Christmas in Japan was pretty good. I got presents from my family and couple friends, and I waited until Christmas to open them. Actually, it was the day after because Christmas was so very busy.
Starting on Christmas Eve, we all got together and went out for drinks. We went to a new bar, owned by some friend's Brazilian friend and ended up staying until around 5 am! We drank a lot, and danced, but because it was Christmas, the bar owners were giving free drinks and tequila shots all night. 3 of my friends, Brian, Shirley, and Dan, spent the night. Even though we stayed out late, Brian and I got up and went to 9am mass, which was in Japanese. When we got back, I talked to my family on skype. I think they got to briefly meet each of my friends too. Around 1:15, Shirley drove us over to Aeon town to the KFC to pick the wanna be turkey (roast chicken). It was surprisingly very tasty! Everyone brought a little something- we had potatoes, veggies, meat, dessert, wine. Sebastian and Lisa joined us around 2:30 (a little late, but still welcome) and we all sat down to a nice, real Christmas dinner (linner). Then we moved into my living room where we opened presents and ate Christmas cake. "Santa" brought little toys and stockings full of goodies from the 100 yen shop (like the dollar store). I don't think I could have asked for a better Christmas away from home.
After my dinner, Shirl, Brian, and Dan had to go but Sebastian, Lisa, and I went up to Matty's for his annual Christmas bbq. Everyone sat around drinking (more and more), eating, talking, and being merry. one of the girls was a masseuse, so somehow between the charred meat and the sweet wine, a massage congo line started. Matty's party ended around 2, which is not late for Japan, but really late since we had to work the next day. Luckily I didn't have to be in until noon.
My weekend so far has just full of doing nothing. I'm on vacation, so I feel like I have all the time in the world! The other reason is that it's snowing!!! And I don't mean a little. Koriyama is really windy, which makes the cold and snow that much worse. Outside my window, the sky is so hazy and grey that I can't see the mountains. I always thought snow would just fall and the sky would be clear. But that doesn't really make sense when I think about it now. I love watching the snow fall. The flakes swirl around, pushed left and right by the icy wind. It's beautiful to just stand and look straight up, but it's so cold walking into the wind!!
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Winter
The past couple days I've been trying to think of a way to describe the winter climate of Koriyama, but last night something happened that eclipsed it all. I fell down the stairs again. Only this time, instead of falling forward, my feet flew out from under me, and I slid down 3 jarring concrete steps right into a cold puddle of 2 day old mud water.
Great luck, right? I tried to catch myself, but my hands were full with trash since Thursday is trash and can day. My friend Dave voiced his concern between muffled laughter. I would have laughed too, except I was warring between the urge to vomit or cry. I quickly pushed down both urges, and stood up, which only led to extreme spinning and dizziness. Dave and I sat (I more like rested my weight on my left thigh) on the steps while I tried to decide if I was broken or bruised. Today it hurts to sit, and I have a bruise the size of Mount Rushmore.
On the upside (which is in no way related), I'm finished with Junior high, Elementary schools, and Kindergarten for 3 weeks! WOO WHOO!!
On Monday when I left for work (driving out into the country to Sugama K) I thought it was raining. I ran back inside and grabbed an umbrella. When I go to the parking lot it wasn't raining, but water was still dripping from the roof. As I drove out, it looked like a fine layer of dust had settled on the mountains. I also noticed that in the empty lots, especially towards the shadows, the dirt was lighter than usually. Suddenly, it dawned on me: it was never raining, It was melting snow!
yuki (sounds like u-key) - snow
Great luck, right? I tried to catch myself, but my hands were full with trash since Thursday is trash and can day. My friend Dave voiced his concern between muffled laughter. I would have laughed too, except I was warring between the urge to vomit or cry. I quickly pushed down both urges, and stood up, which only led to extreme spinning and dizziness. Dave and I sat (I more like rested my weight on my left thigh) on the steps while I tried to decide if I was broken or bruised. Today it hurts to sit, and I have a bruise the size of Mount Rushmore.
On the upside (which is in no way related), I'm finished with Junior high, Elementary schools, and Kindergarten for 3 weeks! WOO WHOO!!
On Monday when I left for work (driving out into the country to Sugama K) I thought it was raining. I ran back inside and grabbed an umbrella. When I go to the parking lot it wasn't raining, but water was still dripping from the roof. As I drove out, it looked like a fine layer of dust had settled on the mountains. I also noticed that in the empty lots, especially towards the shadows, the dirt was lighter than usually. Suddenly, it dawned on me: it was never raining, It was melting snow!
yuki (sounds like u-key) - snow
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Disney and Great friends!
Japan is cold, cold, cold! It snowed last week, but around midnight. None of the snow stuck, so I still haven't had a snowball fight or built a snowman. Last Saturday I did manage to make it down to Tokyo Disneyland.
It's pretty much exactly like Orlando Disney's Magic Kingdom, except smaller (maybe more crowded), and in Japanese. I took the night bus from Koriyama and arrived at 7am. The park didn't open until 8am, so I had some time to freshen up in the bathroom (which was my first long line - about a 10 minute wait). I just walked around took pictures until my friends came at 11am. We only got on 3 rides - Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion, and Pirates of the Caribbean. SM and HM were the same set up. Instead of just being haunted, the HM had a whole Nightmare Before Christmas theme. I liked it a lot! Pirates was really similar, but my friend from LA said it was exactly like the California Pirates. All of Disney is decked out for Christmas, which I was really happy about. I also go to see the Stitch Christmas parade, and the Electric parade- super cool!! The fire works were cancelled due to high wind :( I took another night bus back, and got back to Koriyama at about 4am. I was exhausted!
Monday I was kind of cranky. It's not Japan, I just keep getting frustrated. But today I got a fabulous surprise! I was at work when a huge box arrived for me. I wasn't expecting anything from Mom, so I teared up when I saw it was from Orlando. Karyn, Char, and Cami spent waaay too much money (really guys, I feel bad who had to spend so much just on shipping!) sending me Christmas in a box! I was so excited that I ripped it open right there in the main office, and Yuri (our secretary, but she does way more) and I started investigating every present. The girls sent me everything from totally rad socks and dvds, to a little xmas tree and ornaments, to oreos and add-water mashed potatoes, to spices and pjs!!! There was also a random red rope ... not sure yet what that is for.
I really just feel so very loved!
I have the greatest friends in the whole world!!!
It's pretty much exactly like Orlando Disney's Magic Kingdom, except smaller (maybe more crowded), and in Japanese. I took the night bus from Koriyama and arrived at 7am. The park didn't open until 8am, so I had some time to freshen up in the bathroom (which was my first long line - about a 10 minute wait). I just walked around took pictures until my friends came at 11am. We only got on 3 rides - Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion, and Pirates of the Caribbean. SM and HM were the same set up. Instead of just being haunted, the HM had a whole Nightmare Before Christmas theme. I liked it a lot! Pirates was really similar, but my friend from LA said it was exactly like the California Pirates. All of Disney is decked out for Christmas, which I was really happy about. I also go to see the Stitch Christmas parade, and the Electric parade- super cool!! The fire works were cancelled due to high wind :( I took another night bus back, and got back to Koriyama at about 4am. I was exhausted!
Monday I was kind of cranky. It's not Japan, I just keep getting frustrated. But today I got a fabulous surprise! I was at work when a huge box arrived for me. I wasn't expecting anything from Mom, so I teared up when I saw it was from Orlando. Karyn, Char, and Cami spent waaay too much money (really guys, I feel bad who had to spend so much just on shipping!) sending me Christmas in a box! I was so excited that I ripped it open right there in the main office, and Yuri (our secretary, but she does way more) and I started investigating every present. The girls sent me everything from totally rad socks and dvds, to a little xmas tree and ornaments, to oreos and add-water mashed potatoes, to spices and pjs!!! There was also a random red rope ... not sure yet what that is for.
I really just feel so very loved!
I have the greatest friends in the whole world!!!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Blocked in
I would love to update you on the atrocities of Japanese Christmas lights, but alas, my home Internet doesn't work and I can't upload pictures from work. What good would a Christmas light post be without pictures?
Instead, I'll talk about my meh Wednesday. (In case you didn't know, "meh" is now a word in the dictionary. It has been added with the meaning an expression of boredom.)
At the intersection of 49 and 141 there is a torii on the left side of the road. It stands over a paved footpath leading a set of mossy green, uneven steps. The ancient steps climb up the side of the mountain until the are swallowed by the bamboo and cypress trees. I have always wanted to stop and explore the temple at the top of the stairs. On Wednesday, my afternoon class was canceled, leaving me with ample time on my way home. The weather was brisk and clear; perfect for exploring. I've seen any special temple parking, so I parked the car on the right side of the road in and old lot. In the 3 and half months that I've driven this way, there had never been any cars there.
49 is fairly busy road, so I waited at the light until there were no cars coming from either direction. The stone torii was almost short enough to touch, so the temple must not be the biggest or most important for the area. As I walked up the footpath I saw the most amazing building. It looked abandoned, but that could just be because of the material it was made from. The walls looked like mud and hay, and a dry piece of bamboo was exposed by a crumbling crack. I felt like I was walking back in time. The stairs, marked by another stone torii, lead directly up the mountain to the visibly closed temple doors. I began to climb, mindful of the cracked, narrow steps. I thought the steps might be loose from earthquakes and age, but they were stable and strong the whole way up. The wind swirled around me as I passed the tree line, blowing away the humm and buzz of cars from route 49.
The temple was closed, possibly for construction or renovation. Wishes and prayers written on paper were slowing disintegrating around tree branches they'd been tied to. Broken jars, statues, bells, and toys lay next to an ancient tree. Cobwebs filled the mini shrines that sat behind the temple and under the natural stone all. Another thick tree had pushed its roots through cracks, winding a permanent hold on the rocks. Stone rain gutters shot away from either side of the temple, flowing back down the mountain. I came back to the front at sat on the top step, listening to the breeze that made the bamboo sway. I was only up there 15 minutes, but I could have stayed all day.
I walked back to the modern world of work and zooming cars carrying the tranquility with me. I didn't even notice the other cars parked in the old lot until I crossed the road. The other cars, a white car with a "senior driver " sticker, and 2 white company trucks, were pinning my car. I was blocked in. I tried not to get upset as I copied the Japanese letter and walked to a gas station. After walking around for 10 minutes looking for the nonexistent company, I just broke down and cried. I couldn't understand directions to the company, I couldn't explain my situation, and I was obviously in trouble for parking in the lot. I went back to the car, took out my cell phone, and called the office. I was talking to Kimiko when an old man walked up and started talking in Japanese. For the first time since I arrived, I hoped I looked like a scary stereotypical gaijin. (I probably did, with my messy hair, blood shot eyes, and runny red nose.)
I passed the phone to the old man so Kimiko could talk to him and explain that I was a foreigner and didn't understand anything. After the phone call, the old man began to move the cars. I jumped in my car and sped off as soon as I had an opening. Later, Kimiko told me then man wasn't mad, just surprised since I had parked in his lot.
The event was pretty exciting, making the rest of my day kind of meh.
Instead, I'll talk about my meh Wednesday. (In case you didn't know, "meh" is now a word in the dictionary. It has been added with the meaning an expression of boredom.)
At the intersection of 49 and 141 there is a torii on the left side of the road. It stands over a paved footpath leading a set of mossy green, uneven steps. The ancient steps climb up the side of the mountain until the are swallowed by the bamboo and cypress trees. I have always wanted to stop and explore the temple at the top of the stairs. On Wednesday, my afternoon class was canceled, leaving me with ample time on my way home. The weather was brisk and clear; perfect for exploring. I've seen any special temple parking, so I parked the car on the right side of the road in and old lot. In the 3 and half months that I've driven this way, there had never been any cars there.
49 is fairly busy road, so I waited at the light until there were no cars coming from either direction. The stone torii was almost short enough to touch, so the temple must not be the biggest or most important for the area. As I walked up the footpath I saw the most amazing building. It looked abandoned, but that could just be because of the material it was made from. The walls looked like mud and hay, and a dry piece of bamboo was exposed by a crumbling crack. I felt like I was walking back in time. The stairs, marked by another stone torii, lead directly up the mountain to the visibly closed temple doors. I began to climb, mindful of the cracked, narrow steps. I thought the steps might be loose from earthquakes and age, but they were stable and strong the whole way up. The wind swirled around me as I passed the tree line, blowing away the humm and buzz of cars from route 49.
The temple was closed, possibly for construction or renovation. Wishes and prayers written on paper were slowing disintegrating around tree branches they'd been tied to. Broken jars, statues, bells, and toys lay next to an ancient tree. Cobwebs filled the mini shrines that sat behind the temple and under the natural stone all. Another thick tree had pushed its roots through cracks, winding a permanent hold on the rocks. Stone rain gutters shot away from either side of the temple, flowing back down the mountain. I came back to the front at sat on the top step, listening to the breeze that made the bamboo sway. I was only up there 15 minutes, but I could have stayed all day.
I walked back to the modern world of work and zooming cars carrying the tranquility with me. I didn't even notice the other cars parked in the old lot until I crossed the road. The other cars, a white car with a "senior driver " sticker, and 2 white company trucks, were pinning my car. I was blocked in. I tried not to get upset as I copied the Japanese letter and walked to a gas station. After walking around for 10 minutes looking for the nonexistent company, I just broke down and cried. I couldn't understand directions to the company, I couldn't explain my situation, and I was obviously in trouble for parking in the lot. I went back to the car, took out my cell phone, and called the office. I was talking to Kimiko when an old man walked up and started talking in Japanese. For the first time since I arrived, I hoped I looked like a scary stereotypical gaijin. (I probably did, with my messy hair, blood shot eyes, and runny red nose.)
I passed the phone to the old man so Kimiko could talk to him and explain that I was a foreigner and didn't understand anything. After the phone call, the old man began to move the cars. I jumped in my car and sped off as soon as I had an opening. Later, Kimiko told me then man wasn't mad, just surprised since I had parked in his lot.
The event was pretty exciting, making the rest of my day kind of meh.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Teaching in schools
Out of all my class, my favorite place to teach is in the junior high schools. I even like teaching in the elementary schools, and the kindergartens (after I get over my fear). Though I dread teaching the really young kids, I always end up having a good time.
The kindergartens are great because the kids are always genki (have lots of energy). Sometimes they are too genki. I only teach there 2 or 3 times a month, by some of the little ones have gotten the idea that I am a jungle gym. It's challenging to try to keep the kids in line because every time gentle push one to his chair, he thinks it's an invitation to hang from my arms. And yes, it's almost always one of the boys. I also can't wear a skirt because they have a bad habit of playing "What's under there?'' The normal teacher is in the room but unless I ask for help, she doesn't do much. I think it's part due to the fact her attention is split between the monkeys climbing on me, and the ones plotting in the back of the classroom.
The elementary schools are lots of fun. There is a set lesson plan, the teachers are helpful even when we are speaking through gestures, and the kids are attentive as they wait for the game of the day. There are some cute teachers in the elementary schools as well ;)
Junior high is where the kids start learning grammar. These classes are much more co-teacher, whereas the other ones I am mostly teaching. I can start to see the declining interest, but usually the kids are all pretty good. We do more repetition and dialog practice. If we have time we'll play a game like ''Heads up 7 up" or ''Switch''. The students are also starting to form simple sentences and ask questions. I often get "where are you from?'', "how old are you?'' and ''do you have a boyfriend?'' The girls always say "kawai'', which means cute but I think it a more general meaning of attractive. I don't know why though, I don't try to look especially nice when I go to the schools. Junior high is about the time when kids realize they are becoming men and women. I think this is a universal truth.
On Tuesday I went to Izumi JH and helped in a 3rd year class, one I haven't done before. The students at Izumi are usually great, but this class was really genki and attentive, especially the boys (most of whom were taller than me!!). We did the regular practice and read, and during the pair practice there was a group of students that totally went off topic. They were actually trying to communicate in English, versus just get the lesson correct, but of course it was the boyfriend question. When I say I don't have a boyfriend sometime I get asked if I like men. This always confuses me because I don't see why not having a boyfriend means I might not like men. But this group was able to explain that the wanted to know what type of men I liked. The teacher jumped in and apologized and said I didn't have to answer, but I thought it was all pretty amusing.
After I said I like 'cool' guys (how do you explain great personality in Japanese?), they asked what age range! The was one boy who looked disappointed after I said 25-35. The teacher chuckled and said something in Japanese to the boy. Then to me, she said "His love is lost. It is lost love because he is too young." The whole situation just made me smile and think back to times when I had crushes on substitute teachers and older guys. As I left, the boy built up some courage and yelled out "I love you." Lol, what a cute kid. I never could have done that when I was 14! The teacher was amused as she told me that he is usually the worst one in the class. But that day he was actually focusing and trying to speak English.
The kindergartens are great because the kids are always genki (have lots of energy). Sometimes they are too genki. I only teach there 2 or 3 times a month, by some of the little ones have gotten the idea that I am a jungle gym. It's challenging to try to keep the kids in line because every time gentle push one to his chair, he thinks it's an invitation to hang from my arms. And yes, it's almost always one of the boys. I also can't wear a skirt because they have a bad habit of playing "What's under there?'' The normal teacher is in the room but unless I ask for help, she doesn't do much. I think it's part due to the fact her attention is split between the monkeys climbing on me, and the ones plotting in the back of the classroom.
The elementary schools are lots of fun. There is a set lesson plan, the teachers are helpful even when we are speaking through gestures, and the kids are attentive as they wait for the game of the day. There are some cute teachers in the elementary schools as well ;)
Junior high is where the kids start learning grammar. These classes are much more co-teacher, whereas the other ones I am mostly teaching. I can start to see the declining interest, but usually the kids are all pretty good. We do more repetition and dialog practice. If we have time we'll play a game like ''Heads up 7 up" or ''Switch''. The students are also starting to form simple sentences and ask questions. I often get "where are you from?'', "how old are you?'' and ''do you have a boyfriend?'' The girls always say "kawai'', which means cute but I think it a more general meaning of attractive. I don't know why though, I don't try to look especially nice when I go to the schools. Junior high is about the time when kids realize they are becoming men and women. I think this is a universal truth.
On Tuesday I went to Izumi JH and helped in a 3rd year class, one I haven't done before. The students at Izumi are usually great, but this class was really genki and attentive, especially the boys (most of whom were taller than me!!). We did the regular practice and read, and during the pair practice there was a group of students that totally went off topic. They were actually trying to communicate in English, versus just get the lesson correct, but of course it was the boyfriend question. When I say I don't have a boyfriend sometime I get asked if I like men. This always confuses me because I don't see why not having a boyfriend means I might not like men. But this group was able to explain that the wanted to know what type of men I liked. The teacher jumped in and apologized and said I didn't have to answer, but I thought it was all pretty amusing.
After I said I like 'cool' guys (how do you explain great personality in Japanese?), they asked what age range! The was one boy who looked disappointed after I said 25-35. The teacher chuckled and said something in Japanese to the boy. Then to me, she said "His love is lost. It is lost love because he is too young." The whole situation just made me smile and think back to times when I had crushes on substitute teachers and older guys. As I left, the boy built up some courage and yelled out "I love you." Lol, what a cute kid. I never could have done that when I was 14! The teacher was amused as she told me that he is usually the worst one in the class. But that day he was actually focusing and trying to speak English.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Elections
Being election day back home in the ol' good US of A, I thought I should comment.
I did not vote, though being overseas this would probably have been the easiest place to vote. While CNN is showing lines that wide around blocks, all I had to do was get an absentee ballot and send it home. Part of the reason I didn't vote is pure lazy apathy in requesting the proper forms. Another part (which you may call lazy) is that I just plain don't like politics. Listening to debates doesn't motivate me, it just makes me feel confused. I'm a strong person, but easily swayed by a good sounding argument. I don't want to be an issue voter, but weeding through all the statements looking for the truth and trying to understand exactly what was said just makes me frustrated. I have a low attention span as well. If you want to be upset that I am not voting, just chalk it up to one less for your team's opponent.
You are probably wondering what the opinions are of the international population. Everyone is really interested to see what will happen. Many students want to talk about it in class. From all the students I have taught, including Japanese students here and other nationalities from ELS, Obama is the popular candidate. I work with 2 American teachers, both of whom have voted for Obama. Many of the other English teachers have said that if they could vote, they'd be casting ballots for Obama. I am thinking really hard, but I no one comes to mind for McCain.
It'll be really interesting to see what happens, but more so to see the response. At times like these, I always remember my Honors American History teacher in high school, Mr. Saunders. he always said to pay attention because we are making history right now. I wonder if my grandkids will be interviewing me for history reports in 50 years.
Good luck voters!
I did not vote, though being overseas this would probably have been the easiest place to vote. While CNN is showing lines that wide around blocks, all I had to do was get an absentee ballot and send it home. Part of the reason I didn't vote is pure lazy apathy in requesting the proper forms. Another part (which you may call lazy) is that I just plain don't like politics. Listening to debates doesn't motivate me, it just makes me feel confused. I'm a strong person, but easily swayed by a good sounding argument. I don't want to be an issue voter, but weeding through all the statements looking for the truth and trying to understand exactly what was said just makes me frustrated. I have a low attention span as well. If you want to be upset that I am not voting, just chalk it up to one less for your team's opponent.
You are probably wondering what the opinions are of the international population. Everyone is really interested to see what will happen. Many students want to talk about it in class. From all the students I have taught, including Japanese students here and other nationalities from ELS, Obama is the popular candidate. I work with 2 American teachers, both of whom have voted for Obama. Many of the other English teachers have said that if they could vote, they'd be casting ballots for Obama. I am thinking really hard, but I no one comes to mind for McCain.
It'll be really interesting to see what happens, but more so to see the response. At times like these, I always remember my Honors American History teacher in high school, Mr. Saunders. he always said to pay attention because we are making history right now. I wonder if my grandkids will be interviewing me for history reports in 50 years.
Good luck voters!
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Diagnosis
I went to the hospital on Friday because I still couldn't walk on it. In Japan, you don't really go to the doctor's office. Everyone goes to the hospital, even for a minor cold. Kimiko, our new office assistant, went with me to translate. She said it usually takes a few hours of waiting, but I guess we were lucky because we saw a doctor in 20 minutes. Talking with a translator was really interesting. If anything, living in Japan gives me an understanding of what immigrants in America must go through, except it must be so much more difficult in our society. I am extremely fortunate because even though I am dependant, I am surrounded by people who want to help me and see me succeed.
The doc took 4 xrays, but nothing showed up broken. He said I must just have a bad sprain in the ligaments of the small foot bones, right where the long foot bones start to stretch out. He wrapped my foot, prescribed some pain relievers, and loaned me crutches, and said keep the foot elevated and iced. He wants to see me again in a couple weeks just to make sure the ligaments is the only problem.
Besides the doctor being so efficient and friendly, the bill really surprised me. Including the first time fee, and medicine, I only paid about 3,500 Yen, which is $35!!
I've been favoring my foot, but I still went out last night. I feel ok today. I'll probably try walking around some more just so it doesn't get weak.
The doc took 4 xrays, but nothing showed up broken. He said I must just have a bad sprain in the ligaments of the small foot bones, right where the long foot bones start to stretch out. He wrapped my foot, prescribed some pain relievers, and loaned me crutches, and said keep the foot elevated and iced. He wants to see me again in a couple weeks just to make sure the ligaments is the only problem.
Besides the doctor being so efficient and friendly, the bill really surprised me. Including the first time fee, and medicine, I only paid about 3,500 Yen, which is $35!!
I've been favoring my foot, but I still went out last night. I feel ok today. I'll probably try walking around some more just so it doesn't get weak.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Klutz-tastic
Ebony was a blast. We drank free beer until 2 am, and danced all night! I also met a cute boy. Oddly enough, he is from Peru and his name is Cristian. I probably won't see him again, but that's ok. He didn't speak much English, and I don't speak much Spanish, and neither of us speak enough Japanese to converse, lol ^o^
Anyway, today I'd like to record a different subject - my equilibrium, or lack thereof. In America, I typically have pretty good balance. At least, I don't remember falling over all the time. In Japan, however, my stability has deserted me. I keep falling, or running into things, and not because I have been drinking! It began quite a few weeks ago, maybe sometime in September. I ran after my friend in a bar, tripped, and fell flat on my face. I've missed a couple chairs I tried to sit in. I've fallen while dancing. I've tripped going down stair, and up them! The worst, though, was today when I was going down the stairs of my apartment building. Somehow I slipped, and my right foot slid down the stairs upside down. It hurt immediately; one of those take your breath away pains. I gave it a minute before I stood on it, but it seemed ok. I walked all the way back to work and proceeded with the rest of my day as if nothing happened. I must have been walking on adrenalin or shock. After my last class, I noticed my foot kinda hurt when I stood. I went to salsa, dance a couple dances, then decided to go home cuz my foot was starting to hurt worse. When I got home and took my boot off, the pain increased rapidly though it hasn't swelled at all. I've currently taken 4 aspirin, elevated and iced my foot. I don't have a stretch bandage, but I've put 3 socks around my foot to try to keep it tight. Unfortunately, nothing seems to be helping. I can't put any weight on my foot without yelling out. I have to hop anywhere I want to go!
I only have a sample lesson tomorrow, no classes. But I hope my foot heals enough that I can walk to work. :(
Anyway, today I'd like to record a different subject - my equilibrium, or lack thereof. In America, I typically have pretty good balance. At least, I don't remember falling over all the time. In Japan, however, my stability has deserted me. I keep falling, or running into things, and not because I have been drinking! It began quite a few weeks ago, maybe sometime in September. I ran after my friend in a bar, tripped, and fell flat on my face. I've missed a couple chairs I tried to sit in. I've fallen while dancing. I've tripped going down stair, and up them! The worst, though, was today when I was going down the stairs of my apartment building. Somehow I slipped, and my right foot slid down the stairs upside down. It hurt immediately; one of those take your breath away pains. I gave it a minute before I stood on it, but it seemed ok. I walked all the way back to work and proceeded with the rest of my day as if nothing happened. I must have been walking on adrenalin or shock. After my last class, I noticed my foot kinda hurt when I stood. I went to salsa, dance a couple dances, then decided to go home cuz my foot was starting to hurt worse. When I got home and took my boot off, the pain increased rapidly though it hasn't swelled at all. I've currently taken 4 aspirin, elevated and iced my foot. I don't have a stretch bandage, but I've put 3 socks around my foot to try to keep it tight. Unfortunately, nothing seems to be helping. I can't put any weight on my foot without yelling out. I have to hop anywhere I want to go!
I only have a sample lesson tomorrow, no classes. But I hope my foot heals enough that I can walk to work. :(
Friday, October 24, 2008
There is a season - turn! turn! turn!
The past 2 weeks have been unbelievably busy!
2 Sundays ago was Jack's birthday. Of course we went out, but we stayed out really late because Monday the 13th was a holiday. Yay, no work! Staying out til 4 AM, however, makes me really tired, and my whole day is off when I sleep in til noon. It was kind of hard to sleep in though, because there was protest parade outside. We think they were protesting some kind of North Korean event, but they were speaking in Japanese so I don't know 100%. Instead of people walking, they were driving around in large tour buses yelling out of super amped mega phones. I went out to watch the protest buses from my balcony, and on the way back in I tripped over the door way ledge and bent my toenail back! Now the big tow on my right foot is missing a toenail.
I think this shock, and sudden stress on my immune system is what lead me to be sick. I wasn't feeling well Tuesday, and Wednesday it was like I had Mono all over again. I woke up with a fever, my throat was so swollen it hurt to talk. But I took a hot shower, and some Advil, and by time I needed to get to work I was ok. I'm really trying not to miss work because I only get 2 sick days, and I need my vacation days for when people come visit me. Thursday and Friday I was kind of out of it, but I was getting better.
Saturday the 18th I had to get up early for International day Xaviero Junior High School, a private Catholic school. I had a ton of fun with those kids, they were so smart and interested in talking! The school is really nice too, and it kind of reminded me of my own Catholic schooling. If a position opens up for teacher there I wouldn't mind looking into it. I also met a lot of other foreigners, and a few of us met up later that night to go our for dinner and drinks. I was going to make it an early night because I had orientation the next day. BUT, I got pretty drunk because I was upset over some silly drama with an equally silly boy, and I ended up staying out til 4 AM again, lol. On Sunday, I slept through my alarms and missed my bus.
I arrived an hour late in Sendai, where the headquarters for James English School is located. It's about 2 hours North of Koriyama. No one seemed to mind that I was so late, and I actually wasn't the last one there. I didn't learn a whole lot at orientation, but it was nice to meet some other new teachers. The girls, Becky and Christine, are very nice. The guys, as expected, are all a bit off. Not to be mean, but foreign men in Japan are not exactly the pick of the litter. The majority are very nice, well meaning guys, but generally they are a bit geeky or weird. There are only a couple that seem to have no social chance. Japan is a great place for these guys however, because Japanese women loooove foreign guys. As long as the guy doesn't come from Japan, he's likely to find some willing woman.
I didn't get back to Koriyama until Monday, but as soon as I did I met up with some other friend's for Paul's going away party. We started at God's, which is now called U-style, and then went to GAP, Kyoko's bar, for more drinks and karaoke. Singing (more like screaming off-pitch) wasn't a really good idea, and my throat is still recuperating! I'm not sick, my throat is just dry and hoarse.
Yesterday I moved! Not far, just up 2 floors. Ken, a new teacher from Ireland, has come to replace Melissa. He took my apartment, and I am living with Melissa until she leaves (about a month). After she goes, I will be taking over her place. It's nicer than my old place - bigger, but cozier. The only difference in the address is on the first line. If you mail me a letter, change "202' to "403"
Tomorrow we are going to a dance club called Ebony. We have to drive 2 hours to get there, but it'll be nice to go to a real dance club to party! But, I can't wait to sleep tonight!!!
2 Sundays ago was Jack's birthday. Of course we went out, but we stayed out really late because Monday the 13th was a holiday. Yay, no work! Staying out til 4 AM, however, makes me really tired, and my whole day is off when I sleep in til noon. It was kind of hard to sleep in though, because there was protest parade outside. We think they were protesting some kind of North Korean event, but they were speaking in Japanese so I don't know 100%. Instead of people walking, they were driving around in large tour buses yelling out of super amped mega phones. I went out to watch the protest buses from my balcony, and on the way back in I tripped over the door way ledge and bent my toenail back! Now the big tow on my right foot is missing a toenail.
I think this shock, and sudden stress on my immune system is what lead me to be sick. I wasn't feeling well Tuesday, and Wednesday it was like I had Mono all over again. I woke up with a fever, my throat was so swollen it hurt to talk. But I took a hot shower, and some Advil, and by time I needed to get to work I was ok. I'm really trying not to miss work because I only get 2 sick days, and I need my vacation days for when people come visit me. Thursday and Friday I was kind of out of it, but I was getting better.
Saturday the 18th I had to get up early for International day Xaviero Junior High School, a private Catholic school. I had a ton of fun with those kids, they were so smart and interested in talking! The school is really nice too, and it kind of reminded me of my own Catholic schooling. If a position opens up for teacher there I wouldn't mind looking into it. I also met a lot of other foreigners, and a few of us met up later that night to go our for dinner and drinks. I was going to make it an early night because I had orientation the next day. BUT, I got pretty drunk because I was upset over some silly drama with an equally silly boy, and I ended up staying out til 4 AM again, lol. On Sunday, I slept through my alarms and missed my bus.
I arrived an hour late in Sendai, where the headquarters for James English School is located. It's about 2 hours North of Koriyama. No one seemed to mind that I was so late, and I actually wasn't the last one there. I didn't learn a whole lot at orientation, but it was nice to meet some other new teachers. The girls, Becky and Christine, are very nice. The guys, as expected, are all a bit off. Not to be mean, but foreign men in Japan are not exactly the pick of the litter. The majority are very nice, well meaning guys, but generally they are a bit geeky or weird. There are only a couple that seem to have no social chance. Japan is a great place for these guys however, because Japanese women loooove foreign guys. As long as the guy doesn't come from Japan, he's likely to find some willing woman.
I didn't get back to Koriyama until Monday, but as soon as I did I met up with some other friend's for Paul's going away party. We started at God's, which is now called U-style, and then went to GAP, Kyoko's bar, for more drinks and karaoke. Singing (more like screaming off-pitch) wasn't a really good idea, and my throat is still recuperating! I'm not sick, my throat is just dry and hoarse.
Yesterday I moved! Not far, just up 2 floors. Ken, a new teacher from Ireland, has come to replace Melissa. He took my apartment, and I am living with Melissa until she leaves (about a month). After she goes, I will be taking over her place. It's nicer than my old place - bigger, but cozier. The only difference in the address is on the first line. If you mail me a letter, change "202' to "403"
Tomorrow we are going to a dance club called Ebony. We have to drive 2 hours to get there, but it'll be nice to go to a real dance club to party! But, I can't wait to sleep tonight!!!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Shrine and Undokai videos
Carrying the shrine in Koriyama
Nihomatsu Lantern festival - Washoi!
Pop the teacher
Dancing routine
Domino kids (it starts in the back right corner)
Dad- can you use this race at the picnic?
Nihomatsu Lantern festival - Washoi!
Pop the teacher
Dancing routine
Domino kids (it starts in the back right corner)
Dad- can you use this race at the picnic?
Undokai
Grandparents' race
Olympic theme
Aren't they cute in their sailor hats?!
2-year olds' race
The kids are such good dancers, and so daring!
Jimmy and Kayla in the 3-year olds' race
Parachutes were my favorite PE thing when I was a kid!
Part of the gymnastic routine
Parent/Teacher tray balance race
Parent/Teacher pass off race
Funehiki after school care gets awesome toys!
Olympic theme
Aren't they cute in their sailor hats?!
2-year olds' race
The kids are such good dancers, and so daring!
Jimmy and Kayla in the 3-year olds' race
Parachutes were my favorite PE thing when I was a kid!
Part of the gymnastic routine
Parent/Teacher tray balance race
Parent/Teacher pass off race
Funehiki after school care gets awesome toys!
Shrine Festivals
An Omikoshi - Portable shrine. Check out that detail!
Festival food - fried squid on a stick. I didn't eat it, would you?
That random blond girl is my friend Donna.
Each group had a priest looking guy lead the way
Some of the people from our friend's shrine, including Bella and Donna
In Nihomatsu, getting ready to pop a sticky anko ball - red bean dessert.
It's a giant dino bounce house!!
Dave in front of the steps leading to Nihomatsu's city temple. We called it the tic tac toe temple, can you tell why?
One of the lantern shrines(for lack of a better word)
Relighting some of the lanterns
Festival food - fried squid on a stick. I didn't eat it, would you?
That random blond girl is my friend Donna.
Each group had a priest looking guy lead the way
Some of the people from our friend's shrine, including Bella and Donna
In Nihomatsu, getting ready to pop a sticky anko ball - red bean dessert.
It's a giant dino bounce house!!
Dave in front of the steps leading to Nihomatsu's city temple. We called it the tic tac toe temple, can you tell why?
One of the lantern shrines(for lack of a better word)
Relighting some of the lanterns
Autumn = Festivals
Autumn is just chock-full of events! Part of it, I think, harks back to the more feudal days when the whims of the gods decided the productivity of one's crops. There shrine festivals in just about every city throughout Japan, or so I am told. They vary a little bit, but follow the same pattern. The city is divided into sections, and each section is represented with a portable shrine, where the honored deity of that section lives. The shrines are carried on top of poles around part of the city in a processional line to the main city temple to give thanks and get a blessing. Usually the participants, and even observers, shout washoi, washoi, washoi to keep up the momentum and moral becuase the shrines are pretty heavy. If the shrines are too close to each other, espcially around the main temple, there might be a "fight" (they kind chase eachother, or see who can hold the shrine in the air longer).
I went with dave to Nihomatsu for their shrine festival, which was also the Lantern festival. Each shine that was pulled was actually hundreds of lanterns. That festival had so much energy!
The other popular Autumn event is Undokai, what we'd call a field day or sports day, excpet it with the elementary and younger age kids it is a family event. I was invited to a little town called Funehiki by some friends to see their school's Undokai. Bethany's whole family (her, her husband Jimmy, and their daughter Kayla) live here. Kayla is 3 and attends the 3-year old kindergarten with Japanese students. She has picked up some Japanese, but Bethany says Kayla will only talk to her school mates in Japanese.
At the Undokai there were relays races for each grade level, as well as for parents, teachers, and grandparents. The kids also did dances and some did a gymnastic routine. It was a lot of fun, and the kids were so adorable! I'd love to see something like that in America. I had field day in Elementary school, but it was just for the students. In Japan, it's for the whole community.
Undokais are held in autumn, cuz they are supposed to be a reminder of when the Olympics where in Japan. Sometimes there is a Olympic themed race
I went with dave to Nihomatsu for their shrine festival, which was also the Lantern festival. Each shine that was pulled was actually hundreds of lanterns. That festival had so much energy!
The other popular Autumn event is Undokai, what we'd call a field day or sports day, excpet it with the elementary and younger age kids it is a family event. I was invited to a little town called Funehiki by some friends to see their school's Undokai. Bethany's whole family (her, her husband Jimmy, and their daughter Kayla) live here. Kayla is 3 and attends the 3-year old kindergarten with Japanese students. She has picked up some Japanese, but Bethany says Kayla will only talk to her school mates in Japanese.
At the Undokai there were relays races for each grade level, as well as for parents, teachers, and grandparents. The kids also did dances and some did a gymnastic routine. It was a lot of fun, and the kids were so adorable! I'd love to see something like that in America. I had field day in Elementary school, but it was just for the students. In Japan, it's for the whole community.
Undokais are held in autumn, cuz they are supposed to be a reminder of when the Olympics where in Japan. Sometimes there is a Olympic themed race
Friday, October 10, 2008
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Pics from the Samurai festival
The Aizu Castle with everyone gathering.
The random Westerner (I later learned he is supposed to be German) and his Japanese bride.
A mock battle with demons and Samurai in front of the main stage.
Living up to the Samurai name.
The big blue flag group:
See the man in black.
See the man in black run.
The famous actor guest.
On a horse, of course.
They made Spiderman the clean up crew! Poor Spidey!
The random Westerner (I later learned he is supposed to be German) and his Japanese bride.
A mock battle with demons and Samurai in front of the main stage.
Living up to the Samurai name.
The big blue flag group:
See the man in black.
See the man in black run.
The famous actor guest.
On a horse, of course.
They made Spiderman the clean up crew! Poor Spidey!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Autumn Equinox festival
I am getting so behind on my blog, but it's not for a lack of things to write about! The past couple weeks have been so busy, that when I do get quiet time in my apartment, I am cleaning or sleeping.
September 23rd was a holiday for the Autumn Equinox. Equinox is a big deal in Japan, because it is when your ancestors are closer to the living world. Many people visit family graves to burn incense and pray. Since it's a calender holiday, James English school lets us have the day off. There was a big hip hop party at the Hip Shot club, but I decided not to go to that since I'd already agreed to go with Lisa and Bella to the Samurai festival in Aizu (a city about and hour NW). I would have been way to tired to go if I had been up drinking til 4AM, and I would have missed a great event.
Lisa and I got up early and took the 8AM bus so we would make it in time for the opening ceremonies. The bus took us from Koriyama Station all the way to the bus stop next to the castle where the opening was held. We made it just in time to see everyone walking in. There were hundreds of people, many of whom where dressed up with their group as samurai. The important characters (maybe a Lord or 2 and wives, famous guest actor, and a random western guy with a traditional Japanese bride) sat at the main stage. Each samurai group was told to come forward with a command (Otochin ?), and were announced. When they were all assembled some groups set off cannons, others danced, and still more gave mini battle preformances.
Bella and I were running around taking pictures, and of course surveying the groups for the hottest samurai. The coolest, hottest, most awesome guy was one of the leaders for the large blue group with the massive flag (see profile pic). His longish hair was brushed back, and his all black outfit with res trim was very intimidating. He was the kind of samurai you expected to see ina movie or comic book, even though he wasn't wearing amour. Just his precense was awesome, lol!
We followed all the groups off the castle grounds to downtown Aizu where there was a huge parade with all the samurai that lasted a few hours. I got lots of pictures and video. While we waited for the parade to make it's loop we bought some food from various booths set up along the side walk. I really love the festival food. It's probably all junk, but it usually is easy to eat and tastes good. I also got a shaved ice with stawberry flavor (when I pointed to it the man called it "straw" and his daughter said in Japanese, "No, Dad. Strawberry"), but it was basically all ice.
After the parade we went 'behind the scenes' where lots of samurai were changin back into modern people to meet one of Bella's friends/students. While we were back there we saw the man in black! It took a couple shoves, and a knock on the head with a coke bottle, but Bella and I built up our courage and ran over to ask for a picture with him. The first thing he said in Japanese was, "Aw, my stomach hurts." Bella was sooooooo mad because he seemed to be just mocking it. But he did agree to take a picture, and Bella stayed to take a picture because I still thought he was just the coolest looking Japanese guy ever. Bella still thinks he's a jerk, but maybe he did really have a stomach ache. Who knows!
September 23rd was a holiday for the Autumn Equinox. Equinox is a big deal in Japan, because it is when your ancestors are closer to the living world. Many people visit family graves to burn incense and pray. Since it's a calender holiday, James English school lets us have the day off. There was a big hip hop party at the Hip Shot club, but I decided not to go to that since I'd already agreed to go with Lisa and Bella to the Samurai festival in Aizu (a city about and hour NW). I would have been way to tired to go if I had been up drinking til 4AM, and I would have missed a great event.
Lisa and I got up early and took the 8AM bus so we would make it in time for the opening ceremonies. The bus took us from Koriyama Station all the way to the bus stop next to the castle where the opening was held. We made it just in time to see everyone walking in. There were hundreds of people, many of whom where dressed up with their group as samurai. The important characters (maybe a Lord or 2 and wives, famous guest actor, and a random western guy with a traditional Japanese bride) sat at the main stage. Each samurai group was told to come forward with a command (Otochin ?), and were announced. When they were all assembled some groups set off cannons, others danced, and still more gave mini battle preformances.
Bella and I were running around taking pictures, and of course surveying the groups for the hottest samurai. The coolest, hottest, most awesome guy was one of the leaders for the large blue group with the massive flag (see profile pic). His longish hair was brushed back, and his all black outfit with res trim was very intimidating. He was the kind of samurai you expected to see ina movie or comic book, even though he wasn't wearing amour. Just his precense was awesome, lol!
We followed all the groups off the castle grounds to downtown Aizu where there was a huge parade with all the samurai that lasted a few hours. I got lots of pictures and video. While we waited for the parade to make it's loop we bought some food from various booths set up along the side walk. I really love the festival food. It's probably all junk, but it usually is easy to eat and tastes good. I also got a shaved ice with stawberry flavor (when I pointed to it the man called it "straw" and his daughter said in Japanese, "No, Dad. Strawberry"), but it was basically all ice.
After the parade we went 'behind the scenes' where lots of samurai were changin back into modern people to meet one of Bella's friends/students. While we were back there we saw the man in black! It took a couple shoves, and a knock on the head with a coke bottle, but Bella and I built up our courage and ran over to ask for a picture with him. The first thing he said in Japanese was, "Aw, my stomach hurts." Bella was sooooooo mad because he seemed to be just mocking it. But he did agree to take a picture, and Bella stayed to take a picture because I still thought he was just the coolest looking Japanese guy ever. Bella still thinks he's a jerk, but maybe he did really have a stomach ache. Who knows!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Bus tour pics
Here are just a few pictures from the bus tour I went on 2 weeks ago. I've been pretty busy lately, so hopefully tomorrow I might have time in the morning to update and post pictures from other events.
Sake factory
Inside the the first part of making sake:
wash and steam rice
Where the rice is set to ferment for a bit
Lunch buffet at the Herb Garden
Abukuma Caves
Monster faces of Abukuma
Exploring on the adventurers route
Kabuki theater - yes these are all guys
Paper lantern illumination for the full moon
Tsukino Usgai - Rabbit of the moon. He makes mochi (sticky rice balls that taste pretty good)
Sake factory
Inside the the first part of making sake:wash and steam rice
Where the rice is set to ferment for a bit
Lunch buffet at the Herb Garden
Abukuma Caves
Monster faces of Abukuma
Exploring on the adventurers route
Kabuki theater - yes these are all guys
Paper lantern illumination for the full moon
Tsukino Usgai - Rabbit of the moon. He makes mochi (sticky rice balls that taste pretty good)
Monday, September 15, 2008
Bus tour
Yesterday, Sunday, I went on my first bus tour with the Koriyama International Exchange Association. It was a full tour of 20 Japanese and 20 foreigners. I sat next to a woman named Bethany. Her husband and 4 year old daughter sat in front of us. Bethany is teaching English, while her husband works from home, and her daughter goes to early kindergarten with other Japanese children. I also met a lot people Bethany works with (Jared, Denise, Patti, Adam and Hannah, and Amy). Seems the whole crew was there. I met some of the Japanese people, but I have a hard time remembering their names!!
We started at the Sake factory. Our translator, Ken (from Kenichi. He's Japanese, and his translating was Ok) gave us short descriptions of what the tour guide was saying. Sake season is actually from October to March, so we didn't get to see the process, just the buildings. The company branch in Koriyama began in 1742, or so I am lead to believe. It's hard to dispute such a date when you see the buildings they make the sake in. I don't think the buildings have ever been renovated, or cleaned for that matter. The only thing similar to a winery we got was the free tasting, lol. They also gave us a free bottle (about .5 liters) of sake with a label that was our group picture (we took the pic as soon as we got there).
After the sake tour, we ate at the herb garden. There was a buffet covered end to end with Japanese food. I took a little of this and that, and I liked most of it! I also ate mochi and anko. Mochi is very chewy rice cake/dumpling. People pair it with almost anything and eat it for dessert. Anko is read bean, which I remembered having last time I came to Japan. It was exciting to eat a Japanese food and already be familiar with it!!!
The next stop was the Abukuma caves. They were awesome, though they look just the same as our caves. The part open to the public isn't too extensive, so we walked through it pretty quickly. I decided to go back and pay 200 yen ($2) to take the "explorer walk." Ken went with me to check it out. It was honestly the best time I've had in a cave! It would be hard for my dad to get through because most of the trail is short and narrow, and you even have to crawl through some places. Ken said he felt like Indiana Jones, and I totally agree.
We stopped at a local kabuki festival next. We saw a couple performances by some of the junior high kids, and no one understood any of it! We couldn't even follow body language because the actors hardly moved. Some of our new Japanese friends translated the basic story, but even they got confused a bit, lol.
Our last stop was to view paper lantern illuminations. This is where I realized that all of the festivals, and mochi stuff was in honor of the full moon. Moon gazing is an old tradition in Japan, but one that sadly is not moving much into the modern era. We are lucky that we live close to the country and see people still celebrating this pass time.
I'll try to get pics up soon!
We started at the Sake factory. Our translator, Ken (from Kenichi. He's Japanese, and his translating was Ok) gave us short descriptions of what the tour guide was saying. Sake season is actually from October to March, so we didn't get to see the process, just the buildings. The company branch in Koriyama began in 1742, or so I am lead to believe. It's hard to dispute such a date when you see the buildings they make the sake in. I don't think the buildings have ever been renovated, or cleaned for that matter. The only thing similar to a winery we got was the free tasting, lol. They also gave us a free bottle (about .5 liters) of sake with a label that was our group picture (we took the pic as soon as we got there).
After the sake tour, we ate at the herb garden. There was a buffet covered end to end with Japanese food. I took a little of this and that, and I liked most of it! I also ate mochi and anko. Mochi is very chewy rice cake/dumpling. People pair it with almost anything and eat it for dessert. Anko is read bean, which I remembered having last time I came to Japan. It was exciting to eat a Japanese food and already be familiar with it!!!
The next stop was the Abukuma caves. They were awesome, though they look just the same as our caves. The part open to the public isn't too extensive, so we walked through it pretty quickly. I decided to go back and pay 200 yen ($2) to take the "explorer walk." Ken went with me to check it out. It was honestly the best time I've had in a cave! It would be hard for my dad to get through because most of the trail is short and narrow, and you even have to crawl through some places. Ken said he felt like Indiana Jones, and I totally agree.
We stopped at a local kabuki festival next. We saw a couple performances by some of the junior high kids, and no one understood any of it! We couldn't even follow body language because the actors hardly moved. Some of our new Japanese friends translated the basic story, but even they got confused a bit, lol.
Our last stop was to view paper lantern illuminations. This is where I realized that all of the festivals, and mochi stuff was in honor of the full moon. Moon gazing is an old tradition in Japan, but one that sadly is not moving much into the modern era. We are lucky that we live close to the country and see people still celebrating this pass time.
I'll try to get pics up soon!
Friday, September 12, 2008
Hanging out
Lisa, my personally adopted Onee-san ( means big sister, sounds like O-nay-san), went out with me to an izakaiya (traditional Japanese restaurant/bar). Lisa has been super fabulous. We are totally different - she's a San Franciscan hippie liberal, and I hate politics - but she has taken me under her wing. Lisa has helped me understand teaching, driving, shopping, eating, and drinking. She has introduced me to people. She has helped me kill super evil looking spiders (yogata, ne?)
Tonight we talked about everything from politics, to boys, to the "pledge" system for gaijins of other gaijins (basically, how other English speakers accept or not new English speakers). Lisa really helps keep me calm, and distressed, even when she is stressed herself.
I <3 Lisa!
Lisa and her boyfriend, Isamu.
Lisa speaks as much Japanese as Isamu speaks English. You'd think that would be a difficult relationship, but Lisa says it makes it better because they communicate exactly what they need to.
Tonight we talked about everything from politics, to boys, to the "pledge" system for gaijins of other gaijins (basically, how other English speakers accept or not new English speakers). Lisa really helps keep me calm, and distressed, even when she is stressed herself.
I <3 Lisa!
Lisa and her boyfriend, Isamu.
Lisa speaks as much Japanese as Isamu speaks English. You'd think that would be a difficult relationship, but Lisa says it makes it better because they communicate exactly what they need to.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Driving sights
I was driving along the mountain roads today, minding my own business and enjoying the scenery. I was coasting around a curve when blinking hazard lights on a parked car caught my eye. I couldn't slow down much because there was a car behind me, but I needed to go around the parked car and there was some oncoming traffic. Now, I've already complained about how small the roads are, but they are big enough for passing. The car was pulled off the road just enough that if I tapped the breaks and really focused all around me, I could make it. So I went for it, and I was doing really well and so proud of myself!
But, I was so focused I almost missed one of the most random sights. On the side of of the road, maybe 10 feet from the park car was a bright, white bum. Yes, a human bum. Luckily I only got a glance, not a full on look, yuck! I guess this guy just really felt the call of nature. I mean, he couldn't even make it to the bushes that were just another 5 feet behind him.
Nope, no sir. He just popped a squat over a dirt pile and let loose, not caring who saw whatever.
All I could do was shake my head, and continue around the bend.
But, I was so focused I almost missed one of the most random sights. On the side of of the road, maybe 10 feet from the park car was a bright, white bum. Yes, a human bum. Luckily I only got a glance, not a full on look, yuck! I guess this guy just really felt the call of nature. I mean, he couldn't even make it to the bushes that were just another 5 feet behind him.
Nope, no sir. He just popped a squat over a dirt pile and let loose, not caring who saw whatever.
All I could do was shake my head, and continue around the bend.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
My first day at Kindergarten: part 2
In the politest words I can muster: that freaking sucked!!!
Seriously, when those kids look back on their early English years, it will be filled with feelings of frustration and confusion.
I guess first off, it would have helped to be more prepared. Granted I did everything I could with the information I had. Aussie Mel went to the kindergartens most often, so no one could really let me know about what to expect. Even though I kept them moving, I repeated some stuff way too many times. This all just reinforces my thoughts on teaching really young kids: leave it to my mother!
I think I can do better next time, but there are some things I really want.
I want an quick evaluation, but the Japanese don't give feed back.
I want someone to tell me I did ok, but the Japanese don't give individual praise.
I want some critical critique, but the Japanese don't tell you if you do bad.
I want a hug, but the Japanese don't even touch!!!
Last night at Lisa's going away party I met another new girl, Julie. She just arrived last week, so we are in the same boat. So maybe I vent to her over coffee this afternoon, and I won't have to worry about translating the intention in whatever she says.
Seriously, when those kids look back on their early English years, it will be filled with feelings of frustration and confusion.
I guess first off, it would have helped to be more prepared. Granted I did everything I could with the information I had. Aussie Mel went to the kindergartens most often, so no one could really let me know about what to expect. Even though I kept them moving, I repeated some stuff way too many times. This all just reinforces my thoughts on teaching really young kids: leave it to my mother!
I think I can do better next time, but there are some things I really want.
I want an quick evaluation, but the Japanese don't give feed back.
I want someone to tell me I did ok, but the Japanese don't give individual praise.
I want some critical critique, but the Japanese don't tell you if you do bad.
I want a hug, but the Japanese don't even touch!!!
Last night at Lisa's going away party I met another new girl, Julie. She just arrived last week, so we are in the same boat. So maybe I vent to her over coffee this afternoon, and I won't have to worry about translating the intention in whatever she says.
My first day at Kindergarten
I woke up when I realized that my alarms had stopped sounding off. My eyes focused on the clock and I shot up. Today I have to drive to Sugama Kindergarten, and it takes an hour to get there. The clock said I only had an hour. I ran around the apartment, brushing my teeth, picking out clothes. and fabreezing my hair for 5 minutes before I realized my brain was working. I actually have 2 hours, one hour to get ready before I have to leave! Yogata, ne?? = (Thank God, right??)
So know I am just waiting for my pulse to slow down from being so scared. Here's some more Engrish:
I don't think it's the name of the street
.
Check out that tag line! I've always wanted a tasty life. Think I can choose the flavor?
No, it's not Engrish, but you can't go wrong with Yoda!
This one is for Uncle Lew. This is a high school student, one of many dressed up for a parade that was advertising the school festival. Each class had a different theme.
So know I am just waiting for my pulse to slow down from being so scared. Here's some more Engrish:
I don't think it's the name of the street
.
Check out that tag line! I've always wanted a tasty life. Think I can choose the flavor?
No, it's not Engrish, but you can't go wrong with Yoda!
This one is for Uncle Lew. This is a high school student, one of many dressed up for a parade that was advertising the school festival. Each class had a different theme.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Longest week yet
Schools are back in session, which means I'm doing a lot of traveling. It's a good thing that I was told that it would be a good idea to get my international driver's license. And that was from James, mind you it.
They said, "It might be a good idea for you get your I.D.L. You might have to drive a bit.
What would have been helpful is," You need to get your I.D.L. and practice driving on the left. Yeah, just set up a real curvy course in the church parking lot. And make the road parameters real narrow.
Oh, don't forget to add large refrigerator boxes to stand in as company trucks. Of course when you practice, keep in mind the speed limit is always around 25-30 miles an hour. Always. And no one accelerates going up hill, there are a lot of those, and you'll often find yourself on someones tail when you come around a bend, and there are a lot of those too.
Also, forget everything you know about driving on American roads, because Japanese roads are all small in size and residential in appearance, even if it is a major highway.
One more thing, build up your driving stamina. You'll be driving 3-4 days a week, for at least an hour and half every day."
Good thing I like driving. Good thing I can do stuff, like drive across the USA and back, and still feel great about cars. Good thing I even have an American license.
I have been told, however, that even though the license expires in a year, I really shouldn't be driving for more than a month without a Japanese license. But those are supposed to be really hard and expensive to aquire.
Honestly, it isn't too bad. I just have to really focus right now so I don't screw up and drive through someone's rice field. The drive is spectacularly gorgeous. The road snakes around the mountains; everything a stunning new picture. The trees and rice fields are lush and bright green, with the occasional old style Japanese house, or a stone Torii (sound :toree-ee) marking the beginning of a path up the mountain to a shrine. When I'm not stuck behind someone, or worrying about running off the left side of the road into some ravine, it 's a peaceful, enjoyable drive.
Today I am really feeling it because I've driven Monday, Tuesday, and this morning, and I still have to go back out on Friday. Today was the longest day out of the whole week though, and I got lost to top it off. I don't have to be at work until noon tomorrow (Yata! I get the morning off!), but I've been falling asleep since 7!
They said, "It might be a good idea for you get your I.D.L. You might have to drive a bit.
What would have been helpful is," You need to get your I.D.L. and practice driving on the left. Yeah, just set up a real curvy course in the church parking lot. And make the road parameters real narrow.
Oh, don't forget to add large refrigerator boxes to stand in as company trucks. Of course when you practice, keep in mind the speed limit is always around 25-30 miles an hour. Always. And no one accelerates going up hill, there are a lot of those, and you'll often find yourself on someones tail when you come around a bend, and there are a lot of those too.
Also, forget everything you know about driving on American roads, because Japanese roads are all small in size and residential in appearance, even if it is a major highway.
One more thing, build up your driving stamina. You'll be driving 3-4 days a week, for at least an hour and half every day."
Good thing I like driving. Good thing I can do stuff, like drive across the USA and back, and still feel great about cars. Good thing I even have an American license.
I have been told, however, that even though the license expires in a year, I really shouldn't be driving for more than a month without a Japanese license. But those are supposed to be really hard and expensive to aquire.
Honestly, it isn't too bad. I just have to really focus right now so I don't screw up and drive through someone's rice field. The drive is spectacularly gorgeous. The road snakes around the mountains; everything a stunning new picture. The trees and rice fields are lush and bright green, with the occasional old style Japanese house, or a stone Torii (sound :toree-ee) marking the beginning of a path up the mountain to a shrine. When I'm not stuck behind someone, or worrying about running off the left side of the road into some ravine, it 's a peaceful, enjoyable drive.
Today I am really feeling it because I've driven Monday, Tuesday, and this morning, and I still have to go back out on Friday. Today was the longest day out of the whole week though, and I got lost to top it off. I don't have to be at work until noon tomorrow (Yata! I get the morning off!), but I've been falling asleep since 7!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Gomennasai
Gomennasai = sorry; sounds like "go men" "nah sigh"
Sorry I haven't written in a while. There is a lot to catch up on, but where to start? The days just melted into each other and all of a sudden it's Friday night! It's not like I am being very active though.
I'll start at Monday, and maybe you can get an idea.
The package my magnificent mom sent a week ago finally arrived!! Right on top was a brilliant copy of Breaking Dawn, the long awaited last addition to Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series. I pulled it out, and literally jumped up and down, then ran around to show everyone the book. They go the idea I was excited. I even got Winnie interested in the story! Also in the box were some tank tops (a week too late since now it is rainy and chilly!), and some good old American chocolate which I am hording for a later date.
My last class on Monday was canceled, so I began reading around 4PM and was first through the first 200 pages or so by 9PM when I left. When I got home I continued to read until 1AM.
Tuesday I took a bus to Aizu, a city about an hour and 20 minutes NW. They are down a teacher until next week. I read on the bus, and in between classes, and by 7 PM I had finished all 756 pages of the book. Am I good or what?!
As you can see I have lots of planning time at work, and it's pretty flexible.
Next week I will begin teaching in schools. Kindergarten, Elementary, and some Junior Highs. I'm trying not to think about it, b/c the kids feed off your energy, but I am nervous about it. After I do a couple lessons it'll probably get better. I don't know why I always do these things. Many people see my courageous, outgoing attitude and think I love to be on the spot. While I do like attention every now and then, I really hate being the person on spot in front of a bunch of people. Even if those people are a group of 15 second graders!
Sorry I haven't written in a while. There is a lot to catch up on, but where to start? The days just melted into each other and all of a sudden it's Friday night! It's not like I am being very active though.
I'll start at Monday, and maybe you can get an idea.
The package my magnificent mom sent a week ago finally arrived!! Right on top was a brilliant copy of Breaking Dawn, the long awaited last addition to Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series. I pulled it out, and literally jumped up and down, then ran around to show everyone the book. They go the idea I was excited. I even got Winnie interested in the story! Also in the box were some tank tops (a week too late since now it is rainy and chilly!), and some good old American chocolate which I am hording for a later date.
My last class on Monday was canceled, so I began reading around 4PM and was first through the first 200 pages or so by 9PM when I left. When I got home I continued to read until 1AM.
Tuesday I took a bus to Aizu, a city about an hour and 20 minutes NW. They are down a teacher until next week. I read on the bus, and in between classes, and by 7 PM I had finished all 756 pages of the book. Am I good or what?!
As you can see I have lots of planning time at work, and it's pretty flexible.
Next week I will begin teaching in schools. Kindergarten, Elementary, and some Junior Highs. I'm trying not to think about it, b/c the kids feed off your energy, but I am nervous about it. After I do a couple lessons it'll probably get better. I don't know why I always do these things. Many people see my courageous, outgoing attitude and think I love to be on the spot. While I do like attention every now and then, I really hate being the person on spot in front of a bunch of people. Even if those people are a group of 15 second graders!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Pictures
I've been wanting to try this for a while, and I finally have. I made a music video! I think this is a better way to view lots of my pictures too. They take up so much space on the blog. I will continue to post individual pics on the blog, but I hope you enjoy the music video of my first month in Japan. Can you believe it's already been a whole month?!
The music is a song called Life from Kimaguren. I listen to this song everyday, it's like my theme song. The words are in English and Japanese :)
The music is a song called Life from Kimaguren. I listen to this song everyday, it's like my theme song. The words are in English and Japanese :)
Friday, August 22, 2008
EaRtHqUaKe!!!
Ladies and Gents,
Tonight I experienced my first earthquake!
I'm not gonna lie, I was a bit frightened when it started. It only last a few seconds, maybe 20 at most, and I was in the middle of class.
At first, I felt a little funny and thought maybe I was going loopy. As I looked to the window, it seemed like my vision was swaying back and forth. The student I was talking with sat there, all nonchalant, and said, "It's an earthquake."
"Yeah!" I exclaimed. "It's my first!!" She laughed a little, and I could hear the students in the next room over laughing at my outburst too.
It wasn't a big one, and in retrospect, it was pretty cool. I have been through an (mini) earthquake.
What's weird was this morning I had a strong urge to double check my gas line and make sure I had turned it off. When I did check, I found that I had left the gas to the stove on/open. The earthquake was too small, and I've even been told nothing would have happened. It's just weird that I felt so strongly about it today when I've carelessly left it on in the past. Guess it's just good to be part of my family, as a few other relatives have had 'premonitions' of sorts.
Tonight I experienced my first earthquake!
I'm not gonna lie, I was a bit frightened when it started. It only last a few seconds, maybe 20 at most, and I was in the middle of class.
At first, I felt a little funny and thought maybe I was going loopy. As I looked to the window, it seemed like my vision was swaying back and forth. The student I was talking with sat there, all nonchalant, and said, "It's an earthquake."
"Yeah!" I exclaimed. "It's my first!!" She laughed a little, and I could hear the students in the next room over laughing at my outburst too.
It wasn't a big one, and in retrospect, it was pretty cool. I have been through an (mini) earthquake.
What's weird was this morning I had a strong urge to double check my gas line and make sure I had turned it off. When I did check, I found that I had left the gas to the stove on/open. The earthquake was too small, and I've even been told nothing would have happened. It's just weird that I felt so strongly about it today when I've carelessly left it on in the past. Guess it's just good to be part of my family, as a few other relatives have had 'premonitions' of sorts.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Slipper Surplus
It's pretty common knowledge that people in Japan take off their shoes when entering a place, and sometimes put on slippers. While this is true, it doesn't happen everywhere. Most of the big businesses I have been too request you take off your shoes, leave them on the mat or in a little locker, and wear inside slippers. All of the schools ask you to do this too. There is the occasional exception, like Sony. Sony seems to be pretty casual; all of their employees actually wear jeans. When I asked Lisa about this, she told me that Sony just wanted to make sure their employees were so comfortable so they'd never want to go home.
All of the slippers are a basic design made from plastic. The biggest variant is the color. Some are blue, some green, while other are tan or white. After running around in heels, you'd think I would be grateful for a pair of flat, somewhat squishy slippers, but that's not really the case. The problem, you see, is that I have a difficult time walking in the waterproof slippers, especially if I am required to climb stairs! My pantyhose-covered feet are always threatening to slip from under me. And although the slippers fit the length of my big foot, they are too wide. As I climb the stairs I wonder, " Oh, there goes the slipper again. Shoot, gotta keep my foot in the slipper. "
I mean, what would happen if my foot made contact with the ground? It can't be that big of a taboo; other people are sure to have done it. But all the Japanese businessmen are probably thinking, "Those stupid gaijin. They can't even wear slipper right."
Here's a sample of these torturous footwear:
All of the slippers are a basic design made from plastic. The biggest variant is the color. Some are blue, some green, while other are tan or white. After running around in heels, you'd think I would be grateful for a pair of flat, somewhat squishy slippers, but that's not really the case. The problem, you see, is that I have a difficult time walking in the waterproof slippers, especially if I am required to climb stairs! My pantyhose-covered feet are always threatening to slip from under me. And although the slippers fit the length of my big foot, they are too wide. As I climb the stairs I wonder, " Oh, there goes the slipper again. Shoot, gotta keep my foot in the slipper. "
I mean, what would happen if my foot made contact with the ground? It can't be that big of a taboo; other people are sure to have done it. But all the Japanese businessmen are probably thinking, "Those stupid gaijin. They can't even wear slipper right."
Here's a sample of these torturous footwear:
Monday, August 18, 2008
Twilight (another non-Japanese topic)
If you are into the the Stephenie Meyer books (_Twilight_, _New Moon_, _Eclipse_, and the newly released _Breaking Dawn_) I know you have seen, and wondered about this picture. Yes, it's a great Beauty and the Beast picture. Bella, our main character, is gorgeous, possibly to represent that whole forbidden fruit theme. Edward is a vampire, and positively deathly, and deadly, looking. This a bit of stretch from how the characters were written, but maybe it's to push the movie. Bella is your average high schooler, and while Edward is a pale vampire, he doesn't look like he's on Death's doorstep. But from surfing the web for other snippets from the movie, I think they generally look good and close to character, now only if they can act it. ::crossing fingers::
I'll probably like the movie either way, but I certainly don't like the Entertainment cover :(
The way in which this does apply to Japan is that Stephenie Meyer books are totally inaccessible! Erin, my neighbor and fellow Tampa girl-living-in-Japan, went to Tokyo last week, looked in the big bookstores, and still couldn't find any of the books!!! Luckily, my fabulous mother has sent me a copy of _Breaking Dawn_, and when the movie is released on dvd I'll buy it off some online site, cuz if the books aren't out, the movie probably won't be either.
Here is an idea of the time lapse: the movie P.S. I love You, staring hunky Scot Gerard Butler and Hilary Swank is currently available in the states on DVD. In Japan, the movie will be released to theaters on October 18th, 2008. Woo-hoo! I missed it in theaters back home, so I just need to wait another 2 months!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Herbert's box
This isn't about Japan at all, but since I am from Florida, I'm still keeping tabs on home. While looking for news on the Tropical storm/soon to be hurricane Fay, I found this clip about Herbert's box (sounds like aye bear's box). It's kind of like the Bermuda Triangle, but for hurricanes, and there are 2.
Check this out
Herbert's box
Check this out
Herbert's box
Saturday, August 16, 2008
BLOG ADJUSTMENT
I've changed some of the settings on the blog.
Everyone should be able to leave comments whether or not you have a Google or blog account. It will automatically come up as "anonymous" so please leave your name in the comment. That way I will know who wrote it.
I love reading the comments, or even get emails from you. It helps me stay connected to back home!
Thanks!
Steph
Everyone should be able to leave comments whether or not you have a Google or blog account. It will automatically come up as "anonymous" so please leave your name in the comment. That way I will know who wrote it.
I love reading the comments, or even get emails from you. It helps me stay connected to back home!
Thanks!
Steph
Random Pictures
A large knife
This is a man's shirt
At what time do you think this picture was taken?
Did you guess 5AM??
A scary face near the city temple
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