I can't make this stuff up.
I have been advised against drinking the water here, so I buy 2-liter bottles of water across the street at a bodega. (are they considered bodegas outside of NYC/ Latin America??)
Tonight after work I popped in to pick up my bottle of water. The woman that works there is so friendly and so curious, even though we don't speak each other's languages. A few nights ago she grabbed my right hand (the hand that I always always always wear 2 giant silver rings on) and just smiled, said "ahhhh" and held it up to her face so she could inspect it. She looked so happy and pointed repeatedly at my hand. All I can do is laugh. I really need to learn some Korean!
Anyway, tonight's trip offered something more. As I set my water down on the counter, waiting for her to tap the total into her calculator so I would understand, she shoved a chunk of dried ramen into my palm and grinned. I responded "eh..??" and promptly bit off a piece without thinking. This immediately rendered laughter from her and 2 other ladies that are just hanging out in the store. But they weren't making fun of me, they were pleased.
I have no idea what flavor the ramen was, but who cares?
Ha, I love how when someone puts something foreign in your hand your response is to eat it. I'm trying to think of the Western equivalent of this but nothing comes to mind. Perhaps offering someone a piece of gum?
ReplyDeleteno, i think it's more like offering someone a chicken leg
ReplyDeleteWell at least you ate it instead of making the gross face and jus making them feel bad. I'll ship you some PB and J if you want. Just let me know what kind of PB and J you like.
ReplyDeletelooks like noodles!
ReplyDeleteHow is the korean coming along? I hope you learn it!