Sittin' Up in My Room

Happy Chinese New Year! And, for all you Koreans out there: 새해복 많이 받으세요! I'm fortunate to have a few days off, during which I will be doing nothing but simply sittin' up in my room, listening to music (just bought new speakers), reading, and watching random movies. (Have you ever heard of Into the Woods? It's a musical fantasy -- super weird/funny/terrible.) My holiday will look something like this -- minus the whole pining over a guy thing:



Yes, I dance. But, in mismatched pajamas sans backup dancers (unfortunately). And, I don't watch myself in the mirror as much as she does. Needless to say, it's been fun.

You want to see my room? Inspired by my friend Lindsay, who wrote a darling post about her college cottage dwelling back in Norman, I decided to take some pics of my place for my family. But, I'll share them here. Perhaps it will inspire a visit? Prease?

Come in, Come in:

View from the "front door":

Note: Being that my place is a one-room apartment, I have divided it into areas. You know, break up the monotony of it all. Also, note the randomness of it all. Not much cohesive decor going on here. Just the way I like it for now. Here is my favorite area from a distance:

That shot was taken from my bed. These past few days I have been going from A(bed) to B(couch). It. is. awesome. I haven't had much time for relaxation lately. My body has been mad at me. I give it what it wants now.

I hang here a lot when I'm not shuffling around the city. It's cozy, yes?

I do just about everything here. Read. Write. Think. Gawk over these fellas:

Mom, Bunnie says hi. It looks like a caught in the moment shot. I love it.

(Sorry guys: I was playing with camera settings and lighting. And, yes, I daydream about dead musicians, fictional characters from literature, and dead authors. I don't daydream about Barack. I just like that picture.)

My luxurious bathroom:

These won't come off, I swear.

My swanky view:

That is all. Nothing too special about this place, except that it's mine for now. I love my reading corner. I love the random feel I get when I'm hanging here. It's more fun. I never find myself bored.

Now, come over. I'll cook for you. Yeah, I'm lookin' at you two.

Make Sure You Feel It Every Day.

I just want to say I love you. Make sure you feel it every day. 'Cause if today had been my last chance, there's just something I wanted to say:



Life is ridiculously short. Love with everything you got.

Love,
Lindsey

For Reals

Reality Check: You know you are in the Far East when you visit the doctor and he says, "your Yin and Yang are out of balance."

Clearly, this means one of two things:
1) It is time to hit the cluuuubs!
2) It is time to go to yoga.

*Please be sure to click cluuuubs! Good times to be had.

The Cool Kids: We Don't Wanna (and WON'T) Grow up.

OKAY! I know I put a lot of music in my posts, but I listen to it a lot, and usually am inspired by particular songs to write about certain things. So~YOU MUST LISTEN TO THE SONGS WHILE ENJOYING THE PICTURES I'm going to share:



In one month, I will say good-bye to my lovely little Grapes. They will graduate, move on (unless they enroll in the elementary program -- fingers crossed!), and, hopefully, have lots of things to remember from my class. I aim to make them laugh ATLEAST 20 times a day, and have designated the first ten minutes of each class Hugs and Cheeky Time. (It sounds weird, but just go with it.) We hug each other, kiss (European style -- IT'S ADORABLE), and every so often one of them sneaks a bum grab. Today, while walking to school, Tom's song came on and it inspired me to make today a really memorable day for the little ones. Here's a glimpse into our day:

Alright, let's change songs here for these next few photos, yeah?



CUZ WE FLOSS SO FLOSS SO FLOSS SO HARD.

Those are most of my sweet kiddos. We had fun. Thanks for looking through all dem memories. If you ever want to skype with us, shoot me a message. They love showing off their English skillzzzz.

Love,
Linds

A few reasons I'm Seouled on Seoul: Part One

First of all: you should listen to this song while reading. The chorus reminds me of soulful Seoul nights. :)

Seoul is hot. It's crazy fun and offers endless possibilities for memory making. (I feel like I should end that sentence with a loves it! ye gawds.) It's the other city that doesn't sleep. A night out here is generally a solid commitment. Otherwise, you find yourself taking naps in Noraebong (karaoke) rooms OR crashing in a bath house...two images to describe bath houses: no clothes in designated areas; and, old ladies rubbing you down (pounding the lights out of you) with scrubs. Terrif. These days, said nights just don't work for me much...it takes a lot out of me. See for yourself:

However, it's not all flashing lights and pounding hangover headaches. Here are some reasons I'm hooked on dis place...

1) I have amazing students. They are simply delightful. My words won't do them justice. I'll have to get some video footage soon. But, for now, some pictures will have to do.

Hey girl hey! (Our go-to phrase in Grapes class.) Getting down during Halloweeeen! We so cra-gee.

2) I'm able to create an environment where my students feel they can openly and comfortably explore the never-ending question: who am I? Eddy wasn't sure what he wanted to be for Halloween. Buzz or Butterfly? This is what we came up with. We called it the Flaming Buzz. Honest to goodness, he came up with the name.

Eddy enjoys the following: Buzz Lightyear; sparkly masks; pink nail polish; and hand-holding with his best bud, Joy. Needless to say, he is adorable.

This picture really needs no words. Seouled.

I've fallen particularly hard for this little one.

3) I laugh often. It's not uncommon to run into some hilarious interpretations of English, as well as some pretty awesome signage. Take this for example:

This comforting sign is located in the restrooms at the local HomePlus. It serves as a friendly reminder that, in case of emergency while visiting the loo, your trusty HomePlus employers are only the push-of-a-button away. For you, he will.

Hooookay~Sreepy time. South Korean hugs sent out to Chelsea tonight :) I hope you are well dear.

Love. Lots of it.

L

Here, There, and Everywhere: A Shout Out.

Missing one Jay Brock Riddle these days. Even though it's been a good (terribly sad) five years, the reality truly never. sets. in. With each new experience I have, my initial reaction is to reach for the phone to share it with this guy:

Luckily, I'll always have the following: his eyes, his smile, his athletic genes, his humor, The Beatles, John Lennon, my brother Hunter, who grows more and more to look eerily like him (Watch out ladies. And Bailey -- you're just as cool and attractive.), Eddie Murphy, Chevy Chase, and his love for music. Thanks J.B.

I find myself writing this post for a couple of reasons:

1) I miss the stuffing out of this guy. I seriously wish that he was here. there. and everywhere.

2) Oddly, he is here, there, and everywhere. (This is about to get so cool -- in my opinion.) For those of you who knew my dad, he was a Lennon man all the way. He was really into Lennon's words in Let it be and Lennon's messages overall. He always encouraged/begged my brothers, awesome musicians (all bias aside, these dudes rock), to learn to play the song. At his funeral, at the age of sixteen, Bailey (sans his twin brother) played it. Perfectly. A few years prior to his unexpected death, I remember him printing out the lyrics to Let it be, telling me to read them, ponder their meaning. I never appreciated it at the time, however, now I truly appreciate it everyday as it is my go-to mantra when I find myself in times of trouble.

Korea is cool, but there have been and continue to be challenges along the way. There have been times when packing up and heading home seems like a really nice option. Anytime I have felt myself feeling sliiiightly sad (emo), I take a walk. I usually end up at a park, coffee shop or my favorite all-you-can-eat buffet (cue emotional eating) There, I sit. Chill. Read. Write. Just be. And...are you ready for this? Each time I am having one of these (emo) fits, EACH TIME, Let it be starts playing. No matter where I am, the park, a cafe, the buffet, this song (marvelous man) delivers.

*Let this video buffer and watch it. It's worth it.
**Okay, really, Yoko? Let a man breathe ;)

Thanks for reading. Now, go hug your dad. ;)

Seoulgasms.

The weather outside is frightful. Maybe it's the Alaskan in me, but I've always had warm feelings associated with the frigid temps. Ahhh, Alaska. I'm kind of missing you. I've decided that my next move must include the following: mountains/lots of outdoor recreational activities; excellent local brews, and lots of music. Denver...maybe? I get excited just thinking about it. (Is it too early to start a count-down? A 365+ countdown?) Not that I'm regretting my decision to stay in Seoul for an additional year. Sometimes I'm like, damn...what have I done? But, having the goal of moving someplace totally awesome makes me excited. I can't believe I've already been here for close to a year...my what a year it has been.

A lot has happened in my months here. A lot. Went on some neat hiking excursions. Went to a rad beach festival that included romping in mud all weekend, and dancing on the beach into the wee-hours of the morning. Visited Japan. Sweat my face off in a strictly Korean speaking hot yoga club for six months. Navigated my way around the majority of the grocery stores in Seoul in search of my diet staples...yada-yada-yada. But, I'd say the most memorable experiences I've had, so far, have been the concerts/festivals I've gone to.

Here's a little recap:

The Cool Kids: I really love these guys. I could dance to them all night. And I did. When I first got to Seoul, The Cool Kids were playing at an event called the Seed Festival at AX-Korea. Highlights: dancing on stage (whhhaaaaa?) and having my very own dance party at the end of the evening (morning). Anyone who knows me can imagine what this looked like. My friends describe it as Alice in Wonderland meets Penny Lane (minus the Band-Aides thing). I'll take it.

Caribou: Good beats. Good people. Weird opening act. Marriage proposal -- that I almost considered because he was from Pittsburg (not really) -- and a oh, hey, you're the girl from Jane's Groove last weekend? Dear gawd. I'm building street cred with my solo dance parties. I'll take it?

Summer Sonic: A music festival in Japan. A good selection of music -- HOLE WAS THERE?! WHAT? -- but the highlight for me was probably Band of Horses. It was interesting being a foreigner there because the scene ain't nothin' compared to what I've experienced back home or in Korea. A lot of the people in the audience at various shows were taking little cat naps. It was pretty funny. A Tribe Called Quest was there as well as Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. Caught a little Stevie Wonder, too. But, Band of Horses... I think they are beautiful.

GLOBAL GATHERING!!!: By far the funnest night at a show, so far. I only wish I had had my camera to document it all. The trek to get there was almost equally as fun...lots of traffic, lots of people. A long walk because the cab driver wouldn't take us any farther. An impromptu bathroom break on the docks. Sprinting the last stretch motivated by Justice's beats. Ahhhh. I want to go back. Here's the best video I could find.

I danced my face, legs, feet...no, I danced my whole body off, if that is possible. Luckily this time, I had joiners. The next morning, I could barely lift my arms. I think they were raised the. entire. night. I really hope the line up is good this year.

The Flaming Lips: Tried and true these beauties deliver. Although I've seen them a few times, this time was exceptional. A little late arriving, but caught what I needed to see. College days relived with some beer shot guns. Marriage proposal -- this time by a girl -- and confetti in my purse that I refuse to trash. Stealing posters. Over-priced t-shirts. I'll take it.

What's next? What's next?

From All The Junks The One I Need More is Music

*Heads up: this post might as well start out with Dear Diary...

This year is off to a pretty radtastic start. Things feel good here...I'm really enjoying where I am. Today, I had one of those moments where I was like: "Oh, hellllo, you live in Seoul, South Korea...that's kind of cool." I've been thinking a lot about what I want this year to look like...a rough draft if you will. But, I've also got that giddy, butterflies in your stomach feeling because you don't know what's going to happen thing going on, too. Not creepy butterflies. Good ones. I'm excited for this year :) (cheeeeeese -- soy-based. Obviously.)

I was running today and listening to the jam, and, without getting all Cansei de Ser Sexy up in here, suffice it to say that music is my best friend. It always gets me thinking, you know. (Don't worry -- not in an emo self-destructive I hate my life kind of way.) Somehow, by miracle of the Musical Gods -- Kurt, Lennon, Brock (just to name a few) -- songs always come on that set really awesome thought wheels into motion. (Dear Diary Post. I warned you.) The beats inspire me to put positive perspectives on any challenges I'm lookin' at, and ultimately, just lead to a peppier, positive me. Mix music with endorphins and you might wonder what I been poppin'.

Interesting Fact: For the past, oh, seven months, I've been sans television in my little ole apartment. This may not surprise you, but it really surprises me -- I could ask for a television and have one tomorrow, but would rather not. When I think about all the time I spent lying around watching the tube, it kind of bothers me. I think I might have missed out on a lot during college...but, that's irrelevant. Not being engrossed in all that the media world has to offer has inspired a much more creative daily routine, if I do say so myself. Like, now I can sit, ponder, and answer questions like: Who Am I? and What Am I Doing With My Life? (I don't really do that...a lot.)

Purely for Pleasure

I may or may not have just walked 30 minutes in the 20 degree temps for some of these (ridiculously over-priced) bad boys:

and...

(*I have no idea how to put these two next to each other. I'm still new to blogging. And, yes, I'm having a bowl of each.)

It's been fuh-reezing here the past few weeks. A few days of nice snow, but mainly just ice and muddy sludge. It's ok though. I love snowy-ish, white-ish/brownish/grayish scenery. (Oh my gawd, this ice cream is so good.)

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 2011? Where does the time go? (I'm having a really hard time writing right now, as I cannot concentrate on much aside from this bowl of ice cream...the Cherry Nirvana flavor...)

Ok, bowl(s) is/are finished. But, seriously. 2011...a year of good schtuff. I'm going to run a marathon. There, I said it. I've been avoiding it -- something about resolutions accompanied with zero follow-through. But, seriously, I think I'm going to run a marathon. I've been running my butt off lately -- not actually, it's still there, thankfully). I can't get enough. I run in the mornings. I run in the evenings. My students and I even take little jogs around the classroom to get our brains going. (Their request, not mine -- we call them brain breaks.) Running might be my favorite part of the day. (Picture me cheesily grinning the whole time on the treadmill, surrounded by Koreans who look at me like I'm a sweaty baboon...not that my butt is red...or showing for that matter.) Listening to these gems only adds to the good time:

(Come on, it kind of makes you want to move, yeah? It's ok.)


(To redeem myself.)


I've actually been surprising myself and running 5kms in the morning and 5kms at night. Sixty-ish miles a week. (Thank you Dad and Tunde...if I add him in the labels do you think he would stumble upon this post and contact me?) I want to do some 5k races for fun while I'm still in Seoul. Then, move up to 10k to add a little personal challenge into the mix. Ultimately, a marathon before I leave Korea would be an amazing ending to this chapter in my life. I actually think I can do it (she said so hesitantly). So today, I took my first step in training for some races: I filled out an application for the Seoul Flyers Running Club. Yeaaaa. I'll keep you posted.

Okay, I'm going to reward myself for taking the time to post with some more ice cream...maybe ;)

Big hugs.

Just a little taste...

I'm heading out to grab some grub with buds and pick up some new furniture (heel click!) that I ordered; however, I just uploaded some photos from Thanksgiving and thought I'd give a little punkin' pie preview...


(Note: No animals were harmed in the making of this masterpiece.)

Dawg Gon' Cold

Yesterday was a cold one. Bone-chilling cold. The kind of cold that hurts. I'm watching a friend's dog so, unfortunately, I don't have the luxury of staying indoors all the time (good practice for Marley's arrival). Also, the past few days I've been spending time baking/talking with one of my new friends (Kia) in preparation for a fundraiser that was held last night to benefit Animal Rescue Korea (ARK). I really enjoy going over to her place (even in the bitter cold) because she, too, is a vegan and has introduced me to a whole new world of grub possibilities. I spent my Thanksgiving in her company along with her boyfriend, friends and numerous pooches they have taken in. Good people. And pooches. I'll post about baking and Thanksgiving another time, but for now, let's talk canines.

The subject of dogs in Korea is a hot one. I'm learning more about the (emotionally-charged) issue everyday, but I won't bore you with facts or my opinion. Point blank: there are some problems. And, like most other places around the world, there are simply too many dogs wandering the streets thanks to people who don't take responsibility for them. Obviously, as a result, the shelters are overflowing with dogs in need of care. From what I understand, one or more of the shelters are independently-owned by people who hold lots of land. So, in some cases, it's literally a one-man show. Tons of puppies/dogs with only one guy to go around and care for them (yikes). I've learned that the dogs at one of the shelters are kept outdoors. All. Year. Round.

Kia and Sean rescued many of their (five) pets from such shelters. One of their dogs -- and probably my favorite -- Darwin is believed to have escaped from a dog farm...you know, the place they keep dogs before sending them off to be tortured/slaughtered for some posintang (dog soup). Yeah. Another one of their pets, Marcel, was living at the shelter where animals are kept outdoors. Luckily, now he sports a cute WARM sweater :)

Sooooo, last night, a fundraiser went down to help these shelters. And, I helped. In the -4 degrees Celsius temp. It was brutal. But nice. (It should be said that I took more warm-up breaks than anyone; however, I was there and that's what counts, right?) Each time I went inside in an effort to feel my feet again, I kept thinking: This is three hours of painstakingly-cold weather you have to endure. Imagine countless nights of this. I don't know how those animals survive. A lot of them don't and it gives the phrase dog gone cold a whole new meaning for me.

I'm thinking of doin' a rescue...whad'dya think?

To learn more about the treatment of dogs in Korea, check this out.
You can learn more here, too.
WARNING: This site contains a graphic video and is not really suitable for those who cry easily.

Fashionably Late

Alright...it's time to get serious. I'm in the process of revampin' this blog and will be in business soon. There are too many awesome things happening here to not share. Plus, I've decided to stick around these parts for another year so I figure this is my chance to make something (a blogger) of myself. SO,(Mom and Michelle) sit tight and check for updates on a more regular basis :)

Some quick updates:
#1) I've veganized my life and could not be more pleased with how much love it brings on a daily basis. Seriously. Love. Everywhere.

#2) I've decided to re-sign with my school for another year. My face hurts from smiling so much on a daily basis thanks to my lovely little kiddos. Really. I think dimples have formed that were not previously on my cheeks (dimples...wrinkles...meh?) How can I pass up another year of this? Plus, this year has flown by so quickly that I'm sure the second will, too. So those of you who have not been out here to visit, start planning (ahem, Hannah Colclazier).

#3) I'm bringing Sir Marls to Korea! Yeah, he needs to break free of his sheltered mama's boy persona and experience this bustlin' city. It's done wonders for me, now it's time to think 'bout ma babay.

Some things to look forward to:
1. Snow. It's coming...I can feel it. :)

2. Christmas break: I was going to travel to Indonesia and Malaysia, but have postponed that trip in order to spend time with my family over the holidays. It's been ages since I've talked with my little bros and I gotta say: I miss the knuckle heads.

3. My dear friend Tonya will be back in Korea come February/March. I'm looking forward to another (full) year with her in Korea. Good times are a given.

So there you have it folks. Looking forward to sharing more things with you and hopefully a visit or two from some of yas.

Hugs, (*are you getting your daily 12?)

L-Belle

Safety First Then New Friends

I'm going to try to be more diligent about updating my blog. I'm trying to be more diligent these days about lots of things. For example, I'm trying to wake up earlier, eat breakfast and get out of my apartment more often. It's a work in progress. Today I got up early though because I couldn't sleep...I WAS SO 'CITED! Today, my school took a field trip to the Safety Theme Park. It wasn't really that cool to be honest, but it meant an entire morning free of lessons, worksheets, and "please sit nicelys." I didn't take any photos, but trust me, it wasn't worth it. On the bright side, it made the day go by quickly, which I was thankful for.

I've mentioned before that I have had a hard time finding nutrients here in Seoul. I've found my favs and stuck with them; however, it's been quite a boring diet. Thankfully, a while back I stumbled upon a blog written by a vegan living in Seoul. It has been a god-send because I have already added a variety of new ingredients to my diet, as well as learned some new combinations for my main staples. I found (ok, find) myself addicted. The blog is bomb, and the writer seemed (is) pretty cool, too.

I decided to throw caution to the wind (subject line) and e-mail the author to see if she would like to cuss and discuss sometime over coffee. Fortunately, she didn't think I was a complete (and might I add desperate) weirdo and accepted my invitation. I met up with her today at a coffee shop and had a great time.

Furthermore, we were right across the way from a little grocery mart where I came upon some hard-to-find good such as Sri-Racha, curry powder, Stevia, vegan curry sauce and some canned olives. I was pu-humped!!! They ended up being pretty expensive, but I don't mind splurging on food. Next on my list is finding a good pair of running shoes....things will start feeling like home after that.

Daehamingo!!

Man, my blogging skills are disreputable! Two posts during the almost five months I've been abroad. I wish I could say a lot has been happening; however, the truth is...I've just been lazy. Not necessarily lazy in living, but lazy in blogging. Korea is pretty awesome, but it's also pretty exhausting. As a result, I rarely have the desire or brain power to document my life here. I'm starting to feel a bit guilty; hence the post.

I think I'm finally settling in. Meeting some cool people, seeing really awesome things, adapting to a totally different culture. I've been picking up a bit of Korean thanks to yoga classes, my students and my Korean friends. I can confidently order my favorite Korean dishes and tell the cab driver left or right. Oh, and I've mastered the phrase "Eat Well!" I've got the polite phrases down, too. However, I'm a little iffy on the phrase, "I'm sorry." I usually end up telling people to eat well instead. My face turns red a lot.

I've moved into a new apartment. It's actually quite the pad. Alas, I am unable to use the term floral abode as the walls are simply white. I do have a hot pink comforter though. It made the transition a bit easier.

The job is going pretty well. (I'll tell you the truth when I am through with my contract.) My students are amazing and the parents are pretty great, too. A sweet story: I've had a hard time adjusting to the change in diet. Being a vegetarian and out of my element -- and utterly exhausted at the end of the day -- I've basically stuck to a routine of tofu, tomatoes, soy milk, bread and a few other vegetables. My stomach has really been my enemy lately. Add to the equation my love for the super spicy authentic cuisine of Korea and you've got one tumultuous tummy. Today, Grace's mother brought me a homemade oriental healing tea that is said to heal stomach conditions. She was genuinely concerned and it felt nice...you don't get that too often here. I was sick on Monday and missed the morning half of school. I saw my principal today... she growled at me and said something in Korean that I think translated to: "Buck up weak sauce." Needless to say, the gift from Grace's mother was really appreciated.

Summer vacation is just around the corner and I couldn't be more thrilled. I'm heading to Japan for a solid nine days and am really looking forward to seeing what John has been up to for the past 11 months. I don't think nine days will suffice, but I'll take what I can get. It will be nice to get out of Korea for a short time. It's currently so hot that I should probably shower twice a day -- add yoga to the mix and it should be four. It's also monsoon season. I was walking to work the other day and the rain busted through my somewhat sturdy umbrella. Although, I like the rain. It's perfect weather for writing, reading, eating dukbokki -- one of the most delicious, spiciest, chewiest foods in Korea -- and listening to good music. Now, if I only had Marley.

Dukbokki anyone?




Scrumptious minus the fish cakes. It singes your taste buds.

Curves and Roses

Hi Mom~(I'm just going to begin each posting with this greeting as I have a feeling that she/you will be my most devout reader.)

Welcome...it's been almost three months since I first stepped foot in this foreign city. It actually amazes me to write that. It's been a whirlwind of a time. I should have started this blog when I first got here seeing how I have much to share; however, I've never been a fan of shoulding on myself. I'll give it to you in small doses mainly because it's almost midnight here and I don't feel like writing a ton. Let’s start with the basics:

My Dwelling

I live in a quaint one-bedroom apartment about 5 minutes from the school. It’s swell for a couple of reasons:

a) I can wake up between 8:50 and 9:02 and still make it to school by 9:27….9:35 if I get coffee. Not an ideal way to start the workday; yet, I do it for the kids, you know? Those extra minutes in the morning are the difference between “I love you, Lindsey Teacher” and “Lindsey Teacher, you crazy today.” I prefer the former statement.

b) I’m surrounded by nature. Every night I fall asleep under a canopy of roses. Pink ones. When I greet friends at my place I get to say cool things like, “Welcome to my floral abode.” It’s awesome!

My Job

I work at a hagwon, which is Korean for cash money millions…I mean private English Institution. I teach kindergarten and elementary Monday through Friday from 9:30 to forever. It’s quite a workload, but aren't all teaching jobs? My school is awesome for one reason:

a) My students. I teach an amazing group of seven year olds (which is around five years in America) more commonly referred to as The Grapes. They amaze me everyday with how smart and dedicated they are to their studies. I will go ahead and dedicate an entire post to these little kiddos. I love them and not just because they spoiled me rotten on Teachers’ Day and delight in the fact that I have curves.

One anecdote before I begin to wrap up. I’ll preface it by saying that most of the women in Korea are crazy thin (either that or they know how to work the color black to their advantage.) I don’t know that many of my kids have seen curves before….or boobs. Upon arriving in class one morning, a student exclaimed: “Oh! Lindsey Teacher we are so happy! You happy?” I cheesily replied, “Of course I’m happy! I get to spend my day with you guys!” They burst out in (evil) laughter: “Hahahahha! No! Happy because Lindsey Teacher you have baby!” They thought I was with child. Super. After explaining that I was in fact NOT expecting, a rather curious specimen of a child named Ben reached up, grabbed my chest and said: “Then what are these?!” It was both humiliating and sidesplitting at the same time.

Here is a picture of the perpetrator:

Everything else is going pretty well. I’m getting out and seeing some great things. I joined a hot yoga gym. I have had the pleasure of seeing this handsome beast named John Hildebrand twice now (and am looking forward to the next encounter.) I eat great food. I miss home quite a bit….especially my main man Marley. I’m planning a trip to Japan in August. I’m meeting some great people and really missing some others (Hannah Colclazier.) South Korea has been quite a treat thus far. OH! Except when you hear unidentified war sirens (which are very scary and surreal might I add) and see military men with guns posted at every street corner. I’ll save that story for next time.

Toodles and Poodles,

Linds

*Bear with me. I'll get better at blogging.