More Candy!

Good news!!!!

2005-11-22T22:17:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been so long since my last post. I've been super busy and then I got sick! But I have a couple of pieces of good news: First, I got a job in San Francisco at HealthTech. It's a non-profit company that produces forecast reports on new healthcare technology. Second, I got into my first med school! I just found out that I was accepted to the University of Virgina!!

I'll write more later! Until then, Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Happy (almost) Halloween!!

2005-10-24T17:33:00.000-07:00

It's not quite Halloween yet, but some people have already started to celebrate. Chris' school had a big party, and here are a couple of pictures!

*Alex, these are especially for you since I forgot to take pictures of Chris with his white coat in a Superman pose.*

Enjoy!

2005-10-24T17:32:00.000-07:00

Dennis (Derek Zoolander) and Chris (Hansel). Dennis went to Cal with Chris and me, and now he and Chris are lab partners. Small world!

2005-10-24T17:30:00.000-07:00

Chris and his roommate, Dan (Brawny Man).

New York!

2005-10-22T11:06:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Here are pictures from my recent New York trip. I didn't really get a chance to take pictures of all the schools I interviewed at, so I only have some of Chris' school. I also added a couple more pictures of my last day in Japan.

I think my interviews went well, I had 6 total, but it's always hard to tell. Everyone was nice and I did my best to show them who I was, but who knows what they'll report to the admissions committee. Oh well, I should hear back from some schools in a few months or so. I also have 4 more interviews coming up that I need to prepare for as well.

In the meantime I've been looking for jobs in San Francisco. I interviewed at a place I worked at while in college earlier this week so hopefully that works out, otherwise I'll just keep searching!

I hope you all are doing well too! I've loved all your emails, so please keep them coming! Enjoy the pictures!

2005-10-22T11:04:00.000-07:00

My friends and co-workers that met me for breakfast before I left. It was so great to see them all one last time.

2005-10-22T11:03:00.001-07:00

Saying goodbye to Mayu! She was so sweet and went with me all the way to the airport. Thanks again Mayu!

2005-10-22T11:03:00.000-07:00

The anatomy lab at New York Medical College (Chris' school). They have the best anatomy lab in the country (it would look better too if I took this picture during the day so the light would come in from the windows above).

2005-10-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

The administration building where I had my interview at Chris' school.

2005-10-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

Grand Central Station! Although I'd been to New York twice before I'd never been here until now. The building was so amazing and I was completely awestruck everytime I walked through this corridor.

2005-10-22T10:59:00.000-07:00

The information center. Everything in the building is made of marble, it's gorgeous!

2005-10-22T10:57:00.000-07:00

The outside of Grand Central Station as I was catching my bus to the airport.

Home Sweet Home

2005-09-30T20:59:00.000-07:00

I've made it back safely! I got home a couple days ago, and after getting over the jet lag I've been soaking up every bit of home while I have the chance. I've already seen most of my family, eaten lots of Mexican and Chinese food, and took my dog for some runs and a hike. Now I'll be getting ready for my whirlwind round of interviews starting next week, and hopefully start working when I get back.

Thanks again to everyone back in Fukushima for being such great friends, especially Mayu, who went with me all the way to the airport! I miss you all so much, and I'll keep you posted on all the news in California!

Here are the pictures I promised earlier:

2005-09-30T20:57:00.000-07:00

We took a boat ride around some of the various little islands of Matsushima. The seagulls follow the boats, and you can throw them some food and watch them catch and eat it!

2005-09-30T20:56:00.000-07:00

Val and Mayu on the boat!

2005-09-30T20:55:00.000-07:00

A bridge we crossed to get out to one of the bigger islands where there was a beautiful shrine. We also ate the best chocolate swirl soft cream on our walk over!

2005-09-30T20:54:00.001-07:00

An incredible view of some of the islands.

2005-09-30T20:54:00.000-07:00

Mayu and me posing in front of some beautiful little islands.

2005-09-30T20:53:00.000-07:00

Eating a huge sembei (rice cracker) in Matsushima!

2005-09-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

Miss Megumi and me! She's so cute and sweet, and her speech brought me to tears!

2005-09-30T20:51:00.000-07:00

Oga, Yumiko, Yukari, Aya and me. My students are so fun, I'll miss them!

2005-09-30T20:48:00.001-07:00

Iuki and me after the tearful speech.

2005-09-30T20:48:00.000-07:00

Mayuko and Michelle after lunch. Mana's was my favorite restaurant in Fukushima!

My Last Weekend in Japan!

2005-09-26T07:51:00.000-07:00

Well, my farewell party was amazing! It was great to have so many students come out to say goodbye, and we had a lot of fun eating, drinking and playing games. Later in the night I was surprised when I learned that two of my students had written speeches for me. The first one was by Arato, an outgoing and engergetic student, who wrote a funny and entertaining speech that had the whole room laughing. The next was by (Miss) Megumi, the one who baked me the chocolate cake, and who I think of as my little siter. Her speech was really touching because she brought up a memory of the two of us discussing colleges together. She was in a class where sometimes she was my only student, so we would often have long chats at the beginning. One time she was trying to decide what college to go to so we talked about that for a while and I shared my own experience with her. I was really moved that she remembered that night, and that it meant as much to her as it did to me. Sometimes teaching can be really tough and stressful, but there are moments when it is so incredibly rewarding that they overshadow the difficult times completely. When Megumi reminded me of this, I was suddenly moved to tears. The whole night I was being really good, and actually never felt the urge to cry, but when I remembered those quiet moments with students when you really know you are connecting with them I couldn't bite my lip hard enough to fight back the tears. Unfortunately, I was expected to give a speech after this, and although I had worked on and memorized a speech beforehand, I was completely at a loss of words. I tried desperately to maintain composure as I thanked my students and explained how much this experience has meant to me. I'm not sure how articulate I was, but I think everyone knew I was being sincere and will truly miss them.

The next day I woke up late after staying out for the second party, and met Michelle for lunch at Mana's for the last time. I got to say my goodbyes, and then Michelle and I went off for a lazy day of shopping and a fabulous massage before meeting with more friends for Alex's birthday dinner.

Today I got to go for one last run around Shinobuyama, and then met up with Kaori to close various accounts and mail off a last box. Then we went up to St. Anna's Garden for some shopping and coffee. It was so beautiful up there and we sat for a long time enjoying the view from the outside cafe. Later we saw an awesome movie about ninjas, and then went to dinner at the Pineapple House. I finally got to eat Okinawan food and it was fantastic! We finished off the night with drinks on top of Corase (a tall building with an nice view of the city). It was the perfect final day in Fukushima, and I'm so glad I got to spend it with Kaori!

Tomorrow I'll meet Mayu bright and early at the station to buy our train tickets to the airport and then have a quick breakfast. A few of my co-workers and friends are going to see me off at the station, which is super sweet of them! I've been really lucky to have such amazing co-workers and friends during my brief stay here in Japan. I'll never forget any of them or my time here!

Also, I'll post pictures when I get back to the States. Something is wrong with my computer right now and it's not letting me get into the program I need to post my pictures. I guess it'll just give you all something to look forward to when I get back!

My Last Day of Work!!

2005-09-23T18:23:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Today (Saturday, September 24th) is my last day of work at AEON! I'll post pictures of the farewell party and also of my trip to Matsushima later. I just wanted to put up a quick post. This past week has really flown by, partly because Friday was a national holiday, and also because we've been having counseling week for our group lessons. Instead of having actual lessons for those classes we've had the students take check tests where they have to answer questions from a booklet and a tape, and also write an essay. Later Alex and I were trying correct some of them and here is our favorite. See if you can figure out what she's trying to say:

I want to learn dance because I like body exsersize, and I loves dancer!! So I will do time apointment work, I want to love dance, very move!! . . . So!! I want to be a smart face!! (lafh) I always sleep before exsaize for smart face. I have been to end soon.

Good luck! I'll wrtie more soon!

Flowers and Chocolate!

2005-09-12T03:45:00.000-07:00

I've never received so many flowers or chocolates for my birthday in my entire life . . . my students know me well! This past week I've enjoyed many beautiful bouquets and delicious candies and cakes, my students are so sweet! I also went out to dinner with a bunch of them along with Alex, Michelle and Donna on Saturday night. Our plans for the Pineapple House fell through, but we went to Tsuki no Hana instead, which has really great tofu. The interior is really cool too, and it has a great atmosphere. I had a fantastic time laughing and drinking with my students, and I know I'll miss them all very much.

Today I met Michelle, Donna and Rumiko for lunch and then an aromatherapy massage. It was so relaxing, I will definitely have to go again before I leave! My friends from training, Valerie and Matt, are coming to visit me next weekend so Mayu and I are planning on taking them to Matsushima. It's supposed to be one of the top three sightseeing places in Japan, and I haven't been there yet either so it'll be good for me to see before I leave. Maybe we'll hit up the Pineapple House too since I couldn't go the other night.

I still can't believe I'm leaving in two weeks. Even though I've started a little packing and mailed off a box today, it still doesn't feel like I'm going anywhere. I know these next two weeks will pass quickly, and before I know it I'll be on the plane back to the States. I guess I'll just keep enjoying every last moment here until then!

2005-09-12T03:40:00.000-07:00

The chocolate cake Megumi baked for me! It was so delicious and tasted kind of like fudge. The frosting is white chocolate and strawberry flavored. I shared most of it with my co-workers, but I still had a couple slices all for myself!

Happy Birthday to me!

2005-09-07T16:35:00.000-07:00

I just spent my first birthday in Japan, and it was fantastic! I honestly thought it would be like any other day because I wasn't planning to do anything really special until this Saturday night when a big group and I will go out for Okinawan food at The Pineapple House, but I was pleasantly surprised. For some reason, the actual day of my birthday has never been that great although the celebrations later were always fun, so this year I didn’t really expect much.

The first surprise came when my manager, Ayako, gave me a really cute coffee mug and a very sweet card. I was just shocked that she remembered and even bought me a gift, but it turns out that everyone remembered and everyone bought me a gift! Kaori gave me some really cute traditional crafts, Akiko gave me some fun candles, and even my student, Mayu, gave me a nice tea set and beautiful kimono bag. Later I went out to have Indian food at Nana’s with Michelle, Donna, Alex and Une. Of course I had my favorite meal: hara bara murgh- SPICY! I also got to open more gifts: a tea set and lots of panda stuff from Alex and Une, and a gorgeous picture frame from Michelle. Then Mayuko, Nana’s wife, brought us all complementary chai tea! It was the perfect end to a delicious dinner, and a wonderful birthday.

Now it’s off to start another day, but I’ll write more about the party on Saturday!

BIG NEWS: I'm coming home early!

2005-09-05T03:34:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, I've been applying to medical schools since this summer in the hopes of starting somewhere next fall. Well, I'm really happy to report that I've already received several interview offers, which was a really big surprise for me. I'm incredibly excited about all of this, but unfortunately it also means that I'm going to have to leave Japan earlier than I had originally intended.

Of course I feel horrible about breaking my contract and leaving my students, co-workers, and friends, but everyone has been really understanding and supportive. They know this is my dream, and that I have to go to my interviews in order to be accepted to a school. If I wait to finish my contract before doing my interviews, then most of the spots at the schools will probably be filled. I'm having such a wonderful experience here in Japan, and the last thing I want is to resent my time here as something that prevented me from getting into medical school. There are emergency teachers for these types of situations, so I know that I'm am replacable here, but no one can attend my interviews for me. I still feel guilty about leaving early, but I know that this is something I must do in order to follow my dream. I guess there are decisions in life when you know you're going to disappoint someone, but you have to do what is best for yourself in the long run. Of course everyone has been really great about the whole situation, even people from the head office, so that has made everything a lot easier.

I'm going to miss all of the friends I've made here, but I can honestly say that I've done everything in Japan that I wanted to do and I can leave without any regrets. I've visited Hiroshima, Tottori, Kyoto, Kobe, Himeji, Tokyo, stayed in a ryokan, did onsen, wore a yukata to a festival, and climbed Mount Fuji. This past weekend I went to Aizu with my co-workers and had a fantastic lunch, made pottery, and visted an old-style village. There are still many things I'd like to do, but at least I've done all of the essentials. Plus, I still have a few more weeks to go so I'll squeeze as many things into them as possible.

My last day of work is September 24th, and I'll fly home on the 27th. I'll be doing my interviews during the first few weeks in October, and then hopefully I'll find a job and an apartment in the Bay Area until I leave for school next August. At least that's the plan for now, but stay tuned for any updates. Until then, enjoy pictures from my weekend in Aizu!

2005-09-05T03:33:00.001-07:00

The outside of the restaurant where we had lunch in Aizu. The place had two floors and was really traditional.

2005-09-05T03:33:00.000-07:00

Our lunch! Everything about this meal was traditional and local to Aizu, even the bowls and lacquerware.

2005-09-05T03:31:00.001-07:00

Akiko and Iuki enjoying our traditional Aizu lunch!

2005-09-05T03:31:00.000-07:00

Ayako and Kaori having fun at the pottery place!

2005-09-05T03:30:00.000-07:00

Mitsuko inside of the big oven where our pottery will be baked.

2005-09-05T03:29:00.000-07:00

Some rice fields across from the old traditional village we stopped at.

2005-09-05T03:28:00.000-07:00

One of the shops at the old village that we visited. The lord of Aizu would stop here on his annual trips to Edo.

2005-09-05T03:26:00.000-07:00

Looking back on the road lined with the traditional houses.

Hiking Mount Takao and Mount Fuji!

2005-08-17T07:12:00.000-07:00

Here are the long awaited pictures from my hikes during summer vacation. I had an awesome time hanging out with Val and some other friends from training in Tokyo last week. Val and I did a practice hike on Mount Takao a couple of days before Fuji, which was a lot of fun. The weather was really rainy while we were in Tokyo, in fact there was a huge thunderstorm the day before we left for Fuji. We were really worried that our trip would be cancelled or that we would have miserable weather for the hike. We totally lucked out though, and had absolutely perfect weather and a clear sunrise.

The trails were packed, as expected, but we were able to climb along the edges and pass slower hikers. We started on the 5th level, and stayed the night on the 8th level. Then we woke up early to hike to the summit before sunrise. The last part of the hike, from the 9th level to the 10th, was definitely the hardest part. Not only were we tired and hungry, but we were trying to race the sun and the increasingly lighter sky always made us feel like we weren't going to make it in time. There were also many hikers who had given up and settled themselves along the side of the trail. Seeing them made me wonder if I should just stop too in order to ensure I had a good spot to see the sunrise, but of course the fighter in me wouldn't let me quit. I knew I hadn't come all this way just to give in and I wouldn't settle for anything but watching the sunrise from the summit of Mt. Fuji. I made it with time to spare, which actually frustrated me because I had to stand around and wait for awhile when I knew I could have used that time to take the hike a little more slowly. The sunrise was amazing, but the rest and hot chocolate at the top were even better! I'll let the pictures tell the rest of the story. Enjoy!

2005-08-17T06:57:00.000-07:00

A waterfall shrine Val and I stopped at on our hike up Mt. Takao, the highest mountain in Tokyo.

2005-08-17T06:56:00.000-07:00

A cool suspension bridge we crossed over on our way down Mt. Takao.

2005-08-17T06:55:00.000-07:00

Mount Fuji!

2005-08-17T06:54:00.000-07:00

Stretching on the 5th level before beginning our hike! (I'm not quite sure what Alex is doing, but no one ever really knows) =)

2005-08-17T06:52:00.000-07:00

Me and Mayu showing off our new hiking sticks. Each time you reach a level (and sometimes at several points in between) you can get a stamp burned into the side of your stick. I loved my stick, which really came in handy, and the bells on top.

2005-08-17T06:51:00.000-07:00

Hiroshi, Akiko, Motoko, Une, Mayu, and Val posing just after leaving the 5th level.

2005-08-17T06:49:00.001-07:00

Alex, Nina, and Nick having fun before the real work started.

2005-08-17T06:49:00.000-07:00

The beginning of the hike was really easy and paved with stones. Later we had to do some serious hiking, especially near the top.

2005-08-17T06:47:00.000-07:00

Looking up at some of the rest places along the way from the 6th level.

2005-08-17T06:46:00.000-07:00

The group at the 8th level. We were exhausted, so we got some much needed food and rest here before finishing our journey to the top.

2005-08-17T06:44:00.000-07:00

On our way to the top at around 2am. The path was so crowded and slow that often I had to climb along the side to pass other hikers.

2005-08-17T06:43:00.000-07:00

The sunrise! Everyone shouted "bonzai" when it appeared. Although this was a great moment, I have to admit that I was feeling a little sick when it happened. The lack of sleep and food really hit me after the rush to the top.

2005-08-17T06:41:00.000-07:00

Hiroshi, Motoko, Akiko and I decided to explore around the crater and we came across this shrine. It's covered in 5 yen coins and bells from the hiking sticks sold on the 5th level. Although I loved my bells, I was inspired to leave them on Mt. Fuji along with a 5 yen coin for good luck.

2005-08-17T06:39:00.000-07:00

The five yen coin I stuck in the shrine. Mine is the shiny one right in the middle.

2005-08-17T06:37:00.001-07:00

Me saying goodbye to my bells.

2005-08-17T06:37:00.000-07:00

The crater of Mt. Fuji!

2005-08-17T06:36:00.001-07:00

A beautiful view on the way down.

2005-08-17T06:36:00.000-07:00

There is a different path on the way down from the summit. The dirt was really loose and full of volcanic rocks, which made it slippery. I made it down in 3 hours, although I did fall once!

I'm okay!

2005-08-16T01:51:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, as you've probably heard already there was a big earthquake here earlier this morning. It was centered around Sendai (the biggest city near Fukushima) and was measured to be about 7.2. You can read more about it here: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/4155026.stm

I was talking to Chris on Skype when it happened. At first I thought it was just going to be the same small little earthquakes that we get all the time here in Japan, but the shaking kept going and started to get stronger so I moved to my doorway and waited. Some things fell off my shelves, and my toaster oven fell and broke spilling ashes all over my kitchen floor, but otherwise everything was okay. All my other friends are okay here as well, so no need to worry. Thanks for your thoughts and emails though!

I'll write again soon with some pictures from my vacation and Mt. Fuji!

Let the games begin!

2005-08-09T20:25:00.000-07:00

My summer vacation has finally arrived, but it's so rainy that I can't really do anything! Today I was supposed to go to Aizu where I was going to make pottery with some co-workers. Unfortunately, this horrible storm set in and it's been rainy pretty much non-stop. We decided to cancel the road trip, and do it another time in September. That's okay though because now I have a day all to myself that I can spend cleaning, packing, and just plain relaxing. I'm trying to decide what to take with me to Tokyo and Fuji, and already my bag is stuffed. I thought my packing skills had improved, but obviously I was mistaken. Otherwise I think I'll just read and watch movies today.

I posted a picture from the Sendai Tanabata festival, but it was so hot and muggy that day that I really wasn't in the mood for taking lots of pictures. All the decorations were really pretty, but also very similar so you can get the idea from the one picture. I'll post more once I get back from Tokyo and Mt. Fuji!

2005-08-09T20:24:00.000-07:00

Tanabata in Sendai. There were tons of these decorations everywhere, and they completely filled the shopping arcades. There were also people everywhere you looked, and you just had to get used to bumping into other sweaty tourists.

Waraji and Tanabata Festivals!

2005-08-06T17:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend there are tons of festivals going on in Fukushima. This past Friday was the Waraji Festival where men pull a huge traditional sandle around town. There were also some traditional dances at night, and of course the streets were full of stands selling all kinds of festival foods. Popular foods are roasted corn, shaved ice, yaki soba, tako yaki, and cotton candy!

Yesterday was the beginning of the Tanabata Festival too, so there were tons of shooting star decorations everywhere. Because of all the festivals, we got to wear our yukatas to work on Saturday. I bought one a few weeks ago, but never had the chance to wear it. Mitsuko taught me how to put it on, adjust the length, and tie the obi. It was a lot of fun wearing around, and much cooler than my usual suit.

Tonight I'll go to Sendai to see their Tanabata celebrations. Sendai is famous for their festival, so it should be pretty interesting to see. I'll post more pictures then, but enjoy the ones of Fukushima for now!

2005-08-06T17:16:00.000-07:00

Me and my student Yumiko! I got to wear my yukata to work this past Saturday. It was really fun, and I think the students got a kick out of it.

2005-08-06T17:14:00.000-07:00

The front of my yukata! Mitsuko had to help me put it on, but now I learned how to tie the obi so I'll have to attempt to do it again myself sometime.

2005-08-06T17:13:00.000-07:00

The back of my yukata. I bought a one-size-fits-all, so it was too long so I had to fold the yukata up, which is why it looks a little funny around my hips.

2005-08-06T17:12:00.000-07:00

Me, Mitsuko, and Akiko wore our yukatas to work!

2005-08-06T17:11:00.000-07:00

The giant waraji (traditional sandle) that will eventually be taken to Shinobuyama, I think. There are some people dancing in front of it for a competition. None of the dances were traditional for this night of the festival, I think this one is a cowboy dance or something.

2005-08-06T17:08:00.001-07:00

A huge stage was set up with a big screen so you could see the dancers better.

2005-08-06T17:08:00.000-07:00

Lots of people came out to watch the dancers.

2005-08-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

Some booths and shooting star decorations for the Tanabata Festival (August 6th-8th).

2005-08-06T17:06:00.001-07:00

Paseo Street all decorated for Tanabata!

2005-08-06T17:06:00.000-07:00

Another view of Paseo Street

Secondaries and more!

2005-07-31T16:58:00.000-07:00

This past week has really flown by! As for the week itself, nothing too exciting happened except that I've finished about 10 secondaries now. I really hate typing all the same information again, and writing stupid essays. I mean, what was the point of the primary application if they're going to ask you for the same things in your secondary? I just hope all of this work pays off and I get some interview offers.

This weekend was a nice escape though. I went on a practice hike with some of my students to the nearby Azuma mountains. First we did a short loop hike around a beautiful pond, and then climbed to the top of a small volcano. The hikes weren't very difficult, but it was good to work some leg muscles that normally don't get a lot of exercise. Today I'll play tennis with Michelle, and then have a movie night with some friends.

Next weekend is the Tanabata festival in Sendai. It celebrates these two stars that are supposed to represent these lovers from a long time ago. Sendai is famous for the festival, although I guess it's not too exciting except for the numerous star banners that people hang. It should be interesting to see though, and if nothing else then I can do some shopping and get some Starbucks!

After that weekend I only have one day of work and then it's summer vacation! I'll go to Aizu the first day with my co-workers, and then it's off to Tokyo to hang out with Valerie. We're going to do another practice hike on Mt. Takao, and then it'll be Mt. Fuji on August 14th to the 15th. Until then, enjoy the pictures from my hike yesterday!

2005-07-31T16:50:00.000-07:00

This is the section of the hike right before we reached a beautiful pond. The beginning of the hike was the steepest and most difficult part, but then the rest was really relaxing.

2005-07-31T16:49:00.000-07:00

Hiroshi and Michelle making their way down to the pond in the middle of our first hike. We sat down for some onigiri and banana bread here. We also saw about 7 adorable little ducklings that came up pretty close to us. A huge school group, and an elderly tour group showed up pretty soon after though, so that scared them away.

2005-07-31T16:47:00.000-07:00

Akiko Ando and Mayu, both my students, posing in front of the pond.

2005-07-31T16:46:00.000-07:00

Mayu and me at the pond!

2005-07-31T16:45:00.000-07:00

A view of Mt. Isaikyo from the distance on our first hike. This dormant volcano is sometimes referred to by people from Fukushima as "Little Fuji" because the terrain is very similar.

2005-07-31T16:44:00.000-07:00

The huge crater in the middle of Mt. Isaikyo, although it's small compared to other volcanos.

2005-07-31T16:43:00.000-07:00

At the top of Mt. Isaikyo! From the left, Akiko Seino, Akiko Ando, Hiroshi, Mayu, Michelle. We walked all around the top of the crater, and the terrain is supposed to be a lot like Fuji. There's a lot of small rocks and gravel covering the ground, so it makes things really slippery.

Time flies!

2005-07-24T06:50:00.000-07:00

I can't believe there's only one week left in the month! Lately, it seems that time has been passing faster than ever. Work is going well, nothing too exciting to report there, but I've been having a lot more fun outside of the office. I've started having weekly lunches on Fridays with a couple of co-workers, Mitsuko and Kaori, and it's been really great. The first time we went to Nana's (the owner of my favorite Indian restaurant) new restaurant near AEON, and last week we went to Mitsuko's favorite place, which might be my new favorite too. It's this cute little pasta place where they serve a fixed meal everyday for lunch. The chef studied in France, and he and his wife are the only ones who work in their tiny restaurant. You have to make reservations weeks in advance because the food is so delicious, and always costs 800yen (less than $8) for three appetizers, soup, bread, pasta, two desserts and coffee. It was unbelievable!

I've also started watching movies on Mondays with Alex and Kaori. Last week we saw "Batman Begins" and this week it'll be "The Island." Plus, I've been talking to my friends back home through AIM or Skype more often, so that always makes me happier. To top it off, I got the new Harry Potter book, and actually just now finished it! The ending is a little predicable, but still touching and I can't wait for the final book.

Today I went with Michelle, her co-workers, Alex, and one of my favorite students, Mayu to a festival in Soma. Every year they hold these games where men dress as samurai and ride their horses around. Usually it's super hot, and I think someone dies just about every year, but today was a little cloudy and there was a nice breeze. The festival wasn't as interesting as I thought it would be, but it was fun to go on a road trip and hang out with everyone. Here are some pictures of the day!

2005-07-24T06:46:00.000-07:00

The riders at the Soma Nomaoi Festival. First they paraded around, then had some races, and finished the day by trying to catch some flags. The festival originated from when the people of Soma held these games as practice incase their Shogun called on them for help.

2005-07-24T06:44:00.000-07:00

Here all the riders are scrambling to catch one of two flags shot up into the air by a cannon. The banners they're displaying represent their family crest, and while catching the flag doesn't win them any money I guess it honors their ancestors.

2005-07-24T06:41:00.001-07:00

Michelle and one of my favorite students, Mayu.

2005-07-24T06:41:00.000-07:00

Donna, the new Amity teacher, and Alex.

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Some decorated statues that are meant to protect you from danger.

2005-07-24T06:39:00.000-07:00

We stopped at the beach on our way back from the festival.

2005-07-24T06:37:00.001-07:00

A cute little shrine we encountered on our way up to a cool viewpoint.

2005-07-24T06:37:00.000-07:00

Another view of the ocean. I tried to play a rock-scissors-paper game with Mayu (the winner gets to advance a certain number of steps) to race back to the car. However, I lost an unprecedented 10 games in a row, so we had to stop since we couldn't see each other anymore.

2005-07-24T06:31:00.000-07:00

My last view of Soma. The sticks coming out of the water are used to grow seaweed.

Things are looking up

2005-07-10T17:52:00.000-07:00

Although I still feel a little homesick, things are definitely getting better. I think some of my co-workers realized I was a little down after Chris left, and have been inviting me to do things. Yesterday I went with Iuki, the assistant manager, to see Star Wars. The movie was awesome, and although it took forever for it to come out in Japan it was well worth the wait. Later we went to have lunch, and talked about all kinds of things. Once again, after talking to Iuki, I've realized what great parents I have. They're never too strict, and always encourage me to be independent and follow my own dreams, even when they lead me to the other side of the world. I also took Iuki to my apartment and showed her lots of pictures from home, which then reminded me of what great friends I have and of how much fun we had together. After that I went to play soccer, which I haven't done in over a month so it was great to do it again. Of course we went to curry afterwards, and I indulged myself in a bowl on hara bara murgh and huge piece of naan.

I've decided to find a way to start exercising regularly because that seems to lift my spirits. Michelle and I are going to start playing tennis on Tuesday mornings before work, and I'm really excited because I want get a lot better at the sport. I'm also going to start running again (if it's not too hot), and I'm even considering training for a marathon in November . . . probably not though.

As for summer vacation, it looks like the plan is to hang out in Tokyo with my friend, Valerie, for a week. Then on the last two days we'll meet up with some other friends and climb Mt. Fuji! I think the vacation will be great for me. Then Sarah is coming to visit in early November, and I can't wait to see to her. We've been talking a little online, and I encourage all of you to get a little microphone for your computer so we can talk through AIM sometime too!

Okay, that's it for now. I just wanted you all to know that I'm feeling much better now. It's still raining here, but the cool weather is a nice change.

Alone Again

2005-07-03T21:44:00.000-07:00

It's rainning here in Fukushima, but I don't mind at all. I like the rain, especailly when I'm sad because as stupid as it sounds I feel like the whole world is crying with me. I feel really lonely right now because Chris has gone back home, and my apartment seems incredibly empty. It was so wonderful having him here not only because I love to be around him, but it was great seeing someone from home again. I guess I didn't realize how homesick I was until I saw him. We had a great month together though, and I'm thankful for that at least.

To keep me from feeling too upset, I went to a baseball game yesterday. It was my first one in Japan, and only my second one ever. I went with Michelle and one of my students. The weather was cool and overcast, perfect for a long game. Later we did a little shopping and I got a yukata (cotton kimono) to wear for some summer festivals coming up soon. Also today I went to a small bike shop to get the flat on my new bike fixed. It was a nice break from working on my stupid med school essay, and relaxing to watch the store owner attend to my bike with expert care. Later I'll meet Alex for some coffee, and maybe he can help me with my essay. I'm also going to talk to Val about planning our summer vacation. Right now the plan is to climb Mt. Fuji, and then jet off to Korea. We'll see . . . okay, back to work. Enjoy the pictures of the BBQ and the game.

2005-07-03T21:27:00.000-07:00

Chris and me at a BBQ one of my students invited us too. It was super hot that day, but as soon as we broke out the cold beer and started up the grill everyone had a great time.

2005-07-03T21:26:00.000-07:00

It was fun to watch all the kids play with hanabi (little fireworks) at the BBQ. Chris and I joined in on the festivities too.

2005-07-03T21:24:00.001-07:00

More Engrish. This is one of Chris' favorites.

2005-07-03T21:24:00.000-07:00

In Sendai at my first baseball game in Japan, the Rakuten Eagles vs the Nihonmaru Fighters. At the beginning of the game, this guy and some others dressed as samurai marched around the field.

2005-07-03T21:22:00.000-07:00

The game! At bat is Shinjo, who some of you might remember as a guy who wore bright armbands on the SF Giants. He's back in Japan now, and still really popular, although he pales in comparison to Matsui or Ichiro.

2005-07-03T21:20:00.000-07:00

Shinjo in the outfield! Even though he plays for the Fighters everyone from both teams cheered for him.

2005-07-03T21:19:00.000-07:00

During the 7th inning stretch everyone blew up these ballons, and at the end of the song the speakers were playing everyone let the ballons fly up into the air. It was really fun to see all the ballons popping up out of nowhere.

2005-07-03T21:17:00.000-07:00

The final score: Rakuten Eagles-6, Nihonmaru Fighters-5. This was only the second game in the whole season that the Eagles won. This is their first season, so it's not suprising that they're last in the league. It was great seeing a winning game at the home stadium though.

The Fun Never Ends!!!

2005-06-20T04:55:00.000-07:00

Chris and I are having a great time in Fukushima, and it seems that we have a never ending list of fun activities to do every weekend. Last week we rode our bikes with Alex and Mayu, one of my students, out to Four Seasons Park. It was a beautiful ride, and great to see all the families enjoying the wonderful weather at the park. Later that night we went out drinking with some students, and taught them how to sake bomb. The next day we took the bus to Sendai and did a little exploring. I never realized how green Sendai was until we tried to find the castle there and had to drive through all these beautiful green mountains.

This past weekend we went to Nihonmatsu with a co-worker to try a great restaurant with really affordable set lunches. Then it was off to an ikebana (flower arranging) exhibition to meet one of my students, Hiromi. Her club had organized the event, and she invited Chris and me to learn more about the art, and get a chance to try it out ourselves. Later that night we went to a co-worker's house for a potluck party. This afternoon we met Mayu and Alex again to have lunch up in the mountains. We went to this awesome outdoor restaurant where you have to fish noodles out of this little stream that runs across your table. I wish I had my camera, but I took some pictures on my cell phone so maybe I'll post some of those next time. It was a lot of fun though, and we had a great time. After that we went back to Four Seasons Park to paint kokeshi dolls (wooden dolls, basically with ball for a head anda long cylinder for a body). The dolls were kind of hard to paint because the colors kept bleeding, but it was a fantastic experience. Next we went to Saint Anna's Garden for some coffee and desserts, and then did a little shopping before calling it a day.

Despite all the fun we're having, I think Chris and I will enjoy a quiet night at the apartment just relaxing and watching a movie. Oh, by the way, I added a picture of the Golden Temple in Kyoto because it's pretty famous and I thought you'd all like to see it. Also, leave comments! I know people are reading this, but it's hard to stay motivated to write if I don't get any comments in return. Okay, enjoy the pictures!

2005-06-20T04:40:00.000-07:00

Mayu, Alex, and Chris enjoying ramune (a soda with a marble in it that is only avaliable during the summer). It was super refreshing after our 2 hour bike ride out to the Four Seasons Park.