Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Grapes, Election, and Dong Myeon-sa

Stephen thinks this picture is very hilarious. The grapes in Korea are different than in America; they are sweeter and juicier, and have 2-3 seeds in each grape, depending on its size. Adrienne thinks this picture is ridiculous.
With our boss, the day after the election. He was very confused about the purpose of this picture, and even more so that we wanted him to be in it.

One of the rooms at Dong Myeon-sa, a temple near our home. ("Sa" means temple.) In Korea, temples have rows of paper lotus lanterns hanging from the ceiling, which you can see on the left side of this picture.

Kimchi fermantation vessels. Since ancient times in Korea, these huge ceramic pots have been used for making kimchi. People often keep these vessels on the patios or balconies of their homes.


Outside of the main temple at Dong Myeon-sa.


Evil spirits underneath the feet of one of the four heavenly kings.

Adrienne posing with one of the four heavenly kings. These kings are always present at the entrance gate to a Korean Buddhist temple. They are also known as guardians of the four directions.

These guys are pretty scary.



Steve made another friend! We call this little guy Shivers because he always looks so cold when we pass by him on our way to the walking path near our apartment.

We came across a ritual while walking one morning. The woman in white silk was throwing rice and other ritual objects into the ocean. Behind her was an arrangement of ceremonial foods, including an entire pig's head.


Throwing rice into the ocean.

6 comments:

Unknown said...

These pictures are really amazing, guys.... thanks!

Anonymous said...

Thoroughly enjoying your photos and descriptions. One question - what kind of ceremony was that? Funeral?

Unknown said...

I was amazed at the worlds reaction to the election of Obama. I know Americans have high hopes...what does Asia expect from the new President? Or like us are they just excited that America is changing direction? Love you guys...stay safe. Eric

Anonymous said...

Bring me back the biggest kimchee fermentation vessel you can find. Full please.

Anonymous said...

these pictures are really incredible to look at. I love seeing bits of your experience.

my friend's mom just made him a kimchi vessel and he started his first batch! I wish I could try the kimchi there in Korea.

love you!

daniinez said...

We need a kimchi vessel--- Matt LOVES kimchi thanks to his Korean boss......

I also agree with Stephen and LOVE the pic of you and the grapes! So hilarious......