Reflections on a whirlwind introduction to Japan

So, yesterday marked the two week anniversary of my arrival in Japan.  In that short time, I have truly fallen in love with this amazing country.  I have seen and experienced many things - some good, some not so good – but each one has only encouraged me to dig deeper into the mysteries of this place.

The first week and a half of my stay here was in a part of Osaka called Tanimachi. My company housed all of the newbies in a wonderful little hotel in the middle of a bustling downtown.   This is where I got my first taste of Japanese style transportation.  I’ll give you a hint, it’s walking.  Within the first day, my feet were covered in blisters and Band-Aids.  But at the same time, there was a sense of accomplishment (and dehydration).  I had not moved that much in a very long time.  There was also something thrilling about strolling down the street in a foreign country: the conversations of people passing by were in Japanese; everyone was dressed in their Cool Biz outfits of dark slacks, white, short-sleeved shirts, and neat ties; brightly lit store signs were in kanji and hiragana that I couldn’t even begin to read; it seemed as if even the familiar sights and sounds of a busy street were somehow new and different.

Within walking distance of the hotel I could reach a sizable mall, Osaka Castle and Park, a Kinkos, a half dozen Starbucks, a McDonalds, and a plethora of 7/11s.  There was no shortage of restaurants, either.  I was able to sample many regional specialties such as yakisoba, okonomiyaki, and real Japanese sushi.

 

Mmmm, tako sushi!

The food was truly amazing.  The flavors were so new, but even familiar foods, such as eating at McDonalds (yes, I caved once), made me realize something about Japan and its people.  While the menu at McDonalds had many familiar items, there were those items that were uniquely Japanese.  Somewhat sadly, I admit that I have frequented McDonalds all over the world.  In almost every single one, the menu is exactly what I would find in the State except for one or two specialty items.  In Japan, the McDonalds menu was something different.  While there were many American favorites, there were just as many Japanese specialties.  From burger choices to drink choices, each American favorite seemed to have an equally, if not more popular, Japanese counterpart.  Slowly, I began to realize that the Japanese people don’t just mimic the ways of other countries; they take those idea/dishes/traditions, and make them something new – foreign influence Japanese style.  Thankfully, though, they did not mess with the fries.

In all my travels, I have met some really amazing people.  I have chatted up complete strangers in a pub in Sterling, learned all about Australian Football from a bunch of friendly, dentally challenged rugby players in Brisbane, been plied with fresh cherries and other fruit by exuberant street merchants in Greece. I have shared food, drink, and good stories with people from all over the world, but I don’t know if I have ever met a people as polite, friendly, or helpful as the Japanese.  I think the phrases I have used the most, and heard the most in regular conversations, are excuse me, please, and thank you.  This overwhelming acceptance and kindness have been most evident in the neighborhood I moved into. 

First, let me tell you a little bit about Sunny House.  Sunny House is the name of the sharehouse I am currently calling home.  When it came time to find a place to live, I was very hesitant about living in an apartment by myself.  I have never really lived alone so the idea of doing it at almost 30 was a little daunting.  Add to that the fear and isolation of being in a foreign country.  I thought of all the things that might break me, renting an apartment would be the biggest and most likely.  So I found a sharehouse.  And boy did I get lucky!   I have a rather large set of rooms upstairs – about nine tatami mats worth of floor space – access to two kitchens, my own fridge, a washing machine, internet, and three wonderful women to share meals and experiences with.  Four if you count my landlady, who lives just across the alley from us.  While I have only been living here for a few days, it already feels like home.

One of the streets near my house.

Sunny House is in a residential community, so I have also acquired a set of friendly neighbors in my move.  It is the type of place where everyone says “ohayo gozaimu,” in the morning and “konbonwa,” in the evening.  It is also very near a mile long shopping street so my list of acquaintances gets longer and longer as I interact with the business owners and employees. 

This was taken very early in the morning.  During the regular day, this place is packed!

My first evening here was the community Bon celebration.  It was very similar to church or school carnivals with food, games for the kids, and lots of catching up.  I was immediately welcomed, taught how to fish for goldfish with a paper net, and shown the local shrine.  As the night wore on, we wandered from one small celebration to another, eating and drinking, talking, and having a great time.  I excelled at the games, beginners luck, and enjoyed the carnival atmosphere. 

I think the best part of the night, however, came when we stumbled upon a Bon Odori.  A tight oval of dancers stretched down the narrow street.  The women were dressed in bright yakutas.  There was one male dancer, an older gentleman dressed in royal blue.  The moves were simple, but with an elegance that reminded me of medieval court dancing.  As they moved slowly around the circle, the movements repeating over and over, I was given a glimpse of the understated beauty I hoped to find here. 

After watching for a few dances, I was encouraged to join in.  My movements were nowhere near as refined or beautiful, but I was encouraged and welcomed by everyone around me.  At one point, an older woman in a beautiful white and blue yukata took it upon herself to teach me and an eager group of four young girls a few of the more kid friendly dances.  I found out later, I was the first foreigner to dance with them and that they were honored by my presence.  Truly, I was the one who felt honored. 

I know this is a somewhat rosy view of Japanese daily life and society.  Not every day is a celebration and not every Japanese person is kind and welcoming to foreigners.  I know my warm reception is partly because of the Japanese sense of honor and hospitality, partly because of the community I moved into, and partly because of my own personality.  A good part of it is also luck that all of these things aligned, that I am in the right place at the right time.  Overall, though, I feel that the people of this country are genuinely kind, helpful, and friendly. 

I know there will be challenges in the coming months, once the shiny and new wears off and homesickness sets in.  Even now there are some things I find difficult to adjust to.  Like the ungodly heat and humidity.  Not actually knowing what to buy at the grocery store.  Picking up my bed every morning.  Not having the amount of privacy I was used to.  But I think the friends I have made here, both Japanese and foreign, will make the coming hurdles a lot easier to handle.  Like the old man who says good morning to me, in English, every morning, when we pass on my way to the subway.  It is all he has ever said to me.  Even so, it makes me smile every time.  

And this.  This is definitely a challenge.

Gastric Adventures: Foods I Have Eaten Since My Arrival

Osaka is the food capital of Japan.  I love food.  This seems like a match made in heaven.

I decided to hit the ground running, so to speak, when it came to sampling the delicacies of my new home.  I don't know what most of these things were, or exactly what was in them, but they were delicious!

A red bean filled pastry with coffee for breakfast the first morning.

Lunch.  My first taste of fresh udon.  Plush a plum onigiri and tempura battered Japanese ginger.

A snack so I could sit in the cafe out of the rain.  It was tasty, though.

Second day's breakfast.  I don't know what kind of fish it was, but it was tasty.

My first ever gyudon.  Basically rice with thin sliced beef on top.  This one has cheese on top.

And an ice cream because it was really hot.

My first bar experience.  Yakisoba is delicious, but I have no idea what all was on this.

Natto!  It wasn't that bad.  This was my breakfast this morning.  Never figured out what to do with the raw egg, though.

This was some kind of omelet with rice inside and sauce and cheese on top.

And I finally caved and stopped at McDonalds.  Although, I have never seen a teriyaki burger on the menu at home.

Bonus video - My yakisoba danced!

Nihon e yōkoso

*Disclaimer: Due to sleep deprivation and severe emotional and physical stress on the part of the author, this post will likely be less eloquent, less thought out, and more prone to grammar mistakes. Just bear with me. I've been up since 4AM central time on Wednesday.*

Part 1 - Bismarck to Denver

 

Final goodbyes at the Bismarck Airport at way before the butt crack of dawn.

So, this is really happening.  I am really moving to Japan.  As I write this, I am sitting, somewhat comfortably, on the first flight of my journey. 

There were no tears this morning, I am happy to report.  Although, that is probably because I am so dehydrated from all the crying yesterday.  Still, it took several attempts to record quivering voice free video messages for my BFF and hubby.

Saying goodbye has never been my strong suite.  I am not as stoic as my little sister.  I tend to cry at the drop of a hat.  There were a lot of hats dropping the last few days - saying goodbye to my fur babies, my friends, and my family.  I think the worst moment was when my stubborn and independent scottie dog snuck out the front door and hopped in the car with my luggage.  Telling him he couldn't go really broke the emotional dam that had only been leaking at that point.  I also had calls, emails, and messages from all over the world wishing me luck.  It was so thoughtful I couldn't help tearing up from all the well wishes. 

I know I should not be sad, though.  This is an amazing opportunity and adventure.  I just wish I could take everyone with me is all.

Thank you, everyone, for the support and love over the last few days.  Thank you for helping me come to grips with the monumental decision I am making.  I am not going to lie, I felt like bailing more than a few times these past couple weeks, but you all made me realize what an amazing chance this is for me to grow and learn.  

I miss you all already, but I know you will all be watching and reading. 

Part 2 - Denver to San Francisco

Originally this was only supposed to be a one part post, but things changed in Denver. 

When I collected my gate check bag and finally stepped off the jet-bridge, I was met with the best and worst surprise of my day - probably my week.  Standing in the waiting area were my mom and dad.  

SURPRISE!

I was completely overwhelmed.  The only way I was able to hold it together was Mom's technical difficulties as she was trying to take a video.  It was a welcome distraction that kept too many tears from falling.

It was only for an hour, but it was an awesome surprise.  One that took a lot of preparation and luck not to spoil (the original plan was to meet me in San Francisco, but the flights were too full).  It was hard saying goodbye to my parents in person, but I am glad I got the chance to hug them one more time.

Mom said the trick was not to look back.  It almost worked.

Part 3 - San Francisco to Kansai

Just stepping into the waiting area was like stepping into another country.  It was my first glimpse at how different life will be. 

The first thing I noticed was how quite it was.  Compared to the domestic terminal I had just left, it was almost silent.  That wasn't because no one was speaking; it was because they were speaking quietly.  I passed a young man talking on his cell phone.  Instead of holding the headset to his ear, he was using his earbuds and microphone.  I almost couldn't tell what he was doing at first.  I had to be right next to him to realize he was speaking softly on the phone.

There were a few louder passengers, but these were children playing in the row of seats next to me.  I couldn't help but watch them.  It was the same kinds of games my sister and I would have played when we were their age with barbies and other dolls, but they were speaking in Japanese.  It made me smile.

The one discovery I was not thrilled to make was that the Japanese people in the waiting room didn't seem to have the same sense of personal space I did.  I was in the waiting area a little early so I chose a seat that was pretty isolated.  I took a seat for myself, and one for my bag.  I had about six seats left to the end of the row and just one on the other side.  As the flight got closer, though, all the seats filled up.  That wasn't surprising, it was a big plane.  The surprising thing was that the seats next to me went first.  I even began to feel self-conscious for having my luggage on a seat instead of on the floor!  I have a much smaller personal bubble than most people I know, but as a solo traveler, it made me a little cautious when people did not hesitate to sit next to me (especially since I probably smelled like a high school athlete's gym bag after hoofing it across what felt like the entire San Francisco airport).  I guess it is just something I am going to have to get used to.  Space of any kind is a premium in Japan and I will just have to get used to sharing my personal space with strangers.  At least they will be polite, quiet strangers.

I had one last reprieve to enjoy my American sense of personal space.  I was lucky enough to have an empty seat next to me and a rather stoic, quiet Japanese man on the aisle.  I always hate getting stuck next to a talker on long flights.

The aircraft was a Boeing 787 Dreamliner and it was, by far, the nicest plane I have ever been on in my life.  The windows were large and didn't have the traditional pull down shades.  Instead, they tinted with the press of a button.  I had my own tv and access to hundreds of movies.  I finally got to see Captain America: The Winter Soldier.  I also watched the second 300 movie because when you are having trouble sleeping, senseless violence and mostly naked me is a pretty good alternative.  I was just in economy class, but it sure felt like I was getting my first taste of Japanese convenience and technology.  I was a little disappointed that there were no robotic stewardesses, though.

One last look at American soil.  

Part 4 - Finally made it

My first views of Japan!

I finally made it to my hotel.  I have been through so many time zones, my body has absolutely no idea what time it is.  I am exhausted, sweaty, sore, and glad to be here.

The train ride from the airport to my hotel was equal parts amazing, frustrating, frightening, and exhausting.  But I think that is a story for another time (when I am not so tired). 

Just know I arrived safely, managed to make it to my hotel, and even acquire my first taste of authentic Japanese food – from the 7/11 across the street from my hotel.

Some kind of mango pudding/custard with cream in the middle.  Delicious!

3…2…1… My super amazing Send Off Weekend

I have mentioned before that I have met some really amazing people here.  For my last weekend in town, they really put in the time and effort to send me off in style.  To everyone that came out, thanks so much.  For those of you that were unable to make it, you’ll just have to be doubly sure to make it to my Welcome Home party.     

Festivities began Friday with a fancy cocktail party in my honor.  Now, living where I do, there isn’t a lot of call for getting all dressed up to go out on the town.  However, my best friend and I have made kind of a tradition out of just showing up to the local watering hole in fancy dresses from time to time.  I had one dress left in my closet that I had not had a chance to wear.  Packing being the ordeal that it was, I was not going to take this dress with me to Japan.  So I needed an occasion.  She provided a fantastic night. 

We started out with hair and makeup with my favorite hairdresser; then we made it over to the venue and caught the last couple bingo games of the evening.  I didn’t win, but then again I rarely do.  I guess you could call the whole night a win, though, since I got to spend it with some of my favorite people.  My in-laws made it in with some extended family members in tow.  The ladies I had shared many bottles of wine with were there for one last glass and some good conversations.  My favorite group of country gentlemen kept us entertained with stories and jokes.  There was good food and good drink all around.  A little impromptu karaoke to get me in the habit.  I even made a new friend that night who had actually taught in Japan and had a lot of great advice.  It was an amazing evening that quickly turned to 3AM.

Probably my favorite picture of the night.  The photographer really captured us perfectly.

Somehow I pulled myself together a little later Saturday morning.  After several cups of coffee and a few Tylenol, plans were made for that night’s activities.  My husband’s uncle is in a great country band.  I had hoped to see them one last time at our local celebration, but they had another gig this year.  But somehow Karma was on my side, yet again, when I found out they were playing just a couple hours away.  Three of us set off a little after five for dinner in the booming metropolis of Dickinson followed by an evening of live music just down the highway in Richardton.  Along the way, we caught up with an old friend who had been our partner in crime on many occasions.  We danced, sang, and had a ball.  We also endeared ourselves with the local children by giving out glow sticks (originally intended for personal use, but they had so much more fun than we ever could have).

Okay, maybe they couldn't have had more fun

Sunday we spent a final afternoon out at the lake.  This was only my second time out on the water and I really wish I had gotten my act in gear sooner.  What was billed as a relaxing afternoon on the pontoon, turned into a wild tube ride, burgers on the beach, and a beautiful sunset to cap it all off.  I woke up with sore muscles, but no regrets this morning as I started to collect all the pieces and get ready for leaving tomorrow. 

As I was watching the sun go down last night, I couldn’t help thinking how perfect it all was.  The sun is setting on my time here.  While I am gone, the people laughing and talking on the beach with me will change.  They will share many adventures without me – hopefully all good.  I will hear about them, and see pictures on social media, but it will be kind of like the shadows you see at night –hard to make out and connect with in the darkness.  And I will have my own adventures that, unfortunately, they won’t be able to share. 

But after the darkness comes the dawn.  When I come home, I will get to meet these people all over again.  I will get to hear their stories; the ones they are all sick of hearing/telling for the hundredth time, but are new and exciting for me.  I will get to tell them all my stories, too.  And I know friendships will be relit and burn brighter than ever before.

So while I am sad for this sunset, I can’t wait to see you all when I get back.  It’s going to be one hell of a party!

4... Some things I am looking forward to

I have mentioned, quite a few times, the things I am going to miss (or not miss in some cases), but I haven’t really said much about the things I am looking forward to.  When I first found out I was going to be in Osaka, I was a little bit nervous.  I didn’t know anything about the area, only that it was one of the biggest cities.  The company I will be working for had me convinced my chances of getting a metro assignment were slim so I was a little shocked.  Even more so when I actually looked up the population – almost 3 million in the city itself, 19 million in the metro area.  To say it will be a shock is a bit of an understatement.  But as I dug deeper into what kind of place I would be moving to, I realized that Osaka might just be the best place I could have landed.

Food – Osaka is the culinary heart of Japan.  Apparently there is even an old saying, "Kyotoites are financially ruined by overspending on clothing, Osakans are ruined by spending on food.”  As self-confessed foodie, this is the place for me!  Some of the local specialties include okonomiyaki, which is kind of like a pancake and literally means “what you like grilled,” takoyaki, ball shaped bits of battered and fried octopus topped with different sauces, and a type of sushi where they press it into a square shape called oshizushi.  Obviously they also have an assortment of other Japanese dishes, but these are the local specialty.  Osaka is also known for its premium sake (wink wink).  I can’t wait to try everything!

Shopping – I am not a huge shopper, but I do like to watch people.  Osaka, like any metropolitan area, has a great selection of shops, so I am sure to have plenty of people to watch.  One area I am particularly interested in visiting is Den-Den Town or Nipponbasi.  This is a shopping area, rather close to the house I will be living at, that specializes in electronics and anime/manga.  The pictures of this place are crazy!  I can only imagine what it will be like in person.  One thing that makes this market unique is it is one of the only places in Japan where you can haggle over prices.  Sounds like a fun experience.

Attractions – As with any large city, Osaka has a lot to offer as far as attractions.  There is Universal Studios Japan (with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter), a massive aquarium, the world’s tallest/longest escalator that takes you to the top of the Umeda Sky Building for amazing panoramic views of the entire area, and other great places to see.  Add to this list a number of parks, flea markets, temples, hiking trials, and festivals, and I will never have a free weekend!

History – Osaka was one of the first permanent capitals of Japan, I found out.  I knew about Kyoto, but apparently in 645, Kōtoku built his capital in what became Osaka (it was called Nara at the time).  Anyway, rulers came and went, sometimes unwillingly, and the official capital changed many times, but Osaka, or whatever it was called at the time, was always important to the Japanese economy as a major port.  For that reason, the city is draped in centuries of history.  There are several important historical landmarks in the region including a castle and a plethora of history museums.  Several museums and area I have read about seem to be set up as living history museums that you can explore. I will admit I know very little of Japanese history, it wasn’t exactly core curriculum in Texas, so I look forward to expanding my brain and my horizons.

To keep this from sounding like a school report, I will just leave it at this:  I was very lucky to be placed in such an amazing area.  There are a lot of things that fit perfectly with my personality and interests.  I would have been happy anywhere in Japan, but Osaka seems like it has the right attitude and attractions for me.  I am still excited to travel outside the Kansai region and see Tokyo, Kyoto, and many other places, but Osaka seems like the best place to call home.  For a little while anyway.  A city of hard-working, down-to-earth people who like to eat well and have a good time – what more could I ask for? 

5... If my father were a country, he would be Japan

There was a quiz on Facebook the other week about what country are you.  Of course it was rigged and I think you could only end up with Japan, Scotland, and Sweden, but I thought it was an interesting concept.  I started to think about the countries I had visited or knew something about and tried to match up my family members based on personality.  I decided my dad was Japan. 

When I think about Japan, I think about natural beauty, simplicity, silence, reflection, and harmony.  I see the people as reserved and hardworking, but also kind and honest.  This is an overly simplistic view, I know, but we are comparing people to countries after all – stereotyping and over simplification are necessary.  Based on these impressions, my father is definitely Japan.

Growing up, Dad was always something of an enigma.  He was incredibly creative and artistic, but he was also reserved and reflective.  I take after my mother who, as I am assigning countries, is a rowdy, boisterous Scotland through and through.   So I never quite understood Dad’s ability to just be quiet.  He shared his love of plants and natural beauty with my sister and me, but I never had the patience or focus.  While he was enjoying the simple beauty of sunlight peeking through crimson red maple leaves, I was running through the garden after some lizard or other creature.  He did instill a strict code of honor, complete honesty, a vivid imagination, and the work ethic of a draft horse into me, but the quieter parts of his nature never stood a chance.

But now that I am older, perhaps we will be better able to understand each other.  I still laugh loudly, make a spectacle of myself in public, and wear my emotions openly, but I have started to understand the value of silence.  I have started to think and reflect before I act.  I have started to appreciate the vivid green of plants after a little rain instead of rushing past.

6... Where my journey really started

I mentioned my super-amazing mother in my post yesterday, but my parents really deserve a lot more type for all they have done to help make this adventure possible.  They have helped me pack, prepare, organize, and fund this endeavor.  My mother worked her travel agent magic to get me a great deal on airfare and help me shove the majority of the stuff I will need into one suitcase.  My father offered words of advice and caution to keep me grounded, sane, and reflective as I realized the significant disadvantage my natural personality would be in Japanese culture.  But more than anything, from the moment I was born they taught me to take risks and follow my dreams – even if they seemed a little crazy.  After all, it is exactly what they did forty years ago.

In the fall of 1973, my parents sold all of their belongings and moved to Tokyo.  My father was taking part in a work exchange between the landscape architecture firm he had been with in Florida and the Regional Planning Union in Tokyo.  They had one large suitcase (without wheels), no knowledge of the Japanese language, and a desire to learn about the other side of the world.  They were only there for nine months, but it was a life altering experience.

Growing up, I knew all of these things.  However, children are notoriously self-centered, so while I was aware my parents had lived in a foreign country, it didn't really have a major impact on my pre-adolescent life.  It meant we went out for sushi when other families went for pizza, the phrase, “eat your tofu,” was actually uttered at our dining room table, and you would sometimes hear the clack, clack of getas on the wooden floor if my sister and I got into the keepsake box, but my parents never really talked about their time in Japan in a meaningful way.  Or if they did, my childhood self didn’t pay too much attention.  We were never even forced to endure a slide show of their time and adventures there, so I have, to this day, never seen photographic evidence of my parent’s life in Tokyo.  In this way, Japan was always a part of my life, but it was something woven into the background of my childhood. 

Obviously, things have changed a little now.  When I started to become interested in Japan, my parents were the first ones I turned to.  I raided the keepsake box for clues and insight into Japanese culture.  I never got around to pulling out the slides, but I asked all kinds of questions about the city, the people, and daily life in Japan.  As with any endeavor I have ever attempted, regardless of its practicality or sanity, my parents completely supported and encouraged me.  My mom shared her sumie practice book with me.  My father expounded on Japanese sensibilities when it came to beauty, nature, and ramen.  We connected over Japan and I was finally able to appreciate the amazing insights and understanding my parents had found there – insights and understanding they had been sharing with me my whole life. 

There were many choices and personality traits that shaped my parents into amazing people, but I think living in a foreign country really helped change their perspective of the world.  It helped them understand their culture a little better as they learned about someone else’s.  They were able to open up their mind to new opportunities and new experiences.  They took risks and walked the tightrope of international relations with grace and an honest desire to understand other human beings.  Eastern philosophy and aesthetics became a part of how they perceived the world.  And it taught them to enjoy eating weird things like tofu and soup in summer.

All of this influenced the way they raised my sister and me. 

As I mentioned in my very first post, I have always been incredibly lucky.  Well most of that stems from the parents I lucked into.  Because of them I was never afraid to take risks, try something new, or follow my own path.  I learned to appreciate the simple beauty of life and nature.  I still haven’t mastered being quiet, but I am able to understand the value of silence and reflection.  I have a zest for life and learning and my desire to truly understand another culture is a direct result of my upbringing.  My parents taught me not just tolerance, but respect and curiosity.

I know I will never be able to thank them for all the amazing opportunities they have helped bring about in my life.  The only way I can think to repay them is to continue on the path they have allowed me to choose and become the best me I can be.  It is my turn to follow in their footsteps, to take my one suitcase (plus shoulder bag, backpack, and box they are shipping to me), and deepen my understanding of myself and the world.  Through their support and parenting they have already given me with a head start, but I hope I can catch up to the people they became in the end.  

7... Money, money, money

Getting large amounts of foreign currency is difficult.  I’m not saying it should be easy; the world is a very scary place.  However, I think my experience was just a little overly dramatic.

We live in amazing times, full of conveniences that every one of our ancestors would be envious of.   Medicine, housing, food, entertainment – every aspect of our lives is a million times better and easier than it was for those living even one generation ago. Now it can be argued that there are pros and cons to this age of technological innovation.  I agree.  But that’s a whole other can of worms that has nothing to do with my current topic of conversation. Today we are talking about my experience ordering Yen online.

Because I live in a very, very rural area, getting foreign currency is not something easily achieved.  Getting a debit/credit card that can work in a foreign country, no problem.  Getting actual bills, not happening.  But I needed bills.

In America, money is more of a state of mind than an actual, physical thing.  At least for my generation.  I never carry cash.  I have a card.  I’m not saying that in a flippant way; my mother and father raised me to understand and appreciate money.  But my money exists in cyberspace rather than my wallet.  I check it online, I pay my bills online, and I use my card to make purchases I don’t make online.  I very rarely have physical money on my person. 

Now, anyone that knows much about Japan can see this habit might be a bit of a disadvantage for someone moving there.  Japan is still a cash based society.  You can use a credit card in major cities and at many of the more tourist oriented places, but physical bills and coins are required for the daily life of people residing there.  Not to mention it is rather difficult to rent an apartment, get a cell phone, or handle other moving related expenses when you don’t have a bank account.  These are large deposits that must be paid in Yen.  This is why my company suggests new employees bring a substantial amount of currency into the country. 

All very reasonable, right?  I thought so.  But I also didn’t want to deal with extra charges for cash advances, debit card deduction limits, rushing to exchange currency at SFO during my brief layover, or dealing with it at Kansai after flying for almost a day.  So, in this day and age of technological wonder, I found you can order currency online from the same company that exchanges it at the airport.  Fantastic!  They offer a better rate, too.  Even better! And they will deliver it right to my door.  I’m sold! 

Now if only it were that simple.  I am a huge believer in the idea of cosmic balance.  I have a theory – because we have such amazing technology to make our lives easier, it should never work smoothly.  This isn’t exactly balanced; the ease is still far greater than the tiny bit of adversity we face with flight delays, slow internet connections, and other minor inconveniences, but in a world where we are raised on instant gratification, these small hurdles can really seem much larger.  Ordering money online definitely felt this way to me.

To start with, a lot of the legwork was done for me by my wonderful, amazing, beautiful, caring, and all around super-awesome mother.  As a veteran of the travel industry and a seasoned traveler, she offered to check into where I could get the best rate.  Since she is also frequently at a large, international airport, I gave her a portion of the cash I was going to convert so she could get it exchanged.  We realized pretty quickly that this was probably not the best choice, however, since it would involve either mailing the currency or her making a trip to visit her favorite daughter.  Neither of these were great options. 

Instead, we came up with another plan.  In her research she found that you could order currency online through Travelex.  Since that is the same company as the exchange booths in the airport, we felt confident that this was a safe and reliable option.  I could also use my debit card and avoid transaction fees and cash advance fees that would have applied to credit cards.  It seemed like this option was made just for my situation.  There were two choices for pickup – at an airport or home delivery.  I decided to go with home delivery since recently I have had very little luck with flights leaving and arriving on time (knock on wood) and I didn’t want to risk it.  So far, everything was going smoothly.  I clicked through the options – Yen, cash currency, home delivery.  I filled in all my information.  I hit the submit button.  My card was declined.

Try again.  Click through the options, fill in the information, hit submit.  Declined. 

Sigh.  Under the declined statement, it says that Travelex can’t tell you why your payment was declined.  They suggest you call your bank/card issuer.  So I did.  After I explained the situation, what I was trying to do and why, I was informed that I was declined because I had not signed a form to use my debit card in a foreign country.  Thankfully, I was able to sign the form and have the card released for foreign use immediately.  So, hop in the car, run up the steps and into the bank, fill out form, say thank you, drive home, try again. 

Declined. Ugh.

I called the bank again.  The first teller I had spoken with was out, but the second one suggested that maybe it was the amount.  She didn’t think the amount I was trying to spend was over the daily limit for my account, but she suggested I try again with a smaller amount.  I tried a fourth time.

SUCCESS!  A portion of the amount I needed was now being delivered to my house.  Huge sigh of relief. 

I knew you were only able to order a certain amount per day, so I tried again the next day.  Got it on the first try.  I now had over half of the amount I needed.  But I would still need one more transaction. 

Day three, a Sunday, declined.  That’s okay, the banks are closed, the exchange is closed.  I’ll try again on Monday.  I wasn’t panicked yet.  Annoyed, yes, but at least a large portion of the funds I needed were on their way. 

Instead I decided to wait a day.  I could see where the larger of the two transactions, the one from Saturday, was already deducted from my bank balance, but the purpose of the deduction wasn’t listed in the account history.  I had email confirmation from Travelex that the orders were placed, but only one email confirming payment for the Saturday transaction.  I was a little concerned.  The order placed on Friday wasn’t showing up through the bank, but sometimes it takes a couple days.  Later that afternoon, I got a phone call from Travelex confirming my orders so all was well and good with the world.  On a whim, I asked the representative about why my third order might have been declined.  She informed me, in a delightful British accent, that the amount I was trying to get might be close to the weekly limit imposed by Travelex.  She also told me to have fun and enjoy my adventure.  It was a very pleasant conversation.  I decided to take my victory, wait for my currency on Tuesday, and just let the third order slide for the day.     

Tuesday morning I couldn’t wait.  I wanted this all settled.  I tried again, failed again.  Then I remembered what the representative had said the day before.  You see, when I was ordering, I would put in the amount I wanted to exchange, but the company would alter that slightly to make the conversion easier.  They were rounding up.  I realized this when it was happening, but it didn’t register until I was about to start screaming obscenities at the computer screen.  So I went back to my confirmation emails and added up the exact amounts.  I figured out it was about five dollars.  So I subtracted that from the amount I wanted to get.  In the end, I converted about ten dollars less than I originally intended.  I succeeded in ordering and confirming payment on my final order and it would be delivered on Wednesday.  I breathed a huge sigh of relief.

Mid-morning I got another call from Travelex confirming the details of my third order.  By this time I’m sure I was looking very suspicious, so I didn’t mind answering their questions.  There were more questions than on Monday, but the representative was very personable and he British accent was charming.  We got everything sorted and she wished me a happy early birthday and a safe trip.  Around noon, my currency arrived.  The ordeal was finally over.  Or, it will be soon.  I am still waiting for the money from the original order on Friday to be deducted from my account (even though the currency arrived today).  And the final package comes tomorrow. 

So that was my adventure with ordering currency online.  It is a wonderfully convenient option.  The staff at my bank and Travelex were really, really helpful.  I don’t seem to have made any government agency’s watch list.  I still don’t think I ever want to do it again. 

However, now I can make it rain Yen!

Just kidding, that would be very rude.  I might not know everything about Japanese culture, but I know they think more highly of their money than we do.  So instead, here is the Joker making it rain.  Enjoy. 

8... Some things I will not miss

- Negative 30 temps with wind chill of negative 50.  To go along with that, multiple feet of snow that doesn't melt until May.  Yeah, not going to miss South Dakota winters at all.

-Having the windows open on a beautiful spring day just to have the wind change direction and bring the smells and sounds of the unhappy livestock at the sale barn wafting my direction.

-Long car rides alone (two or more hours just to turn around and come back the same distance in the same day). This can be alright if you have a buddy (see things I will miss), but there is only so much time a person can spend alone in a vehicle.  After a while even music won’t stop the voices.

-In conjunction with the previous item, driving at dusk when the deer are out.  I haven’t gotten used to looking for wildlife while driving.  I have racked up quite a kill list in the last four years, mostly pheasants and other fowl.  I will not miss watching for them or the mechanic’s snickers when I explain the new dent in the fender or the feathers embedded in the grill. 

  

-The lingering, clinging smell of dog fart.  And really any unpleasant dog related activities such as going to the vet, dealing with dingle berries, cleaning up vomit/poop/pee, all the joys of pet ownership.

-Trying to get a 90 pound dog, who refuses to jump or step up, into the car.

-Allergies (sniff, sniff).  Some due to dogs, but most due to the astounding amount of grasses, weeds, and plants that cover this whole area.

This was never going to be a very long list, but I did expect a few more items.  

Honestly, I will really miss this small town.  It hasn't been my ideal location, but it is safe, the people are caring and helpful, and some days, during the summer, it is really pretty.  I have learned a lot about myself and my husband here.  We have made some great friends and had some amazing adventures.  But yeah, those winters - I don't think that will ever be enjoyable.  We're talking north of the Wall, Hoth, ninth circle of hell cold. Brrrrrr.   

9... On bucket lists

For the last few weeks, as my departure crept closer, I tried to fill my time with as many of the fun and wonderful things I would miss doing as I could.  I also tried to fill my belly with all my favorite foods, but that is a story for another time.  I hung out with good friends, cuddled my puppies, tried to weed down my Netflix and Crunchyroll queues, and made time to just be with the man I love.  I also finally made the effort to do a few of the things that have been on my North and South Dakota bucket list.  When my parents visited, we took an evening cruise on the Lewis and Clark Riverboat (not a paddle boat, but still a lot of fun).  I stopped to take pictures of abandoned and dilapidated houses I have always meant to take pictures of.  I finally braved the sun and spent an afternoon at the lake with a great group of friends.  We played water volleyball and I took a ride on my best friend’s boat with her and her family while they gave us a narrated tour of where we were and whose lake house was whose.  We ended the night with a cookout at the beach with watermelon, brats, suddenly salad (never heard of it before, but it was delicious), and fresh strawberry shortcake. 

I had so much fun doing all of these things, but it also made me a little sad.  Why did I wait?  All of my recent adventures were things I could have done any time (relatively) in the four years we have lived here.  Why did I wait till now?  I don’t have an answer; I just didn’t.  Scrolling through my Facebook feed, there are tons of posts about living each day to the fullest and making sure to make each moment count.  It is a great goal, but very few of us actually achieve it.  Instead, we make bucket lists - I want to do this; someday I will do that.  Sadly, tomorrow comes, and the next day, and the next, and the list doesn’t get any shorter.  Until we come to a crossroad.

Japan is my crossroad.  When I step off that plane, I will have a choice.  Do I make excuses – I’m tired, I have too much to do, I don’t feel like it today, I’ll go next weekend – or do I make adventures a daily occurrence?  I am not saying every evening and weekend is going to be chock full of castles, museums, hikes, and festivals.  I would love to, but physically and monetarily that’s not possible.  But I can try something new every day.  Even breakfast can be an adventure.  Or a trip to the local convenient store if you take a different route.  It is all a matter of perception, really.  I have an opportunity to change the way I perceive life.  I can make bucket lists for someday, or I can just live today.

So I have a new bucket list.  It only has one item on it –

Have fun and enjoy today.

It might take me to Tokyo.  It might take me to a neighborhood festival.  It might just take me to the kitchen with a new recipe.  No matter where it takes me, if I can mark off this item every day, it will have been time well spent.

Just like this day.