Unread Tales

A Long Overdue Update

2010-11-17T22:58:00.000-08:00

Wow....I'm truly a terrible web mistress.

This I well realize,

but am too lazy/busy-procrastinating to save this poor webby.

(I am in college now, with 5 courses that actually require me to do homework,

can you believe it? Un-Asian-ly enough, I'm even taking Spanish.)

In a flurry of inspiration, I thought I would at least give a,

mildly boring, report on my drama viewing....

which hasn't suffered like this blog has.

Currently Watching: (5)
Fugitive B
Mary Stayed Out All Night
Princesses and Blind Dates (Chinese)
I Am Legend
Dr.Champ
Dong Yi

Reviews to Come: (26)
Korean: (22)
Beethoven Virus
Chuno
City Hall
Coffee House
Delightful Girl Choon-Hyang
God Of Study
Hello Miss!
Invincible Lee Pyung Kang
Lovers in Paris
My Fair Lady
My Girlfriend is a Gumiho
My Name is Kim Sam Soon
Ms.Kim's Million Dollar Quest
Oh My Lady
Pasta
Personal Preference
Prosecutor Princess
Queen Seon Deok
That Fool
The First Shop of Coffee prince
The Woman That Still Wants To Marry
Shining Inheritance

Japanese:(4)
Anego
Ohitorisama
Around 40
Hotaru no Hikari 2

Update....again....

2010-04-10T20:33:00.000-07:00

Back From Japan, had a wonderful time.

However, I am now quite busy catching up on school work T_T.....

Currently Watching: (4)
Prosecutor Princess
Oh My Lady
Personal Taste
Chuno

Reviews to Come: (11)
God Of Study
Pasta
Ohitorisama
Beethoven Virus
My Name is Kim Sam Soon
My Fair Lady
Lovers in Paris
That Fool
Coffee Prince
Shining Inheritance
Hello Miss!

Update ^-^

2010-03-22T15:13:00.000-07:00

So I'm off to Japan again early tomorrow morning.

Therefore no updates are a given :P Mata ne~

Currently Watching: (3)
Pasta (Only need to watch the Finale)
God of Study (only one or two episodes left)
Chuno

Will One Day Finish: (3)
Smile, You (not really digging this one....)
Ando Natsu (trying to get back into Japanese drama...<_<)>
Queen Seon Duk (T_T so many episodes...50)

Reviews to Come: (9)
Ohitorisama
Beethoven Virus
My Name is Kim Sam Soon
My Fair Lady
Lovers in Paris
That Fool
Coffee Prince
Shining Inheritance
Hello Miss!

Style/스타일

2010-03-10T11:09:00.000-08:00

Genre: Drama

Language: Korean

Lee Seo Jeong enters into the fashion world, when she wants to become a journalist. She quickly realizes that just writing skills won't get her far, as she discovers the cut-throat world of a fashion magazine. Park Gi Ja, the boss at "Style" magazine, is a cold and career driven women, who never removes her heals and never shows any weakness. Add an evil sponsor, the "nice guy", and a chef gone chief, and you have Style.

Will SeoJeong become the editor she dreams of becoming?

Who will take over Style magazine when sponsors begin to pull out?

Review:

Style had it's heels pointed in the right direction, but took some bad turns. Dubbed the "Korean Devil Wears Prada" I could see it, and I enjoyed watching for the most part, but I don't think I could watch it again. It took me quite awhile to warm up to Lee Seo Jeong....I just found her to be rather frustrating at times. Ryu Shiwon's character made no sense whatsoever to me, either. One minute he was nice, the next he was angsty, the next in love, and the next emotionless, I couldn't understand any of it. There was a few glimmers of hope though, mainly through Park Gi Ja, Kim Hye Soo's character. Kim Hye Soo did a phenomenal job, and made someone you couldn't straight out hate, and that you grew to love. Some episodes I quite enjoyed, however the rest seemed like a strange mishmash of odd side plots.

I would say watch it, if you like Park Gi Ja and her, "Do it with edge!" as she basically carries the drama. I would wait for her scenes as she was the one who made it interesting.

It has some good moments, but others just fall flat.

You're Beautiful/미남이시네요

2010-03-09T10:09:00.000-08:00

Genre: Romance
Language: Korean

Go Mi Nyu is just a young nun, who is excited to go to a convent in Italy. However her plans are irreversibly changed when her twin brother's agent whisks her away to become the next top boy idol! Taking her brother's place, until he returns from America, she pretends to be Go Mi Nam, the boy with the angelic voice. She becomes a part of A.N.J.E.L.L. a boy band consisting of TaeKyung, Shinwoo, and Jeremy, all princes in their own right.

Can Mi Nyu keep up the charade long enough for her brother to return?

Can she keep her own feelings in check when she begins to fall in love?

Review:
I love this drama. I admit at first I was worried I would be frustrated with Go Mi Nyu, however I was pleasantly surprised. This is one of my top dramas. From the infamous pig scene, to the random music parodies, this is a keeper. You ended up with a soft spot for each of the guys, and had a hard time rooting for just one. The absurd situations that the characters encountered kept it fresh. The supporting cast, from the manager, Lee Hongki, or Yonghwa they all did very well. (I was particularly surprised by Hongki! He had a very moving scene....)
I have to admit though, without Jang Geun Suk I don't think this drama would have reached the height it did. He was the rock for this drama; he had a great power in his character.

All I can say is watch it. There is some drama fluff, especially near the end, that may frustrate, but overall it's a great ride. I loved this drama.

The Infamous Pig Scene:

Invincible Lee Pyung Kang/천하무적 이평강

2010-03-08T11:07:00.001-08:00

Genre: Romance/Comedy

Language: Korean

Lee Pyung Kang is a hard-working girl who dreams of one day becoming a golf course designer, to follow in the footsteps of her deceased father. Woo On Dal is an arrogant, useless son and heir to a large golf resort where Pyung Kang works. Though strange circumstances, involving On Dal's evil step mother and step brother, they must join forces if they want to protect the golf course.

Can On Dal prove that he is worthy to be the heir?
Or will his step brother steal it, and his women?

Review:

I enjoyed this drama, it had a kind of...Lee Da Hae feel to it. The main girl is sassy, and determined, while the main guy is useless in the beginning, but turns out to be a good guy. Though the drama is starved for "eye candy" it makes up for it with endearing characters. From the neighbourhood ajussi(s), to the younger sister that acts like a grandma. Even the antagonists aren't as bad as you might think. I appreciated that the drama didn't draw out things it could have, e.g. Pyung Kang's mother's gambling addiction could have been been used just about anywhere to make the drama longer, but they just let it be, thankfully.

Nam Sang Mi did a great job, and like I said before, was very "Lee Da Hae" for me in this role. Ji Hyun Woo, also did a good job as the leading man. Throw in an ex-fiance, and long lost pen-pal, (both of who were just so-so in my opinion, however I think that they weren't given a lot to work with either) and you have a fun drama. I would recommend it.

Piano Contest Help ♥

2010-01-06T22:02:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone ^-^

This is an entry for an online piano contest, and I would love all the support I can get, as this is my first time entering this kind of thing >_>;. Please click into the link, and rate!

I will update when the polling time comes around!

Youtube Link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsMHH0uLrxg

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T19:37:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone has a wonderful time

doing whatever you guys do on Christmas.

Myself, I will be helping out at a community Christmas dinner.

Hope you experience the true meaning of Christmas.

Update...again...

2009-12-19T20:25:00.000-08:00

Maybe in the new year I will put up more reviews....

T_T too busy with school and work lately.

Currently Watching: (6)
Invincible Lee Pyung Kang
Beethoven Virus
Smile, You (not really digging this one....)
Ohitorisama
Ando Natsu (trying to get back into Japanese drama...<_<)
Queen Seon Duk (T_T so many episodes...50)

Reviews to Come: (9)
You Are Beautiful
Style
My Name is Kim Sam Soon
My Fair Lady
Lovers in Paris
That Fool
Coffee Prince
Shining Inheritance
Hello Miss!

A Gaze into the Present

2009-10-28T19:42:00.000-07:00

Currently Watching: (6)
You Are Beautiful
Style
My Fair Lady
Queen Seon Duk (T_T so many episodes...50)
He Who Can't Marry (Feels like it moves a lot slower than the Japanese version.)
My Name is Kim Sam Soon (having difficulties finding the last few episodes, any help?)

Reviews to Come: (5)
Lovers in Paris
That Fool
Coffee Prince
Shining Inheritance
Hello Miss!

Egao no Hosoku/Always Smiling/笑顔の法則

2009-10-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

Genre: Comedy/Drama
Language: Japanese

While on her way to a job interview, in full kimono, Kurasawa Yumi bumps into Sakurai Reijiro. This chance meetings ends up with her becoming his assistant. He is a comic book writer, about to move into seclusion at an "onsen" a.k.a. hot spring. This drama is about the inn they stay at, and all that happens within.

Will love spark between Yumi and Reijiro? Or will the owner's son interfere? How will the inn staff react, when goonies start pressuring the owner to sell?

Review:

I watched this one through rose-colored glasses, as I am a fan of Abe Hiroshi (the main fellow). However, now that I think about it, it was a tad boring and slow. Abe Hiroshi's character wasn't actually all that interesting, almost....awkward? It's defined as comedy, but I can't think of any funny parts that stick out in my mind... The romance didn't play a big part, either.

Basically it's an average drama. However if you like Abe Hiroshi, it's bearable.

I know I enjoyed it, as I finished it...but like I said,

I have no special memories of this drama.

Boys Over Flowers/꽃보다 男子

2009-10-08T19:49:00.000-07:00

The classic Asian drama story of a poor girl,

who falls in love with a rich boy

...or two....or three...

Genre: Romance/Drama
Language: Korean

Geum Jan Di ends up attending an expensive, upper-class school, after saving a boy from committing suicide. While there she meets the F4 (flower 4) a.k.a the leaders of the school. They are known for giving anyone they don't like a "red card" which spells out ostracization and bullying from the rest of the school. She revolts against the strange system, and in doing so she stands again Gu Joon Pyo, the prince of princes. Oddly it causes him to fall in love with her, but her heart is unsure.,..

Will they be able to overcome their problems such as his evil mother?

Or will they be separated forever?

And who does her heart truly belong to?

Review:
Note: This will not be a comparison between the Japanese and Korean versions. They are too different, and it would take up too much space....and I haven't yet seen the Taiwanese version.

The cast as a whole did well. To be honest, in the beginning I wasn't very impressed, with Kim Hyun Joong *though I've loved him since "We Got Married"* but he improved significantly. As his character evolved, so did he, and became my favorite character.
His looks improved too, wait for the hair-cut, it's worth it.....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
I though Goo Hye Sun really portrayed her character well, although I found her character a little...바보-ish...but not her fault, the scripts.
I remember commenting,
"I could be the actress for Geum JanDi, I'd just flop over and close my eyes"
...she faints/collapses/is drugged/drunk(ed?)/...etc for half the show :P.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee Min Ho pulled off the character of arrogant/stupid/loveable prince perfectly. Enough said.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
The rest supported well enough. I found Lee Min Jeong a little annoying, but that was her character... I wasn't sold on the whole Kim Bum/Kim So Eun love story....
I also wasn't very impressed with Kim Bum, nor Kim Joon. One part in particular was when Kim Bum plays the Saxophone...knowing the basics of a reed instruments means you have to fold your bottom lip under... seems easy enough, but when he played it was like he had a sucker in his mouth....
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

..I have to say this, "I hate the amnesia story-line!"
I didn't like it in the Japanese version, nor this one. *sigh* I guess they were just trying to follow the manga....

Drama, drama and drama again. What girl couldn't like this drama? 3 good-looking guys(won't mention the 4th of the F4...) and a story every girl wishes she was a part of. Of course I was sucked in, it's nature. However I'm not going to lie, it's repetitive, and it gets to be a bit much. But I digress, it's a good watch,
Chickflicky? Over-the-top? Maybe...Love Triangles/Squares? Happy Endings? Evil Friends? Romantic? Of course!

This is a favorite and a classic.

Wonder Girls: The Wonder Years

2009-08-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

Since the Wonder Girls are growing some recognition in America

(thanks to the Jonas Brothers)

I figured now is as good a time as ever, to review their first "full-length" album.

Currently they are touring around North America with the Jonas Brothers.

I'm not a fan of the Jonases,

but their preteen crowd is probably the most receptible to a more "cute" girl band.

Wonder Girls Hwaiting!

Title: The Wonder Years
Artist(s): The Wonder Girls

Genre: Pop

Released: September 13, 2007

Language: Korean

Review:

This album contains many hits, from "Tell Me", to "Irony". I prefer the electric "Headache" or pop-y "이 바보" finding them stuck in my head more than anything else. Though there are ballads, they aren't the main focus. The whole album has a bit of a "club" feeling. The strong off-beats give a very hiphop pop feel (heard particularly in "Move").

Has a fun feel. I'd recommend it.

"Tell Me" MV with Subs

Courtesy to View3045

Updates?

2009-08-03T19:41:00.001-07:00

So heres the thing,

laziness+summer+work+studying+searching-for-a-social-life =

less blogging.

However it doesn't equal less drama watching!

I have 5 dramas on the go currently...with 2 just about finished.

I could blog something I watched ages ago, but that's not as fun right?

Two Korean remakes of Japanese dramas, a historical drama, the classic-of-classic Korean Dramas, and a...so-so romance?

So reviews are on their way, eventually, once I finally finish some of these :D.

My Dramas (listed closest to finale-farthest)
Coffee Prince
~~Boys Over Flowers~~
That Fool
He Who Can't Marry
Queen Seon Duk (50 Episodes T_T)

>_> and Happy B.C. Day....

Attention Please/アテンションプリーズ

2009-07-27T10:12:00.000-07:00

Genre: Comedy
Language: Japanese

Youko is a tomboy/rocker-chick, who finds herself at a where she needs to choose her path for life. Youko wanted to confess her love, but he left on a to the big city before she could. She begins job hunting, and decides to go to a Flight Attendant interview, and somehow passes.
So this drama chronicles the ups and downs of her training, plus a smidgen of romance.

Can Youko really become a put-together, and gentile "Cabin Attendant".

Review:
Hmm typical Japanese quirky humour? Is that what I'd call it? I didn't mind this series, not a favorite though. I mainly found it interesting to see what the training for an air stewardess' job is. The main girl is a little....annoying? Exasperating? A little too "Ganbarimasuse" ?

If you're interested in the life of a Flight Attendant, then sure watch this. If you like overly perky, slang-using heroines, then watch this. If not, then...don't watch this drama.

아빠셋 엄마하나/Three Dads One Mom

2009-07-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

This ones a keeper! ☺

Genre: Comedy/Romance
Language: Korean

Sung Min wants to provide a baby for his wife, Na Young, but finds it difficult to do. So he, secretly, asks his three closest friends to donate their sperm. They originally agree, but eventually beg him not to use it. During all this drama, Na Young becomes pregnant, but before his friends can makes sure he didn't use their sperm......he gets into a car crash and dies. A pregnant Na Young has to depend heavily on Sung Min's friends, even moving in with them, but what will happen?

Will she fall in love with one of them?

Which one is the true father?

Will Na Young ever find out about what they did?

Review:

I just finished this drama last month or so. I loved it. It is actually pretty funny, and the romance is there too. (Normally I hate kids in movies...but this kid is too darn cute! Plus she doesn't talk, so it's the perfect baby-combo!) The three main guys are each special. You, as the viewer, are actually torn between which one she should go for. I admit I predicted the ending, however it did have me guessing a little to the end. It really looked like they were going to have her end up with a certain fellow....

This is one of my top dramas so far! Too cute! Funny and Romantic!

Starts out a little slow, and I was a little frustrated with the actions of the lead female, but she evens out after a few episodes.

Besides, how can you say no to this face? Ha Seon-Ah~♥

Traditional Music + Kpop = ?

2009-07-08T20:07:00.000-07:00

Sorea is an awesome group that does renditions of Kpop with tradition Korean instruments (and some modern ones too). From the BigBang/2NE1 synthpop "Lollipop" to the girly pop of SNSD's "Gee".

This is their latest, of SNSD's newest single "Genie/Tell Me Your Wish".
Not only do they sound great, they look like they're having a blast ^-^.You can find them at www.soreagroup.com and on youtube under, you guessed it, Soreagroup.

You can watch the original SNSD MV here.

As a bonus, here is a medly of Super Junior's "It's You" & "Sorry, Sorry" (which I featured on here before)
Two of my favorite songs, of late.

Happy Canada Day! | |%| |

2009-07-01T10:35:00.001-07:00

Canada turns 142!

Do you do anything special for Canada Day?

In my area we have a parade, a little carnival/game thingy, and fireworks.

I love Canada :)

I'd list the reasons why, but I'm off to the parade ta ta!

하자 전담반 제로/Romance Zero

2009-06-26T14:41:00.000-07:00

Genre: Comedy/Romance/Drama
Language: Korean

Kim Woo Jin used to be a top matchmaker. However, one of his matches end when the man is discovered to be gay and leaves his bride at the alter!Everything crumbles from there. He gets pushed to a tiny office, and his new employees are the "Zero Team" a.k.a the misfits. Together they join people together, and overcome battles themselves.
However will they themselves ever find love?

Review:
Finished this one last night. It's pretty cute. Then again I'm a sucker for Kang-In♥. The characters are funny, especially "Madam Jang" with her crazy voice! Each client was entertaining, but sometimes I found the matchmaker's side plots to be a bit trying. The ending was sufficient, however I didn't like how Woo Jin ended up. He was a pretty tough, logical, cookie the whole show, and then the last 10 minutes he became a sappy romantic, ugh...but I digress...

Try this one out! Funny, and the characters are cute.
You'll be surprised by some of the episodes....
mwahahaha I can just imagine the reaction to a certain episode on a "hobby"....

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T14:44:00.000-07:00

Did you do anything for Father's Day?

Alex - My Vintage Romance

2009-06-16T17:04:00.000-07:00

I bought this CD for my mother (as a Mother's Day gift)

as she loved Alex in WGM.

it wasn't just for me to listen to...kinda
I ordered it from YesAsia, which was prompt,

and it arrived in good condition.Crazy Fact:
알렉스 used to be a sushi chef from Vancouver, before he debuted in Korea.

Title: My Vintage Romance
Artist: Alex Chu

Genre: Ballad/Jazz
Released: June 13, 2008

Language: Korean

Review:
Ah... Ever since I heard him sing on, "We Got Married" I've been a fan of Alex. This album is a great one, his songs just melt together. Smooth, is how I would describe this CD. It describes the songs and his voice perfectly. It's mainly laid-back (lounge-y?), with it's fair share of ballad-esque stuff. Though there is the odd rap song mixed in. Some of the more mellow ones might mush a bit in your brain, but it's good stuff.

Highly recommended.

Here is the MV for 사랑하오 (I Love You)
Follow it to the end, it has an interesting switch.

(I have a few more CD's from this order, so look forward to it :)

Proposal Daisakusen/Operation Love/プロポーズ大作戦

2009-06-16T10:58:00.000-07:00

(I'm Back :)

Genre: Romance/Drama
Language: Japanese

Iwase Ken realizes, only too late, that he has feelings for his best friend, Nagasawa Masami. On her wedding day, just as the slideshow starts at their reception, everything freezes! Iwase Ken discovers that the angel, of the church, will give him a chance to go back in time. He can go back to the pictures in the slideshow, and change the endings, so that they are happier. He does his best as he goes through the pictures, from highschool to college.
But can Ken really change the past?

Review:
Hmm I liked this one. Didn't love the lead girl, thought she was a little...too needy? However I'm a Yamapi fan. It is rather...drawn out though. However there are some heart-warming moments. The whole idea is at least a little original. The angel is pretty funny too. "Hallelujah Chance!" fuufuufuu....

Last year in Japan, I started to watch the Proposal Daisakusen Special....however I was dead tired (like most nights) and had to go to bed :(. It was a lot tougher without subs too...I later watched the Special back home, it wasn't the best...>_>;

Custard Pudding KitKat

2009-04-12T14:33:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter!

In Japan they have quite the wide variety of KitKat flavors.

Unlike Canada....which I think only has "KitKat" flavor

and maybe if you look hard enough"Dark KitKat".

While I was in Japan I was able to pick up a few of these Japanese treats.

So I will do my best to share them with you. :D

Today's KitKat: Custard Pudding Flavor!

(68 Calories!)

(Observe the in-english easy-open directions. I love how almost everything in Japan is easy-open :D)
Looks: White Chocolate?
Smell: Sweet, Strong, Vanilla (Basically smells like powdered Jell-O pudding)
Taste: I'd say the the name is pretty accurate. Not pure pudding, but custard-pudding. Kinda like licking the bowl of a vanilla cake mix (we all know what that tastes like ♥)
Score: 5/5 I would buy these often if they were over here. I'd say its maybe even better than a regular kitkat.

I'm actually pretty sad, since I think I just ate the last one doing this review T_T.

(A Close-Up of Deliciousness!)

"Honey, I'm Home ♥"

2009-04-05T17:19:00.000-07:00

(The shoes pictured above are Ugly + Used = and are approx. $230.00 Canadian)
Well I got home on tuesday.
With a throat, ear and chest infection. Ah I love Japan.
Last year I got sick too, but had only a week to get sick.
This time around, with two weeks, I had a pretty awful time coming back.
However my stay was enjoyable.
Made a tonne of wonderful memories with my Host Family, and worked on improving my Japanese. Almost the entire time I spoke only Japanese, which was exactly what I wanted. I did long for some English conversation a few times, but I survived :). I was able to understand most of the stuff people said to me, however that was normally in simplified Japanese, or so I'm thinking ;).

First Week:
-Had school in Japan (a big woot for school uniforms ^-^)
-Discovered I'm not a fan of natto (fermented soy beans :x)
Basically smells like nail polish...>_>
-Rode a bike to school (dangerous to say the least)
-Went to Disney Land
-Sat through an 8 hour piano recital T_T
-Ate delicious food ♥ such as gyoza
-Began to get sick

Second Week:
-Had School in Japan
-Went to Disney Sea & Fuji TV
-Went shell hunting for clams, and to a nearby spa.
-Bought, ridiculously cheap, music from a second hand store
-Bought some cute clothing :D all pretty cheap too.
-Went to Asakusa, Ueno, Shibuya, Harajuku, Ikebukuro and Namja Land (a.k.a. Ghost Cat Town?)
-Watched the Gokusen III Special
☻Died just about every day from being sick.

I did mean to have this blog continue to update without me.
However the day before, when I tried to post it in advance, it wouldn't let me o_o;.
It was messing with me, so I had to let it go....
Will try to go back to updating, but school is pretty busy right now.
Will also try to do a few posts on my time in Japan.
For now, off to dinner :)

Super Junior Sorry Sorry MV with Subs

2009-03-14T20:35:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of CJWTown

Pretty 멋있다(cool), although mostly all dancing. But what can you do with a 13 person boy-band really?

Interesting note if I change that just a little to this 맛있다 it becomes delicious...from maw...to ma....

My Little Chef/マイリトルシェフ

2009-03-13T08:05:00.000-07:00

Genre: Comedy, Food
Language: Japanese

Kamosawa Seri is a gourmet french chef (it runs in her blood, her father was a gourmet as well until he lost his sense of taste.) She decides to move to the city, and allow her talents to flourish. She ends up opening her own restaurant.

This shows the story of her and how her food helps the people that come to her cafe.

Review:
Hmm this is a cute series. I remember finding it a little slow however. As well the lead is...a little wooden? Maybe its just with her more introverted, character personality. Nevertheless each episode pretty much follows the same lay-out, we get introduced to the customers, and their problems. Then it ends with her cooking amazing food, the story behind it, and resolving the issue. The food always looked so neat!

Not bad, it also has Abe Hiroshi (although not Comedic...)

Not a fav, but it isn't the worst that's for sure.

Super Junior Sorry Sorry Sorry

2009-03-09T19:20:00.000-07:00

Oh stop your crying, I know did two posts in one day. Think of it as a treat, since I'll be gone for two weeks.

Have this song stuck in my head now. Guess that's what you call a good hook, right?

Not a huge Super Junior fan. Although I follow Kang-In on WGM.

Stupid Ear-Worm ;)

iknow.co.jp becomes smart.fm?

2009-03-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

So recently http://www.iknow.co.jp/ underwent a, so called, "major change" to become the all new, and improved smart.fm. However only a few days since the launch the site is down again...for the 3rd time I think? I can't be sure, I've lost count. I've been pretty patient so far, trying to tell myself as long as iknow is still in there it will be okay.
Here is how I see it so far (obviously the site is still in shakey mode, and isn't fully functioning as intended, I do realize that)
Pros:
-Very centralized, less clicking, all at your "Home" tab.
...
Cons:
-New interface
...ugly, and cold. I miss the more professional, and less harsh, feeling of iknow
-New Name
...not digging it, it's not a radio station, why fm? Plus iknow had an almost cute feel? Smart seems like...arrogant? Haha I'm really reading into this
-New Tabs
...I personally like having individual buttons for iknow, diction, and brainspeed
-Severe Downtime and Lag
...isn't this supposed to be the site OUT of beta?

*sigh* Whatever. I'll put up with it (what choice do I have.)
But know, I am not pleased!
And yes, for your info I didn't like the new facebook either. So there!

Lovely Complex: Live Action/ラブコン

2009-03-04T19:49:00.000-08:00

Please Note: This is a movie not a series

Genre: Romance/Comedy

Language: Japanese

Risa Koizumi is a "beanstalk" or "giant" compared to the average Japanese girl, her height being 5' 6". Whereas Atsushi Otani is a "chibi" or "midget" compared to the average Japanese boy, being only 5' 1". Both have had their hearts broken because of discrimination against their height.

Will they be able to over come their insecurities, and find love?

Review:

Wow...this is the cheesiest of the cheesies. Over-the-top and cheesy describe this drama well. I remember reading the manga, way back when, via scanlations. It was cute as a manga, however the movie...well...It's funny, in a dumb sort of way. Once you hit the Kane-san/New teacher, with his "Yoroshi Queeeeenn" you start to realize the ridiculousness of it all.

Amusing perhaps, if not just from the "Yoroshi Queeeen" bit. However it seems very...2d, not very deep or interesting. Anyone else seen this classic? ;)

At Home Dad/ アットホーム・ダッド

2009-02-28T21:28:00.000-08:00

Genre: Comedy/Family
Language: Japanese

Kazuyuki Yamamura was a proud business man, who looked down on his neighbor Sugio Yusuke, a stay-at-home dad. However one day the tables are turned and his wife becomes the bread winner, while he is forced to take care of the house and his child.

How will his daily life go? Will he survive being an At Home Dad?

Review:
I watched this awhile ago, when I was all gung-ho Abe Hiroshi :). From what I can remember I quite enjoyed it. I normally...hate?...no too harsh....prefer not to watch shows with elementary aged children in it. They wreck everything T_T trying to be funny or insightful or what-have-you.....Anyways this one does okay, and thankfully focuses on him(Kazuyuki) and his journey to...home-maker status?

Cute comedy; although it's no kekkon dekinai otoko, ~~but hey substitute the dog for a kid, and the wife for...his steak? There you go!~~ (Probably the worse analogy every used)
Actually scratch that, just watch it as a family-friendly comedy and be done with it.

Little Wonder Girl (kwiyeoweo!)

2009-02-24T20:26:00.000-08:00

This is just too cute.
Her name is Kim Yeeun, apparently, and this is her appearing on Star King (kvariety show)
>(I highly suggest you check it out in HD)<
I don't condone sexy dance moves for little kids, ....
but the majority is just cutesy.
Normally I'd say, "aww poor kid being pushed to learn",
but man she had sass and attitude; I'm pretty sure she was having fun.
However I do worry about her future....don't go all Britney Spears by the time you're 6 kid!
I wish I could dance as good as her T_T;....

In case you didn't know she is dancing to Wonder Girl songs, a popular Korean girl group.

My Girl/마이걸

2009-02-21T19:12:00.000-08:00

Genre: Romance/Drama/Comedy
Language: Korean

Joo Yoo Rin is, sadly, in a difficult position. Her father has racked up debt, and she is now being chased my money collectors. She helps herself to an abandoned house, but is soon discovered by the rich owner Seol Gong Chan. He eventually asks her to pretend to be his long, lost cousin.; as his grandfather is in dire straits.

How will things end up when Gong Chan starts to fall in love with Yoo Rin? Especially since his best friend, Seo Jung Woo, is also in love with her! Plus he has a girlfriend already! Who will Yoo Rin choose, and will their trail of lies catch up with them?

Review
Wow, another fabulous drama. I really liked this one....almost better than Full House (which is saying something.) It falls into a few pitfalls, like other dramas, such as some predictability. However it really isn't too bad! It doesn't drag things out unnecessarily either. I remember at one point expecting it to really milk something for episodes to come, but it was resolved in-episode. Finally! A drama with a little common sense! I admit the last few episodes disappointed me a bit, : ( drawn out more then I expected. The last episode seemed....hmm....strange. However I was content when it finished, cute, simple, the end.

I highly recommend this. Watch this now! pali!

♥♥Happy Valentines Day♥♥

2009-02-14T20:10:00.000-08:00

Well, its that sappy day again....

I worked, and nothing too special happened. Sold a lot of flowers....

(yay for taking buckets of almost-useless flower pictures, that are good for all occasions!)

However one kind customer bought me chocolates.
Strange, yes.
Nevertheless
I thank you, Chili-Cheese-Potato-Skin-Man
(as I don't know your name, but remember the recipe you told me)
and I hope you, and everyone else has had a good v-day.
(I shared the chocolate kisses, so your good deed was spread through-out the staff :)

What did everyone else do today?
I personally think Valentines is basically for married people or couples,
so basically I'm not involved.

Can't wait for April 14th, then it's Black Day!
Where those of us without significant others eat black noodles (Korean Style :D )

Rookies/ルーキーズ

2009-02-13T18:50:00.000-08:00

Wow, this post was a pain! Had to re-write it all out after an attempt at embedding the soundtrack failed....

Genre: Drama, Baseball
Language: Japanese

Koichi Kawato is an, always, optimistic high school teacher. When he arrives at his new school he discovers the remnants of the old baseball team. Now it mainly comprises of a bunch of bad kids who smoke, and do other delinquent-y things; since being suspended from playing baseball because of initiating a violent attack against an opposing team. Koichi becomes determined to return the baseball club back to its former glory.

He teaches the kids how to never give up, and to fight for their dreams!

Review:
This is actually quite a good drama. (Although I'm probably a bit biased xD) A very feel-happy, empowering, style drama. You get sucked into it, even if you aren't into baseball :P. You grow to recognize the faults, and strengths of each member of the club. Plus Koichi, despite being optimist, isn't an idiot (most of the time)! Bonus!

Even just the theme song brings back such warm memories. (Kiseki by Greeeen. for your information)I watched this last summer with Rei, my host-sister, and it reminds me of our time together. We watched the drama series in a week, only 11 episodes, and fully enjoyed ourselves (It was also the first, and essentially only, time I ever used bit-torrent too....)

Watch this. I hope you end up with good memories of it too. It has a pretty satisfying ending from what I remember.....I admit, I had to watch the last two episodes without eng-subs. However.... I understood most of it, just horse-guy's Japanese threw me :P.

Plus...Shirota Yuu is in it too....♥....>_>;

Random Fact: Greeeen, the artists that sing the theme song are all dentists (or in school to become one), and have never shown their faces before to the public. Weird eh?

열여덟 스물아홉 /18 vs. 29

2009-02-07T11:22:00.000-08:00

Genre: Drama/Romance
Language: Korean

While on her way to file for a divorce, Yoo Hye-Chan gets into a car accident. When she wakes up, she has amnesia, and believes she is 18! It becomes even more complicated when Shin Ji-Young professes her love to Bong-man, and Kim Noon(a high school student, no less!) falls in love with Hye-Chan.

How will her husband Kang Bong-man react? Can he win her love again, and keep it safe? Or will history repeat itself? And will Hye-Chan ever regain her memory?

Review:
Finished this one on....Thursday. It is pretty good. I enjoyed watching Bong-man, played by Ryu Soo Young. I also liked the sister, and brother characters, with their little side plot. Their personalities seemed...the most real? However....Hye-Chan and a few other characters....definitely got on my nerves , it did improve closer to the end though :). I just found it annoying that every time Hye-Chan felt uncomfortable she just up and left! Talk about frustrating!
When I was looking at other reviews on this they called it a "Comedy", I really can't remember any parts being very funny. It was more drama driven I'd say.

Hmm...I'd say...."sure, watch this". Not my number 1 recommendation... but it's survivable, and not quite as drawn out as say....1% of Anything. Admittedly it can be...exasperating at times...so try out some of my other recommended picks before this one. :)

(As always if you've seen this, let me know what you thought of it!)

By the way, I realize I keep my reviews rather vague, as I don't want to spoil it for others. However would you rather I went more in depth? Or is it okay leaving it up to you to decide, for when you see it? ♥Leave your comments below♥

ドラゴン桜/Dragon Zakura

2009-01-31T18:51:00.001-08:00

Genre: Highschool/Comedy/Drama
Language: Japanese

Sakuragi Kenji became a teacher as a last resort. He used to be a lawyer, but hadn't been making enough to get by. So he decides to boost his prestige, and that of the school's, by producing 5 successful Toudai, a top university, applicants. However the school he works with has some of the lowest scores in all of Japan! How will Kenji turn these kids around?

Review:

This one has a few stars in it when they were younger, like Yamashita Tomohisa, and Koike Teppei. This is an okay drama. Not too long either, 11 episodes. I basically love anything Abe Hiroshi does, and he did well in this, as he does in every show...although lately all he does is historical drama :-( I prefer his comedy..... Anyways, the actual story is okay, and has some good moments in it. The ending is a little disappointing, but I'm sure you've caught my negative feelings towards Japanese drama endings.

I think this would be interesting for someone to watch. Mainly because Abe Hiroshi is in it. If you like other Highschool Dramas, you probably will agree, that this is just "okay". See it for yourself. It's been a few years since I saw it :)

Happy New Year! (again)

2009-01-26T11:39:00.001-08:00

New Years, according to the lunisolar calender,

falls on January 26th this year.

Korean celebrate it by cooking up some ricedumpling soup,

bowing to their elders, and recieving money.

image taken from http://38.img.v4.skyrock.net/38a/jungsoo/pics/201663295_small.jpg Beware it's in French...)
Ttokguk Soup above (rice dumpling soup)

I happened to get invited to eat some delish Korean food a few days ago.
As a sort-of an early New Years celebration... Although all we did was sit around and eat.
There was so much food xD Now...as I didn't want to seem like a total oddball I didn't bring my camera. So therefore I have no pictures of the food. *cue sad face*
However I decided to use my magic paint(photoplus) skills to bring to life my dinner.*cue children's crying out, "Yay!"*

I really didn't do it justice. Honestly those dumplings were huge, and I could only eat two. They showed me how you put that spicy sauce on the dumplings, cut it into quarters and then eat it. They tasted a lot like Gyoza. I didn't know if Koreans have a different word for Tempura, so I just stuck in the Japanese. Same with Daikon...I believe it's Mu in Korean. However most people will probably know it by Daikon. The kimchi was daikon style too. Everything was amazing tasting. I felt so full, but I was in heaven.

Do you celebrate New Years on the 26th? Tried any of the foods I described above? I'm not doing anything special but studying :(. Although I might search out some recipes from some of the items from above instead. >_>;

마녀유희/Witch Yoo Hee

2009-01-20T20:44:00.000-08:00

Yes....I am actually early for once in my life!

(Expect the universe to collapse soon...)

Genre:Romance/Drama/Comedy
Language: Korean

Ma Yoo Hee is a hardened business women,( a witch according to her employees) but she craves emotional attachment. She often goes on blind dates, but is rejected for her cold demeanour. One day she meets Chae Moo-Ryong, who ends up owing her a large sum of money. To repay it he becomes her love coach...and housekeeper. Their relationship helps Yoo Hee's inner qualities shine and she blossoms. However how will her life end up when she catches the attention of an old flame? Who will her heart choose?

Review:
This is another really good kdrama. I liked the leads, and they did well. Wasn't as cliched as most, and was truly enjoyable. Sure there was a few tedious love strands in the beginning, but those were smoothed out. The change that Han Ga In, Yoo Hee, portrays is really lovely. Plus I loved most of the fellows in this. Apparently this was one of Dennis Oh(neil) 's first shows in Korean. Sure...his "okay" in English, and other English phrases got annoying...but his face made up for it ;). I also get bored by too much, conflict not enough happy...so getting closer to the ending was a little tough for me. However I wasn't really antsy until the last episode or so.

So basically, this is another keeper. Not too long either, a reasonable 16 episodes.

ハケンの品格 / The Pride of the Temp

2009-01-17T21:40:00.000-08:00

This may look suspiciously belated, however I did write half of this last night, I just finished it today :P.

Genre: Comedy

Language: Japanese

Oomae is a killer worker. She makes big bucks, despite only being a temporary worker. She has some quirks though, she follows the clock exactly, and refuses to work overtime. She also never works anywhere longer than 3 months. She isn't exactly a friendly co-worker either, but she is extremely efficient. This entails her time working in a new division, with rooky "salarymen". Can she overcome and educate those with prejudices again temps?

Review:
This was a okay comedy. Nice to not have a typical main character with flaws, and clumsy emotions. Oomae is a little overbearing at times, however I enjoyed her. Sure the romance was uncalled for, but expected. I'd recommend this if you're looking for a break from all those fluffy romance comedies. This one is simply about a weirdo. A nice breath of fresh-air. xD I admit I was expecting a more tragic back story. Ah well we can't always get what we predicted (although it seems to be the way the jdrama world works).

風 Kaze's Restaurant

2009-01-16T10:30:00.000-08:00

I know New Years was awhile ago, but good food is ageless right?

No? Mold is a serious factor, you say? Well...

On New Years, I went out for lunch at Kaze's Restaurant. A lovely Japanese restaurant with a selection of sushi, and other traditional Japanese food. Since it was New Years we got brought complimentary toshikoshi soba (...end of the old year, beginning of the new year, buck wheat noodles). Soo good! They were really delicious and I wanted to ask if we could order them next time too... (I admit I completely forgot about taking a picture of them until after I ate them....) For an appetizer we ordered Gyoza,(potstickers). (Again no picture, I'm awful aren't I?)

Then for the main meal I ordered a (pictured above) TempuraDon(buri). It was a bowl of rice, with tempura (battered & deep fried) shrimp, and vegetables. Their tempura is amazing. It is so light and fluffy, and it isn't greasy at all! It has a really "oishii" flavor.

Feat of Wonder: If you put them on a napkin, by the time your done eating, the napkin still looks clean!

Starbucks Berry Chai

2009-01-15T16:04:00.000-08:00

FAILED

Yesterday I went to the "big city", and did some shopping.
Before we left, we stopped at Starbucks,
one of my favorite places in the world. <3>I normally get a chai, green tea, or strawberry frappucino.
However I decided to take a bit of an adventure,
and asked for aBerry Chai, it was one of the newest items on their list.
You can have it either iced, or warm. I wanted it as a frappicino,
but apparently that was just not possible.
So despite the chilly winter weather, I still went with the iced drink.
(I can't drink hot liquids well...ever since I was a child I've had a fear of burning my mouth...odd I know. To this day if I do drink hot chocolate, or the like, I wait for it to cool to almost a lukewarm temperature.)

...It wasn't very good.
(My mom told me to stop drinking it, otherwise I would get sick! xD) I did drink about half of it though. Both flavors separate were okay,
but mixed....it was pretty strange.
The first sip was yummy *mmm berry juice*,
then you got hit with the spicy Chai..*...what is this?!*.

Chai is meant to be with sweet milk, and spices....Berry Juice...makes milk curdle.

Reminds me of another time when I took the plunge, and tried aChocolate-Raspberry Frappicino.
(I think I just get decision anxiety waiting in line; having people behind me, so that I make rash and stupid decisions.)
That beast was probably one of the most awful drinks I have ever swallowed.

Any bad drinks you've ever had? What were they?

ヒミツの花園/Hanazono's Secret

2009-01-10T21:18:00.000-08:00

Genre:Romance/Comedy
Language: Japanese

Tsukiyama Kayo is a magazine editor, or at least that's her title. In reality she is stuck being a "gopher" (go for this, go for that). One day she gets the chance to interview a famous manga artist. However, she once again is stuck doing errands for the assistants, to the artist. Finally she reaches her wits end, and discovers that they aren't really assistants at all! The famous mangaka is comprised of four brothers. As she keeps their secret, and helps them, she discovers more about herself and who she loves.

Review:
Wow...I watched this one awhile ago. I'll try to remember ;).
Basically it's not bad for a Japanese drama. Obviously there is the predictable predictability, but there were some good times too. I didn't recognize any of the actors at the time. I recognized the youngest brother, but I haven't watched any other series with him. I did remember Maya Miki, from "Attention Please"...I should do a review on that....A "maa-maa" movie, as in that it won't make anyone's top 10 list probably.

Final word: if you're looking for a drama that has some typical elements, but with new actors, try this out. I enjoyed watching it; I just don't remember anything special from it really, proving it to be rather forgetful.

1%의 어떤 것/ 1% of Anything

2009-01-04T14:45:00.000-08:00

(I know I'm a day late...pretend this is from last week please -_-;)

Genre: Romance/Comedy

Language: Korean

Kim Da Hyun is a sweet, and upright teacher. Lee Jae In is a hard-working business man, but has a short temper. After Da Hyun kindly assists Jae-in's grandfather, it starts the wheels turning. For Jae In to receive his grandfather's vast inheritance he must marry Da Hyun. As the story progresses you watch their interesting romance. Along with the romance of Jae In's cousin, and Da Hyun's sister. Then near the end there is one more couple to come, with Jae In's sister, and his best friend!

How will these couples survive, with opposition from all sides.

Is it possible, for people with such different backgrounds, and personalities really find happiness together?

Review:

I had read mixed reviews on this drama. Some people loved it, others found it too drawn out. I admit I think that this drama did not need the whole 26 episodes it presents. Perhaps I'm just too used to short Japanese dramas. Nevertheless I found it was draggy, and each new couples didn't hold much of my interest. I could put up with Tae-ya, Jae-in's cousin, and his girl. (Although I admit Tae-ya is pretty boring...) However when they added the third couple, only like 3 episodes from the end...I admit thinking, "enough is enough!". All 3 couples had the same problems, just with less and less character development per couple. If this had just stuck to Jae-in and Da Hyun, and ended a bit sooner it would have been better.

My final word is, if you're looking for a long drama, this is a pretty good one. Sure it gets draggy, but the middle isn't too bad. The main actors/couple do well though.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T12:13:00.001-08:00

(Photo from Disney Land, in Japan)

Well Happy New Year! Hope you all had a fun and safe night yesterday.

I had some gal pals over, watched a movie and ate great food.

Alltogether a great night.

Although I don't think I could ever get used to

staying up until 2:00 in the morning..

How about you? What did you do to ring in the new year?

YesStyle 6 of 6

2009-01-01T10:00:00.000-08:00

Website: YesStyle
Brand: Click South Korean Brand
Price: $25.20
Quality: 2.5/5
Review:
Everything I bought from YesStyle, besides a pair of shoes,
were "One Size" (as in, hopefully, one size fits all Asians ;)
Everything fit me, except for this. I mean, I wear it, yes,
but, it's huge. When I first wore it to school my friends
they commented on the rather...over sized nature of it.
In the photo of the model above, it appears to be
fitted to an extent, not super huge or anything.
However on closer examination (just recently)
I noticed those weren't pleats, but wrinkles!
I was duped by wrinkles... and possibly clothing pins to make it look better on the models...
Anyways, I'm finding ways to wear it, I accept it's bagginess,
however it wasn't what I imagined. More...like a sack.
If only this could have shrunk in the wash xD....

YesStyle 5 of 6

2008-12-31T10:00:00.000-08:00

Website: YesStyle
Brand: Click South Korean Brand
Price: $25.20
Quality: 4/5
Review:
I love this hoodie. It is too cute ^-^. My previous haircut
(before my more Lego style now) made me look like the
character on my shirt, so when I showed my friends
I would pose oddly, mimicking the girl on my shirt. I'll tell you now
her arms are short and look a lot normaller posed than when I do it.
The sweater's quality is pretty good actually. A little thin...
(*kicks the horse*"Wake up horsey!") but compared to the others
it's good. The arms are kind of short...but that was the same
with the other sweater I got too (the best friends one).
I either have rather long appendages, or the clothes shrunk in the dryer.

YesStyle 4 of 6

2008-12-30T10:51:00.000-08:00

Website: YesStyle
Brand: Romy South Korean Brand
Price: $31.50
Quality: 3/5
Review:
This is a really cute shirt/dress. It is very thin,
(noticing a pattern yet?) but I bumped it up to a
3 in quality because...I think it's worth it despite that.
One word of caution, be careful ironing it!
I just about ruined it! The material is synthetic
(I'm assuming). After I ironed it I noticed
that part of the pink overlay had melted away!
Thankfully it was just in the corner,
near the edge of the bib. >_>;

YesStyle Clothing 3 of 6

2008-12-29T18:32:00.000-08:00

Website: YesStyle
Brand: Mix & Match South Korean Brand
Price: $19.80
Quality: 3/5
Review:
I really like this shirt, it was well represented by it's pictures.
Although I did expect the lettering to be a bit...pinker.
Once again, thinner material than you find around here.
However this is one of my favorites of the clothing I bought,
casual, but different :).

Side Note:
My prices are a bit different then on the site, as I ordered during a
time when all the Korean brands were on sale. :) I'm a bargain hunter...
I also got free shipping, which was crazy nice, since all my stuff was sent
from South Korea, to Hong Kong, to me. Quite the journey.

YesStyle Clothing 2 of 6

2008-12-28T12:52:00.000-08:00

Website: YesStyle
Store Brand: Beige South Korean Brand
Price:$43.20
Quality: 2/5
Review:
Actually I wore this today, with a bright aqua necklace, looked cute.
I like this, even though it makes me look like a peasant.
It did shrink a lot though, compared to when I first opened the box!
Since none of the clothing I bought had labels on them, I just decided
I would wash them regularly (in a machine) and accept what would
happen. (Well actually my mom decided that, and I found out later.)
I liked it longer, however I am content with the shorter version :.
Just so you know though, the material is really thin.
Like...think thinner than those cheap graphic tees you get for $10 on sale ;).
It was pretty pricey too, although I tried to think of it as a shirt and a vest.
This shirt is no longer available to buy, I guess thats a good sign ^_^
means it was popular right?

Love Me Not/사랑따윈 필요없어

2008-12-27T17:03:00.000-08:00

Two posts in one day....strange I know.

This had to be done today though. I guess I'll bite the bullet this once ;).
Genre: Drama
Language: Korean

Julian is a manipulator, who seduces money from rich woman.
However he finds himself in debt, that must be repaid in a month,
otherwise he will be killed. He decides to pose as the,
previously believed as dead, brother of Min, a rich, but blind, orphan.
As the movie progresses so does their relationship.
Will both learn to trust one another, or will Julian really kill Min for her money?

Review:
Hmm...I watched this because it was one of Mysoju's
Top 10 Movies of the Week. So I assumed it would be good.
However I wasn't too impressed. (I admit I normally find Asian movies

disappointing.) I wasn't really drawn in to either character much.

As well I found it...ah...I can't seem to explain my dislike for it well.....
Although I admit the ending was strong, I liked the ending,

tragic though it was. (Is that a spoiler?...highlight to read..I thought it was

pretty obvious that they both died,.. )

One thought though, I might not have been drawn in since I
did watch it on Christmas, and I had to keep pausing it,
running and doing something, and coming back.

Maybe I could of been roped in better, if I had watched it all at once.
Perhaps it was my dislike in the way Julian found his money too,
I would of rathered he was a mafia boss or something...
I would be interested in hearing someone elses review. :)

Final word...I wouldn't bother watching it.

It is a melodrama, if you love those,

well then maybe go for it.

Anyways I won't be watching it again anytime soon.

YesStyle Clothing 1 of 6

2008-12-27T16:08:00.000-08:00

Well I actually did buy clothes from YesStyle,
not long after my post about it. I received them in November,
but I never got around to putting them up here.
I know, that heart looks creepy, but whenever I post stuff,
I admit to thinking, "if I were a stalker, what would I think?"
Lame, I know. It was drilled into me,
along with chat rooms are bad, (I still only lurk on forums, never posted),
and don't tell anyone where you live.
Well, thanks a lot Google Analytics, or any other program,
that pinpoints my vague location! -__-;....
.
I remember I always felt guilty if someone asked me "a/s/l/"
on Inklink when I was younger....
(I admit I was really good at that game, I finally left for isketch, since it wasn't much fun
after winning all the time... and they upgraded to the "InkLink Beta" or something,
....where I didn't have all the words memorized ;)
Wow...off topic much.
I admit it's kinda drawing it out by doing a post for almost each article,
but I feel like it is necessary to review each one.
I mean look how long this is without even talking about the clothes!

Website: YesStyle
Store Brand: Shirt-Sechuna Skirt-Romy Both are South Korean Brands
Price: Shirt-$19.80 Skirt-$13.50 (Prices listed in USD because thats how the website displays my account info)
Quality: 3/5
Review:
Well both items are cute, and true to their catalog photo.
(I actually combined two photos for the "catalog" photo shown here)
The skirt seems like the elastic might want to twist in the washer,
but so far so good. I'd say average quality for a cheaper store. They are "One Size Fits All" so for once I am a normal size I guess :D. I must of been made for asian clothes :)

Merry Christmas・メリクリスマス・메리 쿠리스 마 스

2008-12-25T21:58:00.000-08:00

Well not much I can say.... I broke out the accordion today. Man, was it heavy, but I persevered =_=;. So now you get stuck with the results, as I had no idea what to put up for Christmas. Sorry for having no festive background. We didn't get a tree again this year. (Not that I mind.) My family isn't big into the commercialized Christmas :). Bah humbug to you Santa!

All I did was...open a few gifts, watch Korean drama with my mom, and I went with my family to our Christmas dinner that we help with, it's a dinner for those who don't have anywhere else to go. An outreach if you will, from our church. Finished cleaning up by 6:30. Now it's around 10:00, (I don't really remember what I just wasted those hours in between on...I was on the computer anyways.) Wow...that's pretty sad I can't remember....Oh right! I finished watching a Korean movie for my review later this week. :) yay I remembered!

So now I'm going to continue watching Korean Drama with my mom.
Happy Holidays, Seasons Greetings, and Merry Christmas ^-^.

メリクリスマス/메리 쿠리스 마 스

Sweet 18/ 낭랑18세

2008-12-20T20:11:00.000-08:00

Wow this was cutting it pretty close, I only finished it last night.

Ah well I made my week deadline for it. :)

Genre:Romance/Comedy/Drama

Language: Korean

Jung-Sook has been arranged to marry Hyuk-Joon since she was a child. Now, being of age, it is time for her to marry him. She's graduated from High school, but has no real dream in life, and decides getting married would be the easiest option. Hyuk-Joon is a prosecutor, who is 10 years older than Jung-Sook. He is a dedicated man, who is worried about Jung-Sook being too much of a kid to marry. This drama tells the story of their married life, with the many problems they face. Such as when Hyuk-Joon's ex-girlfriend returns, and wants him back. Will he choose to go back to his old flame, or will he find feelings for Jung-Sook?

Review:

This is one of the best dramas I've watched so far. I really enjoyed it. Perhaps it's just a relief to get away from the Jdramas for awhile....(I still love them, but they are well....). Anyways, I really thought the main actors did a good job. Especially Lee Dong-Gun, (as Hyuk Joon), you could really read his subtle facial expressions well, throughout the whole series. (I'm not saying he over-acted or anything ;) As well it was so nice to see some character development in a drama. The main area being in Han Ji-Hye's character, Jung-Sook, as she starts of rather immature (I admit I was worried I would have to watch episode after episode of those cliched "stubborn-dumb-women" cliche episodes. You know the ones I'm talking about, where they do things that you just just know will end with something bad happening, that no one else in their right mind would do...blahhh.). However, in the drama, she matures rather early on, and continues to all the way until the end. I grew to like her character a lot, it rang true (most of the time).

This a definite watch. So far this is one of my favorite Korean dramas. An interesting note: the two leads actually dated for 3 years.^-^ they seemed pretty cute together, too bad they broke up.

Christmas Foods #2: Eggnog (and things made by it)

2008-12-18T17:20:00.000-08:00

I really couldn't tell you why Eggnog is seasonal,
I mean it's eggs, milk, sugar, and some spices....>_>
Anyways, last night I made some Eggnog Bread.
(first time trying it, and it was an okay recipe)

For your information, no, that isn't a big burnt piece in the middle....
that was supposed to be the "cinnamon swirl",
that ended up being a "cinnamon chunk",
as I made it first....and the butter wasn't still melty,
when the time came to "swirl" it into the bread.....

As for these cookies they are Eggnog Cookies.
Fresh from today. A pasty looking cookie,
but yummy nonetheless.
(I discovered the recipe for them last year,
and it was a hit!)
.
I suppose I should put the recipes up. Bah I'm such a lazybug....

Here is a link instead:
Eggnog Cinnamon Swirl Bread courtesy Recipe Zaar/Mirj

Quick Review:
I omitted the toffee pieces and pecans, as I didn't have them.
The edges were a little browner than I would have liked,
but otherwise easy, and pretty good.
.
And now I guess I will....in the holiday spirit,
~~type out the eggnog recipe~~ give you another link!
Eggnog Cookies courtesy of Recipe Zaar/Connie C.
(I just about did, but I realized that one was the same as
my recipe....I probably found it on that site to begin with anyways.)

So that is another probably too-long blog post ;).

Now a question for you...

What is the difference between original and classic eggnog?

Do you drink eggnog during the Christmas Season exclusively?

(I actually almost never drink eggnog,
I find it too strong, even when milked-down...

although the smell... okay it smells good :).
I wonder if you can freeze eggnog...?
so I could make eggnog cookies in march.....)

Christmas Foods #1: Mini Honey Mandarin Oranges

2008-12-14T14:28:00.000-08:00

These tiny oranges are about the size of a...flattish ping pong ball...?
But they pack a punch! They are super sweet :) and have
hardly any rind. (I know, I know.... that's supposed to be the healthiest part
..... but...bah!...when I was little I wouldn't eat any oranges,
because of all that "white stuff" on them)

Working as a cashier, I see a lot of yummy things go through my till.
One of these things were the Mini Honey Mandarin Oranges.
I had heard they were like eating candy. On one of the brands it
even had a light conversation between oranges.
Big Orange: I'm bigger!
Little Orange: But I'm sweeter!
I mean talk about marketing! I was rather convinced of their amazingness...
So now they sit, all cleanly washed ^_^
(I always wash produce before eating it).
I am happily indulging in these, hoping somehow, that all this
Vitamin C will kill all the cold bugs I have... and that I won't die
from led poisoning or anything (it says MADE IN CHINA ;)...

On a side note, I can handle most things, headaches, fever...whatever.
I have a pretty high pain tolerance. However once my
nose gets plugged.....I admit it....I turn into a baby.
Perhaps one day they will find a cure for a stuffy nose....

My Little Bride/어린 신부

2008-12-08T21:22:00.000-08:00

Genre: Romance/Comedy/Highschool
Language: Korean
.

Fifteen year old Boeun is just trying to get through her school years, as a normal kid. However her grandfather made a promise, to his old friend, that one of their children would marry. Both men only had sons though, so the duty now falls on their grandchildren. Despite the fact that it means a marriage between 15 year old Boeun and 20/30 something Sangmin. They do end up married. However Boeun falls for a young, baseball player at school, just as Sangmin starts his new job, as her school's new art teacher....Will an arranged marriage become true love, or can you be too young for marriage?

Review:

Well this is one of the first Kmovies I've seen. Short enough, that it kinda summed up something I could of seen being a bit of a weak drama. Pretty cute, except for the minor (pun intended) problem of, Boeun supposed to being only about 15.

If you're looking for a light hearted movie to spend an evening with, and don't mind a slightly creepy age difference watch this.

*Note: It's not that I have anything against large age-gaps in relationships..it's just that the main girl is supposed to be a little gr.10'er. That's what weirds me out o_x;*

Cookies and....???

2008-12-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

"Cookies and Their Appropriate Beverage Accompaniments"

(Pictured above, a confused glass, unable to shake the fear of making a wrong decision...is this glass you?)

.
I was recently eating a chocolate-chip cookie that I had baked, and as I am not-yet learned in the art of "how-long-to-bake-cookies-so-that-they-are-soft-kwan-doe" they were...a little...dried out? So...to make it easier on my mouth, I decided to soak them in Apple Juice. Dip, rather. This is a natural instinct for me, as I have memories of my father dipping his cookies in Apple Juice. Curious as to if I was the only one who did this, I searched on the Internet, and...zip, nada, nothing! Can you believe it? I mean...hasn't everyone eaten a cookie with apple juice?
.

I do realize there is the traditional "milk & cookies" saying, however this only applies to oreo cookies, or some close knock-off.

So for those of you who need a guide, in the cookie world,

here you go! In Living Technicolor!

(courtesy of MS Paint.)

Cookies & Their Respective Partners

Hana Yori Dango Finale/花より男子ファイナル

2008-12-02T19:36:00.000-08:00

Genre:Romance/Drama
Language: Japanese
(I realized I haven't reviewed the Hana Yori Dango series, but I'm sure I will eventually.)

This is the story of Makino Tsukushi(Mao Inoue), and Tsukasa Domyoji(Matsumoto Jun), who are to be married in the Spring. After officially announcing their engagement, Domyoji's mother presents the "Smile of Venus", an amazing crown, worth billions. However it is stolen and they then must chase it around the world. Will they be able to regain the crown and are they really compatible for marriage together?

Review:
I'll start off with saying, this is a movie, not a drama. I normally find Japanese movies to be...disappointing. I find that they are like....over-cliched extra episodes. I'd say this could even be considered a souped-up SP, not even a movie ;). However apparently it did well in Japan...
Anyways, if you liked Hana Yori Dango you'll want to see it (like I did). As I finished watching this today, it's still pretty fresh in my mind.... Like I said, it's okay, nothing more, nothing less. I was rather amused at how they portrayed an American trucker though....ah I always love seeing the Japanese-English at work in Jshows.

In closing, watch it if you've seen the Hana Yori Dango series. If you haven't then....go watch the dramas first. ^_~.
.
Random Note: I actually have the photo book for this movie, Rei (my Japanese exchange student), brought it for me.

풀하우스/Full House

2008-11-25T18:35:00.001-08:00

Genre: Romance/Drama
Language: Korean*
(*will start putting this here, since I will be reviewing both Japanese and Korean shows)

Han Ji-eun lives byherself, in "Full House", a home her parents built. One day her two closest friends, give her a ticket for a dream vacation! Though slightly suspicious she finally agrees to go. Only to find out shes been swindled; not just the vacation, but her house was sold while she was gone as well! Long story short she calls out to Lee Young-jae, a movie star she met on her trip. They set up a contract, where she will agree to marry him for 6 months, after that they will divorce and she can keep the house.
All seems like it will go according to plan, but what about Lee Young-jaes feelings for Kang Hye-Won, his childhood friend since the age of 9. As well, will Han Ji-eun accept Yoo Min-Hyuk feelings for her, despite the marriage contract? It becomes quite the love square!

Review:
Finished this one last night. Such a good drama. It has an okay ending, and is strong all the way through. The characters are lovable and believable. I got rather sucked in, mainly by the two leads: Bi(Rain) and Song Hye-kyo.

The original idea of a marriage by contract is pretty crazy, but it shows how two people can fall in love, even with many differences. By being able to see all sides of a person, it allows you to become closer right? Like family I guess. Anyways this is a good watch. Korean dramas are known for their slow-pace, but this one isn't bad, at 16 episodes it is definitely watchable.

Chai Cake ♥

2008-11-24T18:37:00.000-08:00

Well yesterday I baked a chai cake.
Not as delicious as when my mother makes it, but good nonetheless.
I slightly messed up the amount of baking powder >_>;
but it still rose nicely.
I recommend this cake for anyone who loves chai :D,
however Watkins is the only place I know of the get chai powder
(it's great to drink too.).
My mom sells the stuff, so we come by it easily.
For others...I guess you could order it online :)?

I admit it doesn't look as pretty as I'd like...
but we had company and I had to put the glaze on rather quickly.
(Didn't have time for it to harden nicely before cutting.)
Anyways here is the recipe:

Chai Cake

Ingredients
3 tbsp/45 mL Chai Latte
2/3 cup/160 mL hot water
1 cup/250 mL flour
1-1/2 tsp/7.5 mL Baking Powder
1 tsp/5 mL Cinnamon
170 g1/4 tsp/1.2 mL Cloves (Ground)
1/4 tsp/1.2 mL Ginger
1/4 tsp/1.2 mL Sea Salt
1/2 cup/125 mL butter or margarine
3/4 cup/180 mL granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp/5 mL Original Double Strength Vanilla Extract

Chai Glaze
2 tbsp/30 mL butter or margarine
1-1/2 cups/375 mL powdered sugar
1 tsp/5 mL Original Double Strength Vanilla Extract
1/4 tsp/1.2 mL Cinnamon 170 g
Reserved 2 tbsp/30 mL prepared Chai Latte from cake recipe
Grated cinnamon stick (optional)

+Cooking Directions
Heat oven to 325°F/170°C. Grease and flour a round cake pan (8"/20 cm).
Stir hot water into Chai Latte until blended.
Measure 1/2 cup/125 mL for cake and set aside 2 tbsp/30 mL for glaze.
Mix flour, baking powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, cloves, ginger and salt.
Set aside. Beat sugar and butter in large bowl with electric mixer
on medium speed, scraping bowl occasionally, until fluffy.
Beat in eggs and vanilla until smooth and blended.
Gradually beat in flour mixture alternately with 1/2 cup
Chai Latte until smooth. Pour into pan.Bake for 25-30 minutes or
until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes;
remove from pan to wire rack. Cool completely, about 1 hour.
Spread Chai glaze over top of cake, allowing some to drizzle down side.
Sprinkle with additional cinnamon.
*For glaze: melt butter in 1-quart/litre saucepan over medium heat. Stir in remaining ingredients until smooth. Drizzle glaze on cake. If desired, grate cinnamon on top as garnish

Lunch Queen/ランチの女王

2008-11-17T15:40:00.000-08:00

Genre: Comedy/Romance/Food...
Language: Japanese

Natsumi's favorite time of the day is lunch! Food is one of her passions, and she loves trying new restaurants. One day she runs into a distraught young man, Kenichiro, who asks her to pose as his fiance. Somehow she agrees to it, and ends up being abandoned by him....in front of his family! His brothers feel obliged to take care of her, and she begins working at their family restaurant.

Over time all the brothers start to care for Natsumi.

Who will Natsumi's heart really beat for, of all the brothers?

Review:

Wow, I watched this one a long time ago.

Still, if my memory serves me well, this was a cute series.

Normal dramas have long shots of good-looking fellows,

or the heroine, this one has long, dreamy shots on....food xD.

They really get across the "in-a-restaurant" feel,

and watching will often make you hungry!

The ending isn't great, but that's not completely unusual for this kind of show.

I recognized a few of the minor actors, like: Ito Misaki(Kiken Na Aniki), Yamada Takayuki (Water Boys), and Yamapi...(Who doesn't know this guy?!) :).

In closing, its a okay way to waste 12 hours.

Go ahead watch the story unfold, there's even a bit of action, involving a criminal!

Kurosagi/ クロサギ (dorama)

2008-11-11T13:58:00.001-08:00

Genre: Action/Romance
Language: Japanese

Kurosagi is about a young man whose entire family was killed, by his father, after his father lost all his money to a scam. Kurosagi then vowed to remove all the swindlers from the world, by beating them at their own game. He hopes to avenge his family in this way. One day, however, he meets Yoshikawa who strongly objects to his way of life, and tries to get him to change. How will their relationship evolve? Will Kurosagi ever get caught?

Review:
Ah who doesn't love Yamashita Tomohisa? This is one of my favorite series. Each episode envolves a different swindler that Kurosagi must face. The way he wins back the money is always interesting. Kind of like a modern day....Robin Hood. The last few episodes are pretty heart-racing too, if I recall correctly.
There isn't too much romance, which is nice for this type of show. Horikita Maki does okay, but really she wasn't what kept me watching the show. Thankfully it isn't all, "damsel-in-distress" or "stupid-girl-getting-in-the-way". She is more like a side plot.

Watch this. Enough said, it's really a very cool show.

Returning to Japan

2008-11-08T19:11:00.000-08:00

I was accepted to go to Japan again...

(Taken in Asakusa).

I get to go for longer, probably two weeks :D.
Since the time we go is inbetween their school years,
I get to go to a week of school
(since they only get a week off between, weird I know)
I will even get to wear my friends old uniform ^-^, I hope it's the same as everyone elses...

(Taken from Tokyo Tower)

I also get to stay with the same host family, as last year,

the same home where my exchange student, this summer, came from.

Ahh I can't wait to see them all again!

(Taken in Tokyo Disneyland)

I can't wait to stock up on Japanese music! With my new camera I can take double the pictures I took last year, plus I will be staying double the time. Last year in a week I took 300+ photos >_>. I'm the worst gift buyer though, and hardly bought anything last year, except for music xD. Most of my presents brought home were omiyagi (gifts from my host family.)

Please give me gift ideas for my host family!

The Japanese are huge into gifting, but I'm not too imaginative.

Plus I used up all my ideas last year and this summer :( .

(You have to give gifts when going and recieving)

Last years presents: (Everything had Canada insignias on them)

-Mugs

-Key chains
-Shirts

-Little gift boxes

-Maple Syrup

-Maple Cookies

-Bouncy Balls

-Nature Books

-Towels

-Jelly Bellys (I realize not Canadian :P)

-My mother crocheted a blanket

-I also brought pancake mix, 4 types of home-made jam, Canadian paper plates, and napkins. Then I made them a pancake breakfast :D.

Warning: Jam is a very heavy when thinking about weight in luggage :O

....and more, I just can't remember right now :(

So taskute kudasai ! (Please help!)

I'm sure you have imaginative gift ideas :D.

So far I've thought of...socks....and Archie Comics....

Nodame Cantabile/のだめカンタビーレ

2008-11-04T19:10:00.000-08:00

Genre: Comedy/Romance
Language: Japanese

Nodame is a brilliant, but lazy piano player. She plays easily by ear, but doesn't bother to read the notes! She also is hopeless in everyday life, such as not bathing, and stealing food from her friends for lunch. One day she meets Chiaki, a man with no little talent, and falls in love. He is known as a top student with a major in piano, as well as being able to play the violin. However deep down he wants to become a conductor. Eventually the two begin a strange friendship, which eventually progresses into romance.

Review:
This is one of those cute romances I enjoy, lots of comedy to keep it going. Normally I get easily frustrated by stupid heroines, however Nodame (portrayed by Ueno Juri) is actually rather endearing. I think perhaps since she acts like a child, you don't expect as much from her... Chiaki (portrayed by Tamaki Hiroshi) isn't the typical heart-throb, but he is a good leading male.

This drama is really worth watching, and the music is gorgeous to listen to. ^-^

Mennonite Fried Bread & Watermelon!

2008-10-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

I've had this delicious combo before, and recently had it again,

so I decided to share it with the world!

(Or at least the one or two of you who read this.)

I haven't actually made any myself,

however next time my neighbors make it they said they will invite me over.

I too want to learn the mysterious ways of this food.

You can eat the bread with syrup or jam, however I prefer to eat it plain.

I am not one for tainting naturally, beautiful food.

The watermelon pictured above, although not seedless, was very sweet for so late in the season. All in all it was a great snack,

and reminded me of my Japanese friend

as we ate it together a few days before she returned home. Ah...memories.

Anyone else ever tried this delicacy?

I believe its proper name is Rollkuchen, or so my not-so-extensive-google-search tells me.

Yasuko to Kenji/ヤスコとケンジ

2008-10-27T20:18:00.000-07:00

Genre: Comedy/Romance

Language: Japanese

Kenji is a manga artist who lives with his sister Yasuko and his two assistants. Their parents died when they were young; causing Kenji to leave his violent gangster past in exchange for something he could support his younger sister with. This dorama is the story of when Erika, also a previous gangster, and her younger brother Jun moves into town . Yasuko falls in love with Jun, while Erika is in love with Kenji. Can they overcome their barriers and find true love? Will they be able to overcome their character flaws and become one, big, happy, family?

Review:
This is probably one of the lamest dramas I have ever watched. I liked it, however it was far too cheesy for my likings. The main thing that kept me coming back was Matsuoka Masahiro as Kenji. The rest were such generic characters it was hard to stay interested. I particularly found the main heroine to be boring, and not very pretty. Her love interest, the supposed heart-throb, was pretty uninteresting to put it lightly. The script wasn't that good, and to be honest the actors weren't either. (Man I sound so harsh! >_>)

Well if you are looking for a drama with uncountable cliches, predictability, but with still enough funny to, maybe, keep you amused. This could be for you.

I've Been Married to Hell/エラいところに嫁いでしまった!

2008-10-20T20:24:00.000-07:00

Genre: Comedy
Language: Japanese

Kimiko Makimura marries into the Yamamoto family, via Isojirou, an incompetent, yet kind-hearted man. She soon learns that the Yamamoto family is no ordinary family, but one obsessed with traditions. As well her Mother-in-Law believes she can do no wrong; she believes that Kimiko wants to learn all the customs of their home, as quickly as possible. Each time she visits them she vows never to return, but nonetheless still gets sucked back. Each episode shows how Kimiko interacts with her new in-laws and their quirks.

Review:
Just finished this one last night. (Watched some of this series with my mom.) An alright drama. If your looking for something kind of dopey, but sweet, this is it. The whole series is a bit slow, but you do grow to really like some of the characters. Kimiko, (who is played by Nakama Yukie, the lead in Gokusen) does well. The mother-in-law played by Matsuzaka Keiko is really endearing, and quite the loving mother. However I admit the ending, like in many Jdoramas, is rather weak. I didn't even realize it was the finale until I looked at the title half way through the episode....

Anyways so in a nutshell not the best drama ever, but definately a family watch. If you are looking for a time killer this is a cute, short series with only 9 episodes.

Asian Clothing Stores?

2008-10-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

Ah the relaxed, yet fashionable, Korean style or the cute Japanese style? I admit, I am a wanabe Asian. Sadly I am also cheap...

I enjoy drooling over the Asian clothing at shops such as yesstyle, asiajam, and other sites. However I have never actually ordered. Lately though I've been itching to finally give it a try. As a rule I'm not one for online shopping, too shifty, buuuttt this is one exception I might just make...

An example of a slightly sketchy sounding warranty from an online Asian clothing store would be this:

We cannot guarantee specific results, however, we know our clothes are nice. First of all, we do not know what a particular person is feeling or experiencing, and there is no way to measure their level of discomfort. Everyone has different tolerances and different levels of expectations. Besides, doctors do not and cannot guarantee medicines or treatments. Physical therapists do not and cannot guarantee any specific results. Surgeons do not and cannot guarantee any specific results. Consequently, neither do we. -From Color-Shopping

Not that I'm judging the site though, it has a whole lot of nice clothes. I just don't know if I would trust it :). I mean it has separate sections for Pants, Jeans, and Trousers. Talk about specifying!

So if anyone has ever ordered from an Asian clothing site, tell me about it? How was the quality? What did you buy? I'm always interested in Asian style <3>

(P.S. Doesn't the above dress look far more Japanese than Korean? )

Kimi wa Petto/きみはペット

2008-10-15T16:43:00.000-07:00

Genre: Romance/Comedy
Language: Japanese

One day a downtrodden business women, Iwaya Sumire, stumbles upon an unconcsious good-looking fellow, stuffed into a box. She then proceeds to attempt to rescue him by bringing him back to her apartment. Long story short she allows him to stay only if he becomes her pet. That means eating, sleeping, not talking...basically to be an animal. (she even pets him....>_>) Eventually they bond and you get to watch their relationship evolve and how they react to problems.

Review:
Ah this was one of the first shows I watched. With the famous Matsumoto Jun. (I remember my host-mom loved him, even had pictures of him on her phone xD.) It was okay, not my favorite, but it had it's moments. Matsumoto Jun was cute in his role. Kiyuki was a solid enough career women, she portrayed the realization up of her character's feelings well.

With a slightly shifty story line, and a relatively predictable ending, Kimi wa Petto still becomes a good dorama. I would say if you have some time to burn, may as well try this for wood.

Geese Shooting!...(not really...)

2008-10-10T12:23:00.001-07:00

Ah could this be....? A goose from my past?

Well not to long ago, as per every year, a bunch of geese landed in the field across the road. So I decided to try out my new camera with some wildlife shots! Long story short I actually ended up crawling under a neighbors fence just to get to the field...nevertheless I was not deterred. I enjoyed taking their photos, and they enjoyed keeping their distance. With one who enjoyed honking at me(pictured above), and scaring me away basically. (Don't worry I didn't get very close, all my pictures were, pretty well, taken with my 12x zoom.)

Now for story time. A few years ago there was a goose, who seemed to have separated from his comrades. He then decided to wander around my block. He stayed around for a day or so and even let people come up to him. So he got quite his share of bread, and such. Note: Geese do not seem to like small dogs. Now obviously it isn't the wisest choice to go petting wild animals! Don't attack me environmentalists! Anyways the bird stayed around for about a day, and then flew off, I guess.

No harm done. History has not repeated itself. So obviously the bird didn't decide that it would become the goose version of flipper, and hang out with us every year. Thinking about those geese in the field though, makes me think, I wonder if one of those geese is the goose...Hard to tell, since all them geese look alike. ;) As well I wonder how long do geese remember stuff, you'd think a long time, right? I mean migrating? That takes at least some memory skills.

Well there you go there is the deep, national geographic version of unread tales. Please note: no geese were harmed during the shooting of the above photo.

One Litre of Tears/１リットルの涙

2008-10-09T17:41:00.000-07:00

Perhaps one of the most famous Japanese tear-jerkers?

Genre: Drama, Tear-Jerker
Language: Japanese

This is a dorama based on the diary of a young girl, who became ill with a progressive disease (one that can't be cured.) Despite her daunting circumstances, and declining health, she decides to try her best to live her life to the fullest.

Review:
This was one of the few sad doramas I've watched. It was really touching, and you really begin to sympathise with the characters. To this day one particular scene still remains vivid in my mind. It really breaks your heart, to watch her declining so rapidly (literally since Jdramas seem to. almost always, have a max. 12 episodes.) I didn't cry during this, but I considered it.

I recognized a few of the actors, like Ryo Nishikido; but not the main girl, Erika Sawajiri, although she did do a good job.

So watch it, no it is not a comedy, but there are sweet moments too. (Not all heaviness :)

So Saucy....

2008-10-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

Ah The Tomato!

Well we had received a bunch of tomatoes from friends.

(we still had quite a few left-over tomatoes, even after filling our sink, pictured above.)

So on Saturday my mom decided to put them to use.

We canned tomato sauce!

For pizza, lasagna, spaghetti...etc.

Above you can see all the spices added. I was the official mixer-girl. Although I had other unofficial titles, such as tomato-retriever, spice-dumper, and labeler, among other things.

This is the finished product. Turned out well from what I can see. Since I haven't actually tasted it since cooking....was fun though. The house smelt great after too; smelt a lot like when you make salsa.

結婚できない男/The Man Who Can't Marry

2008-09-29T20:53:00.000-07:00

Genre: Comedy
Language: Japanese

This is basically about the daily life of Kuwano Shinsuke, an eccentric architect. His relationships with the people around him, and just his normal behaviour cause for interesting episodes.

Review:
This was one of the first dramas I watched, and started my love for Abe Hiroshi. He is quite the funny guy. If you want something to be amused by, it's this show. No it isn't an idol-cliche-romance-dorama, it's just plain interesting. Don't be weirded out by the first episode though! (Ahaha I remember I was....) if you persevere it is really a fun show. I even watched this show with my mom, and a friend or two, when I was first trying to show the great world of Japan's TV to them.

The Evolution Of Taste (in gaming)

2008-09-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

In the beginning....

When I was a child, my brothers owned a sega. That opened my eyes to the world of gaming.

One Christmas (I think....) we were delighted to the gift of a N64 (still one of the best consoles, in my eyes). During those years with the N64 I discovered the joys of Harvest Moon, the farming sim game. I mean who wouldn't love picking turnips, wooing...uh...girls (they didn't have girl versions back then), and petting cows. I even got my first calluse from playing the N64 so much. (Haven't had one since that I'm aware of...)

Ahh...memories....

As the years passed we found it was time to upgrade. We bought a gamecube, (also there was a short time with a playstation, but it was for only a week, when I rented it for my birthday....to play Harvest Moon: Back to Nature....). To this day my gamecube sits rather forlorn and sad in the corner. The only games I really played on it were Harvest Moon, LOTRO, and Mario Party. I was never into those shoot-em ups or sports. Yuck x 200.

Ah consoles....I used to love you....before I met the internet. Plus consoles these days are far too expensive, I'm too much of a cheapskate to keep up.

These days I don't game as much as I used to. Back in my younger days I would play Puzzle Pirates, Age of Empires, Civilization....Now the only game I really play is LOTRO. (level 40 Elf Champion) Such a good game...Once again the main reason I'm not more into the MMORPG scene is the price. I mean the only reason I finally gave in to LOTRO was because it was on sale >_>;.....I highly recommend this game, in case anyone is looking for a new RPG. Perhaps one day I will do a post on it alone. Not today though.

Anyways, so what fond memories do others have of their gaming days? Now or past?

To this day I own 5 Harvest Moon titles (with the consoles to play them.)GBA: Friends of Mineral Town, More Friends of Mineral Town (girl version of afore mentioned), GC: A Wonderful Life, Another Wonderful Life (girl version of afore mentioned), and Songs of Happiness (includes option for boy or girl, seriously I think the suckiest Harvest Moon made...I've only played it a few times...). I even have the stuffed dog from pre-ordering one of them <3.

Random Note: One of the first reasons why I wanted to learn Japanese as a really young child was so I could get Harvest Moon before it was released in Canada (as it would first come out in Japan). haha...

ごくせん/Gokusen: A brief review of 1,2 & 3

2008-09-23T12:01:00.000-07:00

Genre: School Comedy
Language: Japanese

All three Gokusens revolve around a Yakuza teacher, Yamaguchi Kumiko. She always ends up teaching delinquents; and through the season the fellows of questionable repute are slowly changed, by "Yankumi" (her nickname).

Each episode follows the same outline: boys are accused of something they didn't do, Yankumi believes them, they get beaten up by a gang, Yankumi saves them and they learn an important moral.

Review:

I really enjoyed this series. I admit 1 & 3 were my favorite, I found 2 just a little too similar/boring for my tastes. Although like previously mentioned, they all have the same basic plot structure, which could perhaps become monotonous (as you can easily predict what will happen.)

The main difference between the 3 seasons is the students and teachers. Although the Vice-Principle/head teacher is the same in all of them. The chemistry that goes on between Yamaguchi sensei and Kojousensei is extremely funny. He is one of my favorite characters.

Main Re-Occurring Cast:

Nakama Yukie (pictured above)

Namase Katsuhisa

Utsui Ken

The main student actors are: (according to seasons)

Season 1

Matsumoto Jun

Season 2

Akanishi Jin

Kamenashi Kazuya

Season 3

Takaki Yuya

Miura Haruma
(I love his hair)

A Personal First!

2008-09-20T12:38:00.000-07:00

Ah the smell of baking!

For the first time, I baked with no outside help whatsoever. Normally when I actually bother to cook or bake it's with someone else. I mean sure I've made the occasional no-bake cookies by myself...but otherwise I've been pretty dependent on people for help. Well no longer!

Above is a picture of one of my scones I made today. I even mushed it/kneaded it with my fingers (which is an accomplishment I assure you.) Though they differed slightly in the size department, the taste seemed un-effected.

With determination, reading abilities and a good recipe the previously thought impossible was brought to light! (I even filled the flour canister up, which weighs a ton!)

I feel so...independent now. Like I could cook rice and chicken and have them ready at the same time.....Actually I better not push it, last time I made chicken....well....lets just say Tandoori chicken will never be the same in my mind.

Anyways there is the amazing story for today, they were ほんとうにおいしかった！ (Really very delicious) If you too want to experience the thrills of scone making, let me know! The recipe I have is great, whipping cream....vanilla.....stuff that's not in the average scone. Easy enough too!

If I can do it, you can to!

ホタルノヒカリ/Hotaru no Hikari

2008-09-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

Well I've decided to start doing a weekly, or perhaps monthly review of a show that I've watched or am watching. Perhaps for lack of interesting events in my life, as well as to inform you, the viewer. This weeks Dorama is Hotaru no Hikari!

Genre: Romance Comedy
Language:Japanese

The main story line is about a successful business women (played by Ayase Haruka), who at home is the total opposite of her work persona, as she's actually a slob/himono-onna (driedfish-woman); who prefers to drink beer on her porch, rather than go on dates. Somehow, her recently divorced boss (played by Fujiki Naohito) ends up moving in, which makes for some interesting moments. The show revolves around her life, love, and work.

Review:
I really liked this show, I thought it was rather funny. From what I can remember, as I watched this awhile ago, so don't take my word as exact..., it's well enough paced, and most episodes are enjoyable. Not SUPER romantic, more cute comedy.
I've seen a few shows with Fujiki Naohito, and it was nice to see him with a bigger role. It was the first time I saw a show with Ayase Haruka, she held up well enough I suppose, pretty too... Anyways, overall a good show.

P.S. I've started Korean lessons :D

New Camera

2008-09-11T21:05:00.000-07:00

Well when my exchange student left, I sent my camera to be fixed. As as soon as I would put batteries in it, I would only get maybe 5-10 photos before it shut off, saying I needed to change the batteries. This was not the first time I had sent it away either, not long after buying it my focus stopped working properly, so I had to get a new part for it.

Anyways this time it was "uneconomical" to fix it, therefore I was free to get a new one! Yay! I love warranties! The only thing being, was that my ol' Canon A540 was a good two years old, and my replacement was half the price! Ah with new cheaper technology my old $300 camera became worth only $150. Therefore I decided I may as well fork out some bucks to upgrade.

Still being too cheap to go up to an SLR, I went for a megazoom. Although the pickings were rather slim. As I am anti-sony, and pro-Canon. With only one Canon model present, I bought it, and the return lady gave me a bargain (i.e. she gave me my camera free....being $300 approx. the same price as my old one. So I only had to pay for my new warranty and my case.)

So I am officially the new owner of a S5 IS Canon PowerShot. Nothing too spectacular, but I'm pleased with it so far. Although the lensecap is a tad annoying, as it constantly falls off....

Oh and update on Korean lessons, I am now getting Korean lessons, in exchange for teaching Japanese. Fighting! Starts Sunday, will do my best :P.

Jya~ ne Rei! <3

2008-08-19T18:41:00.000-07:00

Well today I said good-bye to my exchange student from Japan.
It was sad to see her go, after spending two weeks with her.
Nonetheless I felt no need to shed tears, as I phone over enough,
and hopefully will be returning this year...tabun (maybe)

Top 5 Things I Did w/ my Exchange Student:
1) Talking.
This might seem like a stupid answer, but I really loved talking to her.
We mainly spoke in Japanese, and really talked about a range of topics.
2) Cooking.
Since she doesn't have an oven in Japan, we baked a lot;
Boston Creme Cake, Choc. Cookie Pie, Choc. Chip Cookies,
Banana Choc. Cake, Vanilla Heart Cake, Cream Cheese Tarts, etc.
Which was a delicious time filler.
3) Watching Japanese Television
Thank-you Youtube and various other sources.
We watched Rookies together, although I had to go the last two episodes
w/o subs. As well I am now rather addicted to ShuchiShin's songs, so catchy.
4) Bowling
My Birthday was on the 15th and we had a small party.
The alley had no a/c so we all were dieing of heat,
but the second game was an awful lot of fun. We played crazy bowling,
i.e. bowling through your team's legs, bowling while on your stomach...etc.
5) Going to a Magic Forest (name changed to protect the innocent)
The nature walk was just gorgeous.

It was hard narrowing it down, as we also went swimming, to English lessons,
gave each other manicures, quilted, went to museums, used face-masks, and so much more.
I will miss having my "sister" around. She probably isn't even home quite yet,
as with the lay-overs her trip will probably take about 10 h.

Anyways that is my interesting update.
Oh by the way, I might soon be taking Korean lessons.
Let's hope for the best!

Hmmm I don't feel like going back to gr.8...

2008-07-31T19:41:00.000-07:00

Well I just was looking at the average height & weight for teenagers here: http://teens.lovetoknow.com/Average_Height_and_Weight_for_Teenager
I was comparing myself, and thought, "oh man! I'm in such a young range" but then realized I was looking at the boy graph. boy...man ahahaha
So I scrolled a bit further and realized it was still, "oh...maybe I really am short..."
As I fit under the 12-13 year old range.

Now really I'm...muscular and uh...really rather tall, 6'1 at least.... statuesque girl...people even call me muscles at school...I'm sure....
Nonetheless this sorry little spreadsheet says I am only in the range of baby gr. 7-8'ers ;_;.

Boohoo, ah well I keep telling people I still have a foot left, which would bring me up to 7 '1 (or rather in reality 6'1. ). Trust me I can feel it. Just need to start downing the milk. I think the reason I'm short is probably from my time scrunched up sitting in a computer chair. Yeah that's it. Although if shortness is the price to pay for my computer <3 I think I'm pretty close to paying my dues...

V300 Canon Wordtank

2008-07-31T19:32:00.000-07:00

Well my import from Japan finally arrived. What was my import you might ask?
In case you forgot to read the title....
Why it was a V300 canon Wordtank,
which means an electronic Japanese-English dictionary.
The main reasons I chose this model was the touch screen/stylus.

No real problems with it, enjoying it, and can't wait to try using it when my
Japanese exchange student comes on Monday.
Only walls I ran into were finding the English part in the manual.
As it wasn't near the back, it was in the middle somewhere.
As well as trying to figure out how to change the menu and
such into English.... Anyways those hurdles were overcome.

Now all I need to discover is why it won't take my SD cards, despite that it should,
as it has a mp3 player. My SD card is even Canon. :O

Well that is the exciting new for 7:38 tonight. (That's right I'm Pacific time, be jealous.)
Perhaps I will have more later.

Doramas...Koramas?

2008-07-20T17:53:00.000-07:00

So I watch Japanese television. Who doesn't right? I've watched around 30 series from start to finish...with 12 episodes each (approx.) an hour long...that equals out to....around 360 hours.
I realize it's not that impressive compared to others, but I only started last summer.

Recently I decided I would just, "try" watching a Korean show called, "We Got Married".
To be honest my hopes weren't too high.
I had watched two Korean movies so far, and one was slower then I would of liked, and the other was plain...ungood/dumb.
(am I going to get flamed by Kdrama lovers for saying this? Haha like anyone reads this anyways)
Anyways I am now officially hooked, and currently on episode 10. I started watching them...yesterday if I remember correctly. Even wilder, I watch them with my mom. She thinks the show is hilarious (I think she's become way too attached, she even cried when Alex left....) Love you mom...<3.

So now I am into Korea, south anyways ahaha, and I really want to learn Korean.
It's not as shallow as just because I watched a show though.
I have read a few travel and educational books about Korea, and found it really interesting.
Now watching the show I find myself really liking their culture,
and the language sounds great too.
I'm doing the best I can do on the computer.
Sadly it's not a school course; like I could get it at my school anyways....
So I am stuck trying to either con a Korean person into teaching me, or trying to teach myself.
I don't think I have the dedication for either...

Other then that, nothing new or exciting. Other than that I finally have purchased a Japanese-English dictionary. Canon Wordtank V300, in pink, should be here in a week. ^_^ I'm excited.

Japanese: yes or no?

2008-07-08T22:51:00.000-07:00

So I went to Japan, been there, done that, want to do it again.
Now I have a Japanese family, *mochiron ^-^*, from my home stay.
I phone them....I'd say once a month maybe.
I normally ask for the mom, because if I don't this is what my conversation sounds like.
(My questions translated)

Me: So are you good?
Japanese-twin: un
Me: Is the weather good?
Japanese-twin: un
Me: Do you have school today?
Japanese-twin: unUun
Me: So...what are you doing today?
Japanese-twin: ano.....etooooo.......wakarimasen. Betsuni....
*translation: ummm...aaaahhh....I don't know.....nothing.....*
(long pause)
Me: Well...talk to you later
Japanese-twin: un

So here is your Japanese lesson for today, "un" and "unUun" mean "yes" and "no" respectively. "No" is basically "yes" with a warble. It's informal, but that's how much they love me.
Back in Japan, I personally would warble it willy-nilly, just to be a rebel.
So basically head nodding or shaking was essential when I used them.

Hiatus? Not really.

2008-07-08T22:29:00.001-07:00

So nothing new as of lately. Still tooting away on the trumpet (fuufuufuu), I can even hit a high C now.

Recently it has been under discussion, my lack of transportation, to and from work;
besides when people give me a ride.

-My mother, (Love you mom...if you can find this...no I'm not talking to stalkers...not I haven't given out my phone number....) is convinced that in our town of 3000 people, at most, that I will get mugged and/or worse. So therefore walking is off of my list of transportation.

-Biking, my family says I'm no good. True words out of my mother's mouth, "well...I could let you bike....if you were any good at it...." (Oh stay my wounded heart)
Now I am an average biker. I can't do anything fancy... like signal, or stand up, and occasionally the kickstand is tricky...but I feel confident in my skill.

-I don't have my license yet, but soon. Though I am faaarrr too cheap to buy a car, or gas, or insurance, and my chances of having the family car all day are slim too. So automobiles are off the list too.

Therefore I am still henceforth dependent upon my parents', and other people's good will. Perhaps someday I can prove to my family that I am not a weakling. Maybe after I finish the 100 push up challenge, I can do about 10 today which was better then 1 a few days ago, helps now that I know how to do them properly.... or perhaps when I finally do a back-flip...or maybe one day when I get back from climbing the Appalachian region of mountains with a group of Yakuza....ah yes one day...

Beginning is easy, continuing is harder....

2008-04-28T19:22:00.000-07:00

Well, because I'm cool like that, I am going to start blogging on occasion. Probably not enough for anyone to bother reading, and hopefully not enough for anyone to stalk me.

Lets see...The most interesting thing that I have done recently is....attempted to play the trumpet.

Now, I play the piano, Gr. 8 in Piano Conservatory, taking my exam soon too. Nonetheless recently at a music festival a friend let me try her trumpet. Despite my music teacher telling me he couldn't hear my trumpet, because of the elephants screaming (harhar Mr.M) , I thought "hey lets keep trying this thing". So yesterday and today, I have tried to practise, though being banished to the far corners of the household was a little down putting. As of now, I can barely hit a G, and I've only hit an A once. Though for now I shall continue to be optimistic.

I do have the tendency to not have the discipline required for learning a new instrument; because of that I can only play some accordion, recorder, and one song on the guitar. Though I do want to try picking up the accordion again soon, but it's pretty heavy. (cue laughter) So I shall perhaps keep you updated as to my progress, if it happens....