Caution...?

It's been awhile since I've posted any pics of unusual, eye-catching signs; ironic since I see them all the time. 

Any idea what this one means...?

U.S. News

At times I wonder what U.S. headlines make it into the Korean media. Since I can't read the language, I don't bother with the papers and instead get my news online in English. Anyway, last night I was riding the subway and a particular photo caught my eye. Looks like Congressman Chris Lee is making headlines over here, too:  

Say It With...

... flowers.

I'm convinced that yet another way to segment the population is by people's preferences in flower arrangements. 

There are those who like these:

And others who prefer these:

The above pictures were taken in Gangnam Express Bus Terminal at two flower shops less than 15 feet apart from one another. 

Can you guess which camp I'm in? How about you??

Butterfinger Brekkie

Thought this post was about Nestle's candy bar? Think again!

Good news for ex-pats:  when you find yourself craving an authentic American breakfast, there's a viable option right here in Seoul. Head to Butterfinger Pancakes in Gangnam or Apgujeong for everything you'd expect -waffles, pancakes, bacon, eggs any style... Although the food is really good, I was equally impressed by the portion size -not too big, so you actually can enjoy your brekkie and not leave feeling guilty and bloated. What a brilliant way to start the day... can't wait to return.

Here's what I ordered:

 blueberry pancakes + perfectly scrambled eggs

Walking Cute

As I've mentioned before, cuteness abounds in Korea. From stationery and office supplies, to blankets and throw pillows, there's no end to the limits of cute. I've even used cute to describe various snack foods, headphones, appliances, toilet plungers... the list goes on.

So, no surprise then that my new slippers are c-u-t-e:

Younger, Smarter, Korean

Unable to sleep last night in anticipation of returning to work (what is it about that 1st day back, post-break?!), I was nervous about how I'd get through the day. Fortunately, upon walking into my morning class, all anxieties were quelled. Flattery or not, students' comments inevitably have a way of elevating my energy. My favorite:

"You're so different from my family! It's weird to be with westerners now after being with my relatives. You're friendly and outgoing. I missed you!"

Students also noticed my haircut; their remarks are particularly amusing when viewed collectively:

"I like your hair!"

"You look younger."

"You look smarter."

"You look more Korean."

Thunder Burger

 

Always on the hunt for good food -particularly western fare- I was pleased to stumble upon Thunder Burger while strolling around Garosugil last week. The place was packed, and now that I've been, I understand why:  good burgers, made to order, and reasonably priced.

My cheeseburger with grilled onions hit the spot and produced in me a feeling akin to the restaurant's motto:  I love this burger. Yes, I'll be back. Already looking forward to it.

 

Interior shots; note the couple in the 2nd photo, on a date and avidly watching their portable TV --a common sight here, yet I still find it funny.

#400

A funny thing happened this morning. As I was reading the Bible passage that corresponded with the day's lesson in my devotional study, I was blown away by how relevant the words were to my present circumstances. I even got out my highlighter to mark some key phrases. When I returned to the devotional book to read today's lesson, I realized that I'd read the wrong Scripture passage. Instead of 2 Samuel 21, I'd read chapter 22. But, of course, since God works in unique and personal ways, I'm sure I read exactly what I was supposed to read. Here's an excerpt:

In my distress I called to the Lord; I called out to my God. From His temple He heard my voice; my cry came to His ears.

You are my lamp, O Lord; the Lord turns my darkness into light. With Your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall.

-2 Samuel 22:7; 29-30

Today's posting is #400. In the span of posts from 1 to 400, there have been many exciting experiences, discoveries, and changes, as well as One constant. For Him I am eternally grateful, especially as I consider what opportunities lie ahead.

To all of you, thank you for sticking with me and for reading this very personal collection of musings. I enjoy hearing from you, so keep those comments coming. 

Happy (Lunar) New Year

The reason I've been off from work this week is because of today -the official New's Year Day (Seolnal) in the Lunar calendar. For those working off the Gregorian calendar, we are now in the Year of the Rabbit, which, incidentally, is my birth year --which means I have a big birthday approaching...

Since the rabbit is now king (adios, tiger!), there are bunnies all over the place. Here are but a few examples:

  

 

 

The days leading up to today --at least for the locals-- have been characteristically marked with busy-ness and last-minute errands. The other day I visited Shinsegae, the exclusive department store, to check out the scene. The shop was bustling with activity -people were frantically scooping up host gifts and treats to bring their loved ones. I didn't do the best job capturing the spirit, but here's what I got:

 

 

     

Garosu-gil, pt. deux

Coffee shops abound on Garosugil. There are plenty of restaurants too, but the first thing I noticed when I turned down the street coming from Sinsa station were the myriad cafes. If I were to return once a week for the remainder of my time in Seoul (how ever long that may be), I'm not sure I could visit all of them.

There are also many interesting-looking restaurants sprinkled throughout the neighborhood. When I'm more flush with cash, I'll have to come back.

 

 

 

Garosu-gil

Garosu-gil has a reputation around here for being a bit like Paris with its tree-lined streets and endless cafes. Since I've been daydreaming a lot about Paris lately, I decided that it was time to visit Sinsadong to check out the famed rue. Although I didn't allow for much time there, the excursion was indeed worthwhile. With lots of boutiques to browse and an abundance of coffee shops, I'll likely return soon.

Here's the first batch --a sampling of scenes, to be followed by a sequence of cafes and bistros in a subsequent posting.