In lieu of actually writing a post, here is a list of some things I thought you all might find interesting. A post will come soon, I swear!
So, a few observations while I have some free time at work:
(1) Japanese classrooms are not air-conditioned
(2) Snack and Tea time is at 10 and 3 respectively, bring your own cup and fend for yourself
(3) It’s hot
(4) I have never loved the wind more than I do on the island
(5) My clothes never dry because of the humidity, but I’ve found a coin laundry!
(6) Teaching is fun, but exhaustin
(7) I’ve joined a gym/pool you have to wear a swim cap in the pool
(8) There are a lot of old people on my island and they have fierce island pride and a crazy sense of humor
(9) Students are ENERGETIC
(10) Free time at school is sacred
(11) There is a button on the tv remote that will change a show to its original language. So, if a dubbed movie is playing, I can press this button and it will play in English! Have, so far, watched Night at the Museum, Harry Potter, and some end of the World Movie
(12) Also, they have desperate housewives here. I can play it in English, but its so crazy to listen to it in Japanese
(13) I caved and bought an air mattress. It is lovely!
(14) Food is expensive here!!
(15) I still don’t know how to work the ATM
(16) I am learning how to play the sanshin (it’s a three stringed instrument brought to Okinawa and the Ryukyu islands by way of China). It has a really interesting sound. AND, right after I had my first lesson with the teacher she told me that in Three Weeks time, I should be ready to play in front of the whole school!
(17) I found the dehumidifier function on my air conditioner!
(18) I also found the electronics store!
(19) Ferries stop running during bad weather, so wasn’t able to visit friends this weekend.
(20) I really love this island! Found some Erabu shirts, can’t wait to send some home!!!
Miss you all!!
