7.03.2005
Been back to "reality" for almost two weeks. Moved in to our new apartment, and everything seems all set up. I guess I'm ready to "function" in the ordinary world again.
Yesterday I went to the market here, and shopped for our daily food for the first time since we got back to Hualien.
I parked my scooter and started walking through the busy market. I had this funny feeling... 'this is the market i used to know but...everything seems to be unfamiliar this time. And...I'm not a tourist anymore...' I wasn't carrying my big SLR trying to take some "fresh" market shots. I was actually looking and buying food for living.
I love going to the market and buying fresh vegetables and fruits, I love to see what is being sold in the market from day to day.
But, I HATE when I try to ask about the vegetables and bargain for a better price in the market, they (the food sellers) always think I'm an total idiot. I really really hate that.
This is what happened to me...
Me: "Um...Can I have your smallest chicken? I'd like you to clean all the organs out, and cut the feet and the neck off...Oh and the butt must be off, too. Thanks a lot!"
The mother figure saleslady: "Um...what?? are you sure? no organs? no feet or neck??"
Me: "Yes, I'm sure!"
Her: "Ok then, I think you are so cute... I'll put the extras in a little bag for you, and here's our chicken broth for you..Free."
I: "Oh... that's very nice of you, but...mm...ok."
Her: "Do you know how to cook the chicken? Don't forget to put the broth and the chicken in the fridge as soon as you get home, ok?"
Me: "....@%#...thanks, I undersatnd."
Later she thaught me a whole lesson about how to make chicken soup... for 20 minutes.
Oh well. After that I went on to buy some fruits.
Well, guess what? Four peaches cost me about 4 dollars. And, I guess I looked like an idiot then. I don't understand why I am always being treated like that, scammed, and being laughed at while my mom would be treated like a VIP everyday.
So, feeling shitty and scared I walked very very fast out of the market.
That's my relationship with the market in my hometown.
Iris
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