Hello All- Coming to you all for a mid-week blog post. 
Just wanted to say a very happy 9th anniversary to my husband-

Happy Anniversary my love- So sorry I can not be there to kiss your cute face this morning but I will see you in 2 weeks.

How can it be 9 years....that we promised to love each other and give it all we had...It has not always been the easiest of times with all life throws at you sometimes but we have never said or thought we did not want to do this life without each other.  Thank you for loving me and believing in me...when you say you are "Proud of Me" my whole world melts....

Year 9- as usual came with curve balls- one of the toughest was loosing "You, me and the Dog"
(Great in my Apartment lobby crying now- they will officially think I am that crazy American)- It still seems so weird and I will be so glad when the day goes by when I can think of her and smile versus cry- I am not to the point I can talk so much about her because my heart is still broken into pieces.  Funny how I sit down to write a sweet anniversary post and it ends up being about Polly Girl- which is appropriate because in our first 8 years of marriage she was our constant...and she was truly the one that provided us unconditional love...so my love this year..I hope for a love as pure, true and unconditional as the one that Polly had for us.  I love you so and I will see you very soon- xoxo


                                  Her favorite place- Being with us....and being at the ocean
                                                                    Polly Gumm-Trial

 

 

                                       She was clearly not amused with my shenanigan's

              Happy 9 years to the love of my life- and who I am still thankful for each and everyday

 

 

 

 

Hello All:
Coming to you live on a Monday...I am technically off work- due to new emperor festivities but taking a little break from work emails to drop you guys some lines.  By the way who ever invented emails I kinda have a love/hate relationship with them.

So last week we actually had a holiday on Monday as well- "Sports day"- loving all the things they celebrate here maybe I should bring back to the U.S.

Sports day is a newer holiday it has only been around since 1966- it commemorates the Opening Ceremony of the Olympics in Tokyo- The purpose it to promote sports and a healthy lifestyle.  The schools celebrate by having an all day field day- Wish I would have known this I would have gone and watched...

However, I did go out to the most amazing French restaurant last week with a guy from work and his wife- He is another American in our office and so nice- We usually go and have Mexican at least once a week together!  This restaurant was in Roppongi- and it seats maybe 12-15..and one guy runs the whole show..cook...server...etc.  His food was so amazing- I had a pear and bacon salad, pork chop, butternut squash, and something else I was not sure what it was...oh and wine..alot of wine...haha!  I would put a link to the restaurant but it is all Japanese...and so was the menu...

Then on Tuesday I went out with my group from work-It was to a place that had dancing.  But we had a bento box for dinner....and not sure if you guys are familiar with bento boxes they are basically like an all seafood lunch box- cold.  However, there was some beef and pork...so it was like being at the lunch table in 2nd grade and I was asking to trade my food....Needless to say I was starving when I left and was talking to Jacqueline on the phone and said I am headed to McDonalds and you are not allowed to judge me!

We are also off tomorrow- There was supposed to be a parade for the new emperor, but due to the typhoon and still so many areas are struggling they have postponed.  I am very sorry to say but the death count from the typhoon ended up being close to 80 pp and many still a lot of cleanup.  Luckily I do not think we got as much rain as they were forecasting this weekend - it was a big concern here due to many cracks in the levies and severe flooding.

So I was kinda lazy this weekend and caught up on laundry, market, etc- and then even though we are off today and tomorrow I am going to catch up on some work at my coffee shop.

So some observations to share with everyone:
-It got to low 60's and the Japanese are dressing like it is the dead of winter...I am not sure as I think it is a mix for women of actually being cold but also accessorizing their outfit.  They really commit to fashion here!
-The Crime Section in the newspaper here in Japan is very different than the crime section in the US.  Literally in the last 2-3 weeks some of the top stories were about a police officer that they caught that was going around and stopping up women's toilets in convenience stores (Lawsons) and someone stole approximately $2.50 of yakitori (grilled meat on a stick) and then proceeded to run and then punch someone in the face when they tried to capture him.  Don't get me wrong they have some other horrible thing like child abuse but not at the rate that you read about in the U.S.
-There is a whole lot of carbs here- I mean rice is served at every meal and there is so many bakeries  bread....I have eaten more carbs in 4 months than I did all last year
-You really have not experienced Japan and been like a "local" unless you have eaten a couple meals from the convenience stores- Check that off the list for me!
-Being a woman in the work force in Japan is tough- we will leave it at that


My plans next weekend include going to Shibuya Crossing to see everyone dressed up for Halloween...I can not even begin to imagine how elaborate their costumes will be so be prepared for photo overload.  Also if you could all take a minute and send some positive thoughts to someone very near and dear to my heart- She has a big couple weeks in front of her...and I would just appreciate if you all could send good thoughts/prayers her way...

Much love to you all
K

If you want to learn more about sports day
https://www.bestlivingjapan.com/sports-day-october/


Out with my group- On a "Tuesday"

When I walk out of my apartment

Starbucks here in Japan is very big on always have themed drinks!

My dinner from the French Restaurant!

 

 

Walking out of my office building- I have done much better of not getting lost when I venture out!

Next weekend at my apartment- I think I will sign up and give it a try...stay tuned

Video at the end of the dancing

 

Typhoon- Hagibas

Hi Guys...
Seems like I am always on here letting you know I am safe and sound.  Well again I am safe and sound.  This weekend was pretty crazy- Saturday we had a typhoon, tornadoes, earthquake- 5.2 , and mudslides.  We got to leave work about 30 minutes early on Friday....and it was a mad house because they were shutting down the trains- which please refer to my last post to see how well that works out here- they cancelled all flights domestic and international on Saturday.  So mark off my list of feeling an earthquake in Japan:((

So I stopped by the market on Friday on my way home from work to pick up a couple more things (I had already picked some stuff up on Thursday- and thank goodness).  There was not a piece of sushi, fish, bread to be found in 5 markets I went to.

Funny story - They literally sell bread in packages of 2 pieces..Tc was so shocked by this when he came to visit and I informed him they like Just In Time Inventory in the kitchen unlike us in the U.S.
In the U.S. it is milk and bread....in Japan it is don't forget your sushi and Sake in an emergency..haha

So anyway- back to me prepping for the storm- Since there was no bread..I did the next best thing and got stuff to make myself a nice salad and cheese tray..I mean I don't need power to make these things.  And then decided what goes with a cheese tray but a nice bottle of red wine...I feel like this was the best thing I could do to mentally prepare me. However, then I bought too much and had to carry all of that home from the market in a freaking downpour with no less than 1 million people..sigh....
City Life...

So on to Saturday- I went out for a walk Saturday morning because it was not so bad outside and I was worried I might go stir crazy in my 376 sq. foot apartment all day.  Then I got home and hunkered down...it really did not get so bad until after 8pm (and by this time I had been eating all day long- clearly I was not rationing my food and wine)..the wind was something I have never experienced...our lights flickered on and off...and everything was just shaking.  For some reason I put on my tennis shoes..not sure why just thought in case anything happened I need to have them on (I was telling my friend this and she was like where were you going..I was like heck if I know it just seemed like a good idea)!  Not sure if I thought I could outrun something which sounds so absurd but at the time I was like oh I should have on shoes..great idea Karen!
So there I was sitting with my flashlight, cheese tray, wine, and my tennis shoes on watching a Hallmark series on Netflix...oh and my bathtub filled all the way up in case we lost water I could flush my toilet. 

It finally passed around 1am...and I started to be able to relax and finally fell asleep around 2am. 
When I woke up the next morning the sun was shining (very very windy) but hard to believe mother nature had been so evil the day before.  Over my morning coffee was reading lots of articles and some that were pretty interesting:

-The Rugby World Cup is here in Japan and they actually had to cancel the games on Saturday and some on Sunday
-They played some of the games on Sunday and Japan won their game which was so good after such devastation.  And also the game that was cancelled on Saturday was to be played in the prefecture that was basically knocked off the map in 2011 earthquake.  They had been working so hard to rebuild- definitely pulled at the heart strings for these people who are working so hard to rebuild their community.
-Canada match was cancelled but they all went out on Sunday to help with the cleanup from the mudslide in some areas...the things the Japanese were saying about them and how much it meant to them was truly heart warming

So I know I joke about all this but it was pretty scary and many people lost their lives so please say a prayer for them and their families...Typhoon season should be over by end of Oct. and hoping this is the last one I see.  Many people at work have been telling me that these past 2 were some of the worst to hit Tokyo in over 50 years...
But just let me tell you some of the ladies I work with- Have messaged me and made sure I was okay numerous times- Even sent me many emergency things in English.  They did not have to do this..but their compassion and care for others is something I will never forget in my lifetime- Just goes to show you their is still a lot of good in the world.  For some reason the bad is always pointed out more often...but please do not forget to focus on all the good people and small things that they do that make a huge impact.

Some Stats from an article I was reading
-37 people died- advising this number will go up
-17 still missing- and numbers expected to rise
-100 people injured
-19th typhoon of the season

Needing to get some work done but wanted to check in with you all as many of you have been messaging me because I guess this storm has now been covered on the US News.

Much love to you all
K

Some Photos


  Pictures from the empty market

 

 

Video from my apartment

 

Hi Guys...Just wanted to jump on really fast and let everyone know I am okay...
The Typhoon made landfall last night..and we had some pretty strong winds- I woke up to things flying against my window and my doors shaking....but other than that I am okay.  Fast Forward to this morning- They suspended the trains this morning due to wind and needing to check the tracks to make sure no damage....Dear Lord...it is a mad house here...I mean it is crazy when everything is going perfect her..so you can imagine.

I headed to my train station around 9:00am..because I heard my train line (JR Yamanote Line) should be running at 9...I mean there were people every where..I stood in line just to try and get close to the area my train was...at 10:30 I started trying to call a taxi- Busy signal..then went outside the train station to get a taxi-which is laughable at best...

Finally at 10:50 I gave up and headed home...and I forgot to mention at 9:30am heat index was already over 95...I was sweating to death- I saw someone from my office..and I was like great..I probably smell and look like a hot mess..

I finally emailed my boss and said this is nuts I will be working from home.  One of the guys from my office messaged me..He left his home at 7am...usually 1 hour transit- He finally got to the office at 11:30.  I was like you are better than me..I am not that dedicated and aborted mission after 1.5 hours. 

Working from home is just not an accepted thing here..it is just not the culture- But I was like sorry it's going to be today...

Will update you all on my weekend later- just wanted to let you know I am okay.  And to also please send some really good thoughts and prayers to a pretty amazing woman- My Aunt Betty.  She is under the weather and in the hospital...Being away from home is hard to begin with- But being 2 days away when someone you love fiercly who is sick is a different level of hard I had not yet encountered.  She is doing better- Or at least that is what my family is telling me (but if you have not met my parents they could work for the CIA/FBI because they are like vaults, always seem calm, and just have this way of making you think everything will always be okay.  Some people are never blessed with people like this in their lives...but I was blessed with 2 of them- Even though as you can imagine..I was maybe not as clear in thought last night..haha).  She is surrounded by people who care for her...but she is a pistol and I know she will be A-Okay...

Okay back to work- just wanted to take a minute to update you all- Less than 1 week until I am KY Bound...please no more typhoons...do not want my flight cancelled home...
Here is just part of an article on the storms:((

https://japantoday.com/category/national/Typhoon-pummels-Kanto-region-one-reported-dead-40-injured


Love to you all
K

 

Hello All
I know I know..it has been awhile since my post.  Actually when the hubs got here just threw everything to the way side except him and work...

I can not even begin to tell you how awesome it was to have him here....doing life with me.  We took everything in and just truly lived in the moment.  He is back home now and to say my heart is missing him is an understatement. 

Overall, he really liked Japan and is going to try and come back during my 6 month stint.  Not sure if you guys followed some of his Facebook post..he is still a little bit behind on all the things he did. 

I have decided that being away- the hardest thing is just feeling like you are missing out on the lives of the people you love the most...
I come home in Sept. for 2 weeks and I might not sleep- because I want to see, visit, talk with as many people as possible...so you all have been put on notice if I just keep showing up at your house..just tolerate me because I will be back on the other side of the world in 2 weeks.  So funny story..We have a big meeting when I am scheduled to be home..they mentioned I might have to move my trip..and for those of you that know me and work I always do whatever is asked- But all of a sudden I was like- No sorry not moving..haha.  One said he had to move his trip I was like oh that stinks..not moving mine...haha..kinda shocked myself that is just came out.  I was telling TC about it and he was just shocked.

Also- big news- I was invited to an executive outing on Monday night..wait for it..I am going bowling at the American Club...Do I know how to bowl..um nope sure don't so this could be comical.  I thought about not going for this reason but decided what the heck

Was chatting with TC this am- and he was talking about going to the grocery and checking out Salmon- he was craving fish (not sure why..he ate almost half an ocean of fish when he was over here) and he was like I just kept going..are you serious no way I am paying this...It was more than double what it is in Japan.  He bought at the market every week salmon and had for breakfast for less than $5.00 in Japan....and now he is shocked and appalled at US Fish Prices...
I was like did you buy some- He was like no- I am not paying that much. 

Also- please everyone sent good thoughts to Polly girl- TC took her to the vet- and we are trying some new treatments for her arthritis.  She is our whole world and want her to feel better.  TC called me to tell me about the visit- The vet told him she was like the oldest client they had (almost 16) and that we had taken really good care of her and she was happy...music to a parents ears.  So just send her some extra thoughts/prayers (and for her parents too).

Alright..better get back to work...
Love to you all..and I will be home soon.  Will try to take some pics this week for my blog update next week!
K

 

Hi All

Sorry a little late posting...

So I am happy to report that I presented to our President last Friday- and it went really well- The first couple of minutes I was pretty shaky...In the Japanese culture the whole seating arrangements can be stressful (There is a formal protocol on where to sit)...he sat right in front of me so we were locked eye to eye....haha! But after a couple of minutes I settled in and did really well- I was prepared and knew my subject so that always makes things easier!

 So Saturday I was lazy a bum- I know I should have gone exploring but after my long week of preparing for my Friday meeting I was spent..So Netflix and napping it was!  Sunday I hung out with one of my co-workers and his family- He wanted his daughter to be able to practice English with me- She is 17 years old and goes to a private high school she travels 1.5 hours each way on a train- Can you imagine a child doing that in the U.S.?  She takes English at her school however, the instructor is Japanese..haha so they say she can’t learn it correctly “So insert me...” They treated me to a steak and some cheaper shopping letting me know the best places to get stuff.  It was a really fun day- We went to Korea town and when I tell you there are so many people here that is an understatement.  I mean there is people everywhere...sometimes it can be a tad bit overwhelming.  I also went to my first place in Japan that I was told not to go to by myself at night..I basically said I did not know places like that existed in Japan...So evidently it is an area run by the Yakuza (Japanese Mafia) and they can be pretty scary and when they come into a place they just lift up their sleeve and flash their tattoos on their arms and people know they are from the Yakuza.  This is one reason that tattoos are taboo here because they are associated with gangs.  I told TC we do not need to go to this area..I do not want people thinking he is in some kind of gang. 

 

So Monday - I was invited to another drinking party...after work.  The drinking party started at 6pm and I walked into my apartment at 11:25pm..did I mention this was on a MONDAY...guess I am not cut out for this.  I only had a 30 minute commute home from the Chinese restaurant..some people had over 1.5 hours...These people are troopers I am telling you!  So I have decided when I come home I will either be an alcoholic or a rock star because I will be able to survive on less sleep during the week...haha (just joking mom don't worry).  But it was so much fun and everyone was so nice and welcoming there was 14 of us total from all different departments.  Also it was really cool- it was all you wanted to order off menu (alot of food was ordered and drinks and it was just 2,000 Yen= $20 USD so very very affordable and it was really good)!  This is very common in Japan- many co-workers go out after work.  Also mid-way through everyone starts changing seats and takes their drinks with them so they can chat with other people..

 Also during this party I was invited to the Office Running Club on Wednesdays- they run 5K around the Emperors Palace which is close to our office- So stay tuned..I hope I don't die running in this heat and humidity- they also mentioned something about paying 800 Yen to shower afterwards-not sure I caught everything..not sure about all this so could be interesting.  They were kinda of surprised I agreed to go and told me they very much appreciated me trying to join in to everything..but I told them I want to experience everything and these types of relationships are so very important in the Japanese culture

 Couple other notable points for the week:

 

Japanese Women and High Heels- they wear 2-4 inch stilletots..in the office, to the train, on the weekend to the market.  Not me over here- flats all the way!  I mean I do not understand how they can even feel their feet at the end of the day...

Japanese women are also very elegant and when they go out they always look so nice and very put together.  In the U.S. you will go to the market or run an errand in your gym clothes (or at least I do)..you just do not see that over here.  I mean let’s be honest I am sure it is a huge culture shock to them when they come to U.S. and visit the local Wal-Mart..I would love to be a fly on the wall when they describe this to their family and friends living in Japan.  Also they all get ready when leaving office - the bathroom is full of people reapplying makeup- they just have such pride in their appearance.  Also something to mention is both men and women brush their teeth after lunch..you see them all headed to bathroom with their tooth brushes..I can appreciate this-maybe something we should think about adopting in the U.S.

Train Shovers- So I have now fully experienced this..so they wear White Gloves (I guess that makes it more sophisticated) and they gently push people in so more can fit and the doors can close.  If people did this in the U.S. there would be fights all the time- But it just works here- people understand that is the way it is

 

TC arrived the end of this week- So I will be writing more in a couple of days to get everyone up to speed- He is napping right now before dinner (jet lag stinks).  Much love to you all-

I will leave you with this- Was listening to music this week and heard this song and made me miss you all that are reading this blog… Give it a listen on YouTube if you get time this week- It will make you smile

 How Long Will I Love You

Ellie Goulding

How long will I love you
As long as stars are above you
And longer if I can
How long will I need you
As long as the seasons need to
Follow their plan

How long will I be with you
As long as the sea is bound to
Wash up on the sand

How long will I want you
As long as you want me to
And longer by far
How long will I hold you
As long as your father told you
As long as you can

How long will I give to you
As long as I live through you
However long you say

How long will I love you
As long as stars are above you
And longer if I may

How long will I love you
As long as stars are above you

 

 

 Pics from our Monday Night Drinking Party- Delicious Chinese Food and All you can drink for 3 hrs.- 2,000 Yen..

Popular Drink- Most people get milk tea with tapioca balls- I got mango juice..delicious

Last weekend- Hanging out with co-worker and his family.  This is his daughter...we were practicing English.  People here amaze me at learning a second language and studying so hard- She had a list of American words she learns every week and they were tough words!

 

 

Hi Everyone- Hope you are all doing well!.  Happy to report I am getting more into the swing of things and doing okay.  So alot to report from last week- Hope you all enjoy my life and adventures

 

 

So I had a pretty busy social calendar last week

-I had lunch 2 different days with some girls in my office.  One of the lunches we went to a Japanese Restaurant and then the 2nd day with 2 ladies from another department...they took me to get a hamburger, French fries, and miso soup..haha- not going to lie it was pretty tasty

 

-I also got invited to come have lunch in the conference rooms with the other ladies when I bring my lunch..which I have yet to do yet- but might consider this week

-Went to dinner with a pretty cool lady from my office- She actually left our company went to work for a German Company and then came back..Which might be common in the US but it is NOT common in Japan.  But they love to practice their English- and it really is very good.  It just amazes me how well they can speak a second language...this is something we are lacking in the US.  We had some good Italian wine and had lots of great conversation (I am not a lover of Japanese Red Wine- Guess I have just not had the right one yet-It Japanese it is called aka wain- I learned that word early on!)

 

-During one of my lunches one day- I was eating with 2 ladies and neither one married (one had a boyfriend)The one with a boyfriend asked me- How do you get man to marry you...I was caught off guard with that question. I gave them a quick run down of how T.C. and I dated..then broke up for a long time..then got married.  They were shocked (so guessing this does not happen in Japan) they informed me I had a very "enchanted relationship. I took that as a good thing!

 

So now that I have been in the office for 2 weeks now- Everyone is kind of figuring out about me- One of the days when I went to lunch with the ladies..they started speaking in Japanese...and one finally said- Oh my gosh- I am so sorry we have been so informal we were not aware of your high level position and started bowing.  Talk about taking me off guard...I was like please stop doing that.

 

I also went to one of the factories this week- 1 1/2 hour train ride from Tokyo Station...for a meeting-

The meeting was mostly in Japanese- but with some English.  I could understand my name of course and heard then keep talking about me.  At lunch I asked one of the guys..what were you saying about me (he worked in the States with me) and he said he thought you were just a trainee and did not realize your high level because your age so I was having to explain to him that you were qualified for this position.  So that is something that is taking me a minute to get used to.  In  Japan your position depends on your age- So they are all very shocked of my position due to my age (and I am sure gender also).  But I am taking it in stride- It is just very different for them so I am trying to be very go with the flow and understanding.  Of course I have worked very hard in my career and I deserve this so I will not let anyone discount that- But I am trying to be understanding they have to get used to this.

 

I also forgot to tell you guys last week- Every morning the work bell rings at 8:50- everyone is in their seat working- Then each dept. has their morning pep talk- My group also does a cheer- I am not 100% sure what it is about since it is all in Japanese- But we have to do finger pointing and repeating after the leader-It has something to do with being a hard worker and making sure you stay healthy..

The work environment is different here- It is very structured...bells ring to start, for beginning and ending of lunch, and end of work day.  Also it is not uncommon for people to ride the train for over an hour to work because cost of living is so much more expensive in Tokyo.  Also on Friday's at the end of the work day- A Disney song comes over the loud speaker... 

 

Also- some very exciting news- I was chosen last week for my companies Discovery Program- So I will be going to a week long high level leadership program - not just automotive but all the different groups.  At the end we will give a presentation to the President of the whole company- So there is like 300 different divisions of my company and this guy is the President of all of them. I am kind freaking out...I hate presenting..and this guy is very famous to our company. So this is huge honor and I am very excited- I have already received my material and started studying this weekend- I must represent KY!!

 

This weekend I was out and about exploring-

Saturday- I left the city part of my town and walked to the more local neighborhoods- There I found some cheaper fruit- I have attached picture below- I got flowers, 1 peach, Strawberries, 2 lemons for $8.50- when I tell you that is a bargain trust me..in the city one peach can easily cost $5.00. 

Also- When I come home on Saturday afternoon finally my air freight boxes from the US had arrived- I had been living just out of my suitcase for 2 weeks- the rest of my life had finally arrived that contained what was needed for my next 6 months:))

 

Sunday- I went to go get a massage- Carrying bags/back-packs for long periods is different for me.  Well my appointment was at 11am- and usually in US you need to be there 10-15 minutes before..because that is your start time.  Well where I need to be there was a barricade- Well I walked around it and walked into the place- The ladies were very concerned...and started speaking in Japanese- and then a security guard came..Guess I should have not went around the barricade...needles to say I got the idea I needed to leave..without any English..haha. It is funny how verbal cues can get the point across.

 

I also decided to head to Tokyo Harbor on Sunday- It is only 0.8 miles from my apartment.  When I got there - There was a very cool local performance going on..it was amazing to see culture..they were all just so proud- And I could for sure spot the proud parents out of the crowd (Dance Moms all look alike no matter the country- However, they did not have a sparkly shirts- Haha Alison).  I have attached photos/videos!  Then I went to eat at TY Harbor- They have American Food..haha-I ordered Half Order Fried Chicken, Coleslaw, Buttermilk biscuits- the server was trying to communicate with me...I thought she was confused and thought I wanted a whole order vs. Half- So I kept saying 1/2 order please..Finally she accepted this.  So...30 minutes later they bring me a PLATTER of Fried Chicken like 6-7 pieces.(oh dear I now understand what she was trying to communicate).  I was sitting at the bar and my Platter of Chicken took up so much room- I mean they even brought tongs for my platter of chicken. I am sure they were all taking about me in the kitchen like this crazy American Lady has ordered enough food for 3!  I ate and I ate..and I was throwing in the towel but so upset that I had so much food left..and my server came over and said- BOX??  I was like YES PLEASE.  This was such a kind gesture...because to go boxes in Japan do not exist...but they had a take out restaurant so she went there and got me a box...Such kindness was so much appreciated

So I was all packed up- with my 4 pieces of chicken left headed home- thank goodness I had a 20 minute walk home- I was dying because I was trying to eat a whole platter of Fried Chicken..

 

So I am writing this on a Monday in Japan- Because we are on Holiday today!  It is called Umi no Hi- Also called Ocean/Marine Day- I am attaching a little bit about the day below

 

Also- had an issue without my air conditioner remote being lost- So they come and clean our rooms on Monday and Thursday- So on Thursday when I came home from work I could not find my remote- I tore my apartment apart- So I called to Front Desk- and they told me..please look in my room for my remote..haha.  I wanted to tell them..Guys I have not "man looked" (I tell TC this when he can not find something..I am like did you "man look" again).  So I had to go down and explain to them...somehow my remote disappeared maybe it was wrapped up in my bedding when they changed sheets...so that was a super fun conversation to try to have- but we navigated and I now have another remote- Air is working great

 

More next week all- Love to you all

K

 

 

Information on Ocean Day:

Japan’s Marine Day is a celebration of all that the ocean provides to Japan — food, jobs, protection and recreation.It probably shouldn’t be surprising that an island nation that is surrounded by the deep blue sea would honor the ocean and its many amazing creatures with a national holiday.　Marine Day is a relatively new holiday that is held every year on the third Monday in July. It was designated as a holiday in 1995 and was first officially observed in 1996. Marine Day was made a Monday holiday as part of Japan’s “Happy Monday System.” This system moved some of the country’s holidays around to Mondays to create more three-day weekends for its notoriously hard-working citizens.  Because Japan’s Marine Day is the first national holiday of the summer, its timing makes it a perfect day to head to the beach for a day of relaxation or swimming. Marine Day has also become associated with the first day of summer. Because Marine Day is a relatively new holiday, there are no real traditional ceremonies held in its honor. However, there are many special events held in honor of Marine Day throughout the country at venues such as aquariums.  For example, in Odaiba, Tokyo, volunteers light hundreds of beautiful paper lanterns and lay them out on the sand in colorful patterns and intricate shapes as part of the Paper Lantern Festival, which is held on Marine Day in Odaiba Marine Park. This is a very special festival that offers great opportunities for photographs. The colorful patterns look especially stunning with Tokyo’s famous Rainbow Bridge in the background.　

Originally known as Marine Memorial Day or Marine Commemoration Day, this holiday came into existence in 1941 and honored the day that Japan’s 122nd emperor, Meiji the Great, returned to the port of Yokohama in 1876 from a trip to Hokkaido. So, not surprisingly, this port plays host to a number of commemorative events, including an annual fireworks show.  Northern Okinawa also hosts a number of events in honor of Marine Day, including a large fishing competition.　Marine Day is also used as a time to bring awareness to the general health of the world’s oceans and Japan’s role in keeping the seas clean. In that vein, many seaside communities host beach cleanup days on this holiday.　Other communities, including Okinawa, celebrate Marine Day by creating EM Mudballs. These balls are made of dried mud and “Effective Microorganisms” (EM), which are then thrown into large bodies of water to eliminate sludge and slime. Japanese citizens across the country create and toss thousands of these balls for Marine Day each year.



 

 

 

 

Out walking around on Saturday in My Neighborhood- Out of Touristy Area

Oh my gosh Mom- I found the Dollar Store Japan..you should come visit (actually right now with conversion it is only $0.93..haha)

 

While walking around Tokyo Harbor on Sunday-  A performance (Syd- you can come dance in Japan).  Videos below- I hope they work..I have never attached videos. 

After watching the performance- Went to have Dinner- Australian Pinot Noir (Jeff you would have enjoyed!!)

"THE FRIED CHICKEN"

Tokyo Harbor at Night on my way home

So many stores just have beautiful plants

My purchases at the market

Yeah my boxes have arrived - 2 weeks later.  Everything I need for 6 months

Decorate my apartment with Cards and photos- makes me smile!

Market closest to my house- 10 minute walk..but very expensive

 

Hello Everyone...
Sunday afternoon here and wanted to catch you all up on my week.. I have now been here 8 days...so pretty much over the jet lag and adjusted to my new time zone..

So a couple of things about my week- I have now completed 5 days in my new job...so far so good.  I think everyone is still trying to figure out about me...you know..am I capable..am I smart..am I an American spy..so so many questions going on in the office!

So on Monday I got to leave work early and move into my new...321sq. ft apt.  I live in Shinegawa (let me know if you need my address so you can send me amazing things..haha)  My apt. is small..but so so nice and conveniently located to so many restaurants/markets/etc.  And..a 10 minute covered walked to the JR train station..why is that SOO important..well because it is rainy season in Japan..that is why the covered part is so important.

So I am checked in ..still waiting for my boxes but hopefully those will arrive in a couple of days so I can be fully unpacked and settled.

So like I said I have a short 10 minute walk to the train station...5 stops on the train..and 10 minute walk from Tokyo Station to my office- Otemachi.  First part of the week here it was hot..I mean really hot...and the air in my office does not come on until 9am..and I say air condition but really it is hot air being circulated.  So it is very common for people to come in with their hair wet from sweat.  Well I say people..really just me and the men..The women have on long sleeves..and are just glistening...like not sweating..my over at my desk..using my rag to wipe the sweat from my face...as my bangs are stuck to my forehead..make up already melted off my face by 8:30am...not a pretty sight..let me just tell all of you.  So needless to say extra make up and deodorant are packed in my bag. 

The train stations in the morning and afternoon..are something you can never really prepare yourself for...There is people coming from every corner of the world it feels like.  First couple of mornings I was pretty traumatized..but by Friday..I knew what side to walk on..which way to turn..I was actually fitting in..and not the rude American.  It all just works here..people walk in the right direction...in unision.  EXCEPT on Fridays- I never saw people break the rules of crosswalks/etc- However, on Friday after work headed to the train station- I saw them..Rule Breakers in Japan.  They were crossing not in cross walks and when there was no Green Walk sign..haha it was just a funny observation to me because during the week I never saw this happening

So back to work..on Tuesday I had orientation..in Japanese with another guy...
And then they told me they sent me the material...again in Japanese..however they did walk me around the Emergency Exit Route/Etc. for Earthquakes- And don't worry at my desk I do have my own earthquake backpack and helmet if needed.  But I am happy to report..that on Friday..they sent me an English Version of the Orinetation..so I am now set!

Some other funny/interesting things this week
-My washer/dryer (it is an all in one)- Is all in Japanese...I will be posting some pics.  I am happy to report I have washed 3 loads of laundry and dried them..and my clothes still fit me.  I know you guys might consider this a small thing..But living in a foreign country and conquering that is huge.  Also yesterday I wandered around and found laundry detergent..because they only gave me two sample packs when I checked it..I live in a touristy area...so I wandered outside of my home base and found at a much cheaper market..Score!

- Grocery Shopping- So I went to the grocery store.  Let me first start in telling you it is near my house...But..you still have to carry what you buy..note to self I bought too much..ROOKIE move on my part.  But I won't do that again.  So that market I went to..SOOO EXPENSIVE..and man it is tough shopping when nothing is in English.  But I was successful in getting eggs, bread, milk, juice, cheese, strawberry jam, peanut butter, lemon cakes, chips, bananas, apples - 2 of them..cost me $4.00, yogurt, granola, water..I think that is it..but yes that is a lot..and I had to carry it..I guess my eyes were too big.  Will try to get some photos from the market this week..Headed there actually after I finish up this post...so stay tuned.  I told myself today I am going to buy something different each time I go..just to expand my mind and palate..so stay tuned

-Next- The Trash Cans..I know you must be thinking..what is she talking about..But the trash system is very serious in Japan.  First..you could walk 10 minutes without seeing a trash can.  And no one will throw trash on the ground.  Second when you do see them- You won't seen just one- In my office alone..there are 7 all lined up in a row.  It literally is one of the most stressful times in my day trying to understand where to throw- Plastic, Paper, Coffee Cup, Food...I know all the office staff is probably trying to figure out why I am over there so long.  In my apartment I have - Burnable, Unburnable, and the trash compactor where I throw food in..so much less complicated system.

-Welcome Drinking Party- Also I need to update everyone..so Shocker I work with all men in my dept.- Only lady here..
But to welcome me in very Japanese fashion...They took me out to a local Japanese bar with food and drinking for my welcome drinking party. It was a blast..they actually took me to a place with Fried Chicken..They were so proud of themselves and to tell you I was so thankful for Fried Chicken, French Fries, Korean Pancakes, Caesar Salad- that had an raw egg cracked on top of it (it was pretty good).  In Japan raw eggs are on a lot of things and very safe to eat here.  They say raw eggs in Japan won't kill you like they do in the Unites States. We went to Kanda for the drinking party- why do I tell you this..because I got on a train at a different station and still made it home.  For those of you that now how directional challenged I am this is some pretty big news for me.

-Dressing in the office- So like I told you..it was really hot here the beginning of  the week.  Men in the summer are allowed summer dress which means they do not have to wear a coat and can wear short sleeve dress shirts.  I have been dressing with sleeveless but cardigan...which in case you forgot...no air until 9am...Well the other day mid week..I saw a Japanese lady who I have now met and have lunch with this week...Wearing sleeveless...and then the next day..wearing PINK..oh my gosh...everyone wears blue, black, gray, navy, white..so to see her wearing this was music to my ears..and huge sigh of relief.  So I decided I will be like her..the next day I wore sleeveless...and then the next day wait for it..I wore GREEN..haha..!  I may not be a leader here but when I see something I like you better believe I will be the quickest follower ever.

So going to wrap this up..stay tuned will post some this week...
I have some fun things coming up...Dinner with wine, girls lunch...so more to come.
Also just want to say a huge thank you to my family and friends for supporting this journey...and for taking time to talk this week and figuring out our new normal with talking schedules.  They are all the most amazing people ever...and I miss them dearly.  There is no way I would be as driven and fierce of a women without them...they not only have my back..but they stand beside my holding me up.

Much love to you all
K

Pics with my Co-Workers at my Welcome Drinking Party

Pics of Where I live- Shinegawa- Oakwood

Breakfast Sunday Morning- Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Grilled Bacon

Home Sweet Home!

Evening Commute...Intense (Chris O'Bryan you would love this)

See whyI am so proud of myself....

 

Hello All:
Decided to start my blog back up to keep everyone updated on my life for the next 6 months.
So I flew out early Friday AM- and made it to Japan by 2:15pm Saturday (Japan time- they are 13 hours ahead of us).  I arrived at my hotel around 6pm and I was asleep by 7..haha

Having to stay in a hotel for 2 nights before my apartment is ready- Tomorrow I will go after work to check into my apartment.  It is 321 sq.ft- Studio...stay tuned I will post some pictures in a couple of days so you can all check out my new pad. 

After I woke up went to the continental breakfast...not really my style so I went walking and found a Starbucks.  My sister Alison would however fit in perfect in Japan  they always serve hard boiled eggs..When I saw everyone this morning it made me think of her and miss her

Yesterday was a rough day...I am going to miss everyone so much but I know each day will get easier.  I am beyond blessed with the most amazing family and friends- I had more dinners, parties, etc before I left and please know I will be thinking of these times often.

Not much else to report on Day 1-But I will report back later in the week to let you know how my first day of work went.


Couple of Interesting Take-Aways
-Teenage girls in Japan love to put their makeup on in Starbucks...over and over again
-Japanese have their own sense of style- I have seen a lot of Polka Dots and Plaid, Fancy Lacy Shirt with Sweatpants
-There has to be like one million restaurants here in Tokyo-

Much Love
Karen