Memorial Day and Michele's B-day

It wasn't a holiday for Michele. So after having her grandmother wrap her foot, she headed out for college. Chris and his mother went on post for something, and Al and I stayed home. I made my first piece of orgonite. I used a rubber muffin pan and some paraffin from a foot bath I got on a yard sale. I had a crystal, and cut up some metal scrubbies and some aluminum foil. I also put in some amethyst and rose quartz chips. Then I put it out on the porch to harden. After lunch we all walked into Itaewon looking for Paris Baguette. Along the way, we were stopped by a couple of college students looking for ladies to interview. The interview consisted of questions like "who would you call to put out a fire?" "Who drives this truck?" (It's a mail truck). Then she took my picture with the survey to prove that she didn't make it up. Then we continued our walk. We found the place inside the HAmilton hotel. They had a number of delicious cakes, and we chose a chocolate one for Michele's birthday. We carried it home and put it in the fridge. I got on my computer for the afternoon. Chris and Cecily made chicken and chorizo, and squash for supper. WE ate at 6:30. Michele came home at 7:25, but it didn't take her long to catch up. Then we brought out the cake and put candles on it, sang, etc. She got a scarf, a top, socks, and a check. Cecily went to bed, then Chris followed suit. Al and I stayed up talking. Finally I decided to quick post to my blog, but then Faye Skyped me. So we talked for while. Until Michele came to bed (currently in the computer room) and wanted me to leave so she could get some sleep. So I didn't get to blog until the next day.

We are the chosen ones

Today we went to church - ALL of us, even Michele. That was good because her birthday is tomorrow and she had to stand up and admit it in front of everyone. The title refers to being picked during the passing of the peace to collect the offering. I haven't figured out why lately we have been chosen so often. Who PSC'd and left us the job? At least the offering plates were where they are supposed to be. Nancy gave the sermon today and her husband Rick was taping it (for future interviews, I think). We had a fellowship hour afterwards. Then we came home and changed clothes. We drove to Camp Coiner to a walk-in gate close to Outback restaurant. But the gate was closed so we had to park at the next open gate and walk. As you may imagine, the menu was a bit different from that in the states. Each meat item listed what country the meat came from. None of it from the U.S. I had a grilled chicken salad with mango. My in-laws ordered an appetizer with coconut onions rings. See pic. After much conversation, we walked back to post. We stopped at Rick and Nancy's apartment for some travel brochures and an atlas. Then to the commissary for ice cream and finally home. I thought we would have a light supper later, but the others never got hungry I guess. I had some kimchi as I took yesterday's purchase out of its bag and put it into jars. There was extra juice, so I stuffed spinach in it. Everything tastes better with white kimchi juice on it. I answered some of my e-mail and put in another vitamin order. I only needed one thing, but because of shipping charges, I ordered a few other things that I am not out of yet. I checked out FunnyorDie.com, recommended by my brother-in-law. The ones I watched weren't all that funny. Then took pics of my flowers. The gladiolas are blooming more each day. Too bad they are cut flowers. They are so beautiful.

Shopping at the mall

I know this is late, but now that Michele is sleeping in the computer room, I can't stay up late to blog.
In the morning while Chris and Michele were playing the on-line game, Cecily and I walked to the Seobinngo subway station and caught the train to I-Park Mall. It is a very large and confusing mall. Many areas are not connected so you have to go around your elbow to get to your knee, etc. We were looking for socks and underwear for Michele, with very little luck. We did pass a candy store selling some marshmallow treats and it make me think of a certain someone who likes such things, particularly if they are stale. So I got some to mail to her. But DONT tell her! They should arrive before Christmas. Ha! We stopped for lunch separately, since I wanted kimbap and she didn't. I ate my kimbap then joined her at the coffee shop. She had a muffin and watched this talent show in the courtyard down below. We also went into the basement where E-Mart is, and got kimchi and eggs. Then we took the subway home. This is the train that only runs every 20 minutes so I don't often take it. By then C and M were finished with their game. After a rest. We all went to the PX to get Chris a suitcase, and me some blank CD's, and other stuff. And of course, the wine. I checked GNC for flaxseed but they stopped carrying my brand. The others were expensive, unless you got the unground kind, but then you need a grinder. But I am not out yet, so have time to check on-line. We came home and Chris and Cecily started supper. I checked and cleared e-mail. We ate, then watched "Annie" which Cecily had bought on DVD to watch. But she fell asleep and didn't see much. The rest of us enjoyed it.

Shopping at the two biggest markets

Chris and I got to sleep in since he took off work again today. After breakfast the morning was a little slow, getting laundry started, taking showers, checking e-mail, etc. But then before lunch Cecily and I headed out to Dongdaemun on the subway. We walked around the jewelry makings section on the fifth floor, avoiding the fabric man since we did not intend to buy fabric. I got strings of amethyst and rose quartz chips. Less than $2 each! We went down to the street level and got washcloths and some special cord for kite loops. We also went to the underwear market to get the kind of socks that Chris likes but didn't find them. They had everything else! Then we went to Namedaemun. First we had fruit on a stick. Then Cecily got a visor hat, and we found the socks. We also visited the flower market on the third floor and got 5 bunches for my big vase. I could have done more shopping but Cecily was tired after going up and down all the stairs. We carried our purchases home on the subway and back to Gate 17. We went home for a late lunch. Chris and Alfred had gone to the commissary and Px, and were back. Apparently they had stopped by Chris' office because he had part of my Joanns order that had just come in. Later Michele arrived from college. We tried to watch some Westwing DVDs that I got at the thrift shop, but they were made for a Korean DVD player. So we sat down to supper and lots of chitchat. Alfred had pictures he had taken in 1962 when he was here with the army. Chris was a veritable font of info on Korean/Japanese/Russian history. In fact we talked until we all decided to prepare for bed.

Chris' parents come for his birthday

We went to bed around midnight, after talking with my in-laws for an hour. In the morning I heard voices, so I got up. We talked and had breakfast. I took a shower. Chris and his father took turns checking e-mail on Chris' laptop. Then, while Chris took them to Gate 17 to sign on and then get entered into the DBIDS system, I walked to post, and drove my car to the thrift shop. I had to return the bolt cutter and get in another half hour of work for the month of May. But when I got there, poor Maryann was almost all alone. So I stayed and worked until Chris called to say they were going to Itaewon for lunch at a Thai restaurant. So we all walked into Itaewon, looking at stores as we passed. The food was very good. I got some kind of curry with beef, the others got pork and chicken. We all agreed it was delicious and we took the leftovers home. Chris dropped my m-i-l and me off at the thrift shop. Cecily found a few books on Korea that she wanted, and then shelved books until Chris and Alfred came back. She went with them to get ration cards and such and then stopped at the commissary. I stayed to work until MaryAnn was ready to leave. Then I drove to the parking lot and walked home. I had a few minutes to myself to clear a little e-mail before they came home. Then I had to feed myself and get over to the SPC for class. One lady showed up early to help me set up and then to get some help making a baby quilt. I got there earlier to put some screws into one hasp, and wrap the pointy ends of some other screws with tape. Then we set up and I got her started on her baby quilt. The others came with their kite pieces. I thought they were finished cutting and ready to sew, but no. So all they got done tonight was some more cutting and a little hemming. I guess we will have it again next week. Hannah came over during the class and gave me her plants: a very nice rubber tree and a hanging pothos. She also gave me a wrapped gift. She is leaving in a few weeks. After class I drove to the parking lot. Chris and Cecily came to get me, and marveled at the plants. Back at the apartment, I opened the gift to find a Mikasa glass bowl. Very nice! We all had some fudge and talked. There were no leftovers from Chris' birthday supper. And apparently no gifts either, except the jar of mustard I ordered for him months ago. He keeps saying he doesn't need anything. Finally we were all tired and went to bed.

My in-laws are coming. Tonight:)

I slept in until 8, so Chris had to make his own sandwich this morning. Then although I had planned to spend the day perfecting my kite instructions for class tomorrow, other things took over. I cleared e-mail (deleting helps), and then got Faye on Skype. Then her husband joined in his computer. Then she got Kurt (our brother) in a group chat, and he called in another friend. So 5 of us were participating on that call. What I thought would take an hour ran closer to three. During and after, I washed Michele's sheets and blankets and some fabric. Of course the fabric needed pressing. I was able to get it out of the dryer while it was a little damp. But then I realized I had the apt to myself, so I recorded some new tracks for the Neuro program. I also cut up dates to make fudge. Seems like there was more, but it's hard to remember now. Around 4 I was eating lunch and Michele called for assistance walking home from the bus. So I threw on some decent clothing and went to get her. Unfortunately I wasn't much help, being too short to be a crutch. All I could see on her foot was something that looked like small insect bites. Luckily she doesn't need it in order to sit at her computer. Chris came home while I was making fudge. He stacked the dishwasher and heated up leftovers for supper. We retired to our respective computers. Michele had to clean her room for her grandparents. Now the bed is made and it looks respectable. The bathroom, however... Anyway. Chris left for the airport to pick up his parents. It will be close to midnight when he gets back. Since Michele will be in bed by then, sleeping here in the computer room, I figured I had better get my blog written a little early. What will I do with myself if I can't stay up late on the computer?
**This pic is from quilting on Monday **

What is this?

I woke up early to make his sandwich and intended to stay up, but went back to bed, just for a moment, and slept until after 9. Then it was the usual morning routine. I got two new tracks recorded into Neuro. Then I went to the thrift shop. It seems someone had donated a BIG bolt cutter. Gee, just yesterday Cathi and I were talking about needing a bolt cutter to cut off some old locks. Ella said I could borrow it. Also I had packed up the QOV scraps that I had been collecting to do SOMETHING with, and brought them for Cathy who wanted to try a new quilt pattern. She and Annette came by about 2. I gave her the scraps and later, Annette left her pointsettia on my car. She is leaving this summer and wanted me to have it since she couldn't take it. About 2:45 I left the thrift shop. I couldn't get a hold of Julia. I took the bolt cutter over to the SPC and cut the locks, then returned it to my trunk. Still couldn't get Julia on the phone, so I took myself to Dongdaemun, even though it was raining, to get kite fabrics. I got home just ahead of Chris. He made bison for supper while I cleared out the accumulated e-mail. One of the things he brought home, (in addition to the gas masks that we are supposed to use in case North Korea attacks) was my order of crystals and magnets. (I don't know that magnets have any special healing power. They are just fun). They sent me a small thank-you gift marked Tibetan D.T. Here is a pic. I have no idea what it is, but it looks more expensive than anything I ordered.

It's a rainy day AND a Monday

I went back to bed after making his sandwich. Got back up at 8 to eat breakfast, clear e-mail and shower. I make it to the SPC by 9:30. Of course, no one else was there, so I started setting up by myself. But then Cathy came and we set up together for just the two of us. As other people came in, we set up more tables and brought out more machines. Some worked on QOV, and some sewed labels on backings for baby quilts. Cathy collected scraps for trying a new pattern for QOV: something with squares and hatchet blocks. Around 12:30 we broke for lunch. It was a social time and I guess we overdid it because when we were finished it was time to pack up. After everyone left, I drove over to the rec center to see where I might hang a small quilt to advertise our group (and the longarm). I saw a few places, and since all the posters are about 20 by 30, I think that is the size to make. I drove to the thrift shop to turn in receipts for the money we spent that they donated. Then I went to the gate, parked, and walked home. First I spent hours typing from my book like I did yesterday. Finally I finished it. 5500 words. Then I watched Youtube videos on organite. It seems someone discovered how to make it by boiling sugar instead of using resin, but it was in French. My French isn't good enough to figure out the finer details. I also saw pics of plants grown with and without organite. Of course the organite ones are bigger. That's when Chris came home and made supper. Michele come in just a little later. After supper I cleared out more e-mail, listening to my affirmation tracks all the while. I plan to make another affirmation track out of all that I typed yesterday and today.
** These are the starting blocks for our KwikKrazy blocks for QOV.**

Coming in late didn't help

We were just in time for the start of church. Not a bit early. No time to get asked to take up the offering later. But during the passing of the peace (which is right before the offering) we got nabbed. Not that it is a big deal, but after the one Sunday when the offering plates were missing and we couldn't find them, I would rather leave it to someone else. After church, one of the pastors made a little speech about how the army is short of money and might not see the need for both of our pastors if attendance doesn't rise. We stopped at the commissary for groceries on the way home. Guess what I just happened to see? Alum! It must be McCormick season. Then we went home. I tried to enter the Arts and Crafts contest, but it wouldn't take my id and password. Chris and Michele then went to see a movie, while I got ready for a sewing student. Then she called and moved it back an hour. Gee, I could have gone to the movie (but Chris said later I wouldn't have liked it). She had a little trouble finding the place and I went outside to stand on the hill and watch for her. The lesson took about 2 hours. She went home. Chris and Michele came back from the movie and had supper. I ate some pork and cabbage. I was supposed to have another student at 7, but she never e-mailed me for directions. Good thing I didn't cancel something to schedule her in. AFter a little nap, I got on my computer to copy some affirmation phrases from a book. Page after page after page. I am up to 3000 words and not even half way through the alphabet. The good news is that my typing is improving. If you are wondering about the alphabet thing, the book lists physical conditions and the affirmations that are supposed to ease them. I am only copying the affirmations. I figure I'll get everything sooner or later. **This is a pic of rooftop parking in Dongdaemun.**

While Michele and Chris played a mod this morning, I cleaned in the bathroom, kitchen and sewing room. My in-laws called me on Skype. They wanted to talk to Chris too, but he was busy. Around noon, another mod started, to which I was invited. But just then Faye got through on Skype. I had been trying to call her on and off all morning with no success. So, my sister being more important than any mod, I talked to her until she went to bed, then joined the mod already in progress. I don't think they missed me. In this adventure we were following someone, but by the time we caught up with them, they had been murdered. Some adventure, huh? I took a short nap, then spent more time cleaning up my sewing room (in anticipation of having sewing students tomorrow). We thought we were having company tonight, but he never showed up. After clearing e-mail, and deleting a larger percentage than ever, I made myself another 30 minute affirmation track.
I forgot to say yesterday that I went to the commissary to get alum. They didn't have it. The manager said it was a seasonal item. I asked which season, and he replied "McCormick".
Also, on the way into the commissary I ran into Mrs. Sharp, choosing bedding plants. She asked me about several and was impressed with my knowledge. I wish her luck. Being the general's wife, I'll bet she has someone to water and weed for her.
**This is Beth Anne's going-away present**

Buddha's birthday

Today is Buddha's birthday. That meant that Michele did not have to go to college. It also meant that the banks on post were closed, much to Michele's disappointment. Today was also scheduled as 'cutting day' so that we the quilters could gather at the SPC and cut baby quilt kits for the summer when participation is low. I showed up at 9:30, and had the place to myself. For awhile. Later Cathi Ferri showed up and we chatted and divided two lengths of fabric into tops and backs for quilts. Then we chatted some more as we ate our lunches. I came home then to clear out e-mail. It went longer than I thought because I heard Chris come in the door, signaling that it was after 5. We had a going-away party scheduled for 6. So I hopped in the shower, and dressed in the pantsuit that I haven't been able to wear since before I came to Korea. Then I had to figure out how to wrap the gift. Since Beth Anne, who is leaving, is a quilter, I wrapped the gift in fabric. I quickly wrote a card, signed it, and we were on our way. We got there just before seating. We had a time finding a place to sit. I snuck the gift in at the back of the gift table. We chatted with a variety of people. Dinner consisted of vegetable soup, salad, chicken breast, potatoes, veggies and eggplant. And oh yes, rolls and chocolate dessert. Thankfully Chris ate my carbs for me. Then they had each gift giver come up and say a few words while handing their gift to Beth Anne. Ha! If I had known that, I might have saved the gift for later.
Beth Anne took the evening well. Through speeches and soloists, she was able to remain composed. Many extremely nice things were said about her. It must have been terrible.
Afterwards there were the goodbyes and picture-taking. We helped her husband take the pile of gifts to the car. Then we went to Chris' office to visit the tomatoes and see when Michele was getting out of the movies. There was an hour yet, so we came home. Later Chris went back to get her.

Kite class

Pictures are coming, I just get tired and think I'll do it in the morning and then I sleep late.
After my usual routine of breakfast and clearing e-mail, I went to the thrift shop. I spent 4 hours there, doing the usual stuff. I even got a book on crystals. From there I went to the ACS building to drop off our revalidation form, which the lady found acceptable, so I guess Yongsan Quilters is good to go for another 2 years. Then I went home. I cleared some more e-mails, but decided to work on my kite patterns. I got them all drawn, and even drew a few extra. I packed it all up and went to class. I was later than I expected because I had to go back for my car keys. Then, at the chapel, I found a loud group of teenagers using our room to practice some sort of recitation or skit. But they left when we got the tables up and the machines out. We had a good turn out to make the kites. But cutting out the pieces was as far as we got. One couple was cutting enough pieces to make three kites. I hope they aren't making the project too complicated to finish. I had some purple fabric to share and we were all supposed to share our colors since not much was needed of each color. But at the end of the evening, everyone packed up their scraps and went home, leaving me with only scraps of my purple. I wasn't happy about that, or about the fact that even though I gave them a 10 minute warning, we were shooed out at 8:30 by a worried Katusa, having done little to pack up. It was embarrassing. I drove to the parking lot inside the gate and Chris came to pick me up. I spent the evening on my computer watching Youtube videos to figure out what kind of resin is best to use. Conclusion: no clue.

Shopping, more shopping

At one time I thought I might get up early and SKYPE Faye, but that thought got lost somewhere. I did manage to get up in time to make it to the commissary to meet the others who were driving to Dongdaemun. Fortunately it was not too crowded this morning, since one of our ladies had her son in a stroller. We shopped here and there, from basement to 5th floor. Everyone went home but me, then Toniette and Cathi came back. While they were gone, I found a sample of fabric I wanted to buy, and had to chase the man from the 2nd floor to the 6th floor to get it. Nimble, they are. Finally we all went home and they dropped me off at the commissary where I got broccoli and some Korean greens. As I was walking home I saw those greens growing by the sidewalk. Maybe they weren't the same? Anyway, I cleared out some e-mail, then read a book. That took my mind off of my reality for awhile. It was nice. I am good at procrastinating and at worrying. I wish I could procrastinate the worrying, rather than worrying about procrastination.
After Michele and I helped ourselves to leftovers, Chris came home. He helped me with the renewal form for our private organization status for Yongsan Quilters. Then he got on his computer while I searched the old computer once again for some files I created years ago and can't remember the name.

Another impromptu adventure

Chris did not ask for a sandwich so I slept in. It was after nine when I got up. Partly that was due to the rain. The dismal light coming in the window made the time seem earlier than it was. I showered, dressed, ate, and collected the recyclables to drop off on my way to post. By the time I arrived at the thrift shop, it was 11. I shelved books and videos for over three hours. I took a break to eat my squid, and pick up a few things I thought I could use. I paid for them with thrifty bucks. I called Julia to see what she wanted to do, and she suggested going to a restaurant in Itaewon after her appointment. I dropped in on Cathy to show her something and found out that no one had come by to help her do the latest quilt of valor, after all their talk yesterday. So I stayed until it was finished. Then I parked at the gas station gate and walked into Itaewon, thinking Julia would call at any time to say she was on her way. First I searched out the Mind Body Seoul place, but when I found the business it is supposed to be located by, there were no signs for it. So I walked all around, down back streets and such, amusing myself and passing time. There were lots of things I would have taken pics of if I had had my camera, but I had left it in my other purse last night: pig snouts and discarded tentacles, just to name a few. Then Julia did call, and I went into the subway to wait for her. I silently blessed each person who passed, to keep myself busy and I am certain I got well over a hundred. (I am reading an e-book on the power of blessing on the twolisteners.org site.) When she arrived, we went to the restaurant, ordered beef and octopus and had the usual side dishes. Most of the people there were Americans. We enjoyed our meal, split the cost, and walked to the Foreign Market. It is a grocery store where you can buy items from other countries. Still, it would be small by American standards. Then we parted ways, and I walked back to post. It had been raining all day, and my feet were soaked, so I called Chris and asked him to come get me so I wouldn't have to walk home (my gate closes at 7). As a testament to what a good husband he is, he came. Back home, I just had to have some more kimchi. Restaurants just don't serve in quantity. Then I went to my computer to read all the accumulated e-mail. I learned about Face Yoga for minimizing the signs of aging. I also read about the effects of microwaving food: "Structural degradation leading to decreased food value was found to be 60 to 90 percent overall for all foods tested, with significant decreases in bioavailability of B complex vitamins, vitamins C and E, essential minerals, and lipotropics (substances that prevent abnormal accumulation of fat). "
**This picture is from our meeting yesterday**

Old E-mails

I got up early to make the sandwich, then went to meditate and fell asleep. When I got up it was 9 and I had to hustle to eat and get to the SPC for quilting. In the parking lot I couldn't find the car and had to call Chris. I was half an hour late. But I needn't have worried - the others had set up everything and were working diligently. So I went over to the DHL to get the cash Chris wanted. The quilting group called me to request drinks as long as I was over there. After getting the drinks, I had to walk to Chris' office to deliver the cash. He was in a meeting, but was able to come out long enough to take delivery. Then I walked back. It was hot. Where did spring go? I wasn't all that productive myself because I was trying to answer questions and hand out tasks to other people. One lady came to mail the box of pillowcases for conKerrcancer.org. And she stayed to cut an entire roll of batting for baby quilts! Around one we stopped for lunch. I brought spinach soaked in kimchi juice. Hardly anyone had any, but I thought it was good. After we packed up, I followed Michele to her house because she wanted to give me a DVD/VHS combo. Then I went to the post office to mail Ralu her set of 20 blocks. Finally I went home to work on my computer. In searching for a file, I came across e-mails from 2000, one of which mentioned that my sister-in-law has a birthday in May. Happy Birthday Kelly! Then I worked on making patterns for the kite pieces. When Chris came home, I dressed up for CSM Witt's retirement party. When we got there I had to tease Chris. It was a Western theme party and everyone was wearing jeans and boots. After supper and speeches, we came home. I cleared out e-mail while listening to my newest affirmation creation - five tracks of affirmations over classical music.
**It's late so I'll put up my pics tomorrow**

Faye's 50th birthday

We woke up just in time to make it to church. The sermon was about hope. Afterwards, we had snacks in the fellowship hall. We did not have to rush out at 11 because the Catholics were having 'mass in the grass' today. During church I got a call from Cathy. I was supposed to meet Hannah to finish one of her quilts this afternoon, but Cathy hadn't finished Pam's from yesterday. So Cathy skipped her church to do that. We found her at the Arts-n-Crafts center working on it. So I asked Chris to do the commissary run by himself while I helped Cathy finsh up. Then she went off to her two-hour service, just as Hannah walked in. Hannah wanted to do an edge-to-edge design on a whole-cloth quilt. It sounds easy, but we ran into problems. It took all afternoon partly because she picked a design that was just over half of the quilting field (lots of rolling) and then it ran into the pickup bar and wouldn't restart in the same place. So we skipped it and went on to the remaining rows. But it wouldn't do that either, so we had to start the whole thing over again, as if we were doing a very short quilt. Even that messed up, but at least we finished. Chris had dropped off some hard-boiled eggs and seaweed so I would have some lunch. When I finished, he came back to pick me up. He and Michele had put gas in my car while I was quilting and I was ever so glad to hear that. When we got home, the smell of roast pork barbeque wafted enticingly through the apartment. Ah, the advantages of marrying a good cook. I spent the evening clearing out e-mail and listening to the last day of interviews. So glad that is over. I also made another loaf of bread since I forgot the yeast in the earlier one. Chris is eating it anyway, with Nutella on it.
My sister Faye is turning 50 today. In this picture she is only 49. Can you guess how many years apart we are?

Gaming and affirmations

Although my intention today was to go to the Chosun when it opened to buy silk, I called Maryann first. She told me that no silk had come in, and that saved me the trip. So I stayed home and played a mod. What made today's experience different was that Chris and Michele had already played it so they went to a movie, leaving me to figure things out on my own (with the help of the other players). I felt uncomfortable and clueless, but I got through it. Chris came back from the movie and started three spinach pies, two with meat and one without (for our guest). I did some vaccuuming, and mopping, as well as decluttering. I listened to all of today's interviews, and wrote two more Neuro scripts and put them to music. Our guest showed up at 6:30. We had the pies, kimchi, and an Asian pear. Then, as they began to talk role gaming, I went back to my computer for the evening.
**I didn't take a pic today so here is one from my outing with Julia. Her shirt says "This is not a pipe".**

Finally a day at home

I stayed home today even though several people wanted me to go to Dongdaemun. I got a lot done, too. I listenend to all of todays interviews, unloaded and reloaded the dishwasher, cleaned the countertops and the sticky mess from boiling-over rice. I cleaned out the icky sink trap. It was like sludge. And I swept and mopped the floor. I committed a few neatnesses in some other rooms, too. In cleaning up, I found my wedding ring. I also had time to blow up my exercise ball. I thought it would be more comfortable than my computer chair. Did I mention that I made a loaf of bread? Too bad I forgot to put in the yeast.
My sister SKyped me, and we talked for two hours. She turns 50 on Sunday. Ha, it just never gets old.
I spent the afternoon, recording another Neuro session with affirmations. I made a file with a list of the statements in each Affirmation wav file. That took awhile. Then Chris came home and, um, well, you don't need to know about that.
After supper, I got back on my computer to work on writing up instructions for yesterdays class. I entered my volunteer hours for last month (what a headache to find and keep the password for the Army site). There is more to do, but it will have to wait for tomorrow.
**Here are some pics from our trip to the Russian section of town**

A long day at the markets.

I got up early to make Chris a sandwich and finish listening to an interview that I started last night. But it was gone, replaced by the next set of audios. Normally I go to the thrift shop on Thursdays, but a group of students from my Thursday class asked me to go to Dongdaemun with them. So I drove onto post, parked at Gate 17 and met them there at 10. Nasia got her husband to drive us. With the traffic around Seoul, it would have been faster to take the subway. However, it was nice to sit instead of stand the whole way. We shopped for awhile, bought some kite fabrics, then Nasia had to leave. I shopped some more with the others, but then they had to leave too. So I was on my own for awhile. Then I ran into one of my other students. She and I then went to Namdaemun where I hoped to buy some rough-cut quartz. But like Dongdaemun, all their stones were cut, polished, and more expensive than the one I got on-line. I also searched for soap blocks to melt in the microwave, but no such luck. I DID however find the lady I bought shoes from last year. She did not have the same brand this year, but I bought a similar pair that hopefully will be as comfortable. Comfortable shoes are absolutely imperative with all the walking I do. Finally my friend had to leave also. I looked in a few more places, then started searching for the subway. By the time I got back to base, it was 5:15. I was too tired to go get gas, so I just went home. Chris was already there, with supper made. Cabbage soup - one of my favorites. However I couldn't rest long. I gathered my stuff for class, and headed out. I was late, but everyone else was later. Thankfully others did arrive to help me finish setting up. Everyone seemed to have a good time making wrap-and-tie pants. A few people worked on some other projects. They kept me so busy I forgot to take a picture. Only one person actually finished, but I think the others got far enough to finish on their own. Those that usually come on Monday's agreed to wear their new creations then.
I called Chris when it was over, and he met me at the gate so I could leave my car on post. I spent the rest of the evening listening to today's interviews and playing affirmations in the background.
**Here are some hats from the luncheon**

Tweeted with the general

I started out the day on my computer, waiting for Faye to Skype me. I tried calling her several times as well, but it did not go through or she wasn't there or something like that. About 11 I got a call to come into the AnC center to work on a quilt so that the visiting MWR general can see what we do and how interested we are in the $30,000 quilting machine. I threw out a group invite, showered, and headed out. Cathy picked me up at my gate and we went. Toniette was already there because it was her quilt. We loaded it and basted it and got started quilting. A few other members showed up too. Finally the general and his entourage came. He was so impressed with a QOV that we had on the table that he had an aide take a pic of us (the general, we ladies, and the QOV) with a cell phone and tweet it out to the world. I have never been tweeted before.
After he left, we finished the quilt, and Toniette and I walked home. I got back on my computer to finish all of today's interviews. Then cleared more e-mail. I also Did some research that led to Youtube videos on crystal making. It is interesting what you can make with salt, or vinegar and baking soda, borax, alum, etc.

Derby Hat day

I was late getting to the luncheon because I was adding a few more rosettes to my hat and trying to find the right jewelry. I felt a little conspicuous as I went to the DHL, and shopped for fabric before the luncheon. I was able to get only 7 packets! I tried to get pictures of the other ladies wearing their hats, but the lighting was too dim. The menu was high in simple carbs, so I brought a hard-boiled egg and some nuts. I hoped no one would notice, but they did. Afterwards we had a contest for Most Elegant, Most Creative and Most outrageous(?). I got 4th place in creativity. After that, the event broke up and I talked to MaryAnn for awhile, then went home and changed, had another bite to eat, then went to Dongdaemun to meet Julia. We spent the rest of the afternoon looking for the Russian section of town. We did find it, she bought some smoked cheese, and I got a number puzzle book. She actually speaks Russian, so we could communicate. We found a little restaurant for lamb kabobs, and a few other specialties. We worked out the rules for the number puzzle and worked on the first one until she got a call asking where she was. So we ran for the subway, she to her event, and me to go home. I picked up my car at Gate 19 and thought to go to the gas station, but it was closed - AT 5:30! Only station on post, too. So I drove home, hoping the gas will last. Chris had made bison for supper so I had some of that. Then I got on my computer to listen to interviews. Now they are doing like 5 a day. Who can keep up such a pace?

Its almost 11:30 and I am tired. What did I do today? First there was the quilting bee. We worked for over 5 hours making baby quilts and QOV. Then I went to the Post Office to mail a card to my sister. She's going to be 50. (I think I have mentioned that before, but I never get tired of saying it). Afterwards I came home to work on my hat. Its hard to know if I am finished or if I should add more. I also added some trim to the dress to help it match the hat. I tried listening to a few stored interviews on my computer, but they weren't very good. I sent out a Facebook message to the base about the Thursday class. I wonder what the response will be. For QOV it was very low. This time we are making wrap-n-tie pants.
I am looking forward to the luncheon tomorrow. Then I can put all the hat-decorating materials away. I plan to bring my camera. I expect we'll be a good-looking group.

Mother's Day

We DID make it to church this morning, and were even on time. Our punishment for missing the last two Sundays was the job of collecting the offering. Because it was Mother's Day, I was given two red carnations. After church we fellowshipped for awhile, then we stopped by Chris' office to check on the tomato plants. We left the carnations there in water while we went to E-Mart for kimchi. Our free gift this time was two bottles of mineral water. OR so it said. I drank one on the way back. We stuffed the flower stems into it, then hit the commissary for groceries. At home, we unpacked the food, and I listened to audios on my computer while working on my hat. I have the ribbon and most of the flowers sewn on. We had supper and watched a movie. I watched one, but they watched movies all afternoon long. My sister Faye (who will be 50 soon) called me on Skype. We had more problems than usual, including the ever-present 'call-dropping' feature. But it was really nice to talk to her on her new laptop, and see her new I-touch.
BTW, it's hot here. What happened to spring?

Surrounded by gamers

I slept in a little after being up so late last night working on my hat. Then I spent some time cleaning the apt because we were going to have company later. You'd only know it got cleaner if you had seen 'before' and 'after' photos. The afternoon was spent playing an on-line mod while sewing on my hat. Hats can be a lot of work. Still not finished. Anyway, Michele and I had some chili, and afterwards we all watched a movie. Then a man who is from France, but lived in England for awhile, came over. He speaks English with a British accent. His big interest is in live role-gaming, so of course Chris invited him over. We had a good time talking to him about languages, etc. Since he had seconds (on chili) we invited him to come back next week. We practically had to kick him out at 11:30 so he would catch the last train back to his place.

Unusual Friday

Normally I stay home on Fridays, and I intended to today. I wanted to work on my hat and orgonite. But during breakfast I got a call to replace Cathy at the longarm because she wasn't feeling well. She was supposed to help Hannah. So I went. I thought it would be a quick edge-to-edge. But the design was just over half the usable space, so we could only do one pass at a time, and so spent a lot of time just rolling the quilt for the next pass. Then the computer messed up, and we had to try to work around that. Cathy was feeling better in the after noon and dropped by. She convinced Hannah to leave her other quilt for us to finish. I wanted to leave when Hannah did, because I hadn't planned to spend the day there, but just couldn't bring myself to leave Cathy there alone when she hadn't been feeling well. It was probably 3:30 when I got home. I cleared out e-mail, then started on my hat. The blue fabric that covers the top isn't long enough to cover underneath, so I cut two doughnut shaped pieces, sewed them inside out around the outer and inner edges, then attempted to turn them right side out (through a hole in the stitching). Can't be done. I had to take out the entire inner circle, turn it rightside out, then will have to bind the raw edges by hand. I plan to hand-stitch the outer edge to the hat, when I get the time.
We called my parents on SKYPE. It was nice to talk to them. But it sounds like they need help and I wish I were there. Hopefully sometime this July we can visit.
**Here is a pic of the wool I got in Dongdaemun. It is really soft!**

The usual Thursday

I don't remember what I did this morning before I went to the thrift shop. Oh yes, I found out that my latest burned DVD is also defective. I may have to break down and buy some new ones. Anyway, here is the path I took from my apartment to post. It is beautiful, but I rarely see it because the path is so uneven that I am walking head down focusing on my footing. I got in my car and it wouldn't start. Just before panic hit, I realized that I had left the car in 'drive'. It started easily in 'park'. There weren't many books at the thrift shop, but we certainly had more than our share of VHS, mostly kids stuff. There wasn't room for them all even though I threw out a bag full and gave another box full to charity. Then I went to the PX to get a copper scrubbie, and got some cards, too. My sister's 50th birthday is just around the corner. Glad I'm not that old. Then I started looking for something shaped like a pyramid to use for a mold. Nothing at the PX or the Four Seasons, or Daiso. Finally I went home, and spent some time clearing e-mail. I listened to part of a talk from a neuroscientist about the 6 reasons civilizations fail, and how the internet may help us prevent each of them. Then it was time for class. When I arrived, the room was full of tables. Apparently the high school had been using it for standardized testing. Well, we didn't move the tables, just used them as they were. Some people worked on QOV, and some on baby quilts. They elected to have a class on making wrap and tie pants next week. They also want to go shopping as a group for rip stop nylon to make parafoils (kites). After class, I parked inside the gate and walked around through gate 52, then home. It's like parking on your chin, and walking around your elbow to get to your nose. I had a bite to eat, then back to the computer. **Here is a pic of fabric I got in Dongdaemun. Too cool!**

Children's Day (only in Korea)

I spent the morning following links from e-mails. One of them was a video showing how Smithfield raises pigs in deplorable conditions. N.C. banned some of their practices, so they built more megafarms in Poland. I got a Skype call from my brother Kurt. It was nice to talk to him, although I was sad to hear that his roommate got laid off yesterday. Just before noon I got a call from Cathy. She wanted to go to Dongdaemun with a brief stop at Namdaemun to pick up her new glasses. Twist my arm! OK, so she picked me up at my gate, we stopped at the ATM for won, and took the subway to N. She got her glasses, I got some more fake flowers for my hat and the jeweled peacock that I tried to buy yesterday with American money. We also got pineapple on a stick for $1. It was sooo sweet. A package of strawberries was $2, so we got some of them, too. Then off to D. We looked at fabric (see pic of man getting Cathy's fabric from the back row), and crystals, and thread, and such. Finally we just came home since stalls were closing early. She dropped me off at my gate and left. I walked home past the school which had filled their athletic field with small tents with food and activities for kids. It was their last day of school for the year. The crowd was enormous. The music was loud and I couldn't see what else was going on.
Anyway, back at the apt, I cleared some more e-mail, then made three layers of steel wool for my orgonite blanket. I used my dullest rotary cutter to make the edges even. I should have worn gloves because the little steel splinters stuck in my skin. Not my smartest move. I also cut some wool for another three layers. I put them together, then got side-tracked in the kitchen cleaning up dishes and making bread. Chris came home late, so we had leftovers, ie. beans. He put his on a tortilla and I put mine on two layers of seaweed. But it was too soupy for the seaweed. We also had some fudge. I got two boxes in the mail. One was some stones I ordered, but the other one held some interesting sample fragrances. I don't always remember ordering stuff, so when it arrives I am surprized (which is nice), but I am pretty sure I did not order these. I think I would remember by now. Anyway, I spent the rest of the evening listening to interviews while working on my hat.

Shopping is such hard work

Thankfully I'd made Chris' sandwich last night because he got up at 4am for a teleconference at 5 (which then got postponed 'till tomorrow). I got up at 7 to take some supplements, and re-wrote and burned my Neuro CD since the one I used last night was defective. Then it was the usual morning routine. About 10 I walked to post and drove the car to the thrift shop. Well actually, I had to park on another street because the lot was full. What I didn't realize was that I had parked next to Chris' car (he was attending a very large meeting held at the theatre). For almost 2 hours I shelved books and videos. I got all the books out, but ran out of space to put VHS and DVD. I hope they sell some tomorrow so when I come in Thursday there will be more room.
At noon, I called Julia and made arrangements to meet at Chungmuro later. I parked at gate 17 and took the subway to Namedaemun. This time I found the place I bought my favorite shoes, but they didn't have exactly the same thing, and I wasn't sure of the size, so I wrote down the booth number for when I return with the old shoes on my feet.
I got hungry so I stopped at a little booth for a roll of kimbap. That is all I had money for since I gave all my won to the man who fixed my car. I was looking for a money changer. I saw many things, some I was even interested in. One place was full of china and kitchenware. It was huge! Another place was selling hanbok fabrics for weddings. Beautiful stuff. Finally it was time to meet Julia at Chungmuro and THEN I passed a money changer on the way to the subway. When we met, she was hungry, so we stopped in a little restaurant. She ordered soup, and I ate kimchi. Then we explored a building labeled "Pet World" to no avail. It was full of flowers, but they wouldn't sell us any. Wholesale only, I guess. So we left, and went to Dongdaemun. She got fabrics and thread, felt, etc. I was looking for wool batting and all I could find was 1 kilogram bags of wool. I wasn't sure it would work. We were exhausted from all the walking back and forth. We took the same subway home, but I got off first. I drove to the lot, and walked home from there. (The lilac scent is very heavy just now). When I opened my bag of wool, it did seem to be in a sheet, like batting, but not bonded or scrimmed. Chris and Michele had just eaten, so I had a bite, then joined them in watching 'Frisco Kid' with Gene Wilder and Harrison Ford. I spent some time clearing e-mail and am happy to say that I actually finished today (I think). Now I'm off to make Chris a sandwich or two for tomorrow (at 4am).

Blocks-n-More

Because this morning was the first Monday of the month, we met at Carina's house for show and tell, and secret sister, AND most importantly, the spring block exchange. Some people did not have all their blocks, so we first exchanged with those who were leaving this summer. Then we all got in on the fun. Some people couldn't be there so they asked me to collect their blocks. At one point I was collecting for three other people and myself. I had a piece of paper to mark them down so I would remember. The party wrapped up around 2:30. Helle and I went to the SPC to sort out fabric and kits in the storage closet. Then I drove to a parking lot where Sarabeth and I went through all the sets of blocks to make sure each got what they were supposed to get minus the ones who didn't show up, or didn't have enough, etc. What a task! Then I parked at the gate and walked home. I was feeling sorry for Chris having to share his car with me and having extra to do at work because his boss is on bereavement leave. So I called someone recommended by a group member to fix my car. The man came to the car (actually he had trouble finding it and I had to go searching for him on foot). He jumped it from a jump pack, then tested the battery and alternator. He said it needed both. I agreed, and he put in a new battery WHILE IT WAS STILL RUNNING! Then I followed him in my car to his car shop off post. While I waited, he changed out the alternator, and replaced a tire. I called Chris a number of times during this process to make sure he was ok with what was going on. I wasn't sure how to get back to post in the heavy traffic, so Chris walked to me from home, and brought Korean money too. Isn't he a dear? When the man was finished, I gave him all my won, and all of Chris' won, and $20 - about $200 in all. Not a bad price, and where else can you get such service? Chris drove us home. We had supper and fudge. When Michele got home, we all shared an Asian pear.

Commissary sale

This Sunday we missed church again: we woke up early but went back to sleep. After breakfast and showering, we went to Chris' office to plant the potato and tomato plants. I used the little plastic trowel I bought yesterday and the tip broke on the first hole. After that, I dug the stones out with my fingers. I put the stones around the plants to make sure no one mowed them over. It wasn't a garden, we just planted them in the grass. Then we went to the Four Seasons for a bag of dirt. They only had one kind, and it wasn't potting soil, but what else could I do? We went to the commissary to pick up groceries. They had lots of bedding plants, and a bunch of tent sales. You could also get a horse and buggy ride (with a fake whinney). So many people were there that I had to stand in line for 10 minutes to get a grocery cart. Picking up groceries was easy and even checking out was no problem. We took them home, calling ahead to get Michele to help carry them up to the apartment. After unpacking groceries, I planted the tomato that was left behind. I used the not-potting soil, and mixed it with dirt from a dead pointsettia. Chris helped;) (a lot). I did not get as much e-mail today, so when it was cleared, I wrote two new Neuro sessions, and I watched a movie with Chris and Michele. After supper I worked on my hat for next week's luncheon and contest.

Making choices

Chris had to get up before 8:30 to play a mod. I did not play with the voices today because I was scheduled last night to help Tina quilt her top this morning. She is leaving Korea on Monday and so had limited time to get it done. I had breakfast but forgot to take my vitamins. I rushed off to get there by 9:30. There were lots of other things going on on post (like a yard sale) and the 5K Fun run. Here is a pic. (How are Fun and Run connected?)
Cathy had to come also because she had the key (the AnC center was closed for a Korean holiday). There really wasn't much for me to do since Cathy was there, but I stayed anyway. When she found out that the fabric man was selling fabric in front of the commissary (they were having a lot sale), she and Tina went over. Then I could run it all by myself, which is the only way I can really learn it. When she came back, she had chicken on a stick. It was messy so I continued to be able to run the machine on my own as she ate. When we were finally finished, we offered to sew the binding on with the longarm. It was an idea I had heard of that I hadn't tried yet. Tina was up for that, because then she could finish it on the plane home. It went well, and she was so happy. Then, because I felt so empowered having a car at my disposal, I went to the Four Seasons to get stuff. I got steel wool, acrylic caulk, a large plant pot, and a trowel. Then I went to the PX and got a magnet pen and some safety pins (keeps the seatbelt from getting caught in the door). Then I took the magnet pen to the first store and got some wire that was ferrous for my science experiment. I still need some wool batting, or wool felt. When I finish my science project, I expect to grow better plants.
I came home tired and hungry around 6. I ate some white kimchi waiting for supper to finish in the oven. Chris told me that the mod people were disappointed that I wasn't able to play with them today. I spent some of the evening watching a movie with Chris and Michele, and the rest clearing e-mail. I am learning to delete more stuff without listening to it, and some without even reading it. This is progress.