HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Well, its the start of the holiday season in the US, but here in Japan its just a regular day off called 'Labor Thanksgiving Day'. You really can't get turkey here, so Steve's going to substitute with ham or fish. Some of the (American) JETs were talking about getting together for the holiday, but I'm tired as hell today, so I'm just going to rest up before Steve and I head out tomorrow for Koya-san (the mountain center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan).

Wish I could say I've had a good week,no such luck. Tuesday my bike was stolen. I blame myself, I cursed it out because the kick-stand is always screwed up and I guess it had enough of my abuse. I wouldn't have minded so much, but my new, pricey gloves were in the front basket and Steve had outfitted it with the latest in umbrella technology: a little place to store it when closed and a handle on top to hold it when it was open to protect me from the rain. (Actually, I had an umbrella stolen at school as well. Petty theft runs rife in the Land of the Rising Sun!)


All my emotions are running on high while I adjust to the culture shock. Most people go through it about 4 months into living in a foreign country, so I'm right on schedule. Its tough being stressed and not knowing anywhere you can go to relax (Door County anyone?). I heard of an onsen within biking distance, so maybe I'll have to try and get there soon.

At least I have a nice, long weekend and the trip to Koya-san to look forward to. I'll be missing everyone during the holiday! Take care and have good eating and napping on Turkey Day!

UPDATE: Koya-san trip cancelled due to the fact I've come down with a bad flu. :(