tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77928412011-10-31T12:31:28.232+09:00A Year in the Motherlandannaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.comBlogger3701100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-81373068464566771532011-06-25T22:43:00.008+09:002011-06-25T23:15:20.642+09:00

One of things I enjoy doing when visiting a foreign country is wandering around a local grocery store. For one thing, you can find better deals on local favorites. Secondly, it offers a unique glimpse at the local culture. I'm always dragging visiting friends and family to the nearest Lotte or Emart in Seoul. Not everyone's always as gleeful about the free samples, the buy 1 get 1 free deals, or

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-66567995027604599662011-05-09T20:52:00.003+09:002011-05-09T21:34:33.674+09:00

In honor of her Korean wedding, we took our dear friend Seong for Afternoon Tea at the Park Hyatt in Samseong-dong. The tea set is a great merging of Eastern and Western tradition.Though not as delectable as they appear, the sweets, rice cakes and cookies, Korean in flavor, were lovely to nibble on as we sipped our tea and enjoyed the view of...Kangnam. (The Park Hyatt Lounge offers a great view

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-25129562343478858322011-04-24T21:18:00.017+09:002011-04-24T23:15:58.986+09:00

BB cream has proven that it's not just a makeup trend. It's become a makeup staple (at least in certain parts of East Asia). Even my mom asked my to send her some BB cream. The number of BB creams out on the market is a bit overwhelming.Despite the plethora of options, I've continued to use the same BB cream, Dr. Jart's "Black Label Blemish Base" for the past two years. (It's very close to my

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-81322526924828832132011-04-19T00:44:00.004+09:002011-04-19T01:00:14.896+09:00

The "Gangnam Underground Shopping Center" at 고속터미널 will be closed for a year starting next month (May 2011) while the shopping area undergoes renovation. This means that you only have a couple of weeks left to stock up on man-won dresses and flats that will last you one summer in Seoul. The spring's fashion trend seems to be ultra-feminine, so if you're into such things, you'll want to check out

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-69424593279332783662011-04-08T21:23:00.004+09:002011-04-08T21:59:10.333+09:00

Cousin N. took Cyndi and I to a great little pizza place in 가희동.대장장이화덕피자서울특별시 종로구 가회동 62-102-765-4298 ‎It seems like it's difficult to walk in and get a table during peak hours, so you'll want to make a reservation. It's closed on the last Tuesday of the month.We had the Rucola Pizza and the calzone. Both were delicious. A pizza is around 14,000-16,000 won, which, in my opinion, is perfectly

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-80375959904518246062011-03-20T21:34:00.003+09:002011-03-20T21:55:12.303+09:00

There's a new fashion franchise in Myeongdong called Spicy Color. The two Myeondong shops are basically around the corner from each other (near A-Land). I think it's being branded as an "Urban Lifestyle" store in the vein of "Urban Outfitters". It's also got a Japanese pop flair to it, so everything is ultra colorful. I decided to blog about it because it's been awhile since I've seen anything

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-51346643980459044442011-03-08T20:29:00.003+09:002011-03-08T20:44:07.813+09:00

I've been such a devout Googler that I've missed out on how cool Yahoo! Korea is. Yahoo! Korea, in collaboration with Yes24.com, features a section called 영어동화, a collection of animated videos of Korean folktales, contemporary Korean children's lit (translated into English!), and Korean adaptations of classic folk/fairy tales. Similar to most audio books made in Korea, the voices can get a bit

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-60996382094406781472011-03-05T23:29:00.004+09:002011-03-06T00:18:28.004+09:00

For the second year in a row, I tried to teach my newly minted second graders at The Elementary School to refer to me as "Ms. Annalog" instead of "Annalog Teacher." I know that the title of "Teacher" in Korean holds much respect, but the use of this honorific in English is a great detractor from one's level of English, no matter how advanced the speaker might be. Even if you have the

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-75961306200865601772011-02-28T21:41:00.018+09:002011-02-28T23:41:38.952+09:00

Cyndi and I met up with Heng this weekend and she took us to the "Trick Eye" Trompeloeil Museum in Hongdae (nearish Exit 9). It was a shame that I was dressed like a granny and hadn't brushed my hair because we took tons of photos! The Tromepleil Museum features paintings using trompe l'oeil, a technique in which 2D art is made to look 3D.Optical illusions + Photo Op = a yupgi girl's dream come

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-57972362400034132882010-11-17T17:12:00.020+09:002011-03-01T00:01:32.440+09:00

I've been meaning to post about so many things for the past...year.Topics include:- recent trip to Hong Kong- the baker's market- how Seoul was eerily clean and polite thanks to the G20- Evaluations of late night food trucks in Itaewon- Halloween- getting a card for the public library- Paju Book City- the freaky butterfly museum that has haunted me for months- ranting and raving about the bipolar

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-55777781693201525492010-10-26T15:39:00.002+09:002010-10-26T16:10:37.220+09:00

My sister just sent me to a link to music video posted on Jonny Ali's blog. If this will.i.ma ft. Nikki Minaj video has anything to say about it, Hangul's burgeoning on global cool. We'll know that Hangul's become a full fledged trend when we see some random Korean phrases tattooed on the beefy arm of some drunken frat boy.I like the fact that Korean in the mv matches up with the lyrics.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-50066465426989073372010-09-28T14:03:00.010+09:002011-04-24T16:11:49.270+09:00

I am taking the GRE in October. I was already irritated by the fact that graduate programs even require such hogwash, but the whole registration process has got me resenting the whole ETS institution. I spit on you, ETS!* May you be afflicted with the itch, and have no nails to scratch with.**I'm ever so grateful that I can take the GRE in Seoul, but can I just ask, how do all those ESL GRE

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-42837136546217297922010-08-05T11:40:00.004+09:002010-08-05T11:53:08.276+09:00

I can't tell if this guy is being ironic. In any case, I learned some new Korean words. My mom will be proud. Found this link via kottke.org

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-46300191789191959222010-02-23T14:37:00.005+09:002010-02-23T14:58:53.256+09:00

My family has told me that not too long ago Kangnam was nothing but farmland. Having worked in Daechi-dong for a while, it was hard for me to imagine Kangnam pre-hagwons and Pascucci. Today Cousin N showed me some photos featured on Yahoo Korea -- photos of Kangnam in the early eighties. Wo! If you had me guess the date of the photos, I would have guessed that they were taken fifty years ago.Now

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-30830841781671881792010-02-02T20:29:00.015+09:002010-02-07T12:35:25.592+09:00

I meant to post at least once a week, but I got caught up in all sorts of projects, particularly a podcast for preschoolers. (Aren't you curious?)I'm so happy to finally have a chance to share my pho findings.After a number of disappointing visits to various Pho chains around Seoul (Thanks for nothing, Pho Hoa!), I had pretty much given up all hope of finding anything close to the pho I had

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-52898724450671906142010-01-06T10:30:00.007+09:002010-01-08T17:44:11.329+09:00

Elle Magazine puts out a publication called Elle à Seoul that profiles trends, eateries, and shopping destinations throughout Seoul. It's one of those magazines that I would never pay money for, but can't wait to read for free at a cafe or salon. I love looking at all the glossy photos of pretty things and pretty places. This month's issue has a feature on two of my favorite things: Dessert Cafes

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-5981567973980641902010-01-04T18:04:00.007+09:002010-01-04T19:04:57.374+09:00

I woke up this morning to see a massive blanket of snow across the whole 'hood. Apart from Tahoe, I've never seen so much snow in my life! It snowed a few times last winter, but I don't recall ever seeing this much snow in Seoul. Needless to say, I'm pretty excited.Cyndi has a sore throat, so we decided to trek to the pharmacy. Very prudent, I know. The Iditarod dogs weren't available, so we had

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-78385711347531264622010-01-02T11:04:00.002+09:002010-01-02T11:07:25.239+09:00

What the what? It's 2010! Where did the year ago? I'm currently blogging from the eye doctor's office. That's right. I'm finally getting the Lasik surgery. I chickened out last year, but now I'm ready. The next time I blog, I shall have 20/20 vision, or so they tell me. See you later.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-14502635873275347722009-12-29T12:01:00.002+09:002009-12-29T12:32:50.031+09:00

United State of Pop 2009 (Blame It on the Pop)

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-51785400161602946212009-12-16T16:30:00.002+09:002009-12-16T16:32:40.563+09:00

I promise. I'll be back to blogging soonish. My term at the Elementary School is winding down, so I will have more time to dedicate to unpaid work. In the mean time, check out my opening act: The Chipettes

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-28427367217959438402009-09-21T14:38:00.002+09:002009-09-21T14:50:24.334+09:00

I was at Tom N Tom's today, perusing Asiana's in-flight magazine, and learned that a small Indonesia tribe in the city of Bau-Bau (Bauer-Bauer) have adopted hangul as their written alphabet. Though the tribe has their own oral language called Cia-Cia, they have not been successful in maintaing an official system of writing. The Yonhap News Agency has more on this news story. Though I still have

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-63672428569679707452009-09-13T17:53:00.004+09:002009-09-13T18:07:06.749+09:00

My cousin VP likes to take an occasional gander through the work 'n' play forums, and somehow she always manages to find jems like this posting:hello, i'm a goose father who sent my family to chicago 3 yrs ago. so i live alone in mok-dong.(we call it 'goose father' hahaha) i'll get a green card in the near future, and then i'm going to fly to chicago. i wanna speak english more fluently before i

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-68546593244726199282009-09-10T11:03:00.006+09:002009-09-10T12:57:35.227+09:00

I've been meaning to blog about Nonghyup's Hanaro Club for some time now because I've never seen a mart quite like it. Resembling a large warehouse, the Hanaro Club in Yangjae-dong is sometimes described as the "Korean Costco." Membership is not required, nor do you have to buy in bulk, but Hanaro Club does sort of have a warehouse feel to it. It's like the food section of E-mart, only five times

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-62847917192957945012009-09-06T18:09:00.009+09:002009-09-08T17:05:09.607+09:00

With H1N1 running rampant throughout Seoul, I decided that there was no better way to challenge my now 27-year-old immune system than a trip to a Korean water park.Thanks to Summer's foresight and Cyndi's hotness, we were able to wrangle a ride from our ultra-friendly real estate agent. Thank goodness we got a ride, because Caribbean's a bit of a drive. Part of the expansive Everland theme park,

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-1803864642496361762009-08-28T12:07:00.004+09:002009-08-28T12:31:25.875+09:00

We prepared a feast in celebration of my birthday last weekend. Unofficially, the theme was "Dishes from the Fifties." Officially, the theme was "Dishes That Are Bad for Anna's chejil." So what if I'll have indigestion and clogged pores the next morning. It's my birthday, and I'll eat cheese if I want to!Special thanks to Cyndi and Seong for helping with all the food and to Cousin VP for

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-52384480290073567032009-08-19T09:42:00.005+09:002009-08-19T11:34:59.060+09:00

Seong and I have spent the past two weeks helping seniors with their college application essays. I know that we're both getting paid for our services, but sometimes I feel like I'm doing volunteer work. Both Seong and I are committed to maintaining some standard of integrity: We might prompt a kid with essay topics or offer them some generous assistance with their grammar and syntax, but we truly

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-47346430986139837442009-08-06T09:27:00.002+09:002009-08-06T10:00:48.725+09:00

I like the Ssamzie Insadong Market in Insadong. It's always full of quirky little surprises. On our most recent trip, we came across a delightful little cart at the front of the market boldly selling 똥빵, poo-shaped bread filled with a sweet bean paste.As far as sweet red bean buns, the ddong bread isn't anything to write home about. But, let's be real. Who buys ddong-bang for the taste.? You're

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-75064635048653193482009-08-05T08:26:00.002+09:002009-08-05T08:31:36.413+09:00

This song has grown on me. Despite the seemingly random string of English words (or maybe because of) I think I'm going make this my new song for the norae-bangs.Lala. Lala. Lala.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-11812508061515644772009-07-30T09:07:00.007+09:002009-07-31T17:48:40.219+09:00

My dongsaeng, Doogal and her NP were looking to get a couple's portrait while they were visiting in Seoul last month. While strolling through Insadong we stumbled upon the Hwang Jiny Photo Cafe. I'm not sure why it's called a cafe when they don't serve coffee, but it turned out to be a great a place to dress up in Korean costume and get your photo on.Photo packages vary in price, but my sister

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-84375840934935726772009-07-17T09:37:00.003+09:002009-07-17T10:23:44.730+09:00

Cyndi and Cousin VP are teaching English at a small private school in Seoul. They've both raved about the school lunch, so I've been dying to join them for lunch. I finally got a chance to join them for lunch a couple of weeks.Can I just say that I love Korean cafeteria food? I love those little metal trays and the little compartmentalized portions. (I guess this is just further proof that I have

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-76889093394958223712009-07-17T09:06:00.003+09:002009-07-17T09:21:13.388+09:00

My sister sent me a link to a recent commercial for the "Starburst Contradictions" Campaign. All I can say in response is, "D'oh!" The ad features a young Scottish-Korean man, which apparently, like the new solid, yet juicy Starbursts, is a "contradiction." Scottish-Korean makes for an interesting combo, but I wouldn't say it's a "contradiction." Do the Scottish and Korean have a deep history

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-20192129846756680582009-07-09T10:17:00.003+09:002009-07-09T10:51:29.383+09:00

My cousin, VP told me about this recent public service announcement produced by Kobaco. Essentially, the PSA encourages "Korea" to be warmer and more thoughtful -- to be "KoreaN." I'm guessing that the 'n' in KoreaN stands for "New Korea."This PSA is pretty awesome. It captures a number of my gripes about living in Seoul. It's especially heartening to see that the video was produced by a Korean

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-69959945881085761422009-06-18T08:27:00.008+09:002009-07-17T09:23:15.874+09:00

I just got back from a quick trip to Seattle, where I attended my sister's college graduation. (Congrats, Doogal!) That was my second trip to and from the Homeland, over a span of two months. Of course, I had the great fortune to travel during the HINI pandemonium, I mean, pandemic.Anyone who's arrived in Seoul by way of some swine-flu infested nation will know that shortly after your arrival,

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-26806804341070094162009-06-03T18:18:00.010+09:002011-02-28T23:50:44.016+09:00

I don't know if you're tired of hearing about my chejil, but I swear, it's kind of taken over my life.So, y'all are probably wondering, what is this chejil (체질)? Here's what I've learned through my Cousin N, our hanuisa, and some cursory searches through Google. For a long while, according to findings in Oriental Medicine, humans were classified as one of four body "constitutions" or chejil.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-81852854786422167032009-05-28T10:53:00.007+09:002009-06-01T18:22:43.892+09:00

Seong, Cyndi, and I went back to see the hanuisa (Doctor of Oriental Medicine), and after a final screening, the doctor identified our respective 체질 (chejil).I'm going to have to dedicate another post on this whole chejil concept, but here's the gist of it: all humans maybe be classified as one of eight body types. According to this holistic approach to medicine, one's physical constitution, and

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-38420098025023910592009-05-25T23:47:00.001+09:002009-05-25T23:49:25.431+09:00

I had no idea that Lady GaGa could sing. I thought she was just about hair and spandex.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-91560705079970485932009-05-22T10:36:00.003+09:002009-05-22T10:48:48.679+09:00

Just when I was getting tired of Super Junior's "Sorry, Sorry", Allkpop posted a few videos of Navi, a Korean pop ballad singer, covering the popular single as well as another personal favorite, 2PM's "Again & Again." Navi puts a nice jazzy spin on the two "hook norae."Here she is on Kiss the Radio, performing a medley of recent megahits, including "Gee" and "Nobody."

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-90092213539817797012009-05-19T07:56:00.004+09:002009-05-19T12:16:54.857+09:00

Last year I predicted that Roti Bun was going to be a huge hit. Lo and behold, roti buns are almost as ubiquitous as coffee in Seoul. Despite being featured in KBS' megahit, Boys Over Flowers, I think the popularity of roti buns are on the decline (Sorry, roti buns. Korea is a fickle, fickle market.) Move over roti buns. Here are my picks for the next big trend items.1. Turkish döner

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-28103188109272725642009-05-16T21:21:00.001+09:002009-05-16T21:23:34.409+09:00

And, I got an announsa-style hair cut.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-80872662458206795092009-05-16T20:15:00.009+09:002009-05-16T21:28:02.730+09:00

Cousin N told us about this great 한의사 (hanuisa), Doctor of Oriental Medicine, she saw at 새시대 한의원의 in Sinsa-dong (Kangnam). Basically, the doctor is able to determine what sort of diet is best for your body type and personality. I don't know very much about oriental medicine, but when I heard that Cousin N was instructed by the doctor to restrict her diet to meat, carbs, and root vegetables (all

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-74027903158532919612009-05-13T10:49:00.003+09:002009-05-13T11:43:56.879+09:00

The Seoul International Book Fair is this weekend at the COEX, May 13 - 17.This is my first time hearing about SIBF, but from the looks of the website both international and domestic books will be featured. The "guest of honor" for this year's fair is Japan. That should be interesting. I am particularly interested in checking out the Children's Literature section.The Book Fair opens today, but

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-14928237480993941082009-05-11T10:17:00.003+09:002009-05-11T10:37:14.923+09:00

Happy Mother's Day to my Umma and Emo! 어머니께 (To My Mother) - G.O.D."Mama" - Bobby KimLyricsMaMa 아직도 기억해요 어릴적 당신의 품을MaMa 어느새 훌쩍 자라서 어른이 되었지만난 언제나 당신의 무릎이 필요한 작은 아이일 뿐이죠어디로 가야 하는지 몰라 길 헤매다 문득 뒤를 돌아보면 그곳엔언제나 당신이 웃고 있었죠 내 그림자를 안고서MaMa 이제 알 것 같아요 얼마나 힘들었나요MaMa 힘들고 지쳐 쓰러져 울고 싶었을 텐데난 한번도 엄마의 눈물을 본 적 없죠 미안해요 고마워요이제는 내가 기다릴게요 비가 오면 우산 들고 내가 서있을게요당신이 내게 했던 것 처럼 내가 안아 줄게요하늘에 뜨거운 저 태양도 밤하늘에 수많은 저 별들도당신 앞에선

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-24194339858068317812009-05-05T22:31:00.004+09:002009-05-05T22:42:54.921+09:00

My cousin VP was looking through the Work 'n' Play forums and came across this great posting under Networking Abroad > Make Friends and Meet People. The post, entitled, "my korean bf recently broke up with me" was topped by a modest sel-ca photo, followed by this caption:my korean bf recently broke up with me for a thinner korean girl. i'm tired of korean men. i want to date a white man.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-82088886140893896452009-05-03T20:08:00.003+09:002009-05-03T20:18:08.299+09:00

I'm back in the Motherland...When I left for the Homeland, Super Junior had just released their new single "Sorry Sorry" and I had passed it off as gimmicky and uninteresting (Especially because I thought the lyrics were "Sorry. Sorry. Lick 'em. Lick 'em.")I'm not sure what happened to me during the one month I was gone, but now that I'm back in the Motherland, I'm totally into this song. I KNOW.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-79350987369766639792009-04-24T10:20:00.002+09:002009-04-24T10:26:34.501+09:00

Ever since I arrived in the Homeland, I've been wanting to try one of Jack in the Box's new mini sirloin burgers. If you've seen the poster or commercial, you'll know that they are super adorable. I had intended to eat some mini burgers, but ended up getting distracted by In N Out Burger.Yesterday, I went to Jack in the Box and got a mini burger for FREE. Apparently, for a limited time only, you

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-46310206872791866742009-04-21T20:16:00.005+09:002009-04-21T20:51:22.343+09:00

When my friends told me that they were staying for 10 days, I was a little worried. I'm already a terrible tour guide to begin with, but how I was I to fill up 10 days? It turns out that there's a lot to do between San Francisco and San Jose, and I'm not just talking about shopping at Target or The Great Mall. In addition to jaunts around San Francisco, Sausalito, and Santa Cruz, we checked out

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-16538475369358040482009-04-16T02:58:00.003+09:002009-04-16T03:18:10.002+09:00

Just before I left the Motherland, my cousin VP got me hooked on SBS' Gold Miss, a Sunday night variety program, featuring six Korean celebrity bachelorettes on the quest for love. "Gold miss" is a Korean Engrish play on "old miss" or what some knuckleheads would term as a "spinster."Next week's episode features Hugh Jackman and Daniel Henney. (I know. Hotness!) In order to determine which of the

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-50156534171765686102009-04-15T17:07:00.004+09:002009-04-15T17:15:47.964+09:00

Hello, Internet! I know that it's been awhile... but I'm still on vacation in the Homeland. My high school friends from the Island flew out to Cali for a bit of a mini-reunion. Despite me being a terrible tour guide, we still managed to have a lot of fun.I'm working on compiling a video of all our adventures, but here a few polaroids for you to gawk at it. Aren't my friends cute? :)

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-13840467915546316332009-04-03T06:47:00.004+09:002009-08-19T11:46:05.515+09:00

You've probably seen the Thriller remake by the inmates at CPDRC, a prison in the Philippines, but did you know that they also performed "Nobody" by the Wonder Girls? I'm all for prisons encouraging productive behavior, but I don't think prison should be this fun.I can just imagine the warden's face at the end-of-year budget meeting: "We spent how much on polka dot dresses and knee-highs!?!"

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-40565838299343780112009-03-25T18:08:00.013+09:002009-03-26T13:38:52.476+09:00

I've been busy trying to work on all my curriculum R&D before I leave for Cali in APRIL!!!! (I'll be there for a month). I should be making discussion questions, but I've decided to take a break and do my weekly post.So, I've decided to post My Favorites Things List ala Oprah Winfrey, except I'm not giving away any free cars or anything. Okay, okay. How about an mp3? (See the end of the post)

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-22495177069683993952009-03-18T20:52:00.005+09:002009-03-18T21:26:12.103+09:00

I know. I know. It's been a long while.I've been working a lot. Essentially working Mon - Sun for the coolest little hagwon in Seoul. It's a project of love (I know. Sounds mind boggling, but it's true). I haven't be going about town as much as I used to, and when I do, I don't feel like taking out my camera. Basically, what I'm trying to say is, this blog will continue to be a little boring, but

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-14434246606095218412009-02-23T09:37:00.009+09:002009-02-23T11:05:29.430+09:00

If you're like me and enjoy looking at pictures of fashionable people that are not models, you might want to pick up the March issue of Vogue Girl Korea. This month's issue comes with a special compilation of street fashion featuring the photos of Jak & Jill.I usually save Korean fashion magazines for when I'm getting my hair done, but I do occasionally pick up Vogue Girl for their features on

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-68782974998698230762009-02-18T10:09:00.002+09:002009-02-18T10:25:31.311+09:00

I went to E-mart last week and was surprised to find that American beef had finally hit the chain stores.I don't know if you can see the sticker at the top left corner of the package, but the slogan reads, "It's better."Come on now, American beef industry.You had folks in Korea demonstrating for nearly a year over the importation of American beef (amongst other things), and your reply to Korean

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-44840395943262396792009-02-15T21:31:00.002+09:002009-02-15T21:40:56.605+09:00

불면증 - 다이내믹 듀오 (ft.바비킴)"Insomnia" - Dynamic Duo (ft. Bobby Kim)Most Korean music videos fall under one of these categories:- Justin Timberlake Rehashed- Hearts + Lollipops + Mini Skirts- Rainy & Melodramatic- Photo Slideshow- BLING BLING BLINGAs much as I love Korean MVs, they can be a little predictable. Recently, however, I came across the MV for 불면증 by 다이내믹 듀오 (ft.바비킴). I was taken with the

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-53173352031213668722009-02-09T21:44:00.004+09:002009-02-09T21:49:24.387+09:00

I met up with Heng a couple of weekends ago. She took me to a cafe in Sangsu (Hongdae-ish area) where we had coffee and choco-banana muffins from the back of an old Volkswagen van.I love kitschy Korean cafes. This muffin was so darn good.The barista works from inside the van.Heng is so pro at posing. I need to learn from her.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-90432594159093787312009-02-04T09:54:00.002+09:002009-02-04T10:15:51.513+09:00

I've been to Samcheong-dong a few times, but have mostly stuck to the main street. I didn't realize there was anything to look at along the side streets until my cousin took me to Hwa-dong, a small neighborhood just off of Hwagae-Gil (화개길), towards the palace-end.Turn right at the police station and you'll find a narrow street crammed with adorable cafes and over-priced boutiques. My cousin N.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-64714480443402187482009-02-01T12:45:00.004+09:002009-02-01T13:26:36.215+09:00

I don't know how I managed to live over a year in Seoul and not know that there's a mall at Yongsan. I've been to Yongsan Station a couple of times, but never noticed the huge "multiplex" building RIGHT NEXT DOOR! You'd think I'd notice such a thing.I went to the iPark Mall for the first time during the lunar new year weekend with my gyopo relatives. We only went to the theater, but it appears to

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-21978637393658708632009-01-29T10:36:00.003+09:002009-01-29T11:25:23.824+09:00

I'm both flattered and a little baffled to learn that this here blog was nominated for a 2008 Golden Klog Award over at the Hub of Sparkle. Seeing as my last post was about pajamas, I feel a little sheepish mentioning that I've been nominated for the Best Personal/Diary Blog category.I know that 2009 postings have been quite weak, but if you enjoyed reading my ramblings from 2008, then you may

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-56699100722212000082009-01-21T19:32:00.003+09:002009-01-21T19:46:48.490+09:00

Okay, that's a bit of an overstatement, but I don't think I could survive this winter without the thermal sleep wear from UNIQLO. Trust me, I usually sleep with three blankets. Winter may almost be over, but these fleecey jammies of magic and warmth are definitely worth buying -- especially now, since they're on sale for 19,000 won (regular price, 29,000). I'm not sure how long the sale will last

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-83815051237126973772009-01-21T11:47:00.004+09:002009-01-21T11:52:22.983+09:00

Besides an ivy league degree?Here's a response from one of my third grade students (a non-farting one). I had meant, what does it mean for a person to be smart, but he interpreted the question as "How does one become smart?" His response basically sums up most Korean moms' approach to learning...What Makes a Person Smart.Written by a Third Grader A person becomes smart if he or she practices the

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-46911755588326548132009-01-21T11:22:00.003+09:002009-01-21T11:46:36.135+09:00

This month, I'm teaching students from grades 3 to 8. I feel sort of like a schoolmarm from the prairie days. Because most of our students attend international schools, we're able to run our classes in a more western style. We're less grade or test score oriented, and more about helping students become thoughtful readers and articulate writers, as well as making learning fun. Lofty goals, I know,

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-65040459681909981752009-01-17T21:53:00.005+09:002009-01-17T22:15:05.293+09:00

This past week has been near frigid, but thanks to some recent snowfall, temperatures have become more bearable.Even though it usually results in icy sidewalks and an increase in traffic, an occasional snowfall is still pretty exciting to see. I don't even mind having to bundle up. I especially enjoy having a reason to wear my unattractive yellow snow boots.Check me out. Here I am bundled up in

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-48089963105280667522009-01-11T14:37:00.002+09:002009-01-11T14:42:19.248+09:00

I've seen a lot of cute puppy footage on youtube, but this has got to be the cutest puppy I've seen. As my sister commented when she sent me the link, "I would kill for this puppy."Somebody needs to get this dog its own segment on 동물농장 (Animal Farm), or at the very least, a spot on Star King.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-36058860807644159102009-01-07T20:21:00.007+09:002009-01-07T21:35:49.889+09:00

img srcLast year (just a couple of weeks ago) I attended "Sweet December" a joint concert between ballad singers Park Jung Hyun and Alex. Though I am a fan of both singers, I hadn't intended to go to the concert, especially since we were in the midst of winter intensive classes. But then, my cousin N's close friend and incidentally, mother of one of my students, Mrs. K. graciously invited me to

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-27189014823354226892009-01-05T21:40:00.006+09:002009-01-05T21:58:08.168+09:00

Please excuse all the forthcoming youtube links. Once a month I spend a number of hours surfing youtube, jumping from one "related video" to the next. Tonight was one of those nights.In case you're interested in k-pop (particularly hip hop) you might want to check out The Asian Mission.According to his or her youtube profile:"[The Asian Mission] is not Korean, I'm white American living in Korea,

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-54737923947221201132009-01-05T20:56:00.005+09:002009-01-07T15:58:45.096+09:00

Just when you thought "Nobody" was starting to grow on you...Girl's Generation 소녀시대 just released their new digital single "Gee."I'm calling it now. This song is going to be everywhere. It's inevitable. You'll hear it blasting from the ABC Mart. You'll hear it tinkling from some middle schooler's new LG Ice Cream 2 phone. You'll hear it on some Dunkin Donuts commercial. You may as well embrace

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-29482115614154319682009-01-01T09:55:00.002+09:002009-01-01T10:22:56.132+09:00

I had to work on New Year's eve and am working on New Year's Day. That's right, everyone. Please feel sorry for me. Just kidding. New Year's Eve was quite low key. After work, I went to my cousin N's house to ring in the New Year. I don't have much to report today, but you'll have to stay tune in for next time, when I'll write about the Alex/Lena Park concert and how I got to meet Alex.I hope

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-72429641688793384892008-12-30T09:59:00.006+09:002008-12-30T10:51:39.767+09:00

Usually Christmas decorations are swept away as soon as the 26th hits, but Christmas still lingers in Seoul - trees, carols, Christmas themed merchandise -- they're all still around. Even though Christmas in the Motherland doesn't feel quite the same, I'm glad to see reminders of Christmas around town.Even the buses are still celebrating Christmas. This weekend, Seong and I managed to catch one

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-31854507584971891292008-12-25T10:46:00.003+09:002008-12-25T10:48:58.539+09:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-1425045831018382552008-12-23T09:00:00.002+09:002008-12-23T09:18:39.337+09:00

Every morning I walk up to this hill to get to The Hagwon. Despite the fact that it's so darn cold that my ears are blushing, I always trudge into the building sweaty and slightly out of breath.Though the hill makes my morning walk more rigorous, the incline is not the problem. It's the slanted sidewalks. I'm not sure if you can tell from this picture, but the sidewalk slopes to the left, so that

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-62475020665282565612008-12-19T21:58:00.003+09:002008-12-19T21:58:59.413+09:00

Is it just me, or does just about everything sound better with a British accent?

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-45733960634154489192008-12-18T10:28:00.006+09:002008-12-18T19:10:26.314+09:00

I met up with Heng this weekend in her new neighborhood, just around the corner from Hongdae. It's been a while since I've trekked over to the Hongdae area. I had almost forgotten how cool it is. I'm especially drawn to all the quirky little cafes, which is strange, because I'm not big on coffee.After sharing a bowl of super-sized ramen, Heng and I went to check out the new (at least new to me)

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-22890196310961962332008-12-16T09:11:00.006+09:002008-12-17T09:27:17.035+09:00

My cousin N. and her husband, Mr. T are always going to exciting events around Seoul. For instance, last week, she went to a charity dinner where she met Alex from Clazziquai, and told the singer that her cousin (that's me!) is a big fan. Whenever she has the opportunity, N & Mr. T invite me, along with the other teachers at The Hagwon, to join them. It's fun to take N up on one of her invites

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-35360637032312265532008-12-12T09:04:00.002+09:002008-12-12T09:14:32.429+09:00

When I first returned to Korea, my cousin mentioned that Pizza Hut was changing its name to Pasta Hut. I thought she was joking until I saw a Pasta Hut commercial on the terebi. Then, while passing through Hongdae, I spotted an actual Pasta Hut.It turns out that Pizza Hut is "re-branding" three of its 330 stores in Korea as "Pasta Hut", in order to bring attention to the fact that Pizza Hut now

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-59609109857592785042008-12-10T09:33:00.006+09:002008-12-10T12:05:51.103+09:00

Move over dalk dori tang. I've found a new favorite Korean dish:BaconKimcheeDolsot Bibim BapI've had Dolsot Bibim Bap (Mixed rice in a stone pot) before, but never with bacon AND kimchee.I had it for the first time yesterday, and I will definitely be back for more. I wish I could tell you where the restaurant is, but it's in some basement in Hannam-dong.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-38214756802308621932008-12-08T19:51:00.009+09:002008-12-09T08:51:08.421+09:00

My last cupcake in Seoul was quite disappointing, but from what I hear, a number of cupcake places have been popping up around Seoul. One of those new cupcake bakeries is Lynn's Cupcakes in Hannam-dong, which just happens to be walking distance from The Hagwon. Sweet!Today, in honor of Seong's birthday (my hagwon BFF), we, including my lil' cousin, Emi, went to Lynn's for some celebratory

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-27152522555151503152008-12-07T09:53:00.002+09:002008-12-07T10:06:18.912+09:00

I woke up this morning, greeted by a light flurry snow. As much as I will gripe about the cold this winter, I have to say that snow is very pretty. (It's just too bad that it's so wet.)Now that I've seen a little snowfall, it truly feels like winter. In honor of winter, I'd like to share one of my favorite songs of the season.Don't laugh, but it's from a commercial.This commercial for Coke and

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-66155274578719418302008-12-06T09:24:00.002+09:002008-12-06T09:28:29.986+09:00

-12 degrees Celsius.I walked to school with wet hair (I was running late!), and I arrived with a few frozen strands of hair.

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-27181972329105191252008-12-02T13:22:00.005+09:002008-12-03T06:43:57.872+09:00

If you've been stalking my blog, then you probably discerned from my lil' ol' profile that I started blogging in July of 2004. What you may not know is that before I got all self-centered and started blogging about my inane non-adventures in and between the Motherland, I just stuck to blogging about movies.Back in the summer of 2004, I had just gotten a Blockbuster Movie Plan (I was trying to

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-37116997651984627202008-11-29T18:45:00.004+09:002008-11-29T19:17:50.255+09:00

In keeping up with my glamorous, jet-setting lifestyle, I flew to Washington on Wednesday in order to stalk Edward Cullen.Just kidding. He's probably in Alaska right now.I actually flew up to Seattle to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with my sister. I have trained my sister very well. While I slept in, she spent Thursday morning slaving over a hot stove, preparing me a turkey feast. Mmm... turkey

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-56088743599598801372008-11-24T08:37:00.002+09:002008-11-24T09:18:45.381+09:00

As announced about a week ago, Team Alexander, Prune Wonton and Cyndi, agreed to collectively lose 45 pounds by March 11, 2009. If they are successful, Team Bananna, Monkey & I, will treat them to dinner at Alexander's Steakhouse. If they fail, they must buy Team Bananna a fancy steak dinner.Team Alexander has decided to hold off on any pound-shedding efforts until after the Thanksgiving weekend,

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-69953954091357276752008-11-22T18:31:00.005+09:002008-12-01T12:31:44.199+09:00

I know that its still Thanksgiving's time to shine, but I'm ready for Christmas. After hearing that it snowed in Seoul and with all the holiday stuff out at Target, I'm ready from some holiday music.While browsing the latest holiday selections on iTunes (I know. So geeky) I came across The Hotel Cafe Presents Winter Songs, a compilation of original and classic winter tunes (Ooh. Very PC!) sung by

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-14551196751797392102008-11-22T06:53:00.013+09:002008-11-23T03:13:12.439+09:00

I went an saw the Twilight today. Oh, yes, I did. Whether you hate it, love it, or have no idea what I'm talking about, I'm sure you're wondering what's got teen fans trampling over each other at San Francisco's Stonetown Galleria.You'd think that the theater would be pretty empty at 10:45 am on a Friday morning, but there was a surprising number of people out to watch Twilight this morning. I

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-1105332932624121962008-11-18T06:32:00.004+09:002008-11-18T06:51:07.968+09:00

cant believe it (cover) - jojoThis song has been out for a couple of months, but I just discovered it, and to my surprise, am really liking. Though the original single, "Can't Believe It" by T-Pain seemed to be playing everywhere, I was not impressed. I especially like the remake because Jojo is turning the tables on T-Pain's (and Lil' Wayne's) talk about putting "shortiez" in mansions or

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-67614720092138842082008-11-15T11:15:00.002+09:002008-11-15T11:23:38.607+09:00

This links for all my peeps back at home-home.Some folks in Hawaii put together a site called Wow Grinds, where they compare the "best of" local favorites in a blind taste test, ultimately determining the best of the best.According to Wow Grinds, the best shoyu poke on Oahu may be found at JJ Seafood in Kaneohe. Yeah. There's no way anyone in my family's willing to drive to Kaneohe for some poke,

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-90122347416161417212008-11-14T05:23:00.002+09:002008-11-16T05:31:45.231+09:00

The other night our friend, Prune Wonton declared that he wanted to get his healthy on and lose some weight. Not only that, he also stated that he would lose 30 pounds by the time I returned from Korea. Oh, ho, ho...sounds like a bet.THE BETPrune Wonton and Cyndi have joined forces as Team Alexander. They resolve to lose forty-five pounds by March 11, 2009 (four months). If they are successful,

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-85851651493472503662008-11-13T04:14:00.003+09:002008-11-13T08:52:52.219+09:00

I've only used Craiglist to find apartments and sell my old furniture. I never realized that it offered so much random hilarity. You must check out The Best of Craigslist.It includes such gems as:Hideous, Mean, Saggy-titted CurINTELLIGENT, cultured, 22y/o wm seeking Asian women (pref. Nihonese)An Open Letter From Your Local Adult Store ClerkYou were being shoved into a Dallas Police car. -

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-34012903983903834832008-11-12T08:57:00.004+09:002008-11-12T09:29:42.666+09:00

Last night, Cyndi handed me a white paper bag and said, "Here. This is from [The president of my fan club]. It's for you and Piggy."Note: Obviously, Cyndi did not call her/him "President of my fan club", but since s/he's one of Cyndi's most persistent Stans I will assume that s/he reads this blog regularly for Cyndi updates, and thus, will avoid revealing any personal details.Anyway, I opened up

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-10010548790415431402008-11-09T04:46:00.002+09:002008-11-09T13:11:43.963+09:00

The trailer for Up!, Pixar's next film is out.An old curmudgeon and a chunky Asian boy scout flying the skies in a balloon-powered house? I'm so intrigued...

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-61817899068242003512008-11-08T05:21:00.003+09:002008-11-08T05:26:41.100+09:00

Discovered via Scribblings of the Metropolitican

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-37758121099020613192008-11-07T10:50:00.004+09:002008-11-08T04:41:07.848+09:00

I'm out walking Piggy, when I hear a little voice say, "Escuse me? Escuse me?"I look up and see a little moon-faced boy on a scooter. I guesstimate that he's about seven years old, but he could be an XL six-year-old.'There's a Meow over there," he says, pointing to the bushes ahead of us. "I just wanted you to know because your dog's gonna get excited and run away."Isn't that kid precious? I

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-81111221271844449902008-11-07T06:41:00.004+09:002008-11-07T10:06:08.504+09:00

The other day, I saw a friend who I have not seen for awhile, and one of the first thoughts that popped into my head was, "You've lost weight!" Thankfully, I managed to catch myself before uttering this out loud.First of all, my friend did not need to lose any weight, so for me to exclaim "You've lost weight" in a complimentary tone would be silly. Secondly, I haven't seen my dear friend in over

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-83643719249298287262008-11-06T12:22:00.004+09:002008-11-06T12:43:12.938+09:00

I submitted the following question to the Korean at the Ask a Korean blog:Dear Korean,What is the Korean news media saying about our new president-elect Barack Obama? My mom reports that according to some Korean radio program, an Obama administration would not be beneficial for South Korea. 진짜? Is that the consensus in S. Korea?AnnalogI swear he's like a Magic 8 ball on all things Korean. (Only

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-185434827385370892008-11-05T18:17:00.002+09:002008-11-05T18:20:31.559+09:00

Barack Obama is elected the 44th President of the United States of America.A Reason to Dance from Annalog on VimeoFeaturing the happy feet of Piglet E. (He's a self-taught dancer.)

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-61878736620069940272008-11-05T11:06:00.003+09:002008-11-05T11:17:31.269+09:00

I'm sure you're wondering how I remain so well-informed about the k-pop scene despite my return to the Homeland. It's all thanks to my dear friend, the Internet.The New York Times may be slacking on their coverage of Korean pop culture, but that doesn't mean you need to remain uninformed.Here are a few links for you:DramabeansPopseoulCoolsmurfSeoulbeatsSeoulbeats also offers a weekly video show

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-56979480458692089812008-11-04T08:22:00.002+09:002008-11-05T03:40:53.900+09:00

So darn clever.Discovered via Frederator Blog

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-12051575773400240182008-11-04T08:04:00.003+09:002008-11-04T08:17:02.576+09:00

You probably already know this, but tomorrow, November 4th, is kind of a big deal.Yup, it's KING TUT DAY!!!!!!You think I'm kidding, but apparently someone in the interworld is celebrating the discovery of King Tutankhamen's Tomb. [If you go to the link be sure to read about the "Origin of King Tut Day." I think a simple "I don't know" would have sufficed. Don't you think?]While you read up

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-44496616926172422952008-11-04T07:15:00.004+09:002008-11-04T07:54:36.247+09:00

Kent invited us over for some shabu shabu (hot pot) and treated us to some fresh lobster and crab. As I squeamishly watched Chef GP prepare a live crab for the hot pot, I thought back to my resolution to (make an effort to) only eat things that I could kill myself. That's when I decided to woman-up and ask Chef GP to let me prepare (slaughter) the second crab.I asked Cyndi to record the whole

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-18502362197415151822008-10-31T17:30:00.003+09:002008-10-31T17:38:27.986+09:00

Last year's Halloween was filled with all sorts of silly little shenanigans, including my first ever iMovie. Boy, have my moviemaking skills come a long way!Okay, not really. My skills with iMovie may have plateaued, but that still didn't stop me from making another Halloween movie. Oh, yes I did.I'm not going to lie. It only took us about ten minutes to film the entire thing, but I still think

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792841.post-31821585597475049432008-10-30T15:39:00.002+09:002008-10-30T15:41:05.083+09:00

Just one...Happy Birthday to Jusunnie!

annaloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11349344641362201189noreply@blogger.com2