and.......nothing. So, here's my attempt to get back into it with a quick post about something completely Korean that I think is cool.

So, everyone knows that kimchi is THE signature dish of Korea. There are so many different kinds, but it's pretty much fermented cabbage and spices served as a side dish with every meal. variations include radishes, other greenery, some roots, and other things like that. Some is REALLY good (cough Brian's mom's kimchi cough) and some is so-so. You can buy it "fresh" at the store or in jars, or just go to your favorite mom and pop restaurant and keep asking for more (side dish refills are free, yo!).

This time of year (fall-ish, getting colder) is kimchi making time. I knew this but hadn't seen it happening until I walked home after lunch one day. My favorite dakgalbi restaurant had a whole group outside making kimchi. They wash the cabbage and half it, then put mounds of them in big plastic containers and sprinkle rock salt all over it to draw out the water...then they add the other root vegetables, their personal selection of spices and additives (pear juice anyone? fish sauce?) and then layer it into big plastic bins ("back then" they used big kimchi pots and left them outside) and put those into their kimchi fridges. Very cool to see, and very traditional. Pictures do a better job of letting you see the work in progress. I'll be eating this kimchi in about 6 months! Yay!Very common sight in my neighborhood, where people put their peppers out to dry. These will be used in soups, kimchi, and many other dishes. A group shot of the kimchi makers!You can see the big bins of salted cabbage on the far left, and the lady with the striped shirt is the one who owns my favorite restaurant. She and that man are shredding radish and the women in the background are cutting up what looked like green onions (but massive ones).
LOTS of cabbage and my sweet restaurant lady (I need to learn her name!)...

In lieu of a real post (because I procrastinate)...

2009-10-26T19:10:00.000-07:00

Just one?

beautiful fall colors by the bus stop

view of Seoul from Taeyeon's wedding reception

I'm going to have a real update soon...I swear!

Random pictures

2009-10-13T02:39:00.001-07:00

Gina and me on top of a mountain

relaxing in a meadow

making my wish rock pile

fun with chopsticks

foamy coffee makes me think of Shan

This....is my boss (and Gina, but he looks sillier)

Jeju-do, Part One

2009-10-04T03:20:00.000-07:00

So, before I start this blog post about my recent trip, I wanted to ask your opinion on something: are the pictures good here or should I just blog and do the pics on Facebook? Are they distracting? Let me know what you think....

Ok, now the good stuff. This past weekend was Chuseok, the Korean version of Thanksgiving. It's the biggest holiday here, outside of the lunar new year (which falls in February this year, I think)...anyway, the school was closed for Chuseok so I had a 5 day weekend! SCORE! Plus, my boss gave me a fruit box which was wonderful because I love me some fruit and I got to try the massive Asian pears that I've had my eyes on but was scared to try because they're just so big! For the record, they're amazing and I'm now in love with them.

Anyway, I had originally planned on going to North Korea* for Chuseok on an awesome tour of Mt. Kumgang. BUT, sad to say, this tour isn't running right now...hopefully it'll open soon, because I really want to see this place during the autumn while the leaves are changing. So, I changed my plans to Jeju-do, an island off the southern coast of Korea. It is advertised as "Korea's Hawaii" and how could I pass that up? So, I contacted one of my oldest and dearest friends, JD, to come hang with me for Chuseok.

Seriously, this place is gorgeous. I was a little worried when we arrived because it was all rainy and grey, and what use is paradise if the weather is bad? We said our prayers that the weather would improve and it did, thank the Lord! The first day there, JD took a nap while I wandered around looking for food...found a little place and had some spicy, cold noodles that were really pretty good...headed back to wake JD up and we headed to "Hotel Alley" where all the expensive hotels are for Korean massages (one of the most painful things I've ever had done), and then on to Nanta Theatre for a really cool show.

The next day, Victor, our guide, picked us up at the hotel and we headed to our first stop. It had cleared up overnight and we had some amazing views from the volcanic crater. Jeju is a volcanic island, so there are dozens of craters and lava tubes and rocks....absolutely stunning scenery that makes you just want to sit there and not stop looking, ever. The sky was so blue, the rocks so black, the trees and grasses so green...and then the water that was every shade of blue-green you could imagine.

The first crater was beautiful (I have a feeling I'll be using that word a lot in this post) and the peaceful feeling brought on by such quiet and beauty was intense. As was...the wind. Haha, the wind buffeted us every step of the trip and I'm STILL brushing tangles from my hair. Pictures of us on top of the crater don't show the intensity of the wind, but I'll show you anyway :)
After the crater, we stopped by a gorgeous beach on our way to the botanical gardens. JD and I decided to hang out at the beach instead of going to the gardens and Victor, being the chill guide that he is, agreed to come pick us back up in a couple hours for lunch. JD hung out there and I wandered down the coast to explore. I've always been a beach girl at heart, but I also love the mountains. This was the best of both worlds because I had crystal clear water in beautiful shades of blue and green, a backdrop of volcanic mountains, and the stunning lava rocks that made up most of the coast. The beach we were at was one of the few white sandy beaches on Jeju and I spent the better part of an hour wandering in and out of the water, playing with hermit crabs and enjoying the solitude. Pictures just do not do this beach justice....

After lunch, we drove to a green tea plantation. It's amazing to see how it's all done the same way it's been done for thousands of years. Row upon row of lush, green bushes with tiny white flowers stretched across the hilly fields. The rows were dotted with carved, wooden birds perched on top of tall poles, guardians in Korean culture and, in the distance, Mt. Hallasan served as a picturesque backdrop to this unique farm. We were able to sample some of the green tea and all in all, it was a charming and beautiful visit.

After the tea plantation, we hit up a waterfall near Hotel Alley. I forget the name of the waterfall, but legend says that it has something to do with fairies. Hmm...I guess I should have been listening to Victor instead of taking pictures :) Anyway, we walked down lots of very steep stairs (what is it with Asians and really steep, narrow stairs?!) to the waterfall, which was (of course) beautiful. I SO wanted to jump in but no swimming allowed :( After checking out that part, we hiked up more stairs to a....would I call it a pond? No...not sure what it was but it fed the waterfall. It was even more beautiful because it was so clear and was turquoise colored. So pretty...

For a first day of real touring, we got to see a large portion of the island and learned a lot about Jeju-do and it's people. More to come about day two....

*Yes, I want to go to North Korea. I know some might find this absolutely crazy, but it's a good tour and very safe. I have no plans to be insulting or rude, so I should have no problems...I just want to see the scenery!

Reflective

2009-09-21T07:25:00.000-07:00

I have these strange, almost out of body moments when I realize, holy crap, I'm an adult! When did this happen and how do I make it stop? I sometimes wonder if my parents have these moments still, even though they are past the 50's mark (sorry Mom and Dad) where they wonder, when did this happen?

I had it tonight. I had just gotten home and changed into my pajamas, washed the breakfast dishes, looked at the clock and realized it was already past 9pm. I immediately took my nightly pills, drank my probiotic yogurt, washed my face, brushed my teeth, and got in bed to read. Then it hit me...I'm old. I'm an adult. I live alone, halfway across the world from the most important people in my life and I'm an adult. I am responsible for the education of children. I pay bills. I can go on trips without asking permission. I mean, I've been doing this and able to do this for awhile now, but it just hits me at these weird times and I am struck dumb by how quickly life passes. I'm almost 30. 30, people. Wow.

Maybe this is just one of those reflective, late-night moments, but when they happen, they always make me wonder if I'm doing justice to all I've been given...my education, my loving upbringing, my amazing and loyal friends, my kids...even whether or not my grandfather would be proud of me if he could see the woman I am today.

Hmm.

아 디???

2009-09-20T18:31:00.000-07:00

This is my question for God...my daily prayer.

I will wait as long as it takes.

Insa-dong

2009-09-17T01:07:00.000-07:00

G and I made another foray into glamorous Seoul last Saturday for more shopping, eating, and checking out the sights. Luckily for me, G seems to enjoy the touristy things just as much as I do and is willing to come along with me :) Of course, we started the day out with an absolutely fabulous lunch at Cook N' Heim...now, I know that doesn't sound too appetizing but it was the cutest little restaurant/cafe up an alley. We shared the Premium Italian Burger (on focaccia, SO delicious) and the Shrimp and Crab Pasta....heavenly. And, of course, lunch would not have been complete without taking pictures of our scrumptious food...BEHOLD:

After lunch, we ambled down the market street, checking out the cool jade bracelets, kiosks selling heaven-knows-what-on-a-stick, and a certain street vendor making and selling a candy thing made of tiny threads of honey wrapped skillfully around some kind of powder...he told me he loved me. Memorable, I swear, to have a sweating street vendor tell you he loves you in broken English. In case you were wondering what happens when you pour your beer into your paper cup too quickly...

Roaming the streets of Seoul is always fascinating. Young and old mix in a cacophony of style, noise, and attitude. There is really cool artwork on the street walls, hidden used bookshops (which are great, but it's freaking heavy to carry around 15 lbs of books all day!), little cafes, and of course, what seems like millions of taxis and buses. Seoul is actually the cleanest and nicest Asian city I've been to though. Pollution isn't horrible and everyone is really nice. I'm liking living so close to such a cool city :)

And the token margarita glasses...big shout out to my pals at Margarita Grill! Miss you and your addicting queso!

The awesome used bookstore was right underneath this awesome sign...I love it when I find them...the last time I saw one was in South Africa.

At Seoul Tower, we took a million pictures and checked out Seoul by night. It is SO beautiful up there, and we didn't even go to the top of the tower! We rode a cable car (after hoofing it up a steep 1/2 mile inclined road) up to the base of the tower where they have a Cold Stone Creamery (holla!), souvenir shops, and overlook places where the fence is festooned with locks. Like, padlocks. Apparently, it very romantic to come to the Tower with your beloved and lock a padlock on the fence, thereby ensuring that your love will last forever. I mean, tons of locks, people. There are lots of lovey-dovey peeps in Seoul, y'all!
Can you see the city in the background? BTW, it was windy and pretty chilly up there...the view (and the ice cream) was so worth it!

On the way home, things got a little crazy. I was exhausted (I wimp out early these days) and as everyone knows, when I get tired, I get giggly and weird. We got on the first subway line where the young man beside me proceeded to fall asleep, head lolling on my shoulder. I was laughing so hard I was shaking...I'm surprised I didn't wake him up! We had to change lines after that, so we headed that way.

Here's the thing about the subway...the doors open and you force your way in, trampling old women and children alike, all so you can get a coveted seat for your journey. You DON'T want to stand the whole way. Anyway, I jumped on the subway quickly and headed for a freshly vacated end seat, congratulating myself for being so adept at managing the "Seoul Train". Well, the elderly gentleman who had just vacated the seat realized that it wasn't his stop and proceeded to "back it up" right into my lap. I swear, it seemed to happen in slow motion as his rump lowered itself into my lap. He rebounded fast, though, especially for his age! I, of course, apologized profusely (in English, trying not to laugh) and tried to avoid eye contact with him for the remainder of the journey.
We had such a great time...me and G's little excursions to Seoul always end up memorable!

BTW, these last two pics are of me waiting for the LAST train...I was delirious by this time, which amused G greatly. There are actually quite a few pics of me looking like I'm a beggar and in other odd poses, but I think these show just how tired I really was. You gotta love the friends who capture you at your best ;)

FOR MEGAN

2009-09-09T05:16:00.000-07:00

Megan, I tried to send this in an email but it wouldn't work...so here ya go :) A glimpse of my apt a little more adjusted...
Computer, bedside chest on the left, bookcase on the right...
Microwave, rice cooker, toaster, 2 burner stove, mini fridge....
TV, small table (when Gina comes over to eat, we pull the table out and sit on the floor.
The foyer opening is on the right, as is the bathroom...
Walking into my apt from the front door...
Door, foyer, where I keep my shoes (you take off your shoes when you come in to a house)

My bed and closet..it has hanging space and 2 big drawers on the bottom...

hmmmm

2009-09-08T16:08:00.000-07:00

Honestly, the past week or so have no been the best. I'm struggling with feelings of despondency and fatigue. Is this delayed jet lag? PMS? Argh, I don't know but I want it to go away! It helps to make plans, and I have a fun day in Seoul planned with G this weekend (Seoul Tower, shopping, and sushi, here we come!) and I have one of my oldest and bestest friends visiting soon. It really helps to have plans...

Also, I got the SWEETEST email from LG (10 yrs old), who I used to babysit, and she said (in big pink letters) "I thought you might be lonely and wanted to email you...I miss you and love you....don't stay in Korea....come back and live with us!" and then there were smiley faces. How precious! Really lifted me up...

Anyway, prayers going out for my dear Kara.....I love you, BFF!!

My first attempt at a Korean style dinner

2009-09-05T02:15:00.000-07:00

You might be wondering what it all is...well, technically this wouldn't be what a Korean mom would make for her kids...BUT it's the best I can do. I just picked my favorite things and made it a meal :) Rice (of course, and my first attempt at using the rice cooker turned out DELICIOUSLY), samjang (the red stuff in the green container), sliced fresh cucumber, and pork, onion and fresh garlic cooked in my DeMarle (shameless shoutout there) non-stick skillet. That with a couple glasses of ice cold beer....heaven!

This is how I feel today...

2009-09-03T21:45:00.000-07:00

Hopefully, lunch and my yummy frozen coffee pop will make it all better.....

Kkotji Trip

2009-09-02T20:45:00.000-07:00

Though I realize this post is long overdue, better late than never, right? I'm sure whoever said that was really wise, so I'm going with it...

So, last weekend, G, Brian and I went to Kkotji. I think there's another name for the place but I'm horrible at remembering the Korean names for things and places if I don't write them down. Anyway...

We left Saturday morning and it was a pretty good drive down. We headed to the western coast and it took about 3 or 4 hours. On Saturday, we took an hour long detour just to go to this special restaurant Brian likes. It was SO worth it! The restaurant (called Avocado) was on the grounds of a pension that was so beautiful. The beach was rocky and dark but we got to chase little crabs around and there were these little fish-like animals that were minnow sized but had front legs and they scuttled around and down into holes. Very strange but very cool :)KBFF and ABFF

Next to the restaurant was a gorgeous field of wildflowers, the bluest hydrangeas I've ever seen, and hot pink crepe myrtles....dragonflies and butterflies flocked to the flowers and it looked like they were dancing! So pretty. There was a little gazebo, wooden lawn chairs to relax on and the whole place was just idyllic. Happiness :)

After lunch, we had plans to go ATV riding but the place was closed (which we didn't figure out until driving past the same rice paddies and forested area about 4 times, ror). So, we just went to the beach. It was all rocky and the tide was low, completely exposing the 2 islands off the coast, Grandmother and Grandfather Islands. We walked for a bit, watching scores of people with shovels and buckets digging for clams and crabs, which were conveniently for sale at a couple kiosks on the beach. Dig up a clam, and this lady will open it and serve it to you with some pepper sauce! They also had sea cucumbers, some weird red, horny thing, and other ocean animals to eat in buckets. Very Asian, I think!

I decided that Grandfather Island was climb-able and convinced G and Brian to come with me...of course, I was wearing flip flops (what else would I be wearing?!) and so it's a miracle I didn't fall and kill myself!Grandfather IslandMy attempts at being a mountain goat...The path up the island...the sign says "Slippery!".On top of Grandfather Island!!

I think I actually freaked G and Brian out by wandering off and climbing random rocks and boulders...G kept saying "Please don't die! You don't have insurance yet!" Needless to say, the only time my foot slipped was while walking (not climbing) on flat ground. Bruised my heel pretty good, but I didn't die. Yay!

After getting that out of my system, we walked down the beach for a ways and decided to take a boat ride! G and Brian were all for doing the banana boat ride, but I wasn't too keen on getting soaked in coldish water with no change of clothes or towel. Not for me. I convinced them that we needed to take a regular boat ride...they thought it would be boring, but G screamed so loudly she made the boat driver laugh. I think he went faster and turned sharper because her screaming was hilarious. And yes, I'm still making fun of her for that ;)

We were starting to get hungry so we headed to the fish market, and it was so cool! Every stall had row upon row of water filled bins brimming with different kinds of clams, slimy things, prawns, crabs, fish, eel, etc...it was so interested and we ended up getting a kilo of HUGE prawns about 4 inches long. Then ,we headed home for the best part....the BBQ!!!We had brought pork, onion, potatoes, and samjang and Brian brought some of his mom's homemade kimchi. We had the pension set up a grill for us in the BBQ area and we ate and ate and ate for about 2 hours.....so delicious....I don't know of a better way to finish off a great day of travel in Korea!happy Ansley :)

I can't wait for our next trip! What is next, you might ask? Well, a secret trip with an old friend visiting from America...but stories of that will come later. As far as Gina and me go, I think Incheon is next on the list...whee! I love Korea!

Bowling with the Stars

2009-08-27T20:45:00.001-07:00

Well, not really stars, just me and Gina and Brian. Anyway, we went bowling last week and had a blast. I think the best part was that I made my highest score ever: 94!!!!!!!! That's a marked improvement from my last game, which resulted in a miserable score of 71. I'm improving, folks...South Korea is good for your game!!!

practicing my form

I think I totally missed all the pins on this one....oh well...

The bowling champions!

Delivery!

2009-08-25T05:34:00.001-07:00

School is going well still. I am getting into the groove of teaching and I can even remember all the students' names! I'm even finding comfort in the "normal" things....hearing my little trumpet player as I walk to school, exercising with G in the mornings, lunches with the other teachers, hugs from sweet Linda, taking off my shoes at night and putting on my "house shoes", my daily hello to the sweet lady who runs the store beneath the school....it's these little things that have become the norm that help me feel more at home here. I may not speak the language, but I'm feeling a lot more comfortable!!!

Learned something new tonight: if you spend over 20,000 won at the supermarket (about $18 US), they will deliver it to your house for you! How awesome is that?! No more schlepping tons of water and green tea back home! I bought 4 6packs of 2L bottles of water tonight and it's being brought to my door tomorrow morning. I think I like this a lot :) Now if only E-mart would deliver fans.....

Please keep in prayer:
- safety as G, Brian and I travel this weekend to the western coast of Korea for some much needed away time
- that God will provide more fellowship opportunities
- my health...as many of you know, the past year hasn't been the best for me in the health department...I've been seriously ill almost 10 times, but I have been completely healthy since being here. Please pray that God will continue to protect my health.
- that God will continue to draw me closer to Him and that my desire for time with Him will increase

Thanks so much, guys :) All the emails and letters are so encouraging!!!

Camp-tastic

2009-08-22T21:43:00.000-07:00

I just got back from an overnight English church retreat and I'm still recovering! It was fun but exhausting...so many little kids speaking so much Korean...wow. We slept on the floor on mats (remember those blue mats from PE) and I was surrounded by legs, arms, and heads all night long. THANK THE LORD I brought my earplugs....I could still hear chattering through the "snore proof" plugs, but at least I got SOME sleep :)

Some of my kids from the school were there, and it was cool to hang out with them apart from the classroom. We were also in a GORGEOUS mountain area, so it was very cool (but buggy!).

This is a picture of our dinner Friday night....it was the coolest picnic ever! There are tons of these raised platforms everywhere here. There is even on in the park near my apt. People grill out and have lunch or take naps all the time on these things.
Anyway, we had Korean BBQ and it was really good...you dip the pork in the red sauce (sam jang?) and wrap it in lettuce with kimchi. Delish! The kids were everywhere and we had so much food...we even had an after dinner snack of hot dogs (spitted on chopsticks, naturally), roasted purple sweet potates, and this really starchy corn that, I swear, athletes should use for energy...the kids ran around like banshee children after that snack!

We went on a mountain walk (to exercise) early Saturday morning...best part of the day :) Sweet Julie (who is TINY) was lagging behind, so I gave her a piggy-back ride to help her out.

More pictures are on Facebook, for those who are members. If you aren't a member of Facebook, get with the times and do it already. Everybody else is :)

Teaching moments

2009-08-20T06:48:00.000-07:00

Ansley: (explaining adding the -ing to a verb)) Ansley is teaching the class. Repeat after me: Ansley is teaching the class.
Student: Ansley is touching the class. Ansley is touching the class.

Ansley: (practicing a dialogue) Do you have any rice?
Student: Yes, I have lice! Would you like some lice?

Student: You have strange. (pointing to his eyes)
Ansley: I have something in my eye? (feels around eyes, looking for eye boogers)
Student: No, you have strange....eyes....strange. Not like us (points to other students).
Ansley: Yep, I'm weird and different, that's for sure.
Student: What? No understand.
Ansley: Never mind. Read your book.

The Seoul Train

2009-08-16T04:07:00.000-07:00

Ok, I only named this post "The Seoul Train" because every time I talk about going into Seoul, my dad cracks a joke about getting there on the Seoul train...and yes, it's still funny every time.

All week, I've been looking forward to heading into Seoul with G for a sushi buffet and shopping. Really, just the opportunity to get away from Yangju and do something fun really kept me going. After the dreaded fan incident, I needed something to look forward to.

Meet Gina, my new Korean BFF

We headed out about 11am and it took us awhile to get there, but it was worth every second on that subway. As we walked into Muscus (pronounced moos-coos, and no, it has nothing to do with mucus, thanks), I smelled the most wonderful smells and realized this must be what heaven is like. Row upon row of delectable sushi, a salad bar with 8 different kinds of lettuce, 3 different kinds of sprouts, my favorite kiwi dressing, mushroom bisque, thinly sliced beef, shrimp salad, etc...I almost didn't know where to start! We had 2 hours and we were both determined to make the best of that time. We had grand visions of pacing ourselves but w e were both so hungry (no breakfast for me...call it a space saver) that we devoured our first plates within minutes. After that, we realized our mistake and took our time. We talked about life, love, travel, faith, and everything in between, all the while feasting on all that fabulous food. I was a happy girl when I left :)

doing damage to plate # 1

damage done to plate number 3

After we ate, we headed to Coex Mall, where I promptly found the bookstore and proceeded to become even happier than I was while eating all the sushi. I found the foreign books section and browsed for while. I managed to restrain myself and only bought the first 2 Harry Potter books (I've been wanting to re-read them for awhile) and a workbook/CD set for learning Korean. Good times for Ansley.

We walked through the mall, stopping for long periods at diffferent make-up counters (who knew I could be so girlie?) and I swear, I should have made commision on all the stuff I convinced G she needed to buy. We also went into a bunch of high end stores. I set off a small alarm in Gucci (a white-gloved lady quickly turned it off and handed me the item, as if I could afford a $700 wallet) and we quickly left that store. We browsed through Hermes, Armani, Gucci, and other nice stores and I'm totally sure we had them thinking we were rich enough to spend $3000 on a purse. Whatever.

My favorite part of the day? Walking through the food court a couple hours after the sushi feast and G asking if it was too early for her to be hungry again....this is what I love about this tiny Korean woman...she can (almost) outeat me at a sushi buffet and then be hungry again 2 hours later when I'm still walking feeling like I ate a small army.

When we finally headed home, we put together my bookshelf and did face masques...it was such a fun day and I look forward to many more excursions to many more feasts :)

We now have plans to have a weekly dinner at my place (first one is on Monday and features spaghetti, garlic bread, and salad), monthly trips to Seoul for a sushi fix and shopping, and a monthly date to explore a different part of Korea. I'm liking these plans! Korea, here I come!

Lost

2009-08-13T19:39:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to figure out how I can get all the way to Bundang by myself without drama but I can't get to E-mart and back without having to call for help and almost crying. Bundang is almost 2 hours away by subway, changing lines at least 5 times. E-mart is one 10 minute bus ride away.

I really needed a fan. It's been super humid here and we've had a couple days of steady, hard rain, so I didn't want to do laundry and have my clothes mildew. That's just gross, and I don't want to be that smelly American girl. I've always prided myself on being a fabulous laundress and smelling rather nice, so my pride is definitely at stake here.

ANYWAY, so I needed a fan. I decided to head over to E-mart to get one since it seemed pretty easy when I went with G last week. I'm thinking, I'm a smart woman and I'm confident. I'll look like I know what I'm doing and I'll get this freaking fan! So off I go...I catch the right bus (78), all the while thinking, these people must be impressed that I'm so natural and comfortable here, swiping my card, getting off at the right stop. I've even perfected the "sleepy subway look" which is also used on buses. People get on and immediately close their eyes and slump down. They look fast asleep but as soon as it's their stop, they pop up and head out. Sleepy subway. So, I use the sleepy subway look and manage to get out at the E-mart. Great.

I head in and I love this place. The bottom floor is the grocery and the second floor is household stuff and clothes. At 5'10" and $@& lbs, I just skip the clothes and head for home goods. Wall hooks! Cleaning supplies! Organizational stuff! School supplies! Decorative hangings and stands! It's like paradise! I easily found the fans (all by myself, thanks) and pick out the one with a remote control...I'm all about controlling things from the comfort of my bed. I got a few other things (i.e. more wall hooks...I'm obsessed), all the while keeping in mind that I have to get all this stuff back to my apt via the bus and walking a good distance. I also shopped a bit in the grocery store, trying to figure out what everything was based on the pictures on the sides of the packaging. Good times.

I check out with no problem (still looking like I'm in complete control and have lived here for ages) and then head out to catch the bus back to my place. Hmmm....there's no bus stop here. Maybe I'll walk a bit and get to the next one. Keep in mind that I'm carrying a big box full of a fan and a bag of other things (including milk...very heavy). I walked for about half a mile, cursing myself the whole way for not caving and just getting a taxi. I have visions of my apartment with the AC on....instead I'm lugging this crap down the street, looking for a bus stop at night. I tried to remind myself over and over, this is an experience, this is making you into a better person.....

I found a bus stop and started waiting. You know me, so good with numbers...I'm looking for bus # 73.....waited 20 minutes and then called G, who reminded me that I'm to get on bus 78. Ok....10 minutes later, here comes 78. I got on and settled in. We keep driving. People get on and get off....we keep driving....now we're in the countryside, on little curvy roads that look WAY too small for a big bus....still driving....finally, I'm the last one on the bus and it pulls onto a dirt lane and into a dirt area with a little shack at the far side. I'm now firmly convinced that the bus driver is going to rape and kill me and steal my fan. I call G again and I give the phone to the bus driver, who has been yelling at me in Korean since we stopped. He yells at her for awhile then gives the phone back to me and gets out. G tells me that I got on the right bus going in the WRONG DIRECTION. So, she doesn't know where I am and tells me to call Taeyeon, my boss (it's not like 9:30pm). He tells me to stay on the bus because it will eventually get back to Deokjeong.

45 minutes later, I know where we are and feel a little better. But now, the bus driver is telling the people on the bus about me, and everyone is laughing at me. I may not speak Korean but I know when people are laughing at my ineptitude. A woman comes up to me and asks me if I'm scared and nervous in English... I actually wasn't scared anymore, just frustrated at my stupidity and really hoping my milk hasn't gone bad yet. She tells me that she used to live in Atlanta and we are almost to my stop....which I knew at this point. When we hit my stop, everyone on the bus starts gesturing to me and speaking loudly (in Korean), showing me my stop. I get off with as much dignity as I can muster with an armload of fan and begin my walk home. After 10 minutes of walking, I am home and safe.

Ok, so this is supposed to make me a better person and build character, right?? UGH!!! I know I'll laugh about this (just like my mom laughed when I told her abt it on Skype right after I got home) someday but right now, I just want to sleep a bit more and forget this ever happened. Lesson for the day? Cross the street and get the bus going in the right direction.

I swear I'm smart.

Bibimbap

2009-08-10T02:17:00.000-07:00

It's official: I'm obsessed with bibimbap (pronounced bee-bim-bahp). The girls and I went to lunch today (as we do every day now) to one of the many little restaurants in our little neighborhood. This really has become my favorite part of the day because I get to try so many kinds of traditional Korean food while getting to know my co-workers better.

Anyway, today we went to a little bibimbap place where it's almost like a buffet. You get a really big tin bowl (almost like a mixing bowl!) and you get some rice. This rice is actually more like a barley type grain, so it's probably much better for you than the typical sticky white rice. Then, you can fill your bowl with all the organic veggies that are offered. There was some kind of cooked eggplant, cabbage and carrot mixture, something green and leafy, almost like spinach but smaller, lettuce, kale, kimchi, and bean sprouts sauteed in spicy sauce. On top of all this goodness, you put a dollop (or two, if you are my Korean friends) of spicy pepper paste and a couple drops of sesame oil. Sit down at your table, mix, and enjoy! It was delicious and actually very healthy. I could definitely be a vegetarian here. Well.....maybe a vegetarian one day a week :)

So, lunchtimes are good times. This is my day when I'm done early: 6:15! I almost don't know what to do with myself! I've been invited to hang out with Gina when she goes to her English tutor at 8, so I think I'll probably do that. Until then, who knows...

The Abode

2009-08-09T06:15:00.000-07:00

The living/dining/computer/bedroom...kitchen is in front of the bed. I've cleaned up a bit and organized since this photo was taken, don't worry.

This is my very condensed bathroom...note that I take a shower in front of my mirror, which is still very strange for me. I do like how I can clean my bathroom while in the shower though!

My wonderful bed...the fabulous bedding donated by my mom, the pink blanket is, of course, my Me-maw blanket, and the bear is Antonio, from Chris. I love my bed!!!

So, this is my apartment, for the most part. While small, it completely works for me. I continue to add my own little touches here and there, and hopefully, it will soon feel like home :)

One week in

2009-08-08T01:48:00.000-07:00

Yep, I've been here a week. How weird is it that I live in Asia? I'm still not totally sure I know what I'm doing here...I mean, I'm all adventurous for a few weeks at a time, but a whole year? Hmmm...processing still....

Anyway, several of you have asked about school and how my first few days of teaching went, and I'm glad to report that they went well. I'm getting used to the system and the schedule (which, for me, is very confusing), but the other teachers assure me that I'll get used to it soon. I'm teaching a variety of classes and ages...from reading to science (yep, me teaching science...) to random English stuff. It's a lot harder than I anticipated (didn't I get a MA in this stuff??) but I've seen how just being familiar with the material I'm working with is huge.

So my day looks a bit like this (definitely subject to change):
730am - wake up, shower, breakfast, green tea, at least one ep of The Office, reading, Skyping with friends and family, etc
1030am - off to school to plans lessons
1245pm - speaking class for summer school...this is done Aug. 21
130pm - lunch with fellow teachers (is it bad that this is my favorite part of the day? I really like Korean food!)
215pm - classes until either 630 or 8, depending on the day
630 or 8pm - home, to a bowl of cereal or spicy noodles, quick rinse off in the shower, Skyping with friends and family, etc
10pm - reading in bed for 30 min or so
1030 or 11pm - lights out!

So, as you can see, it's really riveting, my life...actually, having a set schedule is kinda nice right now. I may get bored with it later and have to switch things up, but right now, it serves me well.

By the way, I really do like Korean food. I've had really really spicy stuff that made me cry but tasted so good I couldn't stop eating, weird combinations of foods that I never would've tried had I not been here, and even a radish that was literally the color of a yellow Hi-Lite marker. I usually go into meals asking, "What is that?" and no matter what the answer is, I try it. I haven't been disappointed yet! Now I'm just waiting to eat some dog.....

Yang-ju City

2009-08-03T22:20:00.000-07:00

By the way, did you know that the name of my city (Yang-ju) literally means "western liquor"?? True story.

ANYWAY, so....my flight was uneventful. I got here and all my luggage was first out...yay!!! That's NEVER happened to me, in all my world travels! Yay for Korean Air (they serve GREAT food, btw). T, my boss, picked me up right away (again, so relieving to not have to search for a man I don't know!) and we drove the hour or so up to Yang-ju. We stopped by a LotteMart on the way so I could get some supplies and food. I basically just got cleaning supplies and bread, peanut butter, cereal, apples, and milk...all were desperately needed that next day! I pretty much went to bed right after I got "home"...I was completely bushed.

I spent Saturday morning cleaning and familiarizing myself with my apartment. I was thinking, jet lag whatever! But, at around 1 or 2pm, I lay on the bed for "just a minute" and woke up at 2am very disoriented! Cleaned some more and then decided to put on my big girl panties and figure out how to get to Barry, who was about 2 hours away by subway. Needless to say, I figured it out (the Seoul subway system is GREAT....gets you anywhere you could want to go, has both Korean and English, and is super clean...I think I'm going to love public trans!).

The OMPC team and I went to a Korean folk village...it's a lot like Williamsburg is for us. It was really cool to see how Koreans lived way back when. We also got to eat with one of the team members host families, and it was SO GOOD...lots of veggies and mushrooms, meat, rice, and my favorite, bibimbap! I love food!!

I ended up spending the night with the Morehead's and we went to Gyeongbokgung Palace the next morning. Holy hannah, I want to be Korean royalty! It was so beautiful, with gardens and ponds, water lilies and exquisite trees...tons of space for the queen and her entourage! My favorite part was the concubine's quarters though :) A couple friends and I went looking specifically for the "ho house", which was definitely not as cool as the queen's quarters, but still pretty nice. The history behind the palace is fascinating...built in 1395, destroyed and desecrated by the Japanese in the early 1900's, and then rebuilt (restoration is still actually going on) in 1990. Very cool.

After the palace, (and a really long trek to find the van), we had a traditional Korean meal that was wonderful...you sit on the floor on cushions, eat with flat metal chopsticks (harder than I thought), and the food just keeps coming for about an hour...yum!!! Then, full sated and almost waddling, we headed to a street market (I forget what it's called) that was filled with art and antiques...I only bought one gift though, because I'm practicing discipline :) The rest of the team went to a big mall while I hopped back on the subway to head home. A fast shower and a quick meal of cereal (this habit needs to stop!) and I was in bed with the lights out! Not a bad weekend, if you ask me!

Today I got to talk to a bunch of people, and I SO appreciate your support and encouragement. This has already shown itself to be a challenge. I didn't mention the tears Friday night as I fell asleep, wondering what on earth I'm doing half a world away from those I love. I know there will be more tears, but I honestly couldn't be here, doing this, without you. Many, many thanks. I'll be buying an air mattress in the next month or so, so any of you willing to brave a 14 hour flight, you are more than welcome!!!

Hello, my name is Ansley and I have not been kidnapped.

2009-08-03T03:49:00.000-07:00

I know, I know...I had some of you worried (read: Mom) but I really am alive and kicking over here in Asia. It's been a busy few days but I was sans technology there for a couple of days and, while liberating to some people, it really just make me antsy. I could just see my mom freaking out and calling the Embassy to send out the search dogs.

Needless to say, I'm here. I just got back from a 24 hour stint in Seoul with OMPC folks (it really is appropriate, Barry) and I'm pretty tired...I'm going to head to bed on my newly made bed (thanks Mom....it's all perfect!!!) and do this right tomorrow. To come: figuring out the Seoul subway all by myself, Korean food, peanut butter, and concubines.

This would only happen to me...

2009-07-30T06:09:00.000-07:00

Why am I already posting a journey story? What just happened really would only happen to me.

I'm having a tearful goodbye with Mom, who is watching me go through the check. I'm thinking nothing of it, because I've actually just packed my carryons and I know there's nothing in there that could be flagged. Think again, Ansley.

The TSA people stop my backpack in the scanner. They call loudly for a supervisor. Three uniformed people come over and are scrutinizing the screen...I'm thinking, "crap, I've left a water bottle in there...oh well..."

A nice, portly lady takes me over and informs me that I need to watch as she unloads my bag and I can't touch anything. Ok.....

She starts going through my hikers backpack...multiple pockets, tons of stuff, baggies of clothes, panties, iPod stuff, books, etc....she's not giving up....

All of a sudden, she says "I must be blind, girl!" and pulls out my pocketknife (which is open, blade out, by the way) from the side pocket. HOLY HANNAH!!! I thought they were going to arrest me on the spot, not let me get on the plane...all the while I'm saying, oh my gosh, how did that get in there?!

I had been looking for that knife, to pack it in my checked luggage, all night...figured I'd lost it or one of the boys had taken it. Nope...I'm trying to TAKE IT ON A PLANE!! The very kind TSA people took it to my mom (who is watching this whole thing from afar with a confused look on her face) and they will mail it to me.

But seriously....who else would that happen to?

FINALLY!!!

2009-07-28T19:41:00.000-07:00

It's official, folks: I have all the paperwork necessary to go to South Korea!! After a long and often arduous process (now I know how hard it is to move to another country), I am heading to the great unknown country of SK in exactly 36 hours. HOLY HANNAH!!!

I'm not even going to go into all that happened today. Needless to say, Atlanta is not currently on my list of favorite places to visit. Hold on....a quick overview? Ok....getting lost (check), getting a boot put on my car by some punk kid after being there 15 minutes (check), buying a TON of liquor at a corner store and being questioned about my driver's license picture (check), getting stuck in traffic while on the way home (check), getting ogled by 3 truck drivers in said traffic (check check check)....thank goodness for mothers who make fantastic pomegranate martinis and homemade pizza!

Now, it's the final stretch of packing and more packing. One more load of laundry, one family photo session, and one family cookout from now, I'll be heading out!!!

Whew!

2009-07-24T12:55:00.000-07:00

This whole thing with the passport has taught be the benefits of being totally prepared and not just taking someone's word for it. I should have driven my passport to New Orleans for a couple days, stayed with my cousin and enjoyed time with her, and not worried about all this mess. I did get the passport in, but now I've been having visa drama.

THANKFULLY, the girl in Atlanta is so sweet and letting me come in on Monday to have my interview and turn in all my documents. I have no idea if I'll need to spend Monday night there, but I'll gladly do so and even pay for a hotel room if it means I get to leave on the 30th! This is really exciting and I plan on being totally prepared by Wednesday night...I'll even get to hang out with Peter, who is just back from Iraq.

As much as this delay has frustrated me (I should be in Korea by now!), I have enjoyed the extra time with family and friends. This morning, I woke my mother up by giving her coffee in bed and laying with her awhile, playing with the dog and talking. Very relaxed and simple. Then I got to meet JD at the 3 lakes park to hang out in the sun and talk. I get to have dinner with R and P tonight. I get to hang out with Me-maw more. These are the times that I'm grateful that I'm still here. I'm going to miss everyone so much, and leaving is showing me how much I cherish each and every one of you!

Delayed

2009-07-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'm not leaving on the 23rd. Right now, it looks like I'm going to fly out the 27th or 28th and go from there. This is hard because it delays me mentally as well as physically and it means that I'm in limbo for a little bit longer. At the same time, this might be a blessing, as I'm not fully packed yet and today was going to be a stretch if I had to do the visa in Atlanta.

My boss is very understanding and has assured me that everything is ok and he will pick me up at the airport when I get there. This might give me a chance to hang out with the OMPC missions team in Seoul for a couple days, making it feel more familiar and comfortable. We'll see...I'm learning not to make plans!

Please be in prayer for the team over there...some are already in Seoul and others are flying out Thursday. They will be doing ESL clubs and ministering to the people there.

I think I can, I think I can...

2009-07-21T16:06:00.000-07:00

As far as the passport goes, I am still waiting. According to the passport office, my passport was mailed from New Hampshire (why was it all the way up there?!) yesterday at 2:30pm. My deadline to being able to leave on time is tomorrow at noon. So, if I have it tomorrow at noon, I will be leaving on Thursday morning. If not, that will be rescheduled. As of right now, I'm going ahead and making all plans to leave Thursday...I'm packing tonight (yes, Jon David, actually packing!) with the help of my wonderful mother and sweet Robin. Is it all going to fit? Who knows? Let's hope so! I'll post my final packing list later, in case any of you plan on moving to Asia sometime in the near future :)

Keep praying for that passport!!!

Passport

2009-07-16T11:59:00.000-07:00

Update on the passport: it's "in process". This is NOT good. I'm having to remember that God is in control and that maybe I'm being delayed for a reason. I don't know what that might be, and I still might make my flight, but this is making the whole mental preparation thing (just like Kara said) that much more difficult. I cannot control the US passport people. I cannot control paperwork. I don't like it, but I'm going to have to deal with it.

In the meantime, I'm still praying that somehow a miracle occurs and my passport comes tomorrow or Monday. If not, I guess I'm hanging out longer here in Birmingham.

South Korea, I swear I'm coming soon!!!!

Friends

2009-07-12T12:02:00.000-07:00

I continue to be amazed at how God provides for me in so many ways. Things I don't even pray for, and He is already a step ahead. From friends who come over to help me pack and price things for the garage sale, a hug from someone at church, a check from a dear friend that helps meet my needs, shoes from a sweet grandmother who knew I needed them, parents who support me in every way...I can't even imagine where I would be or WHO I would be without the love, support and encouragement from these people.

Today in church, our sermon was about how much we NEED fellowship and relationships. "No man is an island", no matter how hard we try to function alone. As humans, we deeply need relationships and other people in our lives who push us and spur us on. I am deeply grateful for the people God has placed in my life to do that for me. If you're reading this, you are probably one of those people. Thank you for sticking in there with me :) You are appreciated!

Still waiting on the passport...

Prayer request

2009-07-10T12:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I drove to Montgomery (singing at the top of my lungs, naturally) and got my apostille, came home and then sent off my packet to Korea. Now I wait for them to process my visa there, send me the number, and then I will head to the Korean embassy in Atlanta for my actual visa to be put in my passport. However, one key ingredient is missing in this little story: I HAVEN'T GOTTEN MY PASSPORT BACK YET!!!

I sent off my passport to be renewed in early June. I was out of pages and it needed to be renewed in 2010 anyway, so I figured I might as well do the whole shebang now. But, I haven't gotten it back yet. YIKES!!! I need my passport to move to Korea! I have a flight!

All that to say, please please please pray that my passport comes in ASAP and all the rest of my preparations go smoothly. I'm still packing (no surprise there) and trying to spend as much time as possible with loved ones.

On that note, tonight is my farewell party at WineStyles. Kara, Brian and I are having a guacamole showdown (with judges and everything!) and the winner gets a bottle of wine. My kind of contest! It's such a bittersweet thing, because that store has become such a part of my life...so many amazing friends have come to me through WS and we've have some fun, crazy times there and around town. It's going to be hard to say good-bye! Much love to you all!!!

15 days and counting down...

2009-07-08T13:31:00.000-07:00

Um, this is getting VERY real...I got my flight info today. I leave at 6:30am on Thursday the 23rd. Oh my goodness! I also got my criminal background check back from the FBI (clear of course!) and I have to drive to Montgomery tomorrow to get it apostilled (international notary). Whew!

I've started my packing list and I'm realizing how much I'm going to have to learn to do without. Don't get me wrong, I think I could do with some downsizing...I just think I didn't realize things like not having the brands I'm used to. It's such an American thing, I guess, but it will take some getting used to. I'd post my packing list, but it's forever long...maybe I will next time so I can get any suggestions.

Beachy

2009-06-25T19:34:00.001-07:00

I'm here in beautiful SanDestin, FL with my family o' the moment, the Bullocks. Michele is one of my dear friends who just happens to have 5 kids who just happen to be a ton of fun. So, I'm at the beach with them again (I came with them last year too) and it's been a blast.

Manny (3) finally got over his fear of the water and is now almost terrifying, because he's so gungho about being underwater...he loves it and he requires constant supervision. He's having such a fun time though, so it's great to watch. Ella (2)is still sticking to the shallow end but is adorable in her little bikinis with her round, Guatemalan tummy sticking out....LOVE it! The big girls Mary (11), Laura (9), and Sarah (7) have been a hoot to hang out with. M and I squared off with Gin and War (I won one, we tied the other) and S is my fearless beach babe. L is my right hand girl...my helper and friend, making me laugh all the time.

While I'm here though...my thoughts are of home. I got an email from Colt (my liason at the school in SK) and they want me IN SK by July 22....yikes! That's early! I was anticipating the 27th or so...I don't mind it being earlier, but I'm just worried about my gig with the aforementioned Michele. She's going to Ireland for missions and her husband works, which leaves me with the kids for awhile. She gets back the 21...I dont know that I can do this...MAYBE the 23rd or 24th. And that's even saying that my papers are all in...I'm starting to get a little freaked out. I have to have everything moved out my house and into my mom's house by Tuesday...how am I going to do this? I can do most of it alone (yikes) but I really need one, if not two, really strong guys to help me move stuff....pray for me please!!!!

It also marks the end of a chapter of living with my dear roomie/flatmate, Caroline. I've lived with her almost a year and we've had our ups and downs, but the ups are what I will always remember. Pillow talks, Pride and Prejudice several time, sharing books, dinners with Dad, her texting me when Lean Cuisines are on sale at Target....beers on the porch on warm Saturday mornings....good times! I love my C and I will miss her when I leave....may she and Chris find every happiness together in that home....

Ok, so prayer prequests:
- that nobody will drown
- no sunburn
- grace and mercy for me on the kids
- safe travel back to bham
- me letting go of my to-do list while I'm here, because I can't do anything about it!
- all my papers coming in ASAP!!!!!!

A little overwhelming, it is...

2009-06-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, I have ADD. I am HORRIBLE when it comes to getting things done on time and I tend to procrastinate. Well, I can't really procrastinate on this little project. Today is one of those "get things done"days, and I am...overwhelmed.

- mow parents lawn
- deposit money at bank
- mail off transcript request form to Montevallo
- head to Columbiana to get fingerprinted
- send off form for FBI criminal background check
- pack for the beach (leaving tomorrow, back on Sunday)
- go to Sears and return Land's End bathing suits I'm not keeping (Galleria)
- go to Gap to get bathing suit bottoms that will stay up while playing with 5 kids at the beach (Summit)
- continue moving things out of my house and over to my parents house
- go to dr's office to get kit to find out if I have a parasite in my gut (Hoover/Bessemer)
- stop by WineStyles for computer
- go by CVS and get visa pics taken
- get script for meds from aforementioned Dr.

I'm just trying to figure out how to do all this before tomorrow! Yikes! I need a double dose of Adderall today! The only thing that's keeping me going is knowing that I will go to bed tonight thinking "man, I did it" and then heading to the beach tomorrow (with 5 kids, but it'll still be a sorta vacay).

I'm also trying to get a garage sale together...what can I get rid of? I'm trying to use this experience as a way to purge my life of those things that are truly unnecessary. Do I really need 100 DVD's? 4 different kinds of shampoo? 3 brushes? I'm calling this The Great Purge and I'm hoping to get rid of a bunch of stuff. This is to be a refining experience and I'm hoping God uses it to show me how little I really need to follow him.

Prayer requests:
- clarity of mind and focus today
- patience in the coming week with all the kids
- wisdom in dealing with finances

Getting started

2009-06-18T07:35:00.000-07:00

Let's just go ahead and state the obvious: I have no idea what I'm doing.

I'm moving to South Korea for a year to teach English as a second language (ESL). I will (finally) be using my graduate degree and hopefully having the experience of a lifetime. I'm absolutely terrified but completely excited about this "foray into the unknown". I'm truly hoping that this helps shape me into a more mature person in many ways, and I'm looking forward to seeing how God will use this as a refining experience in my life.

That said, I'm trying to figure out how the heck to move to another country! What do I pack? What do I sell? What do I leave in storage at my oh-so-gracious parent's house? How do I do this?! Will I even be able to buy shoes there (I am a size 10, which I don't think even exists in Korea)? Will I be able to cook? Will I suck as a teacher? Will I make friends? All these things are running full speed through my head and all I can come back to is "God is in control, He will never leave me or forsake me". But, any and all suggestion from those who have done this are welcome and appreciated :)

Hopefully, this blog will allow my loved one (and there are so many of you, dear friends) to come with me on my journey. I hope I am able to be faithful to update!!!