Subway Thoughts

From November 28, 2008
Today is the first day it felt like fall. The leaves had already changed, but they hadn't dropped. Today as I walked to the subway, the fallen leaves whirling in the brisk wind solidified the season. As winter surely approaches, the leaves make way for snow dusted limbs. The air is crisp now and the familiar smell of decaying leaves brings comfort. Soon it will be time for the renewing capabilities of snow.

From December 7, 2008
3:30pm
The less than magical snow awakened my awareness that I am in a place unlike home. The tteokbokki stand's blue tarp stood out among the gentle snowfall. Pools of fluffy white gathered in the folds as steam rose from the myriad of foods on offer. Last night the stands lined the street and offered a semi warm have for the drunk and weary. Green bottles of soju, half full, illuminated by the soft yellow lights inside the tent. Plastic lined plates overflowing with the spicy, chewy comfort of tteokbokki. Various fried vegetables and dumplings. The savory smell of chicken and pork skewers and the repulsive, yet familiar smell of sundae.

10:09pm
Seoul never ceases to amaze me. As we walked from the subway to The Eight: Reindeer Monologues, which we couldn't see due to a reservation error, the snow started to fall. Unlike the lackluster flurried of the morning, this snow had the renewing capabilities I so desire in snow. Large flakes falling effortlessly from the sky. The walk back proved magical. Life renewed somehow and I forgot I was in Seoul. I was at home with pink snow pants and a half finished snowman. Mom waiting with Swiss Miss. Since we couldn't see the show we decided to head to Itaewon and go to The Bungalow. A tropical themed bar with sand floors and swings. The four of us shared a bottle of red wine and soaked in the smoky smell of the fireplace and the tinsel slung above the tiki bar. Again I was transported to another place. Home. In front of the fireplace, sipping on a glass of wine, waiting for a cat to jump on my lap.

For the first time in my life I got the movie moment I have always desired. Snow still falling and illuminated by the Christmas lights, a fire blazing and good company. These are the moments I have always wanted in life. The hours that last for days, the realizing that I can stay in Seoul for a long time. I find something new and inspiring every week. This week it was the Bulgarian restaurant we went to for dinner. The food was amazing. I had a simple chicken dish with a spicy tomato sauce on top and steamed vegetables (carrot, broccoli and potato). Loren had a wonderful stuffed pork loin. It had cheese, onion, some other stuff and pickles. The pickles added a great flavor. Houston had a pork and vegetable stew that was by far my favorite dish of the evening. I love living in a big city, the possibilities are truly endless.