finding quiet, in the noise of the city

"When you travel, you experience, in a very practical way, the act of rebirth. You confront completely new situations, the day passes more slowly, and on most journeys you don't even understand the language the people speak. So you are like a child just out of the womb. You begin to be more accessible to others because they may be able to help you in difficult situations. And you accept any small favor from the gods with great delight, as if it were an episode you would remember for the rest of your life."

-from Paulo Coelho's "The Pilgramage." A constant source of strength for me. A must read!!!

----
Yes, I'm still alive. I hope I haven't lost my blogging-edge. (as I stretch my fingers, and begin to write). Thanks for your patience with me. I know Bri, it has been too long. Glad to see you all again. Drinking oolong tea right now, I can pour you a cup, if you like?

I guess a major theme of the last couple weeks has been: faith. I feel like it has been tested and stretched in everyway. With work, with coping with living in this country, with coming to terms with myself, my weaknesses and strengths. Both, I'm learning to be ok with. I think sometimes, when God calls us into somesort of wilderness, its not easy by any means, but he's teaching me that I'm not alone. I hear it in the voice of strangers, in the kindness of my students, and in the rain as I fall asleep at night.

I'm so tired of being pre-occupied with my lack of internet access ("You don't know what you've got till, its gone"). We finally got our Yahoo package in the mail. I am at peace!!! Not having internet has really made me realize actually how important communication is. The meaningful and regular kind. At times, I have felt claustrophobic about living in such a big city, in this small apartment. big city...small apartment... Hey, I need to write a song. Wheres a pen...

God has really been letting me know that when we sometimes go into journeys on our own, its defanitely not an easy road, but he always promises that we will not go alone. He has really been providing me with some incredible people over the last couple weeks. I have made, it seems, many friends in a short amount of time.
Yuji is quickly becoming a very good friend of mine (after our 4 hour conversation at Starbucks, after we both finished work!! Don't know if it was the coffee that kept us going or our love of hearing each other fumble through each others languages!). We talked about travel, books, things we love, things we hate. It was refreshing. I hadn't had a good conversation like that in a while.
Cho, who also works with Yuji, has promised to take me out to my first sushi train restraunt in the next week. I think they have seriously mistaken me for some sort of coffee expert there, because Cho had invited me to a coffee party that she was organizing. We were asked to rate coffee, and describe the boldness and flavor. While most of the words she had written were in Japanese, she has translated the words into English just for me. She said said that she had been working for 3 days on the translation. I was blown away at her thoughtfulness. (If only they new that I don't actually go to starbucks for the coffee!!!ha. ha.)

I have recently disovered a really fantastic old-style coffee shop/bar down the street from my apartment as well. Sarah, my newest friend took me to their Friday night live music session a couple weeks ago. Papillion is owned by Ryuji and Kumiko, a crazy little Japanese couple, who love people, beer and coffee. There are so many foreigners who come here. Ryuji and Kumiko are known to give you free drinks every now and again. They have a live band every Friday, where people can get up and sing and basically a fool of themselves (and no, I haven't don't this yet. I'm still new to this!). So many other english teachers live in the area, so its been great to mingle with them and to know that we are all having similar experiences.

It seems that the weather has changed dramatically here in the last couple weeks. From hot and humid, to cold and rainy. Which has prooven to be some interesting bicycle rides to the train station some mornings. But, as I make my way to Kita Senri, every morning has become more and more beautiful. The mountains in the distance are decorated with layers of bright red and yellow trees. Its hard to believe that its late November, and Japan is just starting to have fall colours. I am desperate to visit Kyoto to emerse myself in more of the colour and to experience hiking in Arashiyama, a popular spot where the trails lead to many temples and shrines. And a near by rice field I have been wanting to see.

Since the recentl addition to our apartment, Alicia (from the states), I have moved into perhaps the most lovely room I have ever stayed in. Really japanese tatami mats and a balcony sliding window to the outside of our apartment. I so feel at peace in this room. It has been so nice to actually hear the rain as I fall asleep in my futon at night. We are tryng to make our apartment more and more cozy as the days go by.

Work is busy lately. Many training sessions and such, and working overtime tommorrow, so not much of a chance to get out of the city lately. Having that itch again to explore. I don' t think that will ever wear off. I guess living in this city has really made me try to intentional about seeing more of this country.

Wow, that was a big BLAHHH, as DSO would say (for those who know who I'm talking about!). Oh, that felt good. I'm so happy to let you know what I'm up to, and to share my thoughts with all of you. Well, the ones I'm willing to be made public anyways.
Its hard sometimes to put into words, what I'm experiencing here. Somedays are really hard, but most days are incredible here. I never know what I'm going to see. All I know is, that air is different here. I think I might be growing into myself. Please know that I think of you often and miss you all.


Thanks for checking in.
So much love.

Jane.

Ps - Mom, thanks for the sweet Canadian scarf and the KD. Both came at the perfect time. I laughed - very hard.
PPS - Julie, all the sandwich bread actually is crustless here. They sell it in special packages even. I think of you everytime I each a sandwich. Why does it have to be so friggin expensive? Theres no crust! What am I actually paying more for? Hmm...

have you taken your shoes off lately?

Currently watching on t.v: Japanese figure skating
Latest wierd sighting: purple pleather pants and matching tube top.
Latest English t-shirt sighting: "I like ape."
...
My roomate Myriah is leaving tommorrow to go back the U.S. Time has just flown since meeting her in September. Her, Hannah and I have really gotten along so well. I will be sad to see her go. Nova has already arranged for another roomate to move in. I may be measuring her against Myriah. Not sure if anyone can really compare.

Made me realize life is really a series of hellos, goodbyes and so-longs. I think I have said more hellos in the last 2 months than I ever have before. I have also said many goodbyes and so-longs as well. I feel like being out here as really forced me to examine my life and what really is important. I have only come up with four things: family, friends, always believing in something, and always working towards something. If I don't have these things, life can crumble. Being in this sometimes confusing country, I have somehow managed to sort out what makes me "tick." I find is remarkable how attempting to live more intentionality can come out of unfamiliarity.

It feels like September is so far away now. The colours are changing here, the air is cooler, the sun sets sooner, and my perspective in changing. Things are different. This morning on the train I couldn't help but feel proud of myself for coming this far. Don't get me wrong, I have my days - where I have to sort out my now frequent unpredictable emotions. There are days where I am completely head over heals for this country, and there are days where I feel like all I want to do is scream. Mostly, I'm in love with this place. I guess thats like any new experience for many of us.

Just lately, I have been thinking alot about what it means to have sacred space in our lives. Setting aside a place worth taking our shoes off for. Or maybe, sacred spaces are all around, and they are just waiting to be discovered. And maybe my feet are just waiting for encounters with these places. Going to Ryoanji Temple the other day in Kyoto, it struck me how little I do this. Take my shoes off, that is. To feel the hard wood on my feet. To really feel "at home." And allow my toes room to breath.

Time for bed. Day off tommorrow and Wednesday. Thinking of you all.

Love
Jane.

Kyoto in autumn: good for the soul.

(the link above is to Kinkakuji Temple, where I visited in Kyoto)

"Kyoto was Japan's capital and the emperors residence from 794 until 1868. It is now the country's seventh largest city with a population of 1.4 million people and a modern face.
Over the centuries, Kyoto was destroyed by many wars and fires, but due to its historic value, the city was not chosen as a target of air raids during World War II. Countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today. "
....

Kyoto, how I love thee. I did not know how much I needed this until I arrived.

After a slight change in plans, I actually ended up just going for one full day on Wednesday. I was determined to get out of Osaka. My psyche needed it.
The train ride was magical. You get closer and closer to the mountains as you approach the city. It was a partly sunny, misty morning, and as the train pulled into Kyoto Station, I new I was in for a treat. Anyone who travels here in the future, you should know that Kyoto is so convienent to travel by bus. A $5.00 ticket for the whole day. You can go anywhere. Also, a number of the scenes from Memoirs of a Geisha were filmed in this city. Aparently, it is the second most visited city in the world. So I've heard.
I managed to make my way to Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto. I think the most famous of temples here. An entire pavillion made out of gold!! It is surrounded by the lushest of gardens, ponds and meditation sites. Not to mention outdoor tea houses for the tea lover (mom...I will take you here when you guys come here in May). As soon as I stepped foot on this temple site, I had goosbumps. It is glorious.
Down the street is Ryuanji Temple. The location of a very famous Zen garden. I think what I will remember the most about this place, is not the temple itself, although breathtaking...but they required all visitors to take their shoes off. I think there is something rather profound about this. You can sit, contemplating the order of the cosmos (I guess this is what you do at at Zen garden), meditate/contemplate (I did. Not on Budda. But on what I was wanting to have for lunch.)
The temple is surrounded again by a beautiful garden, many spots where fractions of light would hit the trees. You then come to a beautiful site, where you can view the mountains and the already changing leaves of autumn. It was like someone had taken a paintbrush and brushed these beautiful mysterious colours over the land. I started to weep. I was overwhelmed with...well...I'm not sure what. Seeing the mountains really reminded me of home. (ok, here come the water works again).

The last few days had been really rough up until Wednesday. Although most days are really good for me, it just in the last 5 days, where I really felt boxed in by this sometimes overwhelmingly huge city of Osaka. And not having steady internet or email or contact with the outside world has really made me feel claustraphobic at times. Once we get our connection from Yahoo at the apartment, I know I will have a better perspective. Once again, I think God really reminded me last night through this verse in 1 Ptr, talking about being foreigners in the land, and how He will comfort us and defend us (I think applicable to Bri, Sarah and Lindsay right now too. I thought of you guys when reading this). No way - this just happened to be the devotional in this book I have been reading. I think I'm coming to know Him as my companion here. Even today, Osaka looked just a little better again. Like it did when I first got here...exciting and not so big.

Is it wrong, that when I feel down/homesick some days, that I put on the "Jane" song by Barenaked Ladies? Strange, perhaps, yet therapeutic, I think.

Jane.

falling leaves in the land of the rising sun...

"Cohee, ko-ko de kudasai"
I would like a coffee, to stay. Please
(my latest phrase. Wonder where I learned to say this? You guessed it.)

Currently listening: Feist, Open Season
Latest wierd sighting: old lady sleeping on subway gradually made her way onto the lap of an unsuspecting teenager. I chuckled to myself

Its almost embarrassing how the staff at Starbucks know me here now. But, its fun at the same time, because it has really helped me be more confident with the phrases that I'm learning here and there. I'm probably known by them as the girl who gets coffee like 10 times a day. "Oh, here she comes again, the girl who gets coffee like 10 times a day."
Saw Yuji unexpectedly today. That was a nice surprise. We keep trying to test each other on what we remembered. I managed to ask him, in Japanese, how his day was. We laughed. He seemed impressed. I had to get back to work, so it was brief visit, but needless to say, my day was a little brighter after that. Get this, in Sunday Voice class (where students get to simply have free conversation time with me about any topic. My very favorite time of day at work!), there are a couple students who know about my little crush, and they keep asking me about Yuji. Its really cute.
(Having these little experiences has really been helping me combat the homesickness I experience from time to time now. I think reality is really starting to settle in. Not the "let down" kind of reality- just the, "oh ****, I really am in a foreign country for more than just 2 weeks" type of reality.

The other day, I was so drained. It was hard getting up in the morning. I have had trouble sleeping the last few nights. Not sure why. I remember on the train, and listening to this song by Tim Hughes, and quietly saying to myself, "Lord, please teach me how to love my students in a new way today. I feel like I don't have the energy." The first two classes in the morning were tough, but then it was like God literally pressed in my heart and fell in my lap, and changed the way I saw them. My lessons transformed into not just me teaching english, but seeing them as really lovely and enjoyable people.
I just felt the excitement in one of my students today as she learned the new phrase, "I'd like to return this sweater please. There's a whole in the sleeve." So simple, yet I could tell she felt so proud about being able to say a full sentance finally. These are the moments I really look forward to in the day. Although teaching can be exhausting at times, all it takes is one student who feels good about what they've learned, and I seriously want to hug them! This one student in particular, an older lady, you all would want to hug her too!! She is precious in my sight.
I've found teaching so far to be mainly about self exploration. I think I've learned more about myself in the last 2 months than I have in the last 2 years. It can be scary at times. But, generally, I think God is really helping me be ok with it.

I now have my 2 days off. I'm finally going to be making a long awaited trip to Kyoto (only 30 minutes away from Osaka by the Hanku Line!). I've been hearing from students that the leaves are beginning to change there. Along with all the many beautiful temples and shrines located in the hub of Kyoto, this is sure to be more than worth the visit. I booked a guesthouse there for the next few nights. I'm needing to get out of this big city Osaka for more than just a few hours. Not sure of my exact plans yet, I'm just excited to see where the sun takes me.

Until we meet again. The next time I'm in Starbucks, I will imagine you all there, sipping a latte with me.

Jane.

gen-ki des ka?

In the last couple weeks, I have met a new friend - Yuji. He works at the Starbucks close to my school. Since I come to Starucks quite a bit, he excitedly introduced himself to me one day by writing his name down on a reciept. In attempting to give me a taste test of the latest Starbucks coffee, we kept apologizing to each other for our lack of language skills. Dispite my lack of Japanese, and his little English, we have somehow managed to share a laugh or two. Over coffee last night, Yuji and I decided to become language exchange partners. I have finally come to the conclusion that I can't just rely on my mime artistry in order to communicate with the people here. I have managed to pick up a few words and phrases here and there, but expecially to interact and meet new people, I want to hopefully carry a conversation - especially with Yuji (ok...if you haven't guess already, I think he's cute mostly, but getting to learn Japanese is just an added bonus of getting to hang out with him!)

sushi: to much of a good thing.

too much sushi today...for lunch and dinner. I think I have become addicted. Tuna, salmon, snapper - you name it, I ate it. I just love this stuff so much. I feel somewhat cultured when I go to the sushi places around here. Sam and his girlfriend Yumi showed me the Japanese way to eat sushi tonight - by putting the whole thing in your mouth at once. Good and bad advice. Unfourtunately, with this method, your head is not able to keep up with your stomach.

Hello my name is Jane, and I'm a sushi addict.

a few lonely pics for ya.

My apartment #206 at Shin-Osaka Nanai Biru. Trying to make it more homey everyday. As you can see, its very simple. Living here is really teaching me how little I can actually live on - and be quite content actually! We have a little balcony to hang our laundry on and chat with our neighbors. Myriahs room is too the right - not in the picture - with tatami mats and sliding doors.


This is my very simple room. Its a work in progress. I'm trying to put little touches here and there. Whatever inspires me. Notice the futon! Jer, I hope you can see the photoalbum you gave me right beside my bed! The bicycle I have been talking about. "The blue bullet" I'm calling her. Notice the sweet basket on the front.
One of my days off to Osaka Castle.

This is all I have right now folks. I managed to email these to myself from my mobile phone. More coming, I promise.

the old lady and my bicycle.

Just got home from work. Watching Japanese soap opera. Tofu and salad for lunch (chopsticks are not so hard to use anymore!).
Its windy today here. Cloudy too. I rode my bicycle home from the station and I noticed the air is cooler today. Embarrassing story - so, apparently I have no sense of balance - while riding my bike to Nishinikajima-Minamikata station (say that 5 times fast!) this morning, I pretty much toppled over for no reason. I stopped at the crosswalk, and almost fell onto some old lady. I got a wierd look. I hope no one else saw. What made me feel even more dumb was that fact that 2 smaller girls on their bikes, simply whizzed past me and giggled to themselves. Very random. I seem to wear a big sign on my forehead that says "Laugh now, please."
Some days its really tricky to figure out how to dodge people on your bike. Not to mention this SUPER SCARY tunnel that I dread everytime on my way to the station. Its so narrow, and you literally have to hold your breath everytime you pass someone. I think I'm an accident waiting to happen. My palms sweat just thinking about going into that darn tunnel.
I've learned that I just have to scare myself ****less here at first (excuse the language!), then I eventually feel better. Still...I hate that darn tunnel.

untitled (yet too much to say)

Thanks for coming back! It’s been a while since my last update. Pull up a chair…stay a while.*

So, having recently turned 24, I celebrated by going to an izakai (Japanese bar), buying myself a hat, a new piece of jewelry (of course) and learning to ride my new bicycle. (which I ride almost everyday on my way to the train station**!). It has a basket and everything. (Myriah calls the ones with baskets on both ends a “Mommy-tron” bicycle – literally, moms have their kids on either end of the bicycles here! Seriously, little Asian kids – the cutest thing you will ever see! I digress). My friend Sam and his girlfriend Umi helped me find a really good deal ($50 CAN!) and once I registered it (yes, like a car!), and managed to weave my way through the pedestrian traffic here. Yes, I have to weave! I thought to myself…no kidding, I’m riding a bicycle in Japan, singing “I want to ride my bicycle, I want to ride my bike”… a very Lonely Planet-esk moment.

Speaking of lonely planet, my travel book lead me to visit to the Human Rights Museum the other day. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I arrived, but little did I know how big of an impact this visit would have. The museum goes through the history of various human rights issues in Japan – women’s issues, people with disabilities, homosexuality etc. I must say, that it got me thinking a lot about how lucky we actually are in Canada to have the resources we do. Even in regards to the way we think about human rights issues. The other day, for example, in the subway I noticed there was a man in a wheelchair who was waiting to catch the Midosuji line. As I waited beside him, I noticed how accessibility is so limited here. One of the station masters had to wait beside him with a ramp in order to help him on the subway car. And, in a matter of 30 seconds, he had to get him on the car. Somedays, it just breaks my heart when I see people with a disability who struggle to walk the long hallways of the underground, or try not to be pushed by the crowds (and believe me, somedays, it can be ruthless here in the subway!)

So (not sure what the transition should be here) I’m sure many of you have heard about the situation with North Korea at the moment and the nuclear threat that Japan is experiencing***. The other morning, two of my students simply just wanted to have a free conversation about this. We talked about the general feeling of the Japanese people right now, and what this whole nuclear crisis could mean for the country. I have to tell you, its been pretty remarkable learning about this whole thing directly from Japanese residents. I never thought it would be as meaningful as it has been.

Random things…
-found Canadian maple syrup in a train station store the other day
-latest english t-shirt sighting “Go on: Extrude my boot.”
-I bought a beer tonight, from a vending machine in the street, for 100yen ($1).
-I miss peanut butter
-I miss utensils
-I miss thanksgiving. No mom, theres no turkey sushi here!
-I met another teacher from Edmonton today, during my Kids Training at another Nova branch – get this, she lived just down the street from Kings!!! No way.
-another person came up to me in a train station on my day off, asking me if I need help (I did, in fact.). This random stranger not only pointed me in the right direction, he lead me to the exact train I needed to be on. The kindness of strangers. Its a good thing.

* I like talking to you all… as if you are sitting next to me.

**my butt is sure hurtin’

***wow, to see this written out is a little frieky. I hadn’t thought much about it until now

Miss you all. More than you know.

Jane.

autumn rain

The other day, it was raining here in Osaka. Strangely, I enjoyed it. I felt this odd peace inside. Later that day, I just happened to come across Psalm 84. Part of the verse is "What joy for those whose strength comes from the Lord, who have set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs. The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings. They will continue to grow stronger..."

I hope this speaks to you somehow today. Psalm 84. Read it.

Jane

PS - Happy Birthday Krista (tomorrow anyways). I love that we have the same birthday. I will think of you in Japan, if you think of me in Edmonton!

the curve of learning

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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!

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.