This has been a banner week for packages arriving! Two days ago, I received the most incredible package I have ever received to date in Japan or perhaps anywhere. The beautiful and talented Lauren sent me a package that contained so many of my life essentials that I don’t know how I have been surviving this long without them. Number one on the list is a pair of jeans. I do not have ANY jeans because I accidentally ripped one pair at the airport and the others were taken out due to a drinking related mishap. When I opened that package and saw those jeans I was happy in a way I have never felt before over a pair of pants! Let me tell you, I cannot buy jeans here. I put those jeans on immediately and they fit and they are perfect! The things that make you comfortable and happy here aren’t big things but they make a huge difference when you don’t have them. There was also candy from the bulk barn (all my fav’s), some great books, socks, a raccoon, and a very cute little necklace. I loved it all so much. Oh and did I mention bacon?! Like gifts from heaven! Oh Lauren, you are a prostar. But you knew that didn’t you? I also received a package from Mom which was, as always, much needed stuff and I was very happy with that too. I can’t tell you how great it is to receive letters and packages from back home. To those of you who have sent me stuff, please know how much I appreciate it. It lets me know you are thinking of me just as much as I think of all of you.
Last night I went to South Africa night at the culture centre for a presentation given by my friend Gisela. It was quite good. I think that is another place I would like to travel to someday. It isn’t all the savannah that we think it is. I helped out a bit before hand because we usually serve a food that represents the country at these nights. She made Lemon meringue pie and milo to drink. It was quite delightful and went over really well. We learned how to speak some Afrikaans and an African language called Xcosia which has all kinds of clicking in it. I have included some pictures from her presentation of Cape Town where she lives. They were quite stunning. After that we went out to our usual hang out called Corage (coo-rah-gay) and had a few drinks and snacks. I have had trouble getting out of bed this week and have slept in three times, just narrowly making it to work on time. I am sure nights out like this are the reason but I can’t wait to catch up on my sleep this weekend. I won’t be doing that on Saturday though because I have to be at school for 6:20 in the morning! The staff is heading off to Yokohama for the day to go to China town and see a huge Buddha. Look for pictures of that next week.
At school, the kids have just finished their month end exams which are really stressful for them. Once a month they have a test in every subject in marathon format. This is quite a lot to deal with for a 12 year old. And unfortunately, I am no longer allowed to mark the exams. They said I was too nice in my marking because I gave part marks. If a student write two sentences and doesn’t capitalize the first work for forgets a question mark, then they get no marks even though the communication is good. I get frustrated with the emphasis on perfection and memorization over good communication. What is more important? Memorizing statements from the textbook they will never say or learning how to naturally speak English? So I was annoyed with that but it isn’t the end of the world. I am not here to change Japan over to the western way of teaching and thinking so I don’t really argue with them too much.
I am going back to the dental hospital to have my dressings changed today. This wasn’t pleasant last time so I hope it goes well today. Before that I am going to Elementary school for a visit. Hope you have a good weekend and you Canadians are enjoying all that lovely snow!