It’s a race to the finish as usual. I stayed up quite late last night trying to pack my things and clean the house. I sort of accomplished both but there is still stuff to be done before I leave. I only have half an hour after work so I have basically decided to push everything into the spare room and make my bed. That is all there will be time for. Last night I missed my private lesson which I feel like a complete ass about. I was quite busy so I know how t slipped my mind but I am still embarrassed about it. Yesterday I had five classes, then a meeting at the Board of Education Office, then the dentist (more on that in a moment), then to the post office to pick up 6 packages!!! Thanks Mom, Nana and Edi! Then I had an Enkai (work drinking party) and then a birthday party. I never made it to the birthday party.
The dentist wasn’t too bad. I had to get a piece of plastic put in my face in order to go away without bandages in my mouth. I can remove it once a day to clean it. It probably won’t fit anymore by the end of the trip though. As long as it stays clean, that’s all that matters. I have packed a bunch of hand sanitizer as well. Call me a germ-phobe but I need that stuff. I just found out they will let me go home early today. Excellent! I still have to bet my neighbour to cover one of my private classes that will be happening before I get back. It’s good pay so I hope he takes it. I stopped and took a picture on my way to school. I don’t know if I am delirious because I have just gotten to the top of a large hill but when ever I reach this point on my way to school I am always struck by how beautiful it is there. This was taken at about 7 this morning. The other picture is of a nice gate I saw when I was getting my re-entry permit in Nagano City on Friday. It seems to be made of mountain goats.
Well everybody, Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New year too. I am sure I will be able to squeeze in a few updates while I am away so stay tuned! I miss you all, even more so at this time of year. I am very sorry to those I wasn’t able to contact in time before I head out. All the best!