CHIT CHAT

TELEVISION
What you see frequently are ads for hair replacements. Koreans seem to have a phobia (both women and men) of loosing their hair. I also notice that neither men or women allow themselves to go grey, but no commercials about hair color. This issue about grey hair has been more on my mind lately.

It is interesting to see there is one TV channel devoted entirely to men’s fashion. One also sees ads for men’s eye cream to prevent wrinkles. Am I being sexist?

For those of you who know me, know that I have a particular taste in movies. At first I thought I was in heaven when at any time I could put the television on and watch an action movie. I believe I have finally had my fill of Schwarzeneger, Steven Segal, Jet Li, Jackie Chan, Jason Strathon, Bruce Willis, and…… my mind has gone too numb to remember any more “stars”. Thank goodness I am usually too busy for television.

FOOD
Koreans like sweet things and coat their garlic bread with honey. They also put sugar on their cheese crackers.

CLOTHING
Saw an amusing ad today at a men’s clothing store:
WE FIT ALL SIZES! SLIM, SKINNY AND BUSINESS!

BOOKS
I have read a couple of interesting books. One is THE RED QUEEN by Margaret Drabble. This novel was inspired by court memoirs written by a crown princess over two centuries ago. What makes this particularly interesting for me is I can visit the palace where this princess lived. Something I plan on doing. It has also helped understand more about Korean history and culture.

Since Al and I will be visiting Australia, I have picked up the book IN A SUNBURNED COUNTRY by Bill Bryson. This is a travel book by a man who has a wonderful sense of humour and tremendous wit. It is impossible for me to read this without wanting to share a quip with Al or just laugh out loud. I would say this is a must read for anyone who has, or will, or dreams, about going to Australia.

The third book was given to Al by the author, Won-Jae Jang (president of English Village), when we first arrived in Paju. It is called IRISH INFLUENCES ON KOREAN THEATRE DURING THE 1920’S AND 1930’S. I find it interesting albeit difficult at times.

WEATHER
The weather today is RAINING and fairly cool, I guess we are nearing the end of fall. The autumn colors are lovely, but I feel somewhat disappointed. I am used to clear blue skies and crisp prairie air which is the perfect background for the brilliance of fall leaves. Here the fog and hazy sky only serve to mute the colors. I suppose however, this is a moot point for those of you that are looking at snow. Was that just a jab at Winnipeg weather?!!

Well, I suppose I have chit chatted enough, thank-you for helping me pass the time this dreary, cool wet evening.