A couple of cultural OOPSIES!

I've had a few cultural oopsies! My first was my first grocery shopping. The total was 87,000 Won. (about $85). When she told me the total I instinctively handed her the 7,000 and then 4 of the large green bills. In my head I was thinking these were $20's... but she repeated the total and looked at me expectingly. It took me a full 30 seconds to figure out that the greens at 10's not 20's! Whoops!

Second... public transportation. I decided to take the bus. I have an idea of which number bus to take and generally where it goes- just not sure which side of the street to catch it on. SO- I choose and hope for the best. It began the right way... got me closer to my destination- I was getting excited... and then it turned. I decided that since my destination was only a half mile away I'd get out at the next stop and just walk instead of riding the bus around for too long. Wasn't quite sure which button to press to open the back door to get off- so I did what no one else does and asked the driver if I could please get off at this middle of nowhere stop. He looked very concerned for me, but kindly complied.

On my way home I knew exactly which bus to catch and also on which side of the street. It was 6pm however and I guess it is a very popular route. I got on, claimed my standing spot. No problem. Next stop- about 10 more people got on and only 2 got off. Next stop had a line of about 15 people wanting on to the crowded bus and only 4 got off... by the third stop we were packed to the maximum and the bus driver was actually yelling at the old men that were trying to push their way in. It was interesting to observe. I made it to my stop though and all is well that ends well. :-)

I got my alien card today which is VERY good news! This means that I can get a bank account and a cell phone! Its been interesting living without a cell phone. I'm sure it will be much easier once I have a way to get a hold of me :-)

I've also almost completely finished my cleaning spree in my apartment... pictures and video to come soon (I hope)!