Day 270 - 27th of May

8:12am　浅草スマイル

I’m in the main building of the hostel, on the third floor, sitting in front of the computer. My flight’s booked for today; I did it soon after we got here a little before 7. Remarkably, as soon as I had booked, mum rang up telling me that dad was just about to book the same flight, so luckily I let them know just in time. Carly’s sleeping in her room now, and we’ll probably be leaving here at about 10; back to the airport again. At least I can get some sleep on the train there; I got about an hour this morning coming back from Tsudanuma at a quarter to 5; it was too cold in Makkas to sleep. Anyway, the worst is over, and now I can look forward to going home tonight…

12:39pm　押上

We’re on the platform at Oshiage, waiting for the rapid to Narita Airport. Carly’s flight is at 5:30, so we’re leaving plenty of leeway just in case; it does take a long time to get to the airport, and we don’t want the same thing happening again. In fact, Carly too had had the wrong flight time in her head, and it was only because her mum sent her the itinerary, that she realised the actual time; so lucky!!! At almost 10, we went downstairs, and made our way over to the 7/11 for some breakfast; last jelly cup in Japan. We sat in the empty bar to eat, and then I got my itinerary printed off; my flights not till 20:55. So, I have a little while longer to wait around, but that’s okay; still have to write out the last set of postcards. Anyway, after breakfast, I noticed there was a keyboard in the room, and couldn’t resist banging on it for a while; I tried out my new sheet music. Time past swiftly, and soon it was 12. This was when we made our leave for the Toei Line; it wasn’t much fun at all. We had to talk all the way over to the other side of the station to find the elevator, and then walk all the way back underground to get to the tracks; Japan, you really aren’t very wheelchair friendly, or for that matter, unbelievably luggage-laden people friendly. Well, we did it and now the hardest part is over. Now all we have to do is ride the train to the airport, get off and wait. Perhaps they’ll have showers and I’ll be able to freshen up; I haven’t had a shower in over 24 hours!!!

4:28pm　成田空港

Carly has just gone through security, so she’s on her way; I still have a while to wait. I’m sitting here in the waiting area, reading some of the readings on the wall and they’re just great – ‘To “Samurai”, no sword allowed into aircraft,’ and ‘To business people of the world, sharp objects are prohibited on board except for your sharp brains.’ Just a little bit of amusement to keep me occupied… After arriving at the airport (it took well over an hour), we went through “security” (they were so lax, all we had to do was show our passports), and then Carly went to check in; Jetstar staff hadn’t arrived at that point as I soon found out. So, Carly got to get rid of all her checked baggage, but I had to continue lugging around mine. We found the toilets, and took it in turns, changing and freshening up. They didn’t have any showers, but I still feel way better now that I’ve changed clothes and brushed my teeth. I also got my carryon bag packed a bit better; it was very rushed last night. After that, we had lunch and I felt it only right to once again indulge in Japanese cuisine, and what better meal than gyudon and miso soup; I’m feeling good now. Now I just have to wait until 5:30 before the Jetstar check in begins, so I think I’ll write out these postcards…

7:57pm　成田空港

It feels good to sit down; I’m nearby gate 88, the very farthest in the airport; tells you something about Jetstar right. After checking in, I did some last minute souvenir shopping and mailed my postcards, before getting through customs smoothly. I bought some sweets and sake in the duty free area, and then had omu rice for dinner; my last meal in Japan. I;m glad it was nice, though a tad expensive; it’s airport food after all. Basically straight after dinner I came here; had to take the shuttle. I realised I’m an hour early, but I really don’t feel like doing anything else; I’m absolutely beat. We’ll probably start boarding pretty soon anyway. I’ll be happy when I’m on the plane, and hopefully I’ll be able to get some sleep. Well, it’s been a long day, and an even longer journey. This will be my last blog entry; of this I will be very glad. I feel this blog has helped me in many ways, and may provide others with an inside perspective on ryugakusei life. It’s been a big job though, and it’ll probably be weird not to feel obligated to write an entry every day. A lot of things will feel weird going back. While I felt very little culture shock, I think the reverse culture shock will hit me hard; at least I don’t have to worry about jet lag. I can’t wait to see my family tomorrow; one day too late! It’s my nan’s birthday tomorrow and I think hugging her will be the best present of all. Well, it’s been a pleasure. Hopefully you have gotten something out of reading this, as I have got out of experiencing it all. Until next time,

Joel

Day 265 - 22nd of May

9:30pm　特急
天気：晴れ

Carly and I are on the rapid express to Tambabashi, on our way to Kyoto station; we’re catching the night bus from there. And I thought I had a lot of luggage but no, Carly manages to outdo me; and she’s the one who’s only here for two weeks! Anyway, I am now officially finished!!! We had our graduation today… Getting back from karaoke at 5:30, I had a few hours sleep and got up at about 8:15. I quickly got ready, as we were supposed to be seated by 9:30, and ended up making it with time to spare; I had to ride my bike one last time. I was really happy to see so many people in Kimono; girls and guys alike…

9:55pm　普通

We’re on the train to Kyoto station now. We don’t have to be at the buses until 10:50, so we’re making really good time; having to drag our luggage in and out of tiny elevators isn’t much fun though. Anyway, as I was saying, it was really nice to see so many students wearing kimono; they all looked so good. In contrast, there were unfortunately quite a few guys who felt it appropriate to just come wearing jeans and a t-shirt; ah well, what can you do? After some photo-taking, I went and got seated in my assigned seat in the front row; that’s the nice thing about alphabetical order. The ceremony didn’t end up starting until after 10, with people still trickling in up to the hour. We did keep to time though, so it was fine once we got into it. After introductions, it was time for us to receive our certificates. Well, in actual fact what we got was an empty folder; the certificates were distributed to our mailboxes for us to collect after the ceremony. Seemed like a smart idea to me…

11:22pm　高速バス

Off we go on the night bus, and holy wow it’s tiny; lucky we got the back seats so we can recline all the way. Still, there’s absolutely no where for me to put my legs; maybe I can figure something out. Oh my gosh, getting here was a mission and a half. Once we got to the station, we ended up walking (staggering) to the wrong side of the station, so had to turn around and go right the way back to the other side. Finally we did make it, and soon found the check-in point. We had a bit of time before the bus arrived, so Carly went to pick up some yatsuhashi for Diego, and then I went to get some dinner; onigiri! The area was packed full of late night travellers, and more than 10 buses would be ready to board at any one time; it was really hectic. Eventually, our bus number was called (number 8) and we made the final haul, getting on just in time; we were actually the last to board. It’s not too uncomfortable I guess; Carly’s already asleep. Anyway, I still haven’t finished talking about the rest of my crazy day… After we all got our certificates (didn’t end up taking that long), we heard a long flowery speech from the Australian consulate of Osaka (same guy as last semester). Following that was the American consulate (who had a stutter), a visiting professor from an American university I forget the name of (he was very engaging), the President of the university (who had a translator), and then two international students, one of whom was Nadezhda…Well, they’ve turned all the lights off now, so I’ll have to finish this in the morning!

5:30am　高速バス

We’re just leaving our second rest stop now, and I think we’re only about half an hour away from Tokyo; I decided to get out and explore a bit and found a map that pointed this out to me. It’s bright outside, but that weather’s looking very dull, so I have no what we’re going to get up to today. Anyway yesterday…looking very Japanese in her purple kimono; yes that was the end of my sentence last night. Both of them presented in Japanese, talking about their experiences of Japan; I thought they did a great job. Then Motohashi Sensei (my reading and writing Sensei from last semester), talked to us about the results of a survey she had conducted to find the top best and worst things about Japan according to international students at KG. I can’t remember what the worst thing was (maybe narrow roads), but the best was of course the food. I have to agree with this whole-heartedly; I’m certainly going to miss Japan for its food. After all the speeches, we there was a special performance from the vocal group, and what did they sing; Angela Aki’s “Tegami”. This time I got most of it recorded; so happy to be able to hear it one more time. I’m going to miss singing it at Karaoke; it was one of my favourite songs. And with that, the ceremony was over!

From the hall, we all meandered over to the main cafeteria to enjoy the bountiful spread prepared for us; I went and picked up my certificate first. The food really was amazing, and there was so much variety; I didn’t try even half of what was on offer. Inside the cafeteria, it was extremely crowded so I didn’t stay for long, opting to go outside and sit with friends. I stayed around for a while, chatting and taking photos with people, hoping to spot Mori and Midori Sempai. Soon, Mori and Ume-chan emerged from the sprawl, and after Midori arrived they presented my with a wonderful parting gift; a large card with all my Sempais’ comments written on it; Mori had drawn a Totoro motif on it! Now we had to try and find Maarika. Carly and I had talked with her earlier on; she had in fact lost her voice. We went over to the club building to see if she was there; she wasn’t. So, Midori and Ume-chan went on a search and in the mean time, I got to play the piano for a while; that’s something I’m definitely looking forward to doing often when I get home. Eventually Maarika came over (with food of course), and she received her gift, Carly and I said our final goodbyes, and then made our way back to the Seminar House. While I’m going to miss the friends I’ve made in the club, and playing the koto, I don’t think I’m going to miss having to sit in seiza for prolonged periods of time!

The rest of the afternoon was quite stressful, with the last of my packing, cleaning, and sorting to be done. I got my straightener to Katie (she had payed me the previous day) and then okkasan invited us into the office, to show us pictures, and let us know that Otousan has Skype; I think that’s so cool. At about 3:30, I made French toast and scrambled eggs, so as to use the last of my bread; I donated my eggs, cheese and butter to Ash. Everything else went into the “not empty seasoning” box, which was already bulging with food; I hope someone can benefit from it. After eating, I quickly cleaned my kitchen box and fridge, but ended up missing Natchan’s inspection at 4; soon after, she was tied up helping people getting their parcels to the postman. Among them was Rachael, and she was sending a tonne of stuff home; I’m glad she could get it all sorted. She was still there during, and after my inspection, which didn’t end up commencing until 5:30; that gave me just enough time to prepare. That was all done in no time, and Okaasan was very impressed…

6:12am　高速バス

We’ve just arrived at Shinjuku station; our stop is next… After check-out, I could finally relax; for a little while. All the girls had gathered in the lounge, waiting to see me off; that was very special. This also meant that I could hand out all my gifts at once; bonus. Carly and I ended up sticking around until about 8, and we finally got the opportunity to play the Hetalia card game; that was quite enjoyable. Finally, and regrettably, it was time to say goodbye. I had already been subjected to a big group hug (not that I minded), and then got to hug everyone individually, even Ash who is generally the “hands-off” type. At the threshold, I was seen off by Katie, Ash, Rachel, Rachael, Sarah, Otousan and Okaasan, and Yuji and Natchan; I also got a hug from them. Kind words followed, and promises to never forget Japan and to visit were made, and then I stepped out into the night, laden with luggage; good-bye Seminar House 2… Just kidding!!! After we left, Carly decided she would go straight to the hotel, while I took my stuff to Makino station. Since I would be sending the last of my parcels, with Katie to help me carry them (bless her), after waiting around up the street for a while, I decided to return to the Seminar House. I dropped my stuff outside and burst in, running to the toilet; I thought it would be smarter to go at this point. I made it just as Katie was leaving, and got to hug Ash and Rachel one more time.

This time, it really was good-bye, and Katie and I made the trek to the 24 hour post office located just past the karaoke place; it was a tough walk. We eventually made it though, and I got to filling out the address forms. Katie soon left (after sending her postcards), and I decided to but another box, to lighten my second checked bag; I ended up getting almost 6kgs out of it. Getting all the done, I made my way over to the station and got to see Katie one last time; she was waiting for a friend in the station. Elevator up, I met Carly on the platform and then all the fun of the night ensued… We’ve arrived at Tokyo station now; at long last, I’m in Tokyo!!!

Day 154 - 31st of January

10:36pm　セミナーハウス
天気：雨天
4 hours later, and I’m finally back downstairs; been up in the kitchen since 6:30. It’s so nice to have the room back to normal; Jamie left for home stay this evening… I got up at 10 this morning, just after the announcement was made that check-in would be commencing. I got right onto it, taking my sheets out into the foyer. Then I went into the lounge, to get my keys and check the kitchen box and room. Everything good, I received my 5 hangers and clean linen. Jamie had already removed his futon, so I was finally able to get back into my cupboard properly. The first thing I did was move all of my kitchen stuff back into my kitchen box. Then I sorted out my cupboard; it’s much better now. Went back up to the kitchen to bring the spare bags I’d used back down, and ended up chatting with Ash. Realising there was only 20 minutes till the meeting we decided to just stay where we were. The meeting was over in about half an hour (it was about 12:30 at this point), and I was feeling very hungry; Okaasan had brought back all the cooking utensils. But first I needed something to cook!!!

Hugo had just bought a bike from his friend, and just after 1, we went to Sanko, along with Simon and Rachel. I bought so much stuff; too much really. It was drizzling on the way there, but on the way back it was coming down quite steadily. Rachel and I volunteered to carry some of Simon’s groceries, so he could carry his umbrella, and then half way back he tells us he could’ve just worn his hood up; it was funny. Getting back, we were all straight in the kitchen. I made eggs on toast, with rice I had prepared earlier; forward thinking. It was so nice to have rice again; not that I haven’t had it for the majority of this week but still… It’s so nice to be able to make it myself. After lunch, Hugo and I got to sorting the room out, and vacuuming. A bit later on, I got to talk with my family, which was really great considering I hadn’t spoken with them since the previous Sunday. I did a little bit of study afterwards, and Jamie said his farewells; he was getting picked up by his family from the seminar house. I will sorely miss that red jacket of his!!!

Although I wasn’t really hungry, I decided to head up to the kitchen at around 6:30. I showed Simon how to use the rice cookers, and Hugo too when he came up a little later. Katie was making apple crumble, and Ash and I were just there staring at it in process. Simon sat down with us, and Rachel soon joined. After 20 minutes of baking, the apple crumble was ready, and Katie treated me to some; this was before I ate dinner mind you. Jacinthe came to sit with us for a little while, and I got a slice of some amazing cheddar cheese from her. Not wanting to leave the conversation, I regrettably got up to make my dinner. And by make, I mean defrost my stew in a pan. Yes, I bought a lot of food today, but I was feeling a little lazy and, I had no idea what I wanted to cook anyway; stew seemed to be the best option. So yeah, for the next three hours, Katie, Ash, Rachel, Simon, and I talked about anything and everything, from politics to sex stores, from History to movies, from differences in the English languages, to the royal family; it was great. Chelsea from Hawaii, listened eagerly, and said she was learning a lot from our conversation. Admittedly, I was too; I wish I read the news more.

Finally, it was time for bed. I went up to Katie and Ash’s room, to get Ash’s Religion in Japan text package, and then bid them goodnight. Then I had a shower and finally got back to the room. It’s the last day of the month, and also the last day of winter break. It’s going to be weird, but good, to start classes again. I’m looking forward to getting back into routine. In the meeting today, Yuji and Asami revealed the new chart for cleaning duties. It has the same design, but this semester, they’ve decided that cleaning nights will be Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, not every night like last semester. I don’t know how effective this will be, but hopefully we can keep the kitchen and utensils relatively clean. I’m in group B, so will start next week. Well, Hugo’s already in bed, so I should wrap it up. My first class is at 10 tomorrow; have to get back into waking up early. I’m really looking forward to this semester; here’s hoping it’s even better than the last…

Day 148 - 25th of January

11:26pm　セミナーハウス
天気：雨天
I’m in the computer room again, since Hugo’s already in bed; fair enough since he’s has to get up early for orientation stuff. Hopefully it’s like this for the rest of the semester; it’ll be nice to get to sleep at a decent hour. Jamie’s out and about, so won’t be coming back here tonight; gates are already locked… Well today was the complete opposite of yesterday in terms of weather; cold and wet. I didn’t get out until around 3, when I went into uni for koto club; I spent the morning lazing about, and doing a bit of study. When I got to uni, I started out be handing all my forms in, which all went smoothly. Then I went to the club room to find Marika; she has her own key since she’s always in there. I decided, with her consent (she was studying for her jump test on tomorrow), to practice for a while. I got through hanagoromo and almost all of sandan before Midori and Mori Sempai arrived.

Midori sempai made chocolate, and we all had a good sampling, until it was all gone; this happened during the meeting. The meeting was short, and Chi sempai basically summarised what would be happening for the concert (who would be playing what), and when and where we’d be meeting; Moriguchi station at 2. I’m kinda disappointed that Marika and I will only be playing hanagoromo, but i guess we’re not ready for sandan. After the meeting, there was much talk about English slang, particularly swear words. I always find it so funny when the Japanese use our swear words, when they really don’t understand the impact of them. They are just so blasé and the girls especially will have a little giggle while dropping the F bomb. Anyway, I found out that making the “Huh” sound in Japanese is really offensive; that was interesting.

I got bored of practicing the first koto part of sandan, so soon switched over to the second part. Mori spurred me on by saying I might be able to play it at a later concert since the sensei wouldn’t be there; now I’m more determined than ever! Since today was the last day of term for the Japanese (they’ll be going on spring break), we had a short photo session, which was really nice. Midori sempai is studying for the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), so we had a “frenzy” pose; one of the words she has to know. Seriously though, some of the English words she has to memorise are unbelievably stupid; words that we never use in common day language anymore. Anyway, since it is spring break that unfortunately means no more koto practice again until March.

However, I’ll still be able to practice here, as I did shortly after I got back from uni. I walked back with Jacinthe, and a few others, and just as I got in, Simon arrived. I soon met him, and he seems like a really nice guy; hopefully we’ll be able to hang out. He said it was so weird coming from really hot Australia to this; I can’t imagine! So yeah, we chatted for a while, and then I went up to have dinner (cup noodles), and brought it down to the lounge to sit with Katie and Ash and a guy from Denmark with an amazing name that I’m not even going to try to spell. We talked for a little while, and Shizuka (who helped organise the INFES) joined the conversation. Then, Okaasan came in, and as soon as she spotted me she started talking about koto.

Again, I was literally dragged by her to get up and play. Katie and Ash were about to head up, but seeing the opportunity to hear me play (since they haven’t yet), they stuck around. Okaasan wanted to play too, but wasn’t feeling up to it; some pain in her legs. So it was me playing Sakura sakura again. I did get to practice sandan (first part) too though, so that was good. I should be able to get loads more practice in before the concert, and for that I am very grateful. After my “concert”, I went up with Ash and Katie, and received a back massage from Katie. It hurt a lot, but was really great; she’s slowly getting the knots out of my back. She told me to drink plenty of water, since all the toxins would be coming out, so she knows her stuff. With that, I left the room and had a snack (bun, milk, and banana), before going back down. Don’t know what I’ll be doing tomorrow, but at least be going out for dinner…

Day 145 - 22nd of January

10:36pm　セミナーハウス
天気：曇り
Finally settled, back in the old futon’s we had during just semester, two empty beside me, and Jo’s two very pink suitcases in the desk area; the room feels nice and full. Today was a long day… Although I had a terrible night’s sleep, I still managed to get up at quarter to 8. I decided to quickly go have some breakfast before vacuuming. Ryan roused soon after I returned; I was moving my futon out. Once the floor was cleared, we vacuumed, and I also dusted the shoji screens and air conditioner. We ended up getting it done by 8:30; way ahead of schedule. So, we just talked for a while… Ryan explained that he would be going back into home stay if it weren’t for that the home stay he was with last semester won’t be looking after anyone this semester, since she’ll be travelling. He said he didn’t want to risk another; he had heard stories of not very good ones, as had I. He also commented that this was probably the longest conversation he’d had in English since he got here; crazy. He is in level 7 Japanese (the highest level) as I was soon to find out, so I guess it’s expected.

A bit after 9, Okaasan arrived. She checked my side of the room first, then went up and checked my kitchen box and the fridge, and found everything to be immaculate. She was very pleased; I was just relieved. Then onto Ryan, and there was no problem there, so he was soon on his way to seminar house four; I might see him around on campus. So, with only a door key, I went and had a shower. As I was finishing the light in the shower went out. I immediately thought black out but no; the bulb had just died. I went and explained this to Otousan, and he got me to fetch the master keys from Okaasan upstairs, before going into the store room, and pulling out a new bulb. Surprisingly, he asked me to go and change it; of course I humbly obliged. Socks off, and onto the wet shower, and it was done in a jiffy. Made me feel like I was at home; changing light bulbs because I’m so tall. After that, I went up and got Jo’s luggage from upstairs and dragged it into my room. Satisfied with everything here, I went into university.

Jacinthe caught up with me on the way there, and we talked the rest of the way. She went into the CIE, and I went to post Tamblyn’s shoes. It turned out to be quite cheap; cheaper than I’d expected at least. I went back into uni, and ate lunch at the cafeteria with Jacinthe. Of course, I had katsudon; I missed it a lot. After that, we went back to CIE, and I checked my mail; received a postcard and card from Nanny and Poppy. Then I went the computer lab to up for laptop registration for this semester. It was really quiet, and she actually asked if I had my laptop with me then, but I didn’t. I instead selected the 2:40 time slot today. Then, I went and requested an unofficial transcript. Jacinthe told me you could do it, and I did want to know my grades. She had also requested one a week ago, and when I asked the guy how long it would take to get to me (they put it in your mailbox), and he said by Monday. Jacinthe piped up that she hadn’t received hers yet, and I think this got them motivated.

I then left for home, and went up to let Ash and Katie know they could register their laptops today. Okaasan soon came in for their inspection, and she was surprised to see me. I went to leave, but she insisted I stay (it was quite funny actually), so I plopped myself down on a futon, and looked at the calendar of Canada Katie gave me; beautiful photos. They pulled off their inspection no sweat, and then we left for the uni once more; for me at least. I got in and got mine done straight away, hassle free; I mean we’ve already done it once, so they know what we have and all. I looked in my mailbox again, and found an envelope containing the transcript; it really did get them motivated. I was happy with my results; it was exactly what I had expected I’d receive. I sat down with Ash and Katie in the lounge as they waited for their times, and Jacinthe soon joined us; she also got her transcript. Lol, two guys and a girl across from as were sleeping on the lounges; one of the guys was snoring quite loudly.

After registrations were complete, we decided to go to Makkas; a late lunch for Ash and Katie, and a snack for me. I ended up getting a cheese burger and strawberry milkshake, and Ash got a Texas Burger at my recommendation; she really liked it. Jancithe came over and noticed that we all had food, and felt left out, so she went and got something; a Texas Burger also. Then Katie felt left out for being the only one to have not tried it. We stayed there and chatted for a few hours; it was great. It wasn’t until 6:30 that we finally got back home. I went up and bothered Ash and Katie, and was treated to photos of the areas in which they live. Ash lives in Oxford, which is just amazing in terms of architecture, and Katie lives in Calgary and has a view of the Rocky Mountains out her back door, and the landscapes is simply breathtaking. It made me feel very reminiscent, and I was amazed at how fast time had gone past, looking at all the old photos.

I left their room at 9:30 feeling hungry; they felt content with Makkas and snacks. I went done to my room and found a mini cup noodle, and a tuna to go, so I went up and ate them; happy tummy now. Wow, the kitchen looks so empty without all the pots and pans. All we have now is the microwaves and kettles. After that, I went and had a shower, and then finally got into bed. I’m really glad I got so a lot done today. Still have to get in forms and pay accommodation next week, but that should be easy. I invited Jacinthe to come and see Avatar with me tomorrow since Ash and Katie don’t really seem fussed, so hopefully we can make that happen; I’ll email her tonight. I thinking I might get a knife and spoon, and a few other utensils from the shops tomorrow, and some other groceries. Also found out the names of my new roommates; Hugo Philippe Alexandre Bertrand from Spain, and Jamie Lee Skyes from England. Hugo will be permanent, and Jamie will be going into other accommodation. I also found out that Simon (a guy from USC I got in contact with over facebook) with be right across from me. Can’t wait to meet all the new people…

Day 114 - 22nd of December

10:43am　普通電車
天気：晴れ
We’re on the local train to Kadomashi. And when I say we, I mean Carly and I, and her luggage, which weighs as much as another person; we’ll call her Casey. We walked all the way from the seminar house to Makino station with Casey at about 10 this morning and gosh it was a mission. This was not fun at all, compared to yesterday with Diego and Jessica’s luggage, which would have weighed less than Casey. At Makino there wasn’t an elevator to get into the station, so was had to split Casey up and take her down in pieces; that was not pleasant. Luckily, there was an elevator to get onto the platform. Well, we’re on the train now, time to relax before the final haul…

11:17am　普通電車
And back to Makino I go… alone! Bye Carly…

11:12pm　セミナーハウス
Long day! After getting to Kadomashi, I helped Carly drag Casey all the way to the monorail, getting though the ticket gate without a ticket; it was all good though cause I was coming straight back out. Bought a ticket back to Makino; had to switch over at Kayashima again. I finished off my 4th journal this morning, so now onto the 5th. Getting back to Makino, I bought a loaf of bread and then walked home; so much easier without Casey being all uncooperative. Since it was past 12 when I returned, I didn’t have much time to get the rest of my room in order; I was so glad I’d done most of it last night. When Okaasan came I was just finishing up. My inspection was about 20 minutes, so I didn’t beat Diego, not by a long shot; oh well, it’s all done now. After lunch, I brought my new futon in and set it up. And when I say new, I mean brand new. They’re much better than the old ones; I was really comfortable napping this afternoon. I also put out my roommate-to-be’s futon; the room doesn’t feel as empty now.

I made pizza for dinner (again), and chatted with Yuji, Jacinthe and Kyle. Jacinthe made this amazing recipe from Quebec called Sucre a la crème (sugar and cream). It’s a lot like fudge, but creamier. She put a box on the table for everyone to share; it was delicious. Kyle bought a new DS game but was having trouble figuring out how to do it, since it was all in Japanese; Jacinthe and I were puzzling over it for a while too. So many people have left now, and most of the people who are staying here for winter, have already left for travel. Katie and Ash went to Tokyo yesterday, Jacinthe is going on Thursday, Jo has gone to Hokkaido, as has someone else. Well, I’ll be going to Nagoya soon, so I don’t feel too left out. I think it’s time for bed now. Tomorrow I’ll drop into to uni and do some grocery shopping in the morning, talk with family at lunch, and then I’m going to 中之島 (nakanoshima) for the 光のルネサンス (Hikari-Renaissance) from 5 till 10; so excited. A huge array of light displays are going to be there; I hope I can get round to see most of it.

Day 113 - 21st of December

10:58　普通電車
天気：晴れ
Carly and I are on the train back to Hirakata from 門真市 (Kadomashi), where Diego and Jessica left for the Osaka monorail to the Airport. Jessica will be leaving for America this afternoon, and Diego will be staying in a hotel for his plane tomorrow morning… We’ve just been kicked off the train and are now in 萱嶋 (Kayashima), and are waiting for the next train. So yeah, this morning we were up at 7, getting the room ready (well at least Diego’s side) for his inspection at 9. It ended up being Okaasan’s fastest, at just 7 minutes; something for me to beat tomorrow. Diego was seen off, and then we left for the bus with his two big suitcases. I decided to film the bus ride, and we had a bit of a running commentary about his time in Japan. At Hirakata station, we had to wait for Jessica to arrive. Carly and I decided to buy our tickets for Toji then, so we could go through with Diego and help him with his luggage. Diego, a little anxious, decided we should go and wait on the platform. Jessica wasn’t picking up her phone for some reason, so we didn’t know where to meet her. Eventually, we found out that she was waiting in front of Uniqlo, so we went back down and found her; she was with her host Mum and Brother. Since they were in a bit of a hurry, we were a little hasty and went back up to the same platform, to find that it was the wrong one, so we had to quickly get over to the next one. We just made onto the limited express.

It was only after we got on did we realise it would not be stopping at Kadomashi, but would be going directly to Kyobashi. Luckily, doing it this way would work out taking about the same time anyway. By getting off at Kyobashi and taking the local train back, there were fewer stops. Between the four of us, we made all the trains just in time, and I enjoyed taking Diego’s large suitcase up and down the stairs; it was a great workout. I got a bit of film of us on the trains, and then of our final farewell; they crossed the ticket gate and we could go no further. We watched them disappear from view, and then made for the train, only to turn around and see them going in the other direction; lolz, I wish I would have gotten it on film. I’m going to miss Diego; the room already felt empty without him this morning. But, I’m excited to get a new roommate too…

11:22am　枚方市駅
Now we’re in Hirakata station, waiting for the rapid express to Tambabashi...

11:56am　丹波橋駅
Waiting about 10 minutes for the train to Toji. So hungry; going to eat as soon as I get to the flea market. Just snacked on a メロンパン (melon pan – half-melon-shaped bread), but that just wasn’t at all satisfying.

The flea market was intense! It was so much bigger than last time; absolutely jam-packed. We were directed to the side gate past some amazing bonsai; some were huge. There was just a continuous stream of people. Our first stop was the たい焼き (taiyaki – fish-shaped batter filled with sweet bean, chocolate, custard etc.) stall. Since they only have sweet bean or custard, we opted for the custard, and happily munched on them as we made our way through the crowds. I saw so many great things there and can’t wait to have a really good look. Today was just a quick trip though, because Carly and I had to get back to clean our rooms for inspection. Carly was able to complete her kimono, finding an obi and sash. We saw Katie and Ash there (as well as many other students from Kansai), and Ash told my about a stall selling the Japanese imperial uniform and coats. I found it a bit later; so cool, but too small for me.

As we were browsing, this lady gave Carly the rest of her cup of fried sweet potato. Carly said she just looked at it, and then the lady offered us the whole thing; such kindness. I had okonomiyaki for lunch, and bought a necklace for Carly for Christmas; we decided she would choose it and I’d buy it. It’s a leaf-shaped crystal with an owl inside; since I was nicknamed búho (owl in Spanish) by Diego because of the sounds I make, xD. I even got it at a discount since we were students; so awesome. We wandered through to the front entrance, and then left for home. When we were at Toji station, it snowed for a few minutes; it was sunny for the rest of the afternoon though. At home, I had fun cleaning, and rearranging my desk; I’m really happy with how it’s turned out. Ended up cleaning until dinner, and I made gyudon; I love it now. I got to keep Carly’s mirin too. Spent the rest of the night just chilling, and talking with Carly.

Day 108 - 16th of December

10:38pm　セミナーハウス
天気：曇り
Another busy day. Just been spending this evening getting the last of my Christmas stuff sorted out. I woke up at 9 this morning (as usual), got ready, and then went into Hirakata. First stop, bank for new cash card. That was easy enough to sort out; hopefully I don't make that mistake again. So, new cash card in hand, I withdrew a heap of money and hit the shops! No really... I just bought one shirt, and picked up a couple of things for dinner. I walked back to uni, and gt my History essay back (finally). I got 30/30; I was so surprised. Not complaining though, that's for sure. I sent off a few post cards, stopped by the convenience store, and then walked home; it was so cold. I ate the rest of the chicken from last night with rice for lunch, watching a program showing the major events of the 00's. It asked, what kind of decade will the 10's be? I talked with Amber for a little while, then had a nap, then talked with family.

I made pizza and garlic bread for dinner with Diego. Bought this great Garlic butter spread from Hirakata today; it turned out great. As did the pizza; I was very content. Wali (our next door neighbour), was the first to leave tonight. I didn't get to know him well. Still it's sad to think so many more people will be leaving very soon. Jacinthe took the ceramics course this semester and she kindly donated me one of her works; a beautiful green striped bowl. She'll be giving away most of her works, as she just can't psychically take them all home. I came back down to find Diego cleaning the air conditioning filters in the the shower. He said they were black. Been munching on fudge, from the Christmas box I opened tonight (it is sooooo yummy), mandarin, and Diego's sesame seed yatsuhashi. Tomorrow I'm going to get up early and study, then ace the exam! After that going out to tabehodai and karaoke with Koto Club; can't wait.

Day 105 - 13th of December

天気：曇り
Another cloudy day; perfect weather to be stuck inside all day. And that I was. I fiercely worked at my report and was able to get it done; 16 pages and 4000 words later. And had drink breaks throughout the day, which for me is always helpful when writing a report; when I get up and move around, it helps me think. And of course, I had a rather large break at lunch time. I made scrambled eggs, and egg, tomato, and cheese toasted sandwiches; very fulfilling. And it help me to get through to dinner. I had completely forgotten about the farewell party, and when it was announced over the intercom, I was really surprised. Most people will be leaving by next week, and since we have exams all this week, tonight was the best night for it; it's all come to an end so quickly. We had a make-it-yourself sushi party in the dining room. Basically, get a square sheet of 海苔 (nori - seaweed), plonk a bit of rice on it, and add any fillings you wanted; fried egg, raw fish, crab, cucumber, lettuce etc.

I had a few, but also had to eat the leftovers from last night. Everyone was being bombarded by flashing cameras; it was a lot of fun. Our RA's even wrote letters to all of us; I gave them both hugs. It died down after about an hour, and then I went back to my paper. The kitchen beckoned me once more however, for cleaning at 9. I stayed up there while Carly made cookies, and talked with Katie, Ash and Eaaf. The cookies turned out a little dry, but they were okay; can't expect too much from a packet mix. Next time, I want to make them from scratch. Finally finished my report at about 11:30, and then got to bed. Diego and I talked about the immediate future; how he would be going back to America, and I would be staying here. I think that since I got the hang of things here now, next semester will be even better, or at the very least, easier.