Thursdays are bad because they're not Fridays (and neither are Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays, I get it, but don't you think of picking a fight with me).
Waking up today morning was especially a chore because the thoughts that ran through my mind (apart from 'Just 5 more minutes!!' and 'Another 2 minutes... I'll skip breakfast even!') were: 'Hell, it's a Thursday!' and 'omg, no clean socks.'
I need clean socks.
So here I am. No breakfast. Dismal lunch. Cranky and in need of some excitement.
In fact, for *some* excitement, I went through a different route to reach my desk (if you can call it that). How lucky am I.
Sigh.
Only 3 minutes have passed by since I started writing this post.
I think time has slowed down for all mankind.
***
You know you need help when you:
1. Think you're one of FRIENDS characters (Blend of Monica+Phoebe for me)
2. KNOW you're one of Scrubs characters (At the moment, I'm Dr Cox)
Thursday, January 31, 2008
MAD
Make A Difference (MAD) - an acronym that I got from Lucky.I started writing this post after I saw a pic that my friend had put up in one of his Orkut albums. The photo taken was of the house Anne Frank had stayed at before she was taken away by the Nazis.
Anne Frank was only around 13 years old when she started writing her book. But this teens' diary (a diary!) brought tears, laughter and it motivated so many people around the world to learn about other Holocaust victims like her and help their families too. And that's to say in the least. Films were made and books were written based on her thoughts and insights of the world that lay outside her window.
I've read an abridged version of her book. And do correct me if I'm wrong but what touched me was that she was eternally optimistic. Even while she was scared of being caught, she looked for the goodness in everyone, including those who were trying to capture people (Jews) like her. Maybe that's what young 13 year olds are... Naive, as they say.
But to make it short, she made a difference.
Hmm.. I'm 23 and maybe I should know better. Maybe I'm naive. But I believe that goodness lies in everyone. That everyone deserves it too. A small act of kindness can snowball into an avalanche... And even if it doesn't, every small thing that we do can make a small difference in someone else' life.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Cake
The cakes they sell at the office basement store are really good.
I've eaten only a couple:
1) New York Cheese which tastes like soft vanilla sponge cake
2) Chocolate Sandwhich which consists of two slices of soft chocolate cake (with chocolate chips) and a layer of cream in between.
Bakery products always seem so fresh, spring-y to touch and heaven to taste!
I wonder how anybody hardly puts on any weight around here.
Oh wait, don't answer that. I know: 'Darling, it's only you doesn't eat to live, but lives to eat!'
:)
I've eaten only a couple:
1) New York Cheese which tastes like soft vanilla sponge cake
2) Chocolate Sandwhich which consists of two slices of soft chocolate cake (with chocolate chips) and a layer of cream in between.
Bakery products always seem so fresh, spring-y to touch and heaven to taste!
I wonder how anybody hardly puts on any weight around here.
Oh wait, don't answer that. I know: 'Darling, it's only you doesn't eat to live, but lives to eat!'
:)
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Oyster
*Gasp* I HAD OYSTER FOR LUNCH TODAY.
And it wasn't bad. Frankly, it only LOOKS disgusting (all squishy and eww) but when cooked, its actually quite chewy.
Hmm. And to answer your question, I had a small one. After that, I went back to munching on my apple slices. After all, there's only so many of 'traumatising' TIY (Try It Yourselfs) I can handle in 1 day.
:)
And it wasn't bad. Frankly, it only LOOKS disgusting (all squishy and eww) but when cooked, its actually quite chewy.
Hmm. And to answer your question, I had a small one. After that, I went back to munching on my apple slices. After all, there's only so many of 'traumatising' TIY (Try It Yourselfs) I can handle in 1 day.
:)
Culture
Yet ANOTHER DISCLAIMER: Following blog entry is based on my observations of Korean Samsung employees and other Koreans I see regularly. This is not to categorize anybody!
I like learning about different cultures around the world... I'm sure that many of you are interested too. So here are a few different practises followed in South Korea. I only have so many, but will come back and add whenever I can think of more:
1. A lot of the employees here are concerned about their personal hygiene. After every (and I mean EVERY) meal, they take the pain to brush their teeth. They even have special toothbrushes and toothpaste stored at their desks! That's a really great habit, by the way, which I am too lazy to follow. :)
2. Even if Korean women DO wear killer shoes, they are still concerned about comfort. Some men and women here take off their shoes while they are at work and walk around in fluffy, comfortable slippers instead.
3. It seems to me that Korean women go outside with only their husbands/boyfriends/male members of their families. I don't think they go out with friends who are guys. This would certainly explain why Koreans are confused when they do see mixed friends (of other ethnicity) out together.
4. The Korean dream is to buy a house (Korean real estate is supposedly very expensive)!!
5. This, my colleague told me: Koreans settle late in life. They get married around the age of 35 (after courtship of a few years) and work very hard till the age of 45. After that, they retire and lay back... Try to compare that with the Indian practise of 'get married by age of 25, have at least 3 kids by 30, have grand children by the time you turn 50 and work till the you retire at 60, then wait for your kids to follow the same cycle...' :)
6. Sid just let me know that many Koreans have stuffed toys at their desk. Reason: During naptime, which is after meals, they snuggle up with their toys and fall asleep. Even the guys do it! I have yet to see this but the I think that the idea is so cute!
7. Almost everything is automated here: lights at the Guest House, the metro... Even the restroom facilities! The seats are heated; there are buttons on each seat for different functions. The only catch is that you need to experiment a bit since the instructions are not in English. <- My sis pointed out that you find such restrooms in Japan too.
8. In India, you have these tap handles which you have to push up to get water. But in Korea, you have to push them down! That's almost downright irritating to get used to. :)
9. A few words from Korean English... 'crunky' = 'crunchy'. 'Cheeg picha' = 'cheese pizza'
I like learning about different cultures around the world... I'm sure that many of you are interested too. So here are a few different practises followed in South Korea. I only have so many, but will come back and add whenever I can think of more:
1. A lot of the employees here are concerned about their personal hygiene. After every (and I mean EVERY) meal, they take the pain to brush their teeth. They even have special toothbrushes and toothpaste stored at their desks! That's a really great habit, by the way, which I am too lazy to follow. :)
2. Even if Korean women DO wear killer shoes, they are still concerned about comfort. Some men and women here take off their shoes while they are at work and walk around in fluffy, comfortable slippers instead.
3. It seems to me that Korean women go outside with only their husbands/boyfriends/male members of their families. I don't think they go out with friends who are guys. This would certainly explain why Koreans are confused when they do see mixed friends (of other ethnicity) out together.
4. The Korean dream is to buy a house (Korean real estate is supposedly very expensive)!!
5. This, my colleague told me: Koreans settle late in life. They get married around the age of 35 (after courtship of a few years) and work very hard till the age of 45. After that, they retire and lay back... Try to compare that with the Indian practise of 'get married by age of 25, have at least 3 kids by 30, have grand children by the time you turn 50 and work till the you retire at 60, then wait for your kids to follow the same cycle...' :)
6. Sid just let me know that many Koreans have stuffed toys at their desk. Reason: During naptime, which is after meals, they snuggle up with their toys and fall asleep. Even the guys do it! I have yet to see this but the I think that the idea is so cute!
7. Almost everything is automated here: lights at the Guest House, the metro... Even the restroom facilities! The seats are heated; there are buttons on each seat for different functions. The only catch is that you need to experiment a bit since the instructions are not in English. <- My sis pointed out that you find such restrooms in Japan too.
8. In India, you have these tap handles which you have to push up to get water. But in Korea, you have to push them down! That's almost downright irritating to get used to. :)
9. A few words from Korean English... 'crunky' = 'crunchy'. 'Cheeg picha' = 'cheese pizza'
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Bikes
Announcer: "Aaannnnddd the Award for Best Bike Passenger 2008 goooooeeesss to -----"
OMG. That's ME!! I head towards the stage to pick up my Award (Strange! It bears an uncanny resemblence to the Oscar...).
My thank-you speech: *Wipe tear off cheek* "This is one of the most amazing moments of my life! To think that I had to work so hard for this...
I had never gotten on a bike before I was 18. So y'all can imagine how clumsy I was the first time I had to clamber on (chuckles from the audience). But y'know, the first time was not so bad. It was the second time that I fell down... TWICE... during traffic (collective gasps). But thankfully, nothing happened to me. After that, I never sat one-sided again... nor wore synthetic fiber! *Big smile*
My friend, Vikas, used to give me lifts during college. I liked bike rides (and still do), but I think it was best when I admired them from a distance and not from the passenger seat!! (Laughter from the audience) Vikas would always say 'Whatever it is, stop it right now coz you ain't helping my balance...!!' Later I came to know that he wasn't comfortable with ANY one as a passenger. :)
It was only when I worked for a few months in Cochin that my room mate Roopster gave me a few two-wheeler pointers. She drove a Deo and boy, did we have happy times. :) But I was still clumsy. I never felt that comfortable. I was still scared since I had fallen off a bike before. Even when I relocated to Bangalore, Matt had to give me tips all the time. I used to feel so proud of myself when he said that I was doing great. :D
A few months ago, San offered me a lift from Airport Road to JP Nagar. There was hardly any traffic that night and San kept going faster and faster. I love speed and so I wasn't really complaining.
'Are you still in the back seat???' he asked me while he was driving.
'Of course I am!! Trust me, you'd know if I fell off!!' I retorted back.
'No, its not that... Usually girls get a lil uncomfortable when I go this fast... And you really are taking it well!!' he replied.
It was then I took notice of my body language and-wow!- I was no longer sitting stiffly! I was shifting my weight and balancing myself according to the movement of the bike. I realised I had graduated to Qualified Bike Back-Rider.
Everyone, I have arrived... (cheers)
It's been one looonngg journey... Ha! Pun intended (laughter from the audience). And I'd like to take this opportunity to say a big THANK YOU to those who helped me reach this far! Vikas, Roopster, Matt & San... You guys are the best!! And fans... I love you too!"
(Standing ovation from the audience).
:)
OMG. That's ME!! I head towards the stage to pick up my Award (Strange! It bears an uncanny resemblence to the Oscar...).
My thank-you speech: *Wipe tear off cheek* "This is one of the most amazing moments of my life! To think that I had to work so hard for this...
I had never gotten on a bike before I was 18. So y'all can imagine how clumsy I was the first time I had to clamber on (chuckles from the audience). But y'know, the first time was not so bad. It was the second time that I fell down... TWICE... during traffic (collective gasps). But thankfully, nothing happened to me. After that, I never sat one-sided again... nor wore synthetic fiber! *Big smile*
My friend, Vikas, used to give me lifts during college. I liked bike rides (and still do), but I think it was best when I admired them from a distance and not from the passenger seat!! (Laughter from the audience) Vikas would always say 'Whatever it is, stop it right now coz you ain't helping my balance...!!' Later I came to know that he wasn't comfortable with ANY one as a passenger. :)
It was only when I worked for a few months in Cochin that my room mate Roopster gave me a few two-wheeler pointers. She drove a Deo and boy, did we have happy times. :) But I was still clumsy. I never felt that comfortable. I was still scared since I had fallen off a bike before. Even when I relocated to Bangalore, Matt had to give me tips all the time. I used to feel so proud of myself when he said that I was doing great. :D
A few months ago, San offered me a lift from Airport Road to JP Nagar. There was hardly any traffic that night and San kept going faster and faster. I love speed and so I wasn't really complaining.
'Are you still in the back seat???' he asked me while he was driving.
'Of course I am!! Trust me, you'd know if I fell off!!' I retorted back.
'No, its not that... Usually girls get a lil uncomfortable when I go this fast... And you really are taking it well!!' he replied.
It was then I took notice of my body language and-wow!- I was no longer sitting stiffly! I was shifting my weight and balancing myself according to the movement of the bike. I realised I had graduated to Qualified Bike Back-Rider.
Everyone, I have arrived... (cheers)
It's been one looonngg journey... Ha! Pun intended (laughter from the audience). And I'd like to take this opportunity to say a big THANK YOU to those who helped me reach this far! Vikas, Roopster, Matt & San... You guys are the best!! And fans... I love you too!"
(Standing ovation from the audience).
:)
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Yongsan
DISCLAIMER: This blog entry is only a matter of opinion... and it may even be more girly than usual, so GUYS BEWARE. :)
Another weekend in Korea!
Last night (Friday), I stayed up even later than usual. I slept around 1:30-2:00 am after watching a few episodes of (you guessed it) Scrubs.
I woke up today morning thinking 'I'm going to make it a Pamper-Thyself day'. So went out around 11 am because, really, what better way is there to pamper a girl than to go to a beauty salon? However, I couldn't quite get across the concept of threading (hope that the guys are aware of this) to the receptionists of three separate salons. In fact, the exchange between the last salon receptionist and myself went along as follows:
After the lady shakes her head, saying that 'it' wasn't done at the salon, I ask: "Where can I get it done?" She tries to find the most appropriate word and replies back with: "Hospital!"
OMG!!
"Hospital?? No, no!" And I try to show eyebrows and something being shaped.
She nods, understanding dawning upon her. "Tattoo!"
The worst part is that I think she meant 'piercing'... That is to say, she thought I wanted to pierce my eyebrows!!
So off I went to the GH... back to the comforts of my room and my beauty kit. :D
***
After an internal debate with myself, I finally decided to spend my Saturday afternoon in Yongsan. With some cyber-encouragement from my colleague (Thanks Poornima!!) and the fact that I had such a great teacher (Thanks Sid!!), I was fairly confident in travelling in the metro by myself.
Sticking to the theme (ha!) of 'Pamper Thyself!', I made an effort to dress up. I even wore my favorite earrings and makeup. :)
These are little things in life, I know, but they make such a difference. I wasn't aware of it till today but South Korea has these taxi-stops. If you need a taxi, there are designated spots where you can wait. If there's a free taxi, it will come right to you. It's like a bus stop and so very convenient!
Anyway, back to the point. I reached Suwon Metro Station. My ticket was easy to purchase. But I was suddenly unsure of which track to take. I crossed my fingers and walked to a random one, hoping desperately that it was right. Later I realised there was a board above the track that had 'Seoul' written on it (translated as 'Lucky guess'!!). Even then, I waited for a few trains to pass by, taking my own sweet time to consult my Metro map (it's in English, yay!).
The actual ride to Yongsan was quite slow. It took around an hour and I had ample amount of time to people-watch.
You have GOT to hand it to Korean women. Some of the shoes that they wear are so feminine and pretty... but some of them, well I think those shoes should be hidden away in handbags and, in times of dire need, be used as weapons! Why? Because Koreans are quite fond of high heels I think, and we're not talking about ANY high heels... but stilettos! I've still not learnt how to balance myself on such pointed pumps (I think you need the balance of a gymnast, frankly speaking), but I do, DO admire the ladies for it! :)
Yongsan station is a very, VERY big place. It has a digital, departmental and a restaurant complex attached to it. I had a lot of fun browsing around in the departmental section. They had familiar brand names like Giordano, Mango, Marks & Spencers (and the same huge price tags) etc and local shops were present too. Restaurants advertised their fare by displaying food at counters. Some dishes looked very appetising. And some... well, lets just say they must have looked appetising to SOME people. :)
The digital complex was quite impressive too. Different floors were dedicated to different types of electronics. One floor to laptops, another for cameras & mp3 players and yet another for home appliances. That's all I saw frankly, because by then, I was in a hurry to get back home. I ended up buying a digital camera (I have no idea if it's the best price according to Korean standards, so please don't ask me!) which I had been badly wanting for some time.
Getting back to Suwon was not an ordeal. In fact the ride seemed even quicker than usual.
There was a Korean guy who was standing quite close to where I was sitting and (oh my!) was he cute. :) He looked my type and seemed just the right age too! I wished I knew the right Korean words to say 'hi' (and something equivalent to Joey's "How YOU doing?!").
Did I mention that the metro ride seemed even quicker than usual? :D
***
I took a taxi back to the GH. Judging by my appearance, the friendly taxi driver correctly guessed that I was an Indian.
'Samsung?' he asked me.
I replied back with a 'Yes'.
He smiled broadly. 'Samsung number one!' and he gave me a thumbs-up sign.
I felt so proud then... It's not like I built Samsung with my own two hands. But even being a teeny weeny part of such a reputed organisation made me feel very warm inside.
:)
Another weekend in Korea!
Last night (Friday), I stayed up even later than usual. I slept around 1:30-2:00 am after watching a few episodes of (you guessed it) Scrubs.
I woke up today morning thinking 'I'm going to make it a Pamper-Thyself day'. So went out around 11 am because, really, what better way is there to pamper a girl than to go to a beauty salon? However, I couldn't quite get across the concept of threading (hope that the guys are aware of this) to the receptionists of three separate salons. In fact, the exchange between the last salon receptionist and myself went along as follows:
After the lady shakes her head, saying that 'it' wasn't done at the salon, I ask: "Where can I get it done?" She tries to find the most appropriate word and replies back with: "Hospital!"
OMG!!
"Hospital?? No, no!" And I try to show eyebrows and something being shaped.
She nods, understanding dawning upon her. "Tattoo!"
The worst part is that I think she meant 'piercing'... That is to say, she thought I wanted to pierce my eyebrows!!
So off I went to the GH... back to the comforts of my room and my beauty kit. :D
***
After an internal debate with myself, I finally decided to spend my Saturday afternoon in Yongsan. With some cyber-encouragement from my colleague (Thanks Poornima!!) and the fact that I had such a great teacher (Thanks Sid!!), I was fairly confident in travelling in the metro by myself.
Sticking to the theme (ha!) of 'Pamper Thyself!', I made an effort to dress up. I even wore my favorite earrings and makeup. :)
These are little things in life, I know, but they make such a difference. I wasn't aware of it till today but South Korea has these taxi-stops. If you need a taxi, there are designated spots where you can wait. If there's a free taxi, it will come right to you. It's like a bus stop and so very convenient!
Anyway, back to the point. I reached Suwon Metro Station. My ticket was easy to purchase. But I was suddenly unsure of which track to take. I crossed my fingers and walked to a random one, hoping desperately that it was right. Later I realised there was a board above the track that had 'Seoul' written on it (translated as 'Lucky guess'!!). Even then, I waited for a few trains to pass by, taking my own sweet time to consult my Metro map (it's in English, yay!).
The actual ride to Yongsan was quite slow. It took around an hour and I had ample amount of time to people-watch.
You have GOT to hand it to Korean women. Some of the shoes that they wear are so feminine and pretty... but some of them, well I think those shoes should be hidden away in handbags and, in times of dire need, be used as weapons! Why? Because Koreans are quite fond of high heels I think, and we're not talking about ANY high heels... but stilettos! I've still not learnt how to balance myself on such pointed pumps (I think you need the balance of a gymnast, frankly speaking), but I do, DO admire the ladies for it! :)
Yongsan station is a very, VERY big place. It has a digital, departmental and a restaurant complex attached to it. I had a lot of fun browsing around in the departmental section. They had familiar brand names like Giordano, Mango, Marks & Spencers (and the same huge price tags) etc and local shops were present too. Restaurants advertised their fare by displaying food at counters. Some dishes looked very appetising. And some... well, lets just say they must have looked appetising to SOME people. :)
The digital complex was quite impressive too. Different floors were dedicated to different types of electronics. One floor to laptops, another for cameras & mp3 players and yet another for home appliances. That's all I saw frankly, because by then, I was in a hurry to get back home. I ended up buying a digital camera (I have no idea if it's the best price according to Korean standards, so please don't ask me!) which I had been badly wanting for some time.
Getting back to Suwon was not an ordeal. In fact the ride seemed even quicker than usual.
There was a Korean guy who was standing quite close to where I was sitting and (oh my!) was he cute. :) He looked my type and seemed just the right age too! I wished I knew the right Korean words to say 'hi' (and something equivalent to Joey's "How YOU doing?!").
Did I mention that the metro ride seemed even quicker than usual? :D
***
I took a taxi back to the GH. Judging by my appearance, the friendly taxi driver correctly guessed that I was an Indian.
'Samsung?' he asked me.
I replied back with a 'Yes'.
He smiled broadly. 'Samsung number one!' and he gave me a thumbs-up sign.
I felt so proud then... It's not like I built Samsung with my own two hands. But even being a teeny weeny part of such a reputed organisation made me feel very warm inside.
:)
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Sightseeing
DISCLAIMER: The following blog entry is a matter of opinion and is not meant as an act of offense to anyone.
Yesterday afternoon, Sid (my colleague) and I decided to go out into the town. Our plan was to go to Dongdaemun market which is supposed to be a very popular place to shop. Our mode of transport: the metro. But to get to Suwon station, we needed to take a taxi.
After hailing a cab, Sid sat in the front seat next to the driver while I sat behind. The taxi driver seemed normal enough in the beginning. He spoke in broken English. He asked us where we were from, where we worked etc. And then it started...
Driver: "You friends?" He motioned towards Sid and I.
Sid: "Yes! Friends!"
Then the driver spoke lots of Koren with a lotta hand gestures. Sid started laughing out loud. "What happened?" I asked. "He wants me to sit next to you and hold your hand!" Sid replied back.
Obviously Koreans, or at least this particular one, didn't quite grasp the meaning of the word 'friend'.
Sid tried to make him understand. "We work friends!"
The driver didn't seem to get that. "Night friends!" said the driver and nodded. Then he proceeded to show outdoor billboards of couples posing together.
OMG! I could tell that Sid was embarrassed beyond belief. I couldn't help silently laughing.
"Remind me to sit behind during the next cab ride!" Sid told me as we made our way out of the cab and into the station.
***
Sid explained how the metro works in South Korea. There are different lines which the trains take. Each line (maybe it can be compared to a platform in India?) is specific to the region of Korea that you are travelling to. With the help of the metro map, it's not too complicated to figure out which line and which train on that line you're supposed to travel in. But for a person who was introduced to the metro for the first time yesterday, I was pretty confused. Towards the end of the day, however, I did somewhat get the hang of it.
The train trip by itself was pretty interesting. The seats are comfy. Even if you're standing, there are hanging 'handles' that you can hold onto (and they are not too high so even a short person like me can hold onto it without any difficulty). You have a separate seating section for elders/handicapped/pregnant women. The train is fast enough and the ride is comfortable as well.
We reached Dongdaemun after 1 hour and started looking around. Since it was the first time for both of us, we didn't quite know what to look out for. Sid was quite excited when he saw 'earthworm pickle' for sale on the roadsides. I, however, couldn't but feel slightly queasy at the thought. Anyway, we pretty much walked down the roads for some time, before Sid got tired and suggested going to Namdaemun market which is also pretty famous. So we took a taxi there (and nope, no 'experiences' this time. The driver kept to himself :) ).
This time, with proper directions, we were able to see (part of) the actual Korean market. I was somehow reminded of Commerical street back in Bangalore but with a lot more shops and a lot less space!! The Korean handicrafts that we saw were quite pretty... But didn't get time to actually admire much since it was closing time for the shop. The rest of the goods being sold in the other market shops covered from food to clothes to trinkets.
Have to say that I successfully coaxed Sid into buying things for his family and himself. :D About me? Well, I am on a sort of strict budget, so didn't quite indulge in anything apart from donuts from a nearby Dunkin Donuts.
South Koreans have no problems with public display of affection. Maybe it was juvenile of us but Sid and I were on the lookout for any such displays! :D It was fun...
The night sky is absolutely gorgeous in the city. South Koreans use a lot of lights. And I'm not only talking about yellow and white lights. But blue, red ones too! It is so, so very pretty. Will take snaps as soon as I can.
After admiring the city lights and the multi colored buildings, we made our way back to the Metro. We needed two trains to get to Suwon. We got the first train trip right. But we took the wrong train the second time. Had to backtrack with the third train. Got the right train the fourth time but we forgot to get out at our stop. So we had to take a fifth train to get back to Suwon. :D
So yes, a lot of bumbling mistakes... But it was fun nevertheless.
Oh! And I did buy myself something nice after all: a woolen hat. And no, its not from the Dongdaemun or Namdaemun markets. But rather Suwon metro station. Haha! Crowning glory to the day, wouldn't you say? And yes! Pun intended...
:D
Yesterday afternoon, Sid (my colleague) and I decided to go out into the town. Our plan was to go to Dongdaemun market which is supposed to be a very popular place to shop. Our mode of transport: the metro. But to get to Suwon station, we needed to take a taxi.
After hailing a cab, Sid sat in the front seat next to the driver while I sat behind. The taxi driver seemed normal enough in the beginning. He spoke in broken English. He asked us where we were from, where we worked etc. And then it started...
Driver: "You friends?" He motioned towards Sid and I.
Sid: "Yes! Friends!"
Then the driver spoke lots of Koren with a lotta hand gestures. Sid started laughing out loud. "What happened?" I asked. "He wants me to sit next to you and hold your hand!" Sid replied back.
Obviously Koreans, or at least this particular one, didn't quite grasp the meaning of the word 'friend'.
Sid tried to make him understand. "We work friends!"
The driver didn't seem to get that. "Night friends!" said the driver and nodded. Then he proceeded to show outdoor billboards of couples posing together.
OMG! I could tell that Sid was embarrassed beyond belief. I couldn't help silently laughing.
"Remind me to sit behind during the next cab ride!" Sid told me as we made our way out of the cab and into the station.
***
Sid explained how the metro works in South Korea. There are different lines which the trains take. Each line (maybe it can be compared to a platform in India?) is specific to the region of Korea that you are travelling to. With the help of the metro map, it's not too complicated to figure out which line and which train on that line you're supposed to travel in. But for a person who was introduced to the metro for the first time yesterday, I was pretty confused. Towards the end of the day, however, I did somewhat get the hang of it.
The train trip by itself was pretty interesting. The seats are comfy. Even if you're standing, there are hanging 'handles' that you can hold onto (and they are not too high so even a short person like me can hold onto it without any difficulty). You have a separate seating section for elders/handicapped/pregnant women. The train is fast enough and the ride is comfortable as well.
We reached Dongdaemun after 1 hour and started looking around. Since it was the first time for both of us, we didn't quite know what to look out for. Sid was quite excited when he saw 'earthworm pickle' for sale on the roadsides. I, however, couldn't but feel slightly queasy at the thought. Anyway, we pretty much walked down the roads for some time, before Sid got tired and suggested going to Namdaemun market which is also pretty famous. So we took a taxi there (and nope, no 'experiences' this time. The driver kept to himself :) ).
This time, with proper directions, we were able to see (part of) the actual Korean market. I was somehow reminded of Commerical street back in Bangalore but with a lot more shops and a lot less space!! The Korean handicrafts that we saw were quite pretty... But didn't get time to actually admire much since it was closing time for the shop. The rest of the goods being sold in the other market shops covered from food to clothes to trinkets.
Have to say that I successfully coaxed Sid into buying things for his family and himself. :D About me? Well, I am on a sort of strict budget, so didn't quite indulge in anything apart from donuts from a nearby Dunkin Donuts.
South Koreans have no problems with public display of affection. Maybe it was juvenile of us but Sid and I were on the lookout for any such displays! :D It was fun...
The night sky is absolutely gorgeous in the city. South Koreans use a lot of lights. And I'm not only talking about yellow and white lights. But blue, red ones too! It is so, so very pretty. Will take snaps as soon as I can.
After admiring the city lights and the multi colored buildings, we made our way back to the Metro. We needed two trains to get to Suwon. We got the first train trip right. But we took the wrong train the second time. Had to backtrack with the third train. Got the right train the fourth time but we forgot to get out at our stop. So we had to take a fifth train to get back to Suwon. :D
So yes, a lot of bumbling mistakes... But it was fun nevertheless.
Oh! And I did buy myself something nice after all: a woolen hat. And no, its not from the Dongdaemun or Namdaemun markets. But rather Suwon metro station. Haha! Crowning glory to the day, wouldn't you say? And yes! Pun intended...
:D
Rules
One bad, BAD thing about myself is that I have a tendency of not sleeping in late. What's so bad, you ask? Well nothing really... except for the fact that I don't let others sleep in late either!! :D
It's 9:43 on a Sunday morning, and I have an almost over whelming urge to call up someone in INDIA (where its 6:13 am) and make sure that they wake up. DJ is my usual target since she loves sleeping in. But since I'm only going to hear a stream of expletives from her (not a new thing, but it IS 6:15... and yes, I do pity her), I think I'll restrain myself and blog instead. :D
What I am about to write is based on an outrageous chat conversation which Deepak and I had 2 nights ago. I don't know where it will lead, but there IS an idea in my head.
Five Simple Rules On How To Date A Real Woman:
1. Never disagree with a girl.
That would only strengthen her resolve and she would be hell bent on proving you wrong. Because obviously she's right (or rather she thinks she is).
2. Listen to her whenever she speaks to you.
Or take really good acting lessons so that you can pretend.
3. Never tell a girl that she's put on weight.
She'll hate you forever. And trust me, she'll know when she's fat... she's a girl after all!! :)
4. Go along with her crazy ideas... Unless they are too crazy. In that case, you shouldn't really be dating her but be institution-alizing her instead!!
5. The ultimate pacifier: chocolate cake dipped in chocolate sauce... or if she doesn't like chocolate, a good blueberry cheese cake :)
Umm... maybe these rules are pertaining more to me... But I'm sure SOME girls would agree. Right, ladies? :D
It's 9:43 on a Sunday morning, and I have an almost over whelming urge to call up someone in INDIA (where its 6:13 am) and make sure that they wake up. DJ is my usual target since she loves sleeping in. But since I'm only going to hear a stream of expletives from her (not a new thing, but it IS 6:15... and yes, I do pity her), I think I'll restrain myself and blog instead. :D
What I am about to write is based on an outrageous chat conversation which Deepak and I had 2 nights ago. I don't know where it will lead, but there IS an idea in my head.
Five Simple Rules On How To Date A Real Woman:
1. Never disagree with a girl.
That would only strengthen her resolve and she would be hell bent on proving you wrong. Because obviously she's right (or rather she thinks she is).
2. Listen to her whenever she speaks to you.
Or take really good acting lessons so that you can pretend.
3. Never tell a girl that she's put on weight.
She'll hate you forever. And trust me, she'll know when she's fat... she's a girl after all!! :)
4. Go along with her crazy ideas... Unless they are too crazy. In that case, you shouldn't really be dating her but be institution-alizing her instead!!
5. The ultimate pacifier: chocolate cake dipped in chocolate sauce... or if she doesn't like chocolate, a good blueberry cheese cake :)
Umm... maybe these rules are pertaining more to me... But I'm sure SOME girls would agree. Right, ladies? :D
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Scrubs
This is going to be a short entry. Because it is just to say that I love, love, love (...and did I mention 'LOVE??') the TV series Scrubs. :DIf you are a person who's like me and you haven't watched it yet, then I would respond back with 'Where the heck have you been and what on earth are you waiting for? Go and watch an episode!' I can safely say that you would fall in love too.
I like everything about it... the characters, the script, the way it makes me feel good, even the theme music (especially the one during the credits). Its sense of humor is just out of this world.
Certain funny scenes strike me when I'm alone, at home, with friends or at work... And I laugh softly to myself (Heck, I don't want anyone to think that I'm crazy!!).
So I'll end my note here... before I go babbling on. And if you haven't done so far, do watch it when you get the chance! :)
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Angels
I believe in angels.
Whenever I'm really upset and I feel that I can't bear my sadness, I think God reaches out and comforts me through human contact. He sends His angels via people. It's happened so many times. People unwittingly come up and say the right words. I get instant comfort and reassurance. :)
Sometimes, all you need are those special words to make things right again.
It may seem bizarre to you, but I have experienced it many times. I choose to believe that, yes, God works in mysterious ways and sometimes He sends you a pick-me-up-er in the most unusual fashions.
:)
Whenever I'm really upset and I feel that I can't bear my sadness, I think God reaches out and comforts me through human contact. He sends His angels via people. It's happened so many times. People unwittingly come up and say the right words. I get instant comfort and reassurance. :)
Sometimes, all you need are those special words to make things right again.
It may seem bizarre to you, but I have experienced it many times. I choose to believe that, yes, God works in mysterious ways and sometimes He sends you a pick-me-up-er in the most unusual fashions.
:)
Monday, January 14, 2008
Outing
Finally! I made the time to write about my first weekend in Suwon.
I was quite restless on Friday evening... That's really an understatement. I was dying for 8 pm so that I could head home after work. After having my dinner, I tucked myself with a book into a warm bed and slept late (the ultimate weekend freedom).
I woke up the next day at 10 am. It was the first time in a very long time that I felt relaxed especially since I had to wake up earlier than normal during the previous week so that I could catch the first cab to the office.
It had snowed the previous day, but looking out of my room window on that Saturday morning, the snow had all but melted. The air was chilly and the skies were cloudy.
After having lunch, my colleagues decided that we would go to Suwon Fort. We reached at around 3:30 and started our ascent to one of the entry points. The plan was to walk around all over the 'ancient city' so that we could see the security posts and other structures. The walking was fun (a little exhausting initially) with good company and jokes all around. I even got a chance to ring a giant bell three times. The first toll is to honour your parents, second to wish your loved ones good health and prosperity and the third to make your wish come true. It was funny trying to ring the bell. My team mate, Rag, had to help me and in the end we somehow managed to make it chime thrice.
We visited a Buddhist shrine, posed in front of a modern statue of a famous Ruler and walked till it turned dark. The lights got switched on, and I must say that the fortress was a breath taking sight at night. I thought the entire place looked beautiful and was feeling a lil sad that I didnt have a camera to capture the magnificence of it all... Deepak & San, if you guys were there, you would have had a field day with your SLRs. :)
We visited a nearby Market (Think it's called Naemoon Market) and then returned back to the GH at 8. One of my colleagues and I decided to go to a local steak house.
DJ, you haven't really tasted steaks... Not really. Not until you've tried this particular family restaurant. :D I'm not really a soup fan, but the creamy mushroom soup was great. Had soft bread to accompany that. My main course was a chicken steak which had a slice of pork on top. It had lots of cream (and calories), the meat was succulent and the taste was simply divine.
I was distinctly reminded of the time I had visited Chillies (a good Mexican restaurant) with my sister and BIL back in Dubai. The quesadillas I had then were simply amazing (and very cheesy). Anyways, that's off the point.
After having a good (understatement yet again!) meal, my colleague & I went to a local mart (HomePlus) because he had a few items to buy and then we walked home, but NOT before buying myself an icecream- yep, you guessed it! A chocobar with a layer of chocolate cookies...
Don't worry. I keep eyeing the weighing machine propped up against the main doors of the GH ALL the time, and yes it does frighten me :)
I spent the entire following Sunday in my room. Didn't get out for breakfast or even lunch. What did I do? Sleep and watch MOVIES! It was (as usual) heavenly... Haven't spent so much time on myself for a very long time.
One of the movies I saw was "My Sassy Girl". It's a South Korean movie and it had English subtitles. I really liked it. The heroine reminded me of myself (ha!).
I did try to go out for a walk at 5pm, but it got so chilly outside that I decided that the walk just wasn't worth it. Ate dinner around 8pm and then went back to bed.
That ended my first weekend in Suwon.
:)
I was quite restless on Friday evening... That's really an understatement. I was dying for 8 pm so that I could head home after work. After having my dinner, I tucked myself with a book into a warm bed and slept late (the ultimate weekend freedom).
I woke up the next day at 10 am. It was the first time in a very long time that I felt relaxed especially since I had to wake up earlier than normal during the previous week so that I could catch the first cab to the office.
It had snowed the previous day, but looking out of my room window on that Saturday morning, the snow had all but melted. The air was chilly and the skies were cloudy.
After having lunch, my colleagues decided that we would go to Suwon Fort. We reached at around 3:30 and started our ascent to one of the entry points. The plan was to walk around all over the 'ancient city' so that we could see the security posts and other structures. The walking was fun (a little exhausting initially) with good company and jokes all around. I even got a chance to ring a giant bell three times. The first toll is to honour your parents, second to wish your loved ones good health and prosperity and the third to make your wish come true. It was funny trying to ring the bell. My team mate, Rag, had to help me and in the end we somehow managed to make it chime thrice.
We visited a Buddhist shrine, posed in front of a modern statue of a famous Ruler and walked till it turned dark. The lights got switched on, and I must say that the fortress was a breath taking sight at night. I thought the entire place looked beautiful and was feeling a lil sad that I didnt have a camera to capture the magnificence of it all... Deepak & San, if you guys were there, you would have had a field day with your SLRs. :)
We visited a nearby Market (Think it's called Naemoon Market) and then returned back to the GH at 8. One of my colleagues and I decided to go to a local steak house.
DJ, you haven't really tasted steaks... Not really. Not until you've tried this particular family restaurant. :D I'm not really a soup fan, but the creamy mushroom soup was great. Had soft bread to accompany that. My main course was a chicken steak which had a slice of pork on top. It had lots of cream (and calories), the meat was succulent and the taste was simply divine.
I was distinctly reminded of the time I had visited Chillies (a good Mexican restaurant) with my sister and BIL back in Dubai. The quesadillas I had then were simply amazing (and very cheesy). Anyways, that's off the point.
After having a good (understatement yet again!) meal, my colleague & I went to a local mart (HomePlus) because he had a few items to buy and then we walked home, but NOT before buying myself an icecream- yep, you guessed it! A chocobar with a layer of chocolate cookies...
Don't worry. I keep eyeing the weighing machine propped up against the main doors of the GH ALL the time, and yes it does frighten me :)
I spent the entire following Sunday in my room. Didn't get out for breakfast or even lunch. What did I do? Sleep and watch MOVIES! It was (as usual) heavenly... Haven't spent so much time on myself for a very long time.
One of the movies I saw was "My Sassy Girl". It's a South Korean movie and it had English subtitles. I really liked it. The heroine reminded me of myself (ha!).
I did try to go out for a walk at 5pm, but it got so chilly outside that I decided that the walk just wasn't worth it. Ate dinner around 8pm and then went back to bed.
That ended my first weekend in Suwon.
:)
Friday, January 11, 2008
Snow
Today morning, I was deep in thought when I walked through the GH doors to get into the office cab. So I was very surprised to see the winter wonderland that had suddenly sprung up during the night before.
The roads, the cars that were parked outside had a thick layer of snow on them... and better yet, it was still snowing!!
"In India, you do not have snow?" the guest house manager asked me while he shovelled ice off the garage pathway. "No," I replied back, still marvelling at it all (Not really true, since it does snow at certain high points in India, but hey who's counting :) ).
I've never seen snow in my life and I was ecstatic... to say in the least.
The snow flakes were small but by the time I reached office, they grew larger. Unfortunately as the day wore long, thd sun came out and the temperature increased a bit; so it stopped snowing and started drizzling instead.
I don't have a digital camera so I can't take photos. I'm hoping to buy one soon so that I do not miss an opportunity like this again.
:)
The roads, the cars that were parked outside had a thick layer of snow on them... and better yet, it was still snowing!!
"In India, you do not have snow?" the guest house manager asked me while he shovelled ice off the garage pathway. "No," I replied back, still marvelling at it all (Not really true, since it does snow at certain high points in India, but hey who's counting :) ).
I've never seen snow in my life and I was ecstatic... to say in the least.
The snow flakes were small but by the time I reached office, they grew larger. Unfortunately as the day wore long, thd sun came out and the temperature increased a bit; so it stopped snowing and started drizzling instead.
I don't have a digital camera so I can't take photos. I'm hoping to buy one soon so that I do not miss an opportunity like this again.
:)
Nutshell
I had written a very long entry about Korea the other day... Unfortunately, it didn't get saved and neither did it get published. So I'll rewrite everything in short I suppose.
As I had mentioned in one of my previous blog entries, I was not feeling well on my flight from Bangalore to Singapore. I was quite apprehensive about boarding the next flight which would take around 5.5 hours to reach Korea. But thankfully, I fell asleep during take off and I woke up feeling great.
Singapore Airlines is really good. I'm a die hard Emirates fan, but I could definitely find both airlines comparable. Hospitality is great and so is the food. But entertainment wise, I find Emirates leading all the way to the top.
Singapore Changi International Airport is a big and beautiful place... Apart from a variety of shopping venues and restaurants, it offers many services to it's travellers like free Internet access, movies, games and even a free city tour (but you can't get out of the tour bus though). I would love to take a closer look on my way back to Bangalore.
We reached Korea on Sunday afternoon around 4 pm. Then we took a limosuine bus from Incheon to Suwon (we had to get off at a bus stop called Hotel Castle). The ride was very comfortable. In fact, I liked it better than both the flights! :D
The Guest House people drove us from Hotel Castle till Park-22. I found myself sharing a room with another lady due to the unavailability of single rooms at that moment. But my room mate was fun and so I made a lady friend. In fact, on the same night we even went on a walk to a nearby mart called HomePlus.
I really like Suwon. The roads are wide. The streets are clean. Since it's winter, the trees have shed their leaves but they still have a quiet elegance about them. The Koreans seem nice and friendly. But most of them do not know English. So it can be a laugh for them and for us when we try to communicate.
On Monday evening, two of my colleagues and I went to a nearby store to buy icecream. It was bitterly cold and I could barely distinguish between my fingers and the icecream, but hey it was delish! The ice cream I had was a choco bar with a layer of chocolate cookies. Yum!!
The Samsung Campus is HUGE. A lot of the buildings have 20+ floors and all have very good facilities... The elevators are super fast, the security is tight... I was (and still am) impressed.
It's Friday and I'm hoping to explore during the next couple of days. I love walking. So me looking forward to a great weekend. :)
As I had mentioned in one of my previous blog entries, I was not feeling well on my flight from Bangalore to Singapore. I was quite apprehensive about boarding the next flight which would take around 5.5 hours to reach Korea. But thankfully, I fell asleep during take off and I woke up feeling great.
Singapore Airlines is really good. I'm a die hard Emirates fan, but I could definitely find both airlines comparable. Hospitality is great and so is the food. But entertainment wise, I find Emirates leading all the way to the top.
Singapore Changi International Airport is a big and beautiful place... Apart from a variety of shopping venues and restaurants, it offers many services to it's travellers like free Internet access, movies, games and even a free city tour (but you can't get out of the tour bus though). I would love to take a closer look on my way back to Bangalore.
We reached Korea on Sunday afternoon around 4 pm. Then we took a limosuine bus from Incheon to Suwon (we had to get off at a bus stop called Hotel Castle). The ride was very comfortable. In fact, I liked it better than both the flights! :D
The Guest House people drove us from Hotel Castle till Park-22. I found myself sharing a room with another lady due to the unavailability of single rooms at that moment. But my room mate was fun and so I made a lady friend. In fact, on the same night we even went on a walk to a nearby mart called HomePlus.
I really like Suwon. The roads are wide. The streets are clean. Since it's winter, the trees have shed their leaves but they still have a quiet elegance about them. The Koreans seem nice and friendly. But most of them do not know English. So it can be a laugh for them and for us when we try to communicate.
On Monday evening, two of my colleagues and I went to a nearby store to buy icecream. It was bitterly cold and I could barely distinguish between my fingers and the icecream, but hey it was delish! The ice cream I had was a choco bar with a layer of chocolate cookies. Yum!!
The Samsung Campus is HUGE. A lot of the buildings have 20+ floors and all have very good facilities... The elevators are super fast, the security is tight... I was (and still am) impressed.
It's Friday and I'm hoping to explore during the next couple of days. I love walking. So me looking forward to a great weekend. :)
Lunch!
I looovvveedd today's lunch. I have GOT to write about it.
For the past 3-4 days, I have been having Indian food (which can be good but I was getting a little tired of it). As it was so cold outside today, my team mates and I decided to have our lunch from the basement of our office building.
I opted for the Continental menu... and wow oh wow! I got the spaghetti (with lots and lots of Parmesan cheese on it), a slice of garlic bread and a green salad on the side. Then I had a peek at the Indian menu, and (yay!) there were chicken pakodas (boneless too!) and big, wonderfully soft cupcakes. Yumm...
I usually don't eat much during lunch since I have a tendency of dozing off afterward but I threw caution to the wind today and I indulged. And I felt happy... silly happy really.
:D
For the past 3-4 days, I have been having Indian food (which can be good but I was getting a little tired of it). As it was so cold outside today, my team mates and I decided to have our lunch from the basement of our office building.
I opted for the Continental menu... and wow oh wow! I got the spaghetti (with lots and lots of Parmesan cheese on it), a slice of garlic bread and a green salad on the side. Then I had a peek at the Indian menu, and (yay!) there were chicken pakodas (boneless too!) and big, wonderfully soft cupcakes. Yumm...
I usually don't eat much during lunch since I have a tendency of dozing off afterward but I threw caution to the wind today and I indulged. And I felt happy... silly happy really.
:D
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Friends
Something I have been meaning to post for a long time...
Book for November 3rd week was the novel 'How To Kill Your Husband (and Other Handy Household Hints)' by Kathy Lette. Don't get shocked! It's a chick-lit book (gifted to me by DJ but that's another story altogether!) about three girlfriends who stick by each other even when their spouses are adulterous(??)/inattentive/con-men. The gist is that if you have true girlfriends (or friends in general), you can survive life no matter what.
To an extent that is so right.
In November, I was having some personal problems, and I was dealing with it in a very Me-way... by procrastinating. DJ and JJ knew about it and they wanted to make me feel better. One day, when DJ was in the vicinity of my office, she stayed back till I got out. On our way to her place, we spoke of serious topics and other matters not relating to my problems as the whole point was to avoid them altogether. :D
We reached DJ's home where JJ had already started making a very simple but a sumptuous meal. I guess it was more delish because of the fun we were having. Our dinner lasted around 1 hour! We talked of old stories and laughed at the same things that used to make us laugh years ago. I had a wonderful time. When it was late, and I couldn't postpone leaving, I walked my way home.
I didn't want solutions to my problems. Just needed an outlet, and my friends gave me what I needed. DJ & JJ, thanks for being there. :)
Book for November 3rd week was the novel 'How To Kill Your Husband (and Other Handy Household Hints)' by Kathy Lette. Don't get shocked! It's a chick-lit book (gifted to me by DJ but that's another story altogether!) about three girlfriends who stick by each other even when their spouses are adulterous(??)/inattentive/con-men. The gist is that if you have true girlfriends (or friends in general), you can survive life no matter what.
To an extent that is so right.
In November, I was having some personal problems, and I was dealing with it in a very Me-way... by procrastinating. DJ and JJ knew about it and they wanted to make me feel better. One day, when DJ was in the vicinity of my office, she stayed back till I got out. On our way to her place, we spoke of serious topics and other matters not relating to my problems as the whole point was to avoid them altogether. :D
We reached DJ's home where JJ had already started making a very simple but a sumptuous meal. I guess it was more delish because of the fun we were having. Our dinner lasted around 1 hour! We talked of old stories and laughed at the same things that used to make us laugh years ago. I had a wonderful time. When it was late, and I couldn't postpone leaving, I walked my way home.
I didn't want solutions to my problems. Just needed an outlet, and my friends gave me what I needed. DJ & JJ, thanks for being there. :)
Co-passenger
My flight from Bangalore to Singapore during Saturday night was not very comfortable. It was a night flight but I couldn't sleep because I was so sick. I could almost imagine myself running towards the cockpit, banging on the door and demanding to be taken back to India so that i could go back to my home remedies. But then I would think, 'Take a U-turn?? That would take even longer!' So I would quietly settle back in my seat, willing my discomfort to go away. That and the fact that if I had attempted my antics, I would have been caught by the police after being labelled a hijacker also helped me to settle down. :D
The seats next to me were occupied by an Indian father and his daughter. His daughter was around 3 years old and it was quite evident that she had a Singaporean mother.
The girl was absolutely gorgeous. She had jet black, silky straight hair and her black almond shaped eyes were enormous. She kept persistenly asking her 'Daddy-ia' to show her 'pictures' on his Blackberry, while he was in a frantic hurry to tap away the last email before the plane took off. 'Sweetheart, let Daddy finish typing this email,' the man kept telling his daughter.
I'm a woman with least maternal instincts (I'm more of a pets person rather than a mother), but something made me want to give the little girl a big bear hug and hold her rosy cheeks against mine.
Obviously I had to refrain from doing so. I didn't want her father to think that I was weird. :)
The seats next to me were occupied by an Indian father and his daughter. His daughter was around 3 years old and it was quite evident that she had a Singaporean mother.
The girl was absolutely gorgeous. She had jet black, silky straight hair and her black almond shaped eyes were enormous. She kept persistenly asking her 'Daddy-ia' to show her 'pictures' on his Blackberry, while he was in a frantic hurry to tap away the last email before the plane took off. 'Sweetheart, let Daddy finish typing this email,' the man kept telling his daughter.
I'm a woman with least maternal instincts (I'm more of a pets person rather than a mother), but something made me want to give the little girl a big bear hug and hold her rosy cheeks against mine.
Obviously I had to refrain from doing so. I didn't want her father to think that I was weird. :)
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