Day 221 - 8th of April

11:28pm　セミナーハウス
天気：晴れ
Well the weather turned again, and while it wasn’t as warm as Tuesday, at least it was nice and sunny… I woke up a bit after 9, and took a while to get ready; I wanted to look good for the koto performance. I ended up wearing my new shirt, with a vest over the top; I was really happy with the look. It also kept m warm enough that I didn’t have to bother with a jumper. I got to uni at about 10:30, and after dropping my bag off in the performance room (Midori and Mori Sempai were already playing), I had a bit of a walk, and took photos of the events going on, including the cheerleading, and rock band performance. I got back to the room for 11, and soon enough, it was our turn to perform in front of a small group of freshman; potential entrants to our club. Our first time through Sandan went okay, but Kyoningyo no yume was actually pretty terrible to be completely honest; my pages were out of order so I completely lost it at one point. After Maarika and I had played, Midori and Mori Sempai again took up playing, Mori offering my some glue to stick the Kyoningyo no yume sheet music together; good plan.

During this time, Rose and another guy (I’ve regrettably forgotten his name) came in, and were promptly served tea by the tea ceremony club, all garbed in kimono; and very beautiful kimono at that. Just as Midori and Mori Sempai had finished playing, a girl in the audience dropped her tea bowl; since it was ceramic it smashed. In a way, it was a fitting end to an intense piece like Kagaribi. Then we were up again, and this time we did a lot better at both pieces although, Kyoningyo no yume still wasn’t as good as Sandan; and it’s supposed to be the easier piece! Oh well, we have practiced sandan longer after all. Natalie had arrived by this time, so she played hanagoromo, and Maarika and I helped her; it turned out… okay. As soon as we finished, I had to rush off to class; it was a bit of a shame I couldn’t stay and support everyone. I ended up being a little late, but Saigo Sensei understood; he always does. The class was in the middle of watching a video about origami, but I caught the majority of it; it was quite funny actually. After that, we got into the serious stuff; as serious as Saigo Sensei’s classes can be that is.

In the break between classes, I got my homework done, and read a little more of the interview write-ups. In religion, we went on to discuss them all; some in more detail than others. Mine, which showed a pretty “typical” (the professor liked to put that word in quotation marks) representation of a Japanese person’s religious beliefs, was only glossed over, which was understandable; I didn’t have anything to add. Overall, it was really interesting listening to every ones ideas and input on other’s write-ups, and this is further helping to shape my perceptions of Japanese society. After class, I went down to check my mail, and there was another letter from Nanny and Poppy. Then I made my way back home, as I was extremely hungry. However many distractions lay in my path and it was a battle to get through them. First of all, the marching band and colour guard were performing out on the basket ball courts, so I had to watch that; it was so good. Actually, the band performed the theme from Mario Bros, which was so cool; I got it on video! After that, I saw Rebecca in the crowd and went over to talk to her; she was helping to recruit new members to her circle. I talked with her and a few Japanese people for a little while, and then finally had to excuse myself; I escaped.

I noticed Katie as I was heading towards the bike parking, but thankfully our interchange was relatively short; she had to go to Fresco for groceries. Riding home, I took a few photos of the Sakura across from Komatsu. Of course when I got back, I practically raced to my room to dump my stuff, and then went up to the kitchen to eat; so satisfying. After lunch, I spent the rest of the afternoon chatting with Alex. She wants to go on one last holiday together over Golden Week, so we were looking for a good place and accommodation; we’re thinking 彦根 (Hikone) at the moment. I also talked with Dad for a while, which was really nice; we don’t often get to talk for very long. 6:30 rolled around, and after getting in my laundry, I went upstairs for dinner; yay for leftover yakisoba. I stayed up there and chatted, and watched TV (lucky TV personalities going around Disneyland and eating all the food), until just after 8:30. Then I came back down here, and got my Reading and Writing homework done; that was a bit of a mission. The rest of the night was pretty chill though…

Day 206 - 24th of March

11:00pm　セミナーハウス

天気：雨天

Just finished watching “The Producers” with Sarah, Rachael, and Julie; brings back great memories. I couldn’t help singing along; this drove Rachael up the wall. The weather was dismal today, but I still had a good day… I didn’t get up till about 11, which was quite sad actually; half the day already lost. I had the last of my milk and cereal for breakfast (really, really have to go grocery shopping), and then showered, before getting stuck into my blog; I have a lot of catching up to do. It was not until after thinking back on what I’d had done these past few days, that I realised that today was actually Wednesday; I had it stuck in my head it was Tuesday. At around 2, I made my way to uni on foot, meeting Simon on the way; we had a quick chat under cover of umbrellas. Getting to uni I went to my mailbox in the CIE and, as I had expected, there was a package waiting for me. I went up to the desk and signed for it, so eager to open it; but first some lunch. I went over to the convenience store, and bought a sandwich and onigiri. I sat down in the convenience store, and I couldn’t help myself; I had to open my box right then and there. The inside was chock full of chocolate; oh a pun, clever me.

To lighten the box, I put I heap in my bag, and then got stuck into eating my sandwich and onigiri; very filling. While there, I saw Marika, and she let me know that the next koto practice would be Friday from 11 – 3; well at least I can stay for 2 hours. I definitely have to go, since the next performance is only 2 weeks away. In the mean time, I really have to practice for the music party on Sunday; I’m definitely considering playing my own rendition of Lux Aeterna from “Requiem for a Dream”. Finishing my lunch, I made my way back home in the pouring rain, failing miserably to keep the box dry; oh well no harm done. Getting back, Hugo was still out, so I went to see if my family was online, and indeed they were. I spoke with Ben for a while, and then Mum came back from seeing “Alice in Wonderland” (she said it was great), and we talked for a while; and I even got to talk with Dad a bit later. 2 hours later, and they were having dinner, so I said good night and went up to the kitchen, not actually feeling very hungry; as soon as I got home, I got stuck into Nanny’s biscuits.

Getting to the kitchen, I talked with Brett for a while, and watched a really old anime called 鉄人２８号 (Tetsujin28gou - “Iron man number 28); apparently it’s called Gigantor in the West. It was actually kinda cool, especially considering it was made in the 80’s. After that, I watched a show about healthy old people in Japan, and their tips on staying fit. Soon, Sarah and Julie, and I learnt that Ash had taken her parents to the aquarium today, and this made me happy; I meant I hadn’t missed out on going somewhere I haven’t been before. It was about 7 at this point, so I decided it was finally time to make some dinner; gyudon. While cooking, Julie suggested that we watch The Producers sometime, and we thought, well tonight’s a good a time as any; so we decided to get started at 8:30. In the mean time, I ate with Julie and then went back downstairs to lace up my shoes; I used both the green and white laces, and did the same pattern Alex had done yesterday. It looks really cool, though the laces are a bit too long, especially the white ones; I may have to come up with something else. At 8:30 I went up, and we started watching the movie. Rachael had gone with Katie, and Ash and her parents to the aquarium, and she got me a penguin badge for my bag; so, so thoughtful. Katie came in about halfway through, just coming back from somewhere; it felt like I hadn’t seen her in ages. Tomorrow, they’re going to USJ, and I’m free to join. I think I’m going to pass; I’ve got stuff to do, and the weather’s probably going to be crappy again. First priority is getting my blog up-to-date…

Day 159 - 5th of February

11:45pm　セミナーハウス
天気：晴れ
I’ve just finished watching Nightmare before Christmas, and Sleepy Hollow with Ash, Katie, Rachel, and Rachael; Tim Burton is the best! Today went well. I got up a little late, but got to uni on time for my 9 o’clock class, in which I had my Reading and Writing test. Straight after that was the Speaking test. Both went pretty well I think; glad they’re over. Then I went down to the lounge, after finding a notice of interest in my mailbox. Someone is selling textbooks cheap and my Onna to Otoko books were listed. So, I sent an email to the seller; sadly, still no reply. I actually waited in the computer lab for a while, for the reply since I was sending the message to a mobile phone; I had expected a hasty reply. Now feeling hungry, I went to lunch with Jacinthe, and had 肉じゃが丼 (nikujagadon – a meat and potato dish). It’s an interesting dish that sees the marriage of British beef stew and Japanese style cooking and ingredients; very tasty. It’s a great winter dish, and I’ll have to try cooking it some time.

After lunch, I had my Onna to Otoko class, where we discussed the definition of gender, contrasted it to the word “sex”, and brought up the issue of intersex; it was all very fascinating. And then I was done for the day. I decided to check out Avail before going home, and found a pretty cool pair of boots. I wasn’t completely convinced, so decided to wait, in hopes the price may drop; already really cheap though considering. When I got back, I found Simon and Rachael in the computer lab, and chatted with them for a while, before going up with Simon to the kitchen to get something to eat. As we were climbing the stairs, Katie was coming down and oh wow she looked great with straight hair; so different too. After eating, Simon soon left to go out with friends. I went back to my room and chatted with Alex and then family for a while, and then went up to make dinner; pizza. While it was cooking, Hugo came in, telling me he had someone to introduce. I soon become acquainted with Richard; a friend of Hugo’s who has been following my blog.

Needless to say, I was quite shocked by this; meeting someone who already knows much about me. I can’t say that it isn’t a bit creepy; hopefully he will read this and have a good laugh. He was really cool though, and even offered me a gift; sweets. I ate them straight after my pizza; thanks Richard they were very tasty. So yeah, that was cool. At this point, I was joined by Katie and Ash, and soon Rachel, and we sat and talked, while watching a program featuring Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea (which I still haven’t seen), and other Ghibli works. They also showed the Ghibli museum, which I really want to go to. At about 8:30, it was movie time, and we had quite a number watch Nightmare before Christmas. That soon dissipated, after Sleepy Hollow came on; great night of viewing. Next Friday’s going to be Sweeny Todd, then another movie that Ash is dying to show us; looking forward to it. Well, better get some sleep; Beauty and the Beast tomorrow!!!

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…

Day135 - 12th of January

10:17pm　セミナーハウス
天気：雨天
Ryan’s finally back! He got here at 10 this morning; I hopped out of bed to let him in since he left his key at his girlfriend’s house. I didn’t mind getting up; it was getting late in the day anyway, and I had had a good night’s sleep. Since I didn’t have any milk, I went to Sanko to pick some up; and of course bought some other things. I got back and had breakfast, and then went downstairs, and took my laptop out into the lounge, since Ryan had gone to sleep. Following that, I spent the next few hours updating my blog and listening to music. It was a long and detailed entry, and it wasn’t finished till 3:30. I went up and had lunch, having put on rice over 30 minutes prior. I enjoyed my lunch, and then went out again at 4; to uni.

I got an email from Chiharu sempai (now our new club president), informing me that club practice would be starting up again; since Japanese students were already back in school. Of course I wanted to go; so excited about playing again. It was nice to see everyone again too. All of the Japanese students are still there; graduation isn’t until March. As for the international students, it’s just Marika and I; everyone else left, and Brittney won’t be back from America until late this month. So unless new people join, I’ll be the only male, which is kinda cool, xD. Anyway, we got straight back into it. Marika and I are now practicing sandan furiously, in preparation for a concert coming up in February; we’ll be performing hanagoromo too. I’ve decided to give the second koto part a shot; it’s a lot more difficult. I’ll still be practicing the first part with sensei though, so I figure if I just can’t get the second part good enough in time, I’ll have the first part to fall back on.

We had a meeting at about quarter past 6; to discuss dates for club practices since this time of year can be trick with the Japanese, and international student’s spring breaks falling at different times. Many of the girls are going doing study overseas programs, like Midori sempai, who will be doing another short program in Australia; she’d done one over the break. Another will be studying in Italy for a year. So that, and the fact that at least 2 girls are graduating, means that our club is going to diminish in numbers quite dramatically. I wonder if many international students will join. After practice, I went to the CIE to check my mail, and got another letter from Nanny and Poppy; probably should send another bout of postcards shortly. I then went to Kirindo to pick up a few more things; namely cereal and bread. Got back and had dinner (yakisoba), and then helped cleaning the kitchen; felt good. I’ll just be stuffing around on the computer for the rest of the night, and possibly playing DS…

Day 131 - 8th of January

10:26pm　セミナーハウス
天気：曇り
Yay, finally finished reading the first chapter of Deltora Quest; 330 translations later… anyway, today was another short day. I woke up at 9, then fell back to sleep, and then didn’t get up again till 1; and I didn’t even go to bed that late! This is getting rather bothersome but still, might as well keep it up; at least for this week. Next week I will be much more productive; I hope. After lunch, I walked to uni, and checked my mailbox, finding a letter from Nanny and Poppy; a nice surprise. I then did some more grocery shopping at Kirindo and Fresco; oh how I love grocery shopping. Oh well, it got me out for a few hours. Getting back, I chatted with Alex, and then had a nap; did I really need it? At about 6:30 I went up and made dinner (spag bol), and watched Doraemon on TV. At about 8, I went up again and ate some bananas, and talked with Ash for a while, which was quite refreshing; like me, she hadn’t been doing very much. She gave me an ice cream, and I gave her a mask in return. I’ve just spent the last hour reading, and now feel very satisfied. Just going to do some exercise, shower, and then hop into bed…

Day 103 - 11th of December

10:27pm　セミナーハウス
天気：雨天
It had rained in the night, and continued to rain throughout the day. Not the best weather for all the running around I had to do today though... My oral exam wasn't until 12:40, so I spent the morning preparing for it. Straight after lunch, Carly and I made our way to uni with my Christmas box, ready to send. She sat in the lounge with it, while I did my oral. I did pretty well I think. After that I went back down, and Katie kindly offered to watch the box while Carly and I went to the station to buy my shinkansen ticket and get out money. That all went well. We also went to book off, and I bought the first book in the Deltora Quest series in Japanese. I really want to try to read a book in Japanese, and a childhood favourite seems like a good place to start.

Before getting back to uni (by bus again since it was pouring), I bought some 御座候 (gozasoro - pancakes filled with white or red azuki bean paste). I liked the red paste better; very interesting. We ate that back in the lounge, and then went to the post office to send my stuff off. That proved to be quite smooth. I was really glad to get it done. Carly had class to go to at 4, and I went home and had a nap. I managed to book by accommodation in Nagoya over the Internet; I'm becoming pro at this, xD. I'm going from the 25th to the 28th; yes, I know, I'm crazy. I'll skype with my family Christmas morning, then get into Nagoya later in the afternoon, via Kyoto. Had spaghetti bolognese at about 7, and cleaned the kitchen as usual at 9 (Yuji continues to come down to our room to remind us). Yay, finally up to date with my blog; only took 2 weeks. Oh well, it's all good. Just got this paper to do for CEL, and three exams next week, then I'm done; so happy.