Anything Considered

If the past few days are an indication to go by, I think I'd love life after army. It's a strange, almost ethereal feeling being able to choose when and what you'd like to do, to be freed from an inhibiting schedule that clouds the mind and dulls the heart; to be able to Christmas shop when you like, to go for appoinments without having to rush back to camp. It's good.

I haven't been able to pop online just to talk to people for a very long time. Or go out for strolls through town alone while waiting for my next dental appointment (usually I have to cancel them). This is a pseudo-liberation that I find very, very welcome after so very long.

I saw Eun-hye Park yesterday. You know, the bumbling but pretty sidekick of Lee Young-Ae in Jewel in the Palace. She was at Breadtalk in Paragon to launch their new series of Korean products. I think I was there for almost an hour before she arrived. But while the rest of the crowd insisted on standing and waiting, I had my first post-braces-removal meal at The Soup Spoon, which was conveniently sited just 5 metres from the Breadtalk entrance.

Clam Chowder. Yum yum. Of course, theirs was more chow than chowder. Meaning it was really thick and sludge-like, but it was nice anyway. One can't be too picky with such hesitant, unprotected teeth.

And speaking of teeth after braces, the mold used to make retainers is the most gag-inducing thing ever. I doubt I've ever had such a tough time trying not to swallow or move my tongue. After that harrowing hour in the dentist I have this newfound obsession with wearing, and consequently not losing, my retainers.

Of course, not meeting any friends during this break leaves a strange, hollow aftertaste. No doubt, you can't blame anyone. Everyone's on holiday at this time. Or still having exams. Even some old friends from pri/sec school that are in army now have gone overseas - something I won't be able to do for the 2nd year running.

I shan't complain though. Things are looking up. Just, what, 3 more months? Let's leave that till then. Right now, it's back to waiting for my cutlet fried rice and hoping this day-long headache will go away.