The past few days have been pretty hectic! But I thought I’d share with you some of the interesting, enjoyable and frustrating experiences I’ve had.
I rode my bike for the first time on Thursday – and unsuccessfully might I add too! I think I walked my bike more than rode the thing!!! Regardless, I arrived at my base school safely and dripping in sweat!
The next day I was better – barely any stumbles at all. In fact I actually rode the bike instead of walking it to school! Well I must have rode better, because even my vice principal (or Kyoto Sensei) commented on my confidence. You know you rode badly the first day if someone can make that remark!
It’s fairly slow for me at school, as the other teachers are busy organising club activities, etc. However, I have met the dance club teacher, who has invited me to come along to watch their training sessions after hearing of my gymnastics background! During the day, I have been practicing my kanji, planning my introductory lesson and writing my introduction speech to be presented to staff and students.
My weekend was rather busy. On Friday night I took my first train to Okayama city, to meet with my predecessor and other ALTs leaving Japan to return home or staying to work for another year. They are a crazy group, but lots of fun to hang around. It seems such a pity that some of them are now leaving. Okayama is definitely larger than my hometown, Soja. But it is definitely the place to shop! I can’t wait to explore this city at my own pace in the future.
On Saturday, I attended the Peach Boy Festival (known in Japan as Momo Taro). Unfortunately, at this time the effects of the typhoon had hit Okayama prefecture. Although it was not pouring heavily with rain, I don’t think it stopped raining for most of the day. The worst part was, it was still humid!! Nevertheless, the festival went on! The day was spent with other ALTs watching parades of dancers, each with different and elaborate costumes. The younger children were absolutely heart-melting to watch! I was even dragged out of the crowd to dance in the festivities. The picture above is of myself and the energetic dancers that vounteered me to dance with them! Fortunately, the fireworks display was not cancelled for the evening. And what a sight to see – the finale beats anything you’d experience in Australia!
Sunday was housework day. Washing and vacuuming were my top priorities – after a nice sleep-in of course! I then decided to travel to Nitori in Kurashiki, in search for a new mattress. As it was still raining, I decided to do the 30 minute walk to Soja station – BIG mistake!
Once I got to Kurashiki, I needed to catch a bus to Nitori. While I caught the right train, I managed to get off at the wrong stop! I then had a 20 minute walk to Nitori, in the rain. By this time, my feet were feeling the long walks I had done over the weekend. But, I still managed to get to Nitori on my own (with special assistance of Google Maps ;) ).
My Japlish cam in handy here, as I searched the store for new bed sheets, pillows and a mattress! Fortunately, I even had a semi-English speaker to help me in organising the delivery of my mattress. I walked out feeling so proud of myself that I shouted myself some Maccas :D
Problem now was, my phone had died and I could not remember how to get back to Kurashiki station! I then walked around following signs for 30-40 minutes, before finally arriving at the station. My feet were relieved to sit until the next train arrived. However, I soon realized I still had another 30 minute walk to return to my apartment!! I wanted to cry!
By the time I returned home, my feet were covered in blisters!! But nothing some paw paw balm, ice and bandaids can’t fix! It’s safe to say, that regardless of the rain, I’ll be taking my bike everywhere!!!
Until next time – jya ne!
