I'm back right?

my new pad

Welcome back right??? Ohiyou is what I want to say but a Buenos Dias or Good Morning would be better understood right??? I think this is what they call reverse culture shock??? (the overwhelming question marks and confusion). I have finally settled into what this year has for me, teaching at Columbus Junction (which I will start with my first groups on Monday- finally!), living in Washington (finally getting use to that too), and well enjoying bills. I feel like I have finally settled down from the constant change but now is when my confusion begins. Since leaving Japan life has changes so drastically I have not thought about not being in Japan. Now I guess I get to do that. I have been missing my friends, family, and school kids at the schools I taught at. The new life and change is not so fun even with speaking ENGLISH all the time. I actually miss hearing and trying to speak JAPANESE. The daily challenge of what to say and how to say it so others understand is not there. I can do most things- and my only limitations are my age/experience and height (which is not so unusual- well I did have to get a stool for my apt)... any who this is more of a reflection of what I still do not understand but keep plugging away till change is needed. But on a lighter note here are some great things I have experienced this week::

1. The American valley girl students who come with their Hanna Montana Shirts and pink nails and - man I did not miss that- these stereotypical girls are getting so young now.

2. I was getting out of my car and understood a local neighbor talking about alcohol and using vulgar language (where in Japan I would not understand it at all- I MISS THAT).

3. I watched another 3 Korean films- Can't get away from them when you start they are ridiculous.

4. Found some great Japanese ring tones for my phone- a great reminder and scares people..

5. Learned how to be careful enough not to attract bugs into your house and to keep them from returning.

6. The great feeling you get when you actually get a pay check when you didn't expect one till Sept.

7. The joys of buying fruit in BULK and eating lots of it and not feeling bad!!!!!

8. Deer meat is not all that bad (Deer tacos, deer salad, deer nachos- it can be done).

9. Ice cream unites the masses.

10. Enjoying a small community that opens their community meetings with prayer.

11. Renewed by the sense of home that come with Gods presence in any place you are at that moment.

This was my week 8/16/09

~MOlly