I have officially lived 1 month in Japan. I can't believe it. Yesterday was the one month anniversary. To celebrate, I had french toast for the first time in a month. Canadian Maple syrup, compliments of a friend who sent it to me. Man, that was good.
I picked up my official alien registration card yesterday too. I am officially an alien who is registered. That made things feel a bit more permanent. Scary for like 2 seconds, but then I got over it. I walked around Juso station for a bit, outside the Osaka ward office. I love finding these little eclectic places. Side streets with bookstores, moms riding bikes with their kids in the basket, many restraunts and isakiae's at every turn.
The weather today is warm, not hot. Normally, this time of the year, I would start to buy fall clothes and be wearing long sleeve shirts. Not this year. The sun shines brightly in the morning on my way to the subway and as I make my way to work most mornings, I plug in my mp3 to some worship and sit to enjoy the ride across Osaka to the prefecture of Kita Senri. I just noticed this morning, how much I actually see on my way to work - I cross over a river, pass by an old graveyard, a baseball field and Osaka University. Its a quiet ride to work, most days. And, I feel at peace. Sipping my chilled coffee. Excited for the day. Excited to think what I might learn from my students, or what I might learn about myself.
Some mornings, I temporarily forget that I'm in this country. I finally settle into a routine. Then, I see something new (ladies in kimonos walking down the street, every once in a while) or experience something that I have never seen before...and I'm reminded: I'm in Japan. I think I'm learning that you HAVE to see everything as an adventure here. Its a choice I have to make everyday. You can afford not to. Its like, I'm learning to never take anything for granted again. Sometimes, living this consciously all the time can be exhausting. But, I feel alive. In a way that I haven't felt before.
Time for my bedtime, which means, you all will probably just be starting your day. Its 10:45pm here on a Saturday night (so, for all of you its Friday morning 7:45am Alberta time, 8:45 B.C time and 9:45am Ontario time). Whether your at work, school or play - you are in my dreams.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Friday, September 29, 2006
only in japan... thoughts, by me.
Only in Japan...
...will you bow more than 100 times a day. (walking to subway, I saw some gas station attendants simultaneously bowing, facingthe street. I chuckled to myself.)
...is there individually wrapped EVERYTHING! You name it, its individually wrapped!!
...is there J-Pop (Japanese Pop music). The acquired taste of the North American. (still yet to be acquired by me!)
...only in Japan, can you be a good karaoke singer and a bad karaoke singer at the same time! Either way, you are loved by all!!
... are there convienience stores (7-11 included) - that sell packaged t-shirts, underwear and chocolate - all in the same isle!
...can you be unfashionable and fashionable at the same time. Anything goes! My latest sighting - a guy with a closepin in his hair. Need I say more?
...will you feel like a giant!!!!
...only in Japan, will I turn 24 years old. (in like 8 days!! hee.hee.)
...are there old women, wearing t-shirts with profanity. (you gotta laugh, come on.)
...is there a "women only" boarding point at the subway (with pink paint on the subway car - with little floating babies!!)
...are there simlulated flushing toilets noises
...only in Japan, can you get everything in miniature size. - people, electronics, coffee and utensils.
...only in Japan, is it random everyday and everyway.
Only in Japan.
Thank you.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
whats in a name?
A couple of students came up with my name in Japanese the other day. The kanji system is just one of the letter systems they use here. The way my name sounds in english Ja-y-ne, in Japanese the `ja` sound Japanese character means `compassion, hospitality, inclusion` and the `n sound means `openness, open circle, open minded`. Wow. I don`t think I`m worthy of this at all, but my students were so excited to come up with this for me. I`m so grateful for them. I wish I could write out the Japanese characters for you. They are so beautiful.
Thanks for checking in. Thanks to everyone for your comments. They keep me going from day to day.
I love you, and miss you all.
Thanks for checking in. Thanks to everyone for your comments. They keep me going from day to day.
I love you, and miss you all.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
a journey I didn't plan on...
So, I was planning on going to this bible study Tuesday night at Osaka International Church, when I was frantically hurrying to get there (I was late), and I disovered that something else was actually going on. A massive worship service in the main santuary. And, to my surprise, I was early. I had no idea this was happening. A billingual service, with musicians from a church in Tokyo (get this, a Hillsong church, with a number of people from Australia on the team). There was dancing, and sounds of "Our God is an Awesome God" sung in Japanese and English. Worship was thick in the air. I felt like God has prepared this for me or something. How is it that you know how to find me Lord? Even here. During the worship, I was overwhelmed with tears. I think God let me know that perhaps I have another purpose here, other than just teaching english.
The pastor who spoke was from Australia, and he spoke about dreams and what we need to be living for. As Christians, we need to have a dream. And people need to see this in us. I felt he was speaking directly to me. He spoke of Japan being the land of the rising sun, and "from the rising of the sun, to the setting of the same... the name of the Lord is too be praised." Such profound words. He also spoke about when God gives us a dream, we laugh and have joy inside (wow. again, a message for me!) Japan is a deeply spiritual country, and more than ever before, there is an openness to what God is doing here. I'm still trying to unpack the message, but I am so impacted by his words. I literally felt grabbed by the heart, and that I had just stepped into my dream.
I also met Sonia at this thing, another english teacher from Australia. While we where talking, she explained that she has felt a calling to welcome foreigners to Japan (and I just happened to be sitting next to her during the service!!!!!!!) She was so welcoming towards me, and she actually invited me to her bible study (which was tonight) in Kobe. Little did I know, that once I got off the train to meet her, she would take me to such a wonderful home, where she and 5 others meet on Wednesday afternoons at a lady Michelles house - her husband and 3 children recently moved from Taiwan 7 months ago to Japan.
First of all, Kobe is the most charming city (30 minutes outside Osaka). Way less congested than Osaka, cute coffee shops, oriental tea houses, so close to the mountains (literally, behind the homes on the hill). It was so great to finally meet in someones home! We worshipped for a bit, prayed and then had a great discussion on the prayer of Jabez. This guy Dave (who is the exact twin of Marvin Bravo, for those of you who know him, and turns out he is a drummer and plays for a couple of gospel choirs in the area, and works for a record company. Hmmm. He and Sonia where asking alot of questions about my music. No way Lord!! Is this for real?), showed me around Kobe for a bit after the study, then went back to Michelle house, where I was treated to a lovely dinner.
I felt completely overwhelmed with hospitality. Like royalty. I only met these people today, and I felt so loved. I never know what will happen from one day to the next here. Who I will be meeting, where I will be going, what I will be doing. Seriously, my head is spinning. I think God may be taking me on a journey this year that I didn't plan on. I think He needs to be the one to plan from now on. The question is, can I give up this control? Can any of us, really? Something to think about, I guess.
Jane
The pastor who spoke was from Australia, and he spoke about dreams and what we need to be living for. As Christians, we need to have a dream. And people need to see this in us. I felt he was speaking directly to me. He spoke of Japan being the land of the rising sun, and "from the rising of the sun, to the setting of the same... the name of the Lord is too be praised." Such profound words. He also spoke about when God gives us a dream, we laugh and have joy inside (wow. again, a message for me!) Japan is a deeply spiritual country, and more than ever before, there is an openness to what God is doing here. I'm still trying to unpack the message, but I am so impacted by his words. I literally felt grabbed by the heart, and that I had just stepped into my dream.
I also met Sonia at this thing, another english teacher from Australia. While we where talking, she explained that she has felt a calling to welcome foreigners to Japan (and I just happened to be sitting next to her during the service!!!!!!!) She was so welcoming towards me, and she actually invited me to her bible study (which was tonight) in Kobe. Little did I know, that once I got off the train to meet her, she would take me to such a wonderful home, where she and 5 others meet on Wednesday afternoons at a lady Michelles house - her husband and 3 children recently moved from Taiwan 7 months ago to Japan.
First of all, Kobe is the most charming city (30 minutes outside Osaka). Way less congested than Osaka, cute coffee shops, oriental tea houses, so close to the mountains (literally, behind the homes on the hill). It was so great to finally meet in someones home! We worshipped for a bit, prayed and then had a great discussion on the prayer of Jabez. This guy Dave (who is the exact twin of Marvin Bravo, for those of you who know him, and turns out he is a drummer and plays for a couple of gospel choirs in the area, and works for a record company. Hmmm. He and Sonia where asking alot of questions about my music. No way Lord!! Is this for real?), showed me around Kobe for a bit after the study, then went back to Michelle house, where I was treated to a lovely dinner.
I felt completely overwhelmed with hospitality. Like royalty. I only met these people today, and I felt so loved. I never know what will happen from one day to the next here. Who I will be meeting, where I will be going, what I will be doing. Seriously, my head is spinning. I think God may be taking me on a journey this year that I didn't plan on. I think He needs to be the one to plan from now on. The question is, can I give up this control? Can any of us, really? Something to think about, I guess.
Jane
Friday, September 15, 2006
a new sushi restraunt, and oh yeh, mating cats outside my window
so, I found out today why I have had trouble sleeping the last few nights...mating season for cats. Yep. I was explaining to my boss this morning about this horrific, ear piercing noise I have been hearing late at night. He explained that it is in fact that time of year! These tomcats seem like they are everywhere. Specifically, right outside my window. Seriously...I have heard tomcats before...but not like this. I wish I could record the sound for you. My poor, poor, poor ears. I swear, it like a whole other breed of sound.
Other than cats in heat, I tried a new sushi restraunt tonight by my house (sorry about the awful transition, I just had to tell you all). Loved it. I think to eat there, you need to like experimenting. I tried some dumplings, a dish of tofu and some radishes. There were about 6 chefs working behind the counter, and they, knowing little english, and me knowing little Japanese, managed to identify a few dishes for me. All I heard was lots of "hi" "hi" "hi" "hi"'s, but still, they were very enthusiastic. I learned that some sushi chefs actually study for like 10 years to perfect their craft. I can see why alot of the food here is basically a work of art. You almost hate to eat it, it looks so beautiful.
Just another day in Japan, I guess. Random, its all random.
Ha.Ha.
Other than cats in heat, I tried a new sushi restraunt tonight by my house (sorry about the awful transition, I just had to tell you all). Loved it. I think to eat there, you need to like experimenting. I tried some dumplings, a dish of tofu and some radishes. There were about 6 chefs working behind the counter, and they, knowing little english, and me knowing little Japanese, managed to identify a few dishes for me. All I heard was lots of "hi" "hi" "hi" "hi"'s, but still, they were very enthusiastic. I learned that some sushi chefs actually study for like 10 years to perfect their craft. I can see why alot of the food here is basically a work of art. You almost hate to eat it, it looks so beautiful.
Just another day in Japan, I guess. Random, its all random.
Ha.Ha.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
God, is that you speaking?
Right now, I`m sitting at opti cafe, sipping an iced mocha, India Arie plays in the background, and I sit... contemplating on experiences thus far.
Well, I got through the 3 days of nauseating training (literally, I was so stressed, I felt sick one morning). At times, I was wondering if I had made the right decision to come to Japan. I was scared. But, stepping into my first lesson at my branch in Kita Senri, I realized, yes, I in fact did make the right decision. (why did I question it in the first place?).
Where do I begin? (why do I feel like I`m saying that alot?). At Nova`s Kita Senri branch, I teach with about 8 other instructors, who have all made me feel so welcome. (by the way, its me and this other girl Nina from Scotland, and like 6 other guys. Goodtimes). The atmosphere is so relaxed here. We all enjoy our studnets so much. A number of them come in like 3 times a week, which means you get to know their faces. One boy, I suspect, has been requesting to have lessons with me. I have had him for the last 3 mornings in a row at the same time.
A treat of my days are Voice classes 1-2 times a day. A number of senior students can get together and just chat in English with an instructor about any topic. Its more informal. The other morning, Alvin my boss, was saying that the students have noticed a new instructor around and they have been wanting to meet me. I walked into the Voice room and the second I did, all I saw were these huge grins of excitement. I said to them, *so, I heard you were wanting to meet me? Well, this is perfect because I have been wanting to meet all of you as well!* They laughed, and the rest of the 40 minutes was spent with them asking me all about Canada, where I live, my family, and why I decided to come to Japan. They also gave me advice on where I should go while I`m here. I was throughly entertained. (little did I know, Alvin later told me that Saturday Voice classes are pretty much like an initiation for new instructors...if they like you, your in!!)
My newest friend, Nina from Scotland and I found out that she lives in the apartment next to me and we both work at Kita Senri! (wow, thanks God!). We have ridden the train together a couple mornings, and have chatted on our balconies a few nights. I always know shes there because I can see her hand with a cigarette on the other side. ha.ha.
So, I also tried out Osaka International Church Saturday night. Turns out, its like 10 other people who meet on Saturdays. Which, I love. Its an electic community who meets for bible study and worship services, and they welcomed me Saturday night with open arms. (I even got a visitors gift...a book of bible verses written in both english and Japanese. So cool). A couple from the States (who came to Japan 10 years ago) leads the service. They even treated me to supper afterwards. One thing that had me weaping, was during the worship time, the song We Fall Down (Chris Tomlin) sung in both Japanese and English. Talk about a goosebump moment.
Today, I had a day off, so I decided to go to Osaka Castle. Just what I needed. So incredible. Not to mention the surrounding gardens, shrines, and fountains.Guys, I:m seriously in so much angst, I want to post pictures, but until I get a laptop, I won`t be able to do so. I can only describe things in words to a certain point. Oh well, they are the best thing I have right now
Hey, I also got a cell phone now. A first. You can text message me if you wish at erickson_jane@k.vodafone.ne.jp or call at 08037707907.
Everyone, thank you for your notes, your news, telling me about your lives, I truely love it. Mom, Dad it was so good to finally chat with you the other morning.
So, I:m doing well. Today I got really emotional (is that a song?). Standing at the top of this castle, I had a moment (as Gerri N would say). I was thinking... God is present in the midst of every moment. Whether in Japan, in Canada, while starting school , while making breakfast, while feeling sad or missing home. He is there.
(hey... the song What a Wonderful World just started playing....
God, is that you speaking?...)
Love
Jane.
Well, I got through the 3 days of nauseating training (literally, I was so stressed, I felt sick one morning). At times, I was wondering if I had made the right decision to come to Japan. I was scared. But, stepping into my first lesson at my branch in Kita Senri, I realized, yes, I in fact did make the right decision. (why did I question it in the first place?).
Where do I begin? (why do I feel like I`m saying that alot?). At Nova`s Kita Senri branch, I teach with about 8 other instructors, who have all made me feel so welcome. (by the way, its me and this other girl Nina from Scotland, and like 6 other guys. Goodtimes). The atmosphere is so relaxed here. We all enjoy our studnets so much. A number of them come in like 3 times a week, which means you get to know their faces. One boy, I suspect, has been requesting to have lessons with me. I have had him for the last 3 mornings in a row at the same time.
A treat of my days are Voice classes 1-2 times a day. A number of senior students can get together and just chat in English with an instructor about any topic. Its more informal. The other morning, Alvin my boss, was saying that the students have noticed a new instructor around and they have been wanting to meet me. I walked into the Voice room and the second I did, all I saw were these huge grins of excitement. I said to them, *so, I heard you were wanting to meet me? Well, this is perfect because I have been wanting to meet all of you as well!* They laughed, and the rest of the 40 minutes was spent with them asking me all about Canada, where I live, my family, and why I decided to come to Japan. They also gave me advice on where I should go while I`m here. I was throughly entertained. (little did I know, Alvin later told me that Saturday Voice classes are pretty much like an initiation for new instructors...if they like you, your in!!)
My newest friend, Nina from Scotland and I found out that she lives in the apartment next to me and we both work at Kita Senri! (wow, thanks God!). We have ridden the train together a couple mornings, and have chatted on our balconies a few nights. I always know shes there because I can see her hand with a cigarette on the other side. ha.ha.
So, I also tried out Osaka International Church Saturday night. Turns out, its like 10 other people who meet on Saturdays. Which, I love. Its an electic community who meets for bible study and worship services, and they welcomed me Saturday night with open arms. (I even got a visitors gift...a book of bible verses written in both english and Japanese. So cool). A couple from the States (who came to Japan 10 years ago) leads the service. They even treated me to supper afterwards. One thing that had me weaping, was during the worship time, the song We Fall Down (Chris Tomlin) sung in both Japanese and English. Talk about a goosebump moment.
Today, I had a day off, so I decided to go to Osaka Castle. Just what I needed. So incredible. Not to mention the surrounding gardens, shrines, and fountains.Guys, I:m seriously in so much angst, I want to post pictures, but until I get a laptop, I won`t be able to do so. I can only describe things in words to a certain point. Oh well, they are the best thing I have right now
Hey, I also got a cell phone now. A first. You can text message me if you wish at erickson_jane@k.vodafone.ne.jp or call at 08037707907.
Everyone, thank you for your notes, your news, telling me about your lives, I truely love it. Mom, Dad it was so good to finally chat with you the other morning.
So, I:m doing well. Today I got really emotional (is that a song?). Standing at the top of this castle, I had a moment (as Gerri N would say). I was thinking... God is present in the midst of every moment. Whether in Japan, in Canada, while starting school , while making breakfast, while feeling sad or missing home. He is there.
(hey... the song What a Wonderful World just started playing....
God, is that you speaking?...)
Love
Jane.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
a thank you...
To the very special person who sent me the Pooh bear card in the mail - I think you know who you are - I love it. Defanite tear factor. Its just what I needed.
Love
Jane
Love
Jane
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
hello, my name is jane, I will be your teacher today...
Well. I have had my first few days of training and am feeling totally wiped like I never have before. A good wiped, I guess. Everythings just feels like a big whirlwind. (side note...you know when you make a really big decision that will affect your future, and you have been wanting to do it for a long time - and then, when you actually do, you regret it for like 2 seconds, you question yourself and wonder at times "why am I doing this?" - and then it turns out to be the best thing you have ever done!? Thats how I feel right now. I'm somewhere in between those sentences though!)
I have been training with 3 other people, I love our group (there are 2 other Canadians!! - that put me at ease already! Oh yeh, and Evan from the States is pretty cool too!). It seems like we have become good friends in just a matter of 2 days. Our trainers, Janette and Helen are really wonderful- and well, super perkey (all the time!!!!) - it's almost funny. So encouraging, alway helping and supporting. We have learned in a smaller setting together and then then literally thrown in, into the classroom. We have about 2-4 students at a time (groups of both young and old, which I like), and we are in cubicles around a table. Play word games, do scenarios and practice sounding words. Students generally have a basic level of english, our job is to help polish it up!
The training has been incredibly intense. Its like we practice in the safety of our group and then we immiediately try and apply what we have just learned. It defanitely keeps you on your toes. I feel myself getting anxious at times, but mostly, I think I'm really going to enjoy teaching - once I get used to it. All the teachers at this particular branch are so friendly and helpful. We have been shadowing them and learning alot from them. And although it feels like we are unsure alot of the time right now, they insure us that in a week we will be feeling fine! Not to mention the Japanese students we are teaching are so keen and are smiling all the time, so it makes it easier as a teacher.
I think I have been learning that since living here, you think that you have given your limit for the day, but then is seems like you always have to give a little more after that. Its not like you can break from Japanese culture when you get off work - you then travel the subway home, weaving your way through the ALWAYS crowded underground, making sure to walk to the left, bowing when others oblige you, and (oh yeh), not blowing your nose in public!!. Its just learning the way people do things, how the Japanese approach life. Plus - it is so humid here!!! Feel like I'm always sweating!! Thank goodness work is air conditioned!
I gotta get to bed. Ps, I get to look at many of your faces on my wall of pictures before I go to bed. It gives me courage.
Thanks for stopping by.
ps - I found a church to go to Saturday nights (potentially). Osaka International Church. I'm excited to check it out.
I have been training with 3 other people, I love our group (there are 2 other Canadians!! - that put me at ease already! Oh yeh, and Evan from the States is pretty cool too!). It seems like we have become good friends in just a matter of 2 days. Our trainers, Janette and Helen are really wonderful- and well, super perkey (all the time!!!!) - it's almost funny. So encouraging, alway helping and supporting. We have learned in a smaller setting together and then then literally thrown in, into the classroom. We have about 2-4 students at a time (groups of both young and old, which I like), and we are in cubicles around a table. Play word games, do scenarios and practice sounding words. Students generally have a basic level of english, our job is to help polish it up!
The training has been incredibly intense. Its like we practice in the safety of our group and then we immiediately try and apply what we have just learned. It defanitely keeps you on your toes. I feel myself getting anxious at times, but mostly, I think I'm really going to enjoy teaching - once I get used to it. All the teachers at this particular branch are so friendly and helpful. We have been shadowing them and learning alot from them. And although it feels like we are unsure alot of the time right now, they insure us that in a week we will be feeling fine! Not to mention the Japanese students we are teaching are so keen and are smiling all the time, so it makes it easier as a teacher.
I think I have been learning that since living here, you think that you have given your limit for the day, but then is seems like you always have to give a little more after that. Its not like you can break from Japanese culture when you get off work - you then travel the subway home, weaving your way through the ALWAYS crowded underground, making sure to walk to the left, bowing when others oblige you, and (oh yeh), not blowing your nose in public!!. Its just learning the way people do things, how the Japanese approach life. Plus - it is so humid here!!! Feel like I'm always sweating!! Thank goodness work is air conditioned!
I gotta get to bed. Ps, I get to look at many of your faces on my wall of pictures before I go to bed. It gives me courage.
Thanks for stopping by.
ps - I found a church to go to Saturday nights (potentially). Osaka International Church. I'm excited to check it out.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
adventures of an aussie and a canuck
Today I met Tracey, another english teacher from the Gold Coast in Austraila. Nova arranged for other newly arrived teachers to meet up outside Namba station in Osaka. Turned out, we were the only 2 to show up. I think there might have been something divine there. We ended up spending most of the day together. I almost felt like we had been friends for a long time or something. weird.
Once I arrived at Namba Station, Tracey was quick to introduce her self. We caught a dance off happening at the station, with all of these amazing break dancers. I can't believe what a serious art it is for the youth here. One guy could not stop looking at his reflection in this big silver ball in the centre of the courtyard. He seemed to have no troubles staring at himself for that long.
Side note... Its funny, I'm noticing that whenever I see foreigners, like myself, in Japan, its almost like I want to say to them, "Hey, look, I'm one of you too. There is more than one of us!"
Anyhoo. Tracey, who actually reminded me alot of myself, lives right in this area, and she showed me the popular area that, you know, you always see in pictures of Japan. The overstimulating Shinsaibashi! The bright lights flashing in every direction, the tall buildings with advertisements every which way (not to mention, the cartoon characters and a shrine of Hello Kitty), slot machines, Japanese lanterns, Japanese people wearing..well...everything from leg warmers to plaid skirts and close pins!? People holding large signs avertizing something or other, yelling "Sumi-masain" "Sumi-masain"!! So many random sights to see. It was incredible. It's like we were caught in a sea of Asian-ness. There was always something to see at every corner. And for all those computer buffs out there...an electronic store, that I think had about 6 floors!!! Unreal. I have yet to tackle Den-Den Town, apparently the cheapest place to by a electronics in Osaka -and their open to bargaining Cinda - we are pros now right?! Sigh...Morocco.
Tracey and I walked and walked, until we couldn't walk anymore, conversation endless, and we stopped at this one restraunt where we ate for about $3.oo. A lovely bowl of udon noodles and this wonderfully sweet tofu. We ate with chop sticks and all, only managing to get a few spills (I know mom!) I think we were just both so excited to meet another newly arrived english teacher.
I made it back to my apartment on the Midosuji Line (which I'm getting to know better and better) and had a glass of wine, oh yeh, and something to eat with my wine. ha.ha.
I needed today. There IS more to this country than right outside my apartment and down the street. I don't feel so scared now. Thank goodness.
(another side note...in the public washrooms here some of the toilets are in the ground. I tried one for the first time today and I couldn't figure out how to squat! I tried spreading, crouching, switching directions, finally I said " screw it, I don't have to go that bad." Then, I looked up and (get this) they have a button you can press that has a recording of a simulated toilet flushing. So if you need to... you know... make noises while doing your business, you can use the recording to drown out the sound (literally.) while on the can! And yes, I did press the button. Not out of necessity, but out of amusement of course!
Once I arrived at Namba Station, Tracey was quick to introduce her self. We caught a dance off happening at the station, with all of these amazing break dancers. I can't believe what a serious art it is for the youth here. One guy could not stop looking at his reflection in this big silver ball in the centre of the courtyard. He seemed to have no troubles staring at himself for that long.
Side note... Its funny, I'm noticing that whenever I see foreigners, like myself, in Japan, its almost like I want to say to them, "Hey, look, I'm one of you too. There is more than one of us!"
Anyhoo. Tracey, who actually reminded me alot of myself, lives right in this area, and she showed me the popular area that, you know, you always see in pictures of Japan. The overstimulating Shinsaibashi! The bright lights flashing in every direction, the tall buildings with advertisements every which way (not to mention, the cartoon characters and a shrine of Hello Kitty), slot machines, Japanese lanterns, Japanese people wearing..well...everything from leg warmers to plaid skirts and close pins!? People holding large signs avertizing something or other, yelling "Sumi-masain" "Sumi-masain"!! So many random sights to see. It was incredible. It's like we were caught in a sea of Asian-ness. There was always something to see at every corner. And for all those computer buffs out there...an electronic store, that I think had about 6 floors!!! Unreal. I have yet to tackle Den-Den Town, apparently the cheapest place to by a electronics in Osaka -and their open to bargaining Cinda - we are pros now right?! Sigh...Morocco.
Tracey and I walked and walked, until we couldn't walk anymore, conversation endless, and we stopped at this one restraunt where we ate for about $3.oo. A lovely bowl of udon noodles and this wonderfully sweet tofu. We ate with chop sticks and all, only managing to get a few spills (I know mom!) I think we were just both so excited to meet another newly arrived english teacher.
I made it back to my apartment on the Midosuji Line (which I'm getting to know better and better) and had a glass of wine, oh yeh, and something to eat with my wine. ha.ha.
I needed today. There IS more to this country than right outside my apartment and down the street. I don't feel so scared now. Thank goodness.
(another side note...in the public washrooms here some of the toilets are in the ground. I tried one for the first time today and I couldn't figure out how to squat! I tried spreading, crouching, switching directions, finally I said " screw it, I don't have to go that bad." Then, I looked up and (get this) they have a button you can press that has a recording of a simulated toilet flushing. So if you need to... you know... make noises while doing your business, you can use the recording to drown out the sound (literally.) while on the can! And yes, I did press the button. Not out of necessity, but out of amusement of course!
Friday, September 01, 2006
culture shock
My roomate Myriah took me to get my "alien registered" today, as she put it! While making our way on the train, I was overwhelmed by the fact that there was Japanese characters everywhere. Very little english. Myriah was doing a fantastic job at showing me which trains go where, how they are colour coded etc, but the whole thing does feel quite daunting.
We made our way to the city ward to get my registration. After finding out that I need to have a picture of myself for the card, we ran across the street to a photobooth and I quickly got my picture taken and then ran back. People everywhere. Bicycles everywhere. We ran back to the ward, and then proceeded to wait for my card. Myriah had to run to her private lesson, so she gave me directions for taking the train back to Shinosaka. I managed to find my way ok, and people were generally very helpful when I needed to clarify that the train was in fact going in the direction I needed it to. I think I must have asked the question "Do you speak English?" - about 30 times!
I guess I was just overwhelmed by the busyiness of everything and not really understanding a thing around me. It was about 11am when I got back to the apartment, and I needed a nap and a little cry. Both felt good.
I knew that I would have days like this, but I also didn't know that I would have days like this - if that makes any sense.
We made our way to the city ward to get my registration. After finding out that I need to have a picture of myself for the card, we ran across the street to a photobooth and I quickly got my picture taken and then ran back. People everywhere. Bicycles everywhere. We ran back to the ward, and then proceeded to wait for my card. Myriah had to run to her private lesson, so she gave me directions for taking the train back to Shinosaka. I managed to find my way ok, and people were generally very helpful when I needed to clarify that the train was in fact going in the direction I needed it to. I think I must have asked the question "Do you speak English?" - about 30 times!
I guess I was just overwhelmed by the busyiness of everything and not really understanding a thing around me. It was about 11am when I got back to the apartment, and I needed a nap and a little cry. Both felt good.
I knew that I would have days like this, but I also didn't know that I would have days like this - if that makes any sense.
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