Monday, October 1, 2012

Foodie PenPal

I have mentioned this program in the past, but this was my first month participating. Let me tell you, this was an awesome experience! Shopping for my pen-pal was fun (once I figured out what to buy), but getting my box was even better!

I  was incredibly lucky to get paired up with Sarah from South Korea for my first go around. I think this was truly what this program was meant to be about- opening your mind to completely different things that you might not have the chance to ever try. I don't see myself in South Korea anytime soon so at least I get the opportunity to try some of their popular snacks.

In my initial email to Sarah, I expressed my nerves about being paired up with her. For some reason, I thought they ate alot of bugs over there and I wanted to make sure she knew that I was not THAT adventurous! I know this isn't the point of the program, but I didn't want to be disappointed in what I received since I felt like I put some good effort into my box! Luckily, Sarah was a great sport and sent me an amazing box with only one bug related item in it!

Onto my goodies! Sarah sent me soooo much but my favorites so far are the "Beatles" that are actually like skittles, Korean rice and the Yakgwa, which is a traditional flower cookie served on special days. Not only did she sent me great stuff, but her note gave me a numbered listing of what everything was (since it wasn't always written in English!) and sticky notes with the corresponding number on each item! I got great food, and learned a little something something in the process!

She also sent me some spicy Korean red pepper flakes that my husband is dying to try and chop sticks to eat my authentic raman noodles that she sent. Much better than our crap!

Here is my disappointing picture- I didn't realize until it was too late that my pic was blurry! We have already tore through this box so there is no opportunity for a retake!
While I had a great time doing this, I will not be participating again in the near future. All of my disposable income is going to Christmas right now so there ya go. Also, while this is supposed to be only a reasonable $15 investment, it quickly inches up to $25-$30 with shipping factored in, and that's just not something I am willing to do each month! I might do it again next year but if not, this experience was a great one!