花見

(Today, a whole gang came with me to exchange my TV tuner. We must have spent hours. I was excited to watch not only the world cup this summer, but to watch anything the entire weekend. Instead, the second one became dysfunctional as well in a matter of minutes. Because I am totally furious, I decided to post entries on my blog as Rob had suggested.)


After much consideration, Rob and I decided to go to 上野恩賜公園 for 花見 (flower viewing). Fortunately, Rob arrived before the season has ended. In addition, I have bought equipments to make our delicious お弁当. With the Japanese recipe book and Desy's rice cooker, we were ready to go~! For our lunch boxes, I decided earlier that it would be fun to prepare food to make hand rolls. The ingredients included our favorite avocado and eel, my newly mastered 焼き卵, sushi rice, いくら (salmon eggs), and seaweed.

While we were fitting everything into the lunch box, we started eating the sushi rice from our sticky hands. It was scrumptious! Along with our 弁当, we brought snacks, wet towels, chopsticks, etc. We then tied it into a blue cloth.

Although we were up early, we were still in a bit of a rush. Apparently, I only had dark color clothes. Since it didn't seem to fitting for spring or the 花見 season, we shopped. After an hour by train, we arrived to find the park flooded with people.

The atmosphere for this popular park is exactly what we had expected. Large groups of people were on picnic mats drinking beer, laughing, and singing. Dominos was taking over the place!! Their workers were every where, holding menus, taking orders. At last, there was an interesting group of men in business suits singing for free to whoever wishes to see them perform.

We must have spent hours under a sakura tree. It was slightly windy, thereafter, they would fall from time to time. It was beautiful. We took off our shoes like everyone else and sat on our tiny, pink mat. We weren't civilized enough to use chopsticks, therefore, our hands were covered with rice. After a while, we were running out of seaweed. So, our hand rolls were stuffed with more and more stuff. Moreover, different shapes were produced.

After making about a dozen handrolls, we strolled to different areas of the park. We even rode on the paddle swan boat! There were white swans, yellow swans (not duck), regular paddle boats, and rowing boats. On a side note, there were these black and white evil-looking ducks as well. They looked like they were about to take over the world! Their eyes glowed. It was colorful, and we were in time to see the sunset reflecting from the pond. The pond closed within minutes after we finished.

When it got dark, there were ぼんぼり点灯 hanging every where. In addition, there were the food stands that we often encounter. At last, I almost killed 9 of my friends! They were Wing-Chow, Ichiroo, Alice, Dim Sum, Dwayne, Dawn, Cooper, Alex, and Mandy. What happened was that I was playing the game where you try to catch a goldfish with a tissue paper spoon. I caught one, but she gave me 9! While we were sitting on a bench eating who-knows-what that was served at one stand, I was trying to sit the plastic bag of goldfish on the floor. The water ended up flowing out of the bag as I dropped it and the goldfishes were flapping on the floor. I immediately picked up 3 or so of them and dropped them back into the bag. I almost killed them!! Worst of all was that Rob named all 9 of them. After what had happened, we freed them before the night ended at the pond.

When we were exiting the park, we found a dance floor next to a big fountain. They were playing Japanese reggae. Everyone was facing the speakers and did a one-two step.


And, guess what? I just found a cockaroach next to my bed~! Go figure.

お弁当

I decided to pick up a few things so I can make an お弁当 for Hanami before the season ends. The Japanese has everything to sell. They make anything that would make life easier. At last, I must have spent 3000 yen on who knows what.

Speaking of which, what the hell is 昆布 or kelp (dictionary: a type of brown seaweed)? It is one of the listed ingredients.

Wish me luck! I am horrible at making anything. I just hope that I don't cut any fingers.

First Day Back in School

When I first came back to the dorm, Eun-Jung ran up to me and started chattering in Japanese. She was asking me simple questions, but I froze and I slowly explained that I have forgotten my Japanese. She continued to talk faster and faster, and I became silent.

On our first day back, we had to take a placement exam. I did horribly. Even if I hadn't left for 6 weeks, I wouldn't have done much better. It wasn't that I had forgotten Japanese, but I am simply slower than before. It took me longer to read. The Japanese words were all jumping out at me once. Although I have been reviewing and learning in my current level, I have always wanted to be placed in a more challenged class. I gave up on the idea after the test.

Afterwards, we had homeroom. Everyone seems to be speaking Japanese instead of English more willingly. Either I have become slower, or other foreign exchange students are speaking much faster. Thanks to Rob who downloaded a bunch of Japanese drama, I have noticed certain usage of words (mostly slangs) between Japanese people that I have never noticed before. In addition, I'm sure I'll pick up on it.

During homeroom, we received our grades. My grades consisted of only A's and S's. Sarcastically, I turned to Cori, "Woohoo, I got an A in Chinese." She replied, "And, you didn't get an S?" It was then that I realize that the grading system is in the order of S, A, B, C, F, and W. The 2 classes that I am absolutely fabulous in, Chinese 2 (a level much lower than what I should take) and Volleyball, I received A's. It sounds so ironic when everyone yelled out, "I can't believe I got an A (in so-and-so's class)!"

Back in NY, a friend of Rob who is applying to go study abroad approached me. I was quite intimated. He spoke in an incredible speed. Thank god for English! I wouldn't want to embarrass myself. After thinking that I have gained nothing from Japan the first semester, I wish to make the best out of my second one. Of course, I will still stay in my room to talk to Rob. LOL. Fortunately, he will be coming more frequently. At least, I'll be out some where ordering food and reading signs.

At night, Andrew delivered the DVD of our presentations from last year. Thanks again, by the way!. I watched the American presentation and I got the chills looking at myself. Heh. Thereafter, I decided to skim through the other presentations that we did not stay to watch.

久しぶり

I have been gone for 6 weeks, if not more. The more I was worried about my Japanese, the more people came up to me. I was approached by 2 foreigners who asked for directions in Japanese.

Right away, I remember the distinctive smell that I have only found in Japan, the businessmen in suits, the vending machines, etc. Everything has changed. The grasses are greener, the flowers are blooming, and most importantly, SAKURAS! There are even buildings that I have never noticed before on the path to school. I was excited once again to walk into a convenience store.

I had 2 inches of mail, and there were signes posted all over my door. Apparently, while I was gone, they installed the internet connection and a new conditioner! Hopefully, the new A/C will be more energy efficient. I wouldn't want to pay over $100 a month for electricity.

The brighten my day even more, they cleaned up the pidgeon poop outside my balcony! I cleaned it up once, and I almost puked. Ever since, I have simply avoided to walk outside. No one else seems to have that problem but me. For that reason, only my floor in the 2 buildings have a green net hung up to prevent further problems.

One thing I am upset is that I thought I was to be excused for a whole month of electricity bill. Apparently, I forgot to turn off the water heater!! GRR!! I have learned that keeping the water warm is probably much more expensive than keeping my computer on throughout the entire month. *sigh* Live and learn, Stephanie, live and learn~

At last, seeing everyone makes me happy, especially when I received an email from Cori asking if I needed anything such as groceries. Thanks Cori for paying my bill and thank you, Desy, for signing things for me~

Six Flags

As early as the first week in NY, I have already wanted to go to Six Flags Great Adventures. Ironically, our friend Tom had found free tickets on the opening day for the season online. Not only do all 5 of us have tickets, we had 2 extra tickets that had to be thrown away.

We decided to take only one car and squeeze into Tom's beamer, making him our designated driver. After hours of chatting, singing, and eating Chinese take outs, we arrived half an hour late at 5:30 pm.

Although the amusement park was giving out free tickets, the temperature was at high 71, and it was the opening day for the year, the were less people than any other day. Without speed passes, we were fortunate enough to ride one rollercoaster after another. I started to pose at the cameras at the rollercoasters, but unfortunately, they were out of service. Throughout the day, we caught shows and parades of looney tune characters. By 10 pm, there were fireworks as well.

In the middle of our day, Rob and I got to pig out at our favorite Boardwalk food - boardwalk fries, funnel cake, and even corn dog. While we were roaming around, 2 guy friends decided to sit next to each other in a go cart race. On the other hand, the rest of us found free Dippin' Dots. Apparently, the cash register was broken. Therefore, any customers that approach the counter receive them for free.


Earlier, we made plans to hunt down looney tune characters, but they were all waiting for us by the end of the day. The characters included, Bugs, Lola, Daffy, Tweety, Taz, PePe Le Pew, Road Runner, Porky, Porky's gf, Granny, Sylvester, Marvin, and many more. We had two fully charged cameras. Of course, we took pictures with all of them!! It was much easier than what we experienced in Disney Sea.

Dinner Cruise

Before we have the available time and resource to go on a vacation cruise, we went on a 3-hr dinner cruise in Manhattan.

The cruise consisted of an outdoor deck for sightseeing, dancing, live cabaret, and a buffet dinner. The atmosphere was much different than what I had expected. Despite the fact that there was a couple who had announced their engagement, the majority of the crowd consisted of bigger groups. There were a group of drunken women on the dance floor and a group of elders wearing tiaras. Sitting behind Rob was a table with two miserable girls who had not spoken a single word.

It was a dinner cruise on a Thursday night. I was surprised at the amount of passengers. Each group came for different reasons. As a result, the dj chose songs from I Will Survive to YMCA to clubbing songs and other slower dancing songs.

The weather was comfortable, and we were able to see the NY skyline at another angle.
My favorite part of the cruise is the delicious creme brulee cheesecake. In the end, we also purchased a picture they had taken for us as a souvenir. Although the night has turned out perfectly, we seem to enjoy the view of the Rainbow Bridge in Odaiba more than the bridges and buildings in Manhattan.

St. Patty's Day

Snowboarding

Rob and I are always on vacation. My scrapbook is filled with ticket stubs of things that we have done in the past summer and winter vacation. Unfortunately, while I'm in New York for my spring vacation, Rob has school. The way we spend our days is something we are both not accustom to. Rob has been busy writing reports and studying for midterms; I was sick and my jetlag took a long time to overcome. As a result, I spent the first few weeks in bed.

My sickness tends to wait until Rob is around. When he was in Japan, I had the stomach virus, throwing up for days. Here, I had the flu. I was drowsy for the first 2 weeks. After all, who else would run around delivering soup and food for me everyday if it is not Rob? In Japan, he made me お粥; he even sliced ham/bacon and vegetable for flavoring. In New York, conforming to the American culture, he brought back chicken noodle soup. Ironically, after weeks of sweat and stress, his mom thanked me for taking care of him.

After our plans were postponed a few times, I was finally healthy, and we went to Mountain Creek. It was quite horrifying to experience my first of many. It was my first time to snowboard (or ski), wear snowboarding equipments, and ride on ski lifts. We were there from 5 to 9 pm. I despise the cold, but the weather was warm that Friday.

The equipment was easy to put on because they are similar to rollerskates - the buckles, long shoelaces, etc. After a few pictures, the 5 of us marched onto the snow. I walked slowly onto the icy slope, because I didn't trust the sturdiness of the shoes. We followed the crowd, because our friend Tom adviced us to skip the bunny slopes. Note to self: Never take an advice from a beginner who is snowboarding for the second time of his life.

The most popular stories told by first timers are ski lift experiences. After overcoming the fear that the shoes will fail me, we had to travel up the mountain by a standing ski lift. The height of the mountain was intimidating. After all, I couldn't see our destination point. I gripped firmly onto the edge of the lift as I faked a smile for the camera. Just imagine riding up on a rollercoaster, incapable of seeing the end of the upward slope - that was what it felt like.

Since the lifts were running nonstop, we were afraid that we won't land on time. We inched closer and closer to each other as we lined up to get off. At last, contrary to belief, the 5 of us only took 1/5 of the given time to get off.

There was also a sitting ski lift. The oncoming bench was to "sweep" us away from our back as we stood there. Learning from others, we locked only one shoe onto the snowboard. As our bench took off, my snowboard was dragging in the snow. I thought my foot was stuck and I was about to die. I knew better during my second time around. Ski lift is the most dangerous transportation I have ever experienced. WHERE ARE THE SEATBELTS?! I could have easily fallen a 100 ft down, breaking a limb.

Furthermore, I had to support the weight of my heavy snowboard with my weak left foot while we were in mid-air. I thought my ankle was to break off. Thankfully, Rob took some weight off of me by holding my snowboard up. At the end of the ride, I was told to "jump off" from the lift once we arrive. As I landed, I thought the lift would hit me on the back of my head as I landed, but it didn't.

After our short trip to "death," we arrived. Soon, I learned to stand and fall. After another half an hour, I gained balance and arrived to the top of the first downward slope, 25 feet from where we first started. After a few short slopes, Rob and I were left alone. Rob and I snowboarded down the mountain without being told how to stop or turn. The first half went well. I was able to stop myself from hurting others. I stayed low to fall from a lower height. BIG MISTAKE! I ended up accelerating. Most of the time I stopped myself because the speed was far from what I can withstand.

Since first grade, I was taught to always fall forward. Snowboarding was reversing everything that I learned. I was told to fall on my butt. I was "addicted" to falling. After all, it was my only way to stop. Pain wasn't a question at the time. As I fall, I would dig my fingers into the slushes or press my fingers onto the ice in an attempt to stop falling downhill. According to Rob, after I make an effort to stop every time, I would lose strength and spin uncontrollably.

In order not to lose each other, Rob followed behind me as I snowboarded down the mountain. It was my first time, but it was Rob's first time, too. He would often stop 2 ft in front of me after I fall. Snow would fly to my face everytime. My hero always came to my rescue but this one time...

By the end of the day, I knocked my head twice. Both times, I lied down, facing the sky, waiting to become unconscious or the birds. Instead, I had 2 big bumps on my head for the next 2 to 3 days. So, here's the story of my fallen hero: One of those two times, Rob rushed to my direction. However, instead of coming to my rescue, he knocked me hard with his snowboard (thankfully, not my head). If only I had a clip of it, I would send it to America's Home Funniest Video.

By the end of our first trip downhill, we decided to go back to the basics: the bunny slopes. After 2 more times, our day was filled with fatigue, soup, and hot chocolate at the food court.

I was a crybaby. After all, I banged my head twice! Speaking of which, I must purchase a helmet next year. My butt cheeks, tailbone, head, neck, and arms hurted for the next 48 hours. In fact, because of the "head bang," I couldn't move my neck. It hurted when I sneezed. No word can describe the pain of a first-time snowboarder. No sport I had done is comparable.

At last, this marks another sport, next to skim boarding, in which I must defeat.

Transitions

Returning to New York, there are a number of things I have to learn to get used to. An obvious one is the oncoming traffic on the left side, as oppose to the right. However, there's one interesting transition that I would like to share. That is, the lack of... EARTHQUAKES!

Every now and then, it takes seconds for me to realize that there is no earthquake in New York. I would think, "EARTHQUAKE!" for a split second, as I would in Chiba.

There are procedures to be taken, such as opening doors and windows, but we never do them. I must have felt more earthquakes than anyone else have in Chiba. My estimate for the number of earthquake, I have to say, is more than 2 dozens. It could be that I am extra sensitive of a person, I am more sensitive on the 4th floor, or it has gotten to my head!

In Japan, when earthquake hits, we'd think, "Oh, earthquake." We would probably cease what we were doing for 5 seconds, and the rest of the time (around 20-30 seconds), we would continue what we were doing, but probably slower, as we wait for it to end.

Anyway, I would like to read everyone else's experiencing when they return home.

"How was Japan?"

Returning to New York, the question "How was Japan?" is expected in every conversation I run into. Although I have learned to prepare myself to answer that question, I am still at lost.

I don't know how I would describe my days in Japan. Of course, I must say I am fortunate to be selected to go to Chiba. Surely, I enjoy my days when Rob visits, but it would be agreed upon unanimously that I am not living it to the fullest.

Anyhow, I thought of something that I would like to share. The "How was Japan?" question often leads to other questions, such as the following:

1.
Rob's suitemate: How was Japan?
Me: Um... Warm...
Rob's suitemate: Yeah... It's like, what? Summer, now?

2.
Girl: How was Japan?
Me: Huh?
(The above lines were repeated 3 more times)
Girl: Did you forget your English or something?

3.
Friend: How was Japan?
Me: Warm...
Friend: So... did you walk through paper doors?


Rob and I have agreed to put up an act with the most random, ridiculous stereotypes of Japan. From questions pity that Japan does not have coffee, or a suggestion to visit me from Thailand (or something like that) by train, we must test how far we can take this to. We've decided that I will appear to have forgotten my English, and to sit with my knees bent...

Bloated (Updated)

My days are rather mundane. If I can recall properly, I sleep after 4 am every morning. Before 11 am hits, I would wake up energetically. Usually breakfast or lunch would be eaten, but never together. I don't recall the last time I was hungry when I sat down for dinner.

On campus, I question everything I eat. It is either the greasy Chinese food, the way the students handle the food, or the large portion of Indian food. When I would eat a smaller meal, I would eat a healthy BLT sandwich from the deli. Before Japan, I have only been delighted by food. Never have I questioned the portion or the healthiness of the meals I eat, but now, I can't help but question why my stomach is always bloated like a child suffering from malnutrition.

In Japan, having to pay for my own electricity and averaging $80 a month, I have learned to take hot, frequent showers, make hot drinks, as replacements for blasting the heat. Mostly, I would drink green tea. Not only had it kept me warm in the wintery days, it had helped my digestive system. On campus in NY, however, I have adapted to the limited available hot drinks, hot chocolate.

At this rate, I will gain 15 pounds before I return to Japan. My everyday schedule includes eat and sleep. I can fall asleep anywhere. The reason, I believe, is my comfortable, portable, personal pillow - Rob. I would nap at a 4 hour long review on his shoulder, or I would nap on his lap when he studies for his midterm. Of course, I also take naps in the car and when he has class. Not to mention, Rob keeps me warm when we are outside, too.

Unlike Japan, where we travel by foot or by bicycle, in New York, I sit in the passenger's seat and change radio stations. Now, I lack my daily exercises of the flights of stairs to my room and the bicycle rides.

I am no longer jetlagged, but the mundane days is worse than food coma, or even, what I'd call, a shower coma. I have taken up burping and yawning as my hobby. Disgusting, I know.

It is surprising how quickly I have gained weight. Perhaps, aside from the above reasons, I'm with Rob~ Here, I don't see why I wouldn't sleep as peacefully as I do, and enjoy every second not having to look at Rob through the webcam.

Hopefully, some crunches would help~ I shall get a yoga mat.

Weekend in NY

After my 12-hour flight, my arrival was clear when the arrival statement was made in an Indian accent. When I was on line for the the airport's immigration, it was further comfirmed by the sight of black Americans and Indians at the inspector booths. I am often blessed by the speed of the government's work process.

New York is not only diversed, it is also stereotypical. Each racial group dominates a certain industry. Chinese have the laundromats and restaurants, Indians have the taxis, delis, and newspaper stands, Mexicans have the cleaning sector.

One positive aspect of New York's diversity is clearly shown in what we ate. For the past 2-3 days, we ate Malaysian food, Shanghai food, Vietnamese food, and Indian food. Moreover, we went to Pizza Hut and Mickey D's for breakfast. I must have been the first incoming foreign exchange student in Chiba to give in to McDonald's. Although Inage's McDonald's serve pancakes, they don't serve breakfast.

The distinction between New York and Japan was also clearly shown when receiving service at restaurants. The high school part-timer at McDonald's was clearly showing attitute to the customer ahead of us. I saw at least 3 idling workers as I was rolling my eyes at the growing line. At Pizza Hut, there was 1.5 waiter serving the entire restaurant of 6+ occupied tables. Worst of all is that we had to tip. At last, I was not bothered by it at all. Perhaps I have picked up Japan's comparably slow lifestyle and patience. (I am still surprised that the supposedly fast-paced Japan, contrary to belief, functions so slooooooooooooowly.)

Besides eating and fighting jetlag, Rob and I bowled with our friends. A good deal of time was spent in Rob's car. We even took the car to go to the opposite side of campus. The campus must be 20x the size of Chiba's. I miss being in Rob's car, especially because it is freezing outside. I miss the radio, but I manage to recognize 95% of the songs.

At last, Rob downloaded 電車男 (the serie) for us to watch. Hopefully, my Japanese will not worsen that much.

P.S. Apply for an re-entry permit if you are leaving Japan for the vacation, regardless of what your visa states.

FYI

1. Don't bother sending me any emails via my cell phone, instead, send it to hotmail.com or simply comment on this blog.

2. I'll send you a picture or a website of a skirt that you may like, Laila.

3. Thank You, Desy! (I need it for March AND April~)

4. Will someone please inform me when they send in the water or sewage/plumbing bill? I don't know if the deadline will be set before I return, but I paid all of my other bills~

5. Anything that we can't get here in Japan? i.e. Starburst, toothpaste? Despite the fact that I'm broke, I can still afford little things like that.

6. At last, please make sure my room doesn't burn down or something!

Oh, the Drama!

Like every other day, I came back to my room after my Japanese class. As I was finishing my lunch, I thought godzilla had gone to New York to attack Rob's room. I specifically heard roars and bangs. It was the second time I've heard such an "attack" at Rob's room. Like the previous time, Rob guided godzilla, "Not here, over here." It's humorous that Rob would guide godzilla to a wall where he is "allowed" to punch. After all, no one wants to pay for any damages made on campus property.

At Rob and my campus, there are different types of dorm rooms: corridor-style, suites, etc. Like myself, Rob lives in a suite with 5 other people. In a suite, there are 3 bedrooms (2 roommates each), a living room, a bathroom, and sometimes, a balcony.

Living life as a foreign exchange student in Japan is so peaceful. I spend my days organizing my hotmail account, deleting emails. I spend every morning and every night reading the New York Times, BBC News, CNN, Yahoo Odd News and Entertainment, and the blogs of my close friends. I've deactivated every account I have, including Facebook, Xanga, photo-hosting websites, etc. I've learned to stop using AIM instant messenger completely, making no time to procrastinate and check friends' profiles or away messages. At least, now, when I procrastinate, I'm learning from the news, mostly about Bush's stupidity.

I spend my days writing emails to Rob while listening to music. I spend my days wondering if I should make french toast or noodles for lunch. Everyday, I wonder if I should speed pass the bicycle in front of me or if I should follow the slow poke. I wonder which supermarket to go to today. I ponder about what to get Rob for the next occasion. I make my everyday decisions on the utmost ordinary lifestyle. At most, I'd debate if I want to make coconut milk with tapioca (an Asian dessert) for my first time. Or, I'd debate if I want to finally learn how to make a pumpkin pie or cheesecake from Hatim.

As a roommate, you are expected to act as a mediator or a consultant. As a suitemate, Rob has to listen to any gossips that enters the room. For example, I would hear his suitemates entering the room asking about health problems, gossiping about the cheating roommate, or bitching about their unbelievable girlfriends. Every month or so, I would see his friend, Tom, popping out on the screen. Other times, I would see Rob being choked by his roommate. It's funny.

Life is good. While godzilla bitches to Rob about his girlfriend, I had just finished my delicious mapo tofu. Rob muted his microphone; after all, I wouldn't want my peace to be disturbed by godzilla's roars either. I was in front of the computer while Rob listens patiently. I can be sympathetic about godzilla's problems, but I couldn't help but laugh in the joy of my simplistic day. I was struggling with the kiwis I bought from the 99 cents store. (Rob taught me a new way to eat it, by sucking it out.) It cannot be helped but fall onto my emptied dish of mapo tofu. While Rob was still facing godzilla, I picked the kiwi back up, wiped it with my juicy fingers, and put it back into my mouth. My facial expressions changed 7 times within 3 seconds. I shrieked from its sourness and its odd taste it picked up from the dish.

Afterwards, I washed my dishes, and debated if I wanted to take a shower on this wintery day to gain warmth. Now, I am sitting here, sipping tea, wondering if I want to write my paper on a Friday afternoon, surf the web for more news, or change the horrible music that I got from Rob on my itunes.

In class, yesterday, I had explained how dormitory life represents college life in American culture. I've had my share, and I want nothing to do with it anymore. I wouldn't change a thing in my current lifestyle. At most, the girls here would talk about the x-number of dates Laila has gone on. No drama, no tears, no cat fights, maybe gossips.

When I return to New York, I just want to finish my last year as a not-a-care-in-the-world (or in this case, on-the-campus) senior. I don't care if someone commits suicide again; I don't care if someone shoots themselves again; I don't care if some student hit another student with a car again. As long as it isn't anyone I know, I don't want to care.

I just want to spend my days wondering if Rob and I want to eat on campus or off campus.

I've Failed Myelf

Today, I had a final in my Chinese class. I studied. I studied a lot of Japanese words. After all, one part of the test is to be able to write explanations in Japanese. I studied the different ways to write the same words. It's more annoying than you can imagined. Very often, I get questions on my kanji quizzes wrong, because I write the Chinese way, and not the Japanese way. Taking the Chinese test is worse. I have to memorize the Japanese writing, my usual traditional writing, and the new simplied writing. They can vary by just a dot. So, I did a lot of studying on Japanese vocabularies. The easiest words you can think of; yet, I have not learned them in my 6.5 year of Japanese studying. They can be as easy as "goat".

In the end? In the end, I took the test. It wasn't perfect, but I did fairly well. The only mistakes, in the end, weren't the Japanese explanations, understanding the Japanese words on the test (including a short paragraph, directions, vocabularies, etc.), but I failed to remember how to write it in Chinese (simplied OR traditional).

A Stupid Mistake

Although my legal documents identify me in my Chinese name, almost all of my professor call me by Stephanie (or at least, the equivalent of that in Japanese). One day, I decided to repeat my Chinese name (in Japanese, translated from English) over and over again. One must remember that I don't use my Chinese name. Momentarily, I thought, this isn't right...

To my surprise, I realized that when I was filling out applications to enter the school, I translated my name wrong. I'm not going to bother to correct it. It's already on my mailbox, school record, residential record, cell phone bill, alien registration card, etc. No one will ever know. After all, there is not one person that can correct my name. They would have to know what my Chinese name is, pronounce it in Cantonese, translate it to English, then translate it to Japanese.

I'll continue to let Rob butcher my Chinese name.

A Find

It's good to have goals and ambitions, right? It doesn't hurt to dream a little, right? Well, I want to go THERE!

I haven't had a goal like this for a long time. At the same time, I have not believed in going some where so firmly for a long time.

I have to expand my horizon. Once, someone told me, "Being stupid is one thing, being ignorant is another." That clinged to me as I have abandoned my recent or age-old ignorance. (i.e. politics and geography) The picture is beautiful. I stumbled on it when I was surfing around the net. There are too many things I have never seen, and this is one of them. I've seen beautiful scenery pictures taken by SLR cameras and what-not, pictures that have won prizes, pictures taken by professional, but I have never seen anything like this.

The list continues... San Francisco, Taiwan, Kyoto... They all seem too easy. Now, SANTORINI, GREECE!!

One day in my life...

(Picture was taken by Lucio)

Back to the Kissing

Living in Japan is as hard as having a relationship in a traditional Asian family. I remember one of the first guideline I had put forth was: No kissing in front of friends. After all, I should respect them as they have respected me. I wouldn't like to be in an uncomfortable situation either.

I thought walking on the streets with Rob in an Asian community in New York is hard, but walking in the streets of Japan is harder. During my first few months, I didn't even see any couples on the streets. Gradually, I started to spot them, but at most, they would hold hands. The "radicals" seem to just stand a little closer at a corner on the train.

In 17 days, everything will change. Going back is like a hell broken loose. So, pucker up, Rob! *slurp* j/k

(Okay, sorry, maybe that was a little disturbing.)

A Side Note

I wonder if my immune system has weakened. Or, has it always been like this? I remember I used to feel healthy when I was in team sports in high school. So, when was the change?

Am I eating unhealthily? Of course I am! First, I must stop eating refrigerated goods or instant ramen. Since I came to Japan, I have lost a total of 8-10 pounds. It could mean that, for a change, I am eating the portion that I should be eating, instead of stuffing myself at an Italian restaurant. It could be because of the 4 bicycle rides a day. It could mean that I'm simply sad. Or, I'm not eating the 8 course meal I eat with Rob, and the nutritious Chinese meals at home.

Anyway, what's my point? I'm sick!! (... but I'm fine)

Counting Down (Again)

The semester is almost over. Half of my classes have already ended. I have a 10-page report, and about 4 finals. I am not bitching. In fact, the workload is rather light when compared to that of an average student in New York.

Rob and I are always counting down. It isn't until recently that I find it a quality. We are always counting down to the remaining days. Yet, we are also counting down to many events ahead of us. At last, Rob will make multiple trips to Japan, and I'll be in Taiwan with Rob.

After the rougher course of the relationship, we will be counting down to the everyday life together on campus, graduation, and even, the time I'll finally tell my parents about him (*shiver* scary thought).

I have always believed in goals and ambitions. Without them, I lose sense of why I am living my everyday life.

The Other Days

For the past week, I have been extremely up to date with current events: People are dying from the cold in Georgia (incompetent government), Survivor winner found guilty for not paying taxes, Osama Bin Laden is believed to be alive (He also warns US for future terrorism), Livedoor crisis, Disney bought Pixar, neon-colored fish, Korean lied about cloning research, parents pleading for US hostage, Google censoring itself from China, 7 kids in a family died of a car accident (the grandfather died the next day, after hearing the news, from a heart attack), global warming, scare of bird flu to transmit from human to human, etc.

Oh, in recent news, Al-Zawahiri (Bin Laden's right hand man) is also alive. (He was thought to be killed in a missle strike.) In a video, he said:

"To the American mother I say, if the defense ministry called you to tell you your son is coming back home in a coffin, remember Bush."

"To the British wife I say, if you got a call telling you your husband is coming back home with his body charred, remember Blair."

They are more interesting than I thought of them to be~ Oh, not only did he call Bush the "Butcher of Washington," and a "loser," he said that Bush will be forgiven if he converts to Muslim. Heh.

So... I was wondering... What happened to the other days when I didn't read the news.

War's On!

This sounds silly, but I'm awaiting for my enemy at the meeting room maliciously.

I don't mind when a hallmate enters the meeting room to join me. After all, it is not my room. Since the beginning of this week, I have been accustomed to use the meeting room at my floor to do work. It is the one place where I can get things done.

At the beginning, the biatch across the hallway dismissed all greetings. This week, she even dared to hog the room with personal belongings. She would leave her bookbag to scare the others away. So, when she returns 2+ hours later, she'll have the room to herself. Of course, I couldn't care less. The night I had discovered her evildoing, I entered and utilized the room. She came in, startled, and probably angry.

What I hate even more are people who build forts at the door. What happened to "Love thy neighbor as thyself"?

So, here I am. Declaring war. The room is mine tonight!!

Last Architectural Design Class

After presenting our each of us presented our "dream house," Laila suggested that we take a picture because it is the last class. The "goodbye" to our professor who brought us to various class trips seems short and unmeaningful.

I have learned to take a second look at every house I pass by in Japan. Also, I learned a lot about my fellow classmates. Perhaps, more than I want to. For example:

1. Laila will have a "lovely" husband and a daughter (who will more likely be her clone). If she has a son, he'll live in her big garden or the gazebo.
2. Desy can't live without her food.
3. Hatim wants to live with his entire family in his mountain
4. Cori needs a HEATED garage
5. Ruth's claustrophobic
6. Kai wants a room for his dogs
7. Anthony wants his grass to live in his White House
8. Richie wants his shower outside, by the bedroom's window
9. Evan wants to be Brain in "Pinky and the Brain" (even though he denies it)
10. Suvi... *shrug*
11. The 2 Japanese girls would rather design a library and an office than a house
12. The professor's house (in which he designed) is beautiful on the inside but *ahem* ugly *ahem* on the outside

72 More Hours

(A picture that even I am unfamiliar with. Stupid haircuts!)

After Rob has left Japan, he went to Taiwan to visit his father for a week. On his return to flight to New York, he has to stop at Narita for a few hours. Meanwhile, it was snowing heavily. Consequently, airplanes have ceased to depart, leading all the passengers to be stuck in the airport.

Rob's 4 hour flight from Taiwan to Narita has prolonged due to the weather. He was not only stuck in the airplane, he had to spend the rest of the night at airport with no cash on hand. Meanwhile, I was with the homestay family when I found out about the news at 11 pm. Throughout the night, we emailed each other back and forth until 4 am.

The next morning, I broke the news to the homestay family, ending the visit short. They sympathized and escorted me to the train station soon after our breakfast.

Rob booked the flight on Tuesday, giving us 3 extra days to spend with each other. For 3 days, we cuddled in joy, watched DVDs, and pigged out. Before he left, he even bought me groceries. My fridge is now packed. (Unlike before, I was too poor to eat anything else but instant ramen.)

A Drop of Snow

Because there is internet lately, I have been up to date with current events and weather forecasts. Earlier, the weather forecast predicts that the following day will have "light snow."

It was the morning of our homestay. When I woke up, I heard dripping sounds. I pulled opened the curtains, expecting to see rain, the entire neighborhood was covered in white.

On Sunday morning's walk back to the dorm room, I chuckled, and it broke the snowy silence. Looking into the gate of the international dormitory, I see 7 or more snowmans, varied in sizes and styles. Who would've thought... college and graduate students...

*By the end of the day, it accumulated a little less than a foot of snow

Homestay visit

Profile: Father (65), mother (59), daughter (29), and their son (33) who lives in Tokyo. They are the 林 family, living in 袖ヶ浦市 （千葉県).

We were splitted into 2 groups. I met the 29 year old daughter, 涼子, who picked me up at the train station. She was far different from the picture. One of the most deceiving factor about Japanese girls is their physical appearance. No matter how active they look on a ski trip or volleyball class, they will always be at their most feminine side (physically) on the streets.

We were escorted to a restaurant by the leaders of this homestay event. Alongside, there were about 30 other students and homestay families. Sitting Japanese-style （正座）is my worst nightmare. I managed to stretch my legs under the table to only find that I cannot sit at a 90 degree angle. Lunch was delicious. There were tempura, sushi, and a few other fancy dishes. Like a typical gathering in Japan, we gave brief self-introductions.

Arriving at the house, after the normal respective greetings to the mother, we joined her at the kotatsu (a Japanese style table with a comforter on top, heated underneath). Because it is not common to have central heating in Japan, there are various heaters and furnitures for heating purposes. By the end of "tea time," my legs were numb because we had to sit on the floor cushions.

They live in a big, Japanese-style house. On the first floor, there is a kitchen, a 和室, a living room, a "bathroom," and a "washroom." I stayed at the 和室 with tatami. The family owns 2 cars, along with a parking space nearby the house. At last, there is a 2nd floor that I did not visit.

Because I don't have a television, I couldn't help but glance over at it whenever I can. We ate the donuts along with hot coffee. The father returned from work before sunset on a Saturday. The family is easygoing.

I spent the day shopping at supermarkets, and preparing dinner with the mother and daughter. By merely 5 pm, we gathered around with red wine and beer. We had sushi, onigiri, kimchi (because I told them I like spicy food), and a fish and vegetable 鍋.

At first, the father spoke as if I knew fluent Japanese. The pace of our conversations picked up by dinner time. It is either because I just agree with them, our conversational topics were getting in depth, or they were buzzed. Our conversations included why I had chosen the Japanese language, problems that I have encountered as a foreigner, places I have visited in Tokyo, my family lifestyle, etc. In addition, the family like to "show off" any English or Chinese words they know.

There is always one thing that I thought I could avoid for my whole life. Of all the things I would do to assimilate into the culture, I did not want to try 納豆. I have heard and read stories of various experiences with these fermented soybeans. In the end, I tried it, in a sushi roll with mint leaf. (I could have been really pathetic, like the textbooks, and say, "Although it is my first time, I'll take out my courage to try it." I decided otherwise.) My first bite, everyone was observing my facial expressions fixedly. It must've changed every millisecond. I couldn't tell if it was the unfamiliar taste of the mint leaf or the 納豆 that I did not like. They discouraged me to continue, and I placed it down.

By the end of dinner, the father had passed out because of the oh-so-(not)-big bottle of beer. I was then given the privilege to take the first dip of the bathtub. (It is common to share one tub of bath water per night throughout the family.) It felt great considerating I was shivering from cold throughout dinner.

My room was well heated by the end of my bath. For the rest of the night, I watched television and emailed Rob (story later.)

The next morning, I had a feast with the family. Humorously, the mother gave me milk (and I was the only one to receive it). I guess, that's the stereotype. By 9:35, I was on the train to go back home.

My $10 Haircut

Back home, I have never paid more than $30 for a haircut. Japanese likes to keep their hair in shape. In the neighborhood, one block may consist of 4 hair salons. There are always a handful of customers in each of them. They aren't cheap either; they each charge $50 on average.

I haven't gotten a haircut since the summer, if not spring. It is suggested for girls to cut their hair once every 3 months. Thereafter, my bangs have grown out and my hair was shredding because of splitends.

Because I am poor and cheap, I decided to go with Lukas to the 1000 yen salon. Cori came for moral support. The procedures are quite interesting. First, you pay at the machine. One would not have to worry about tipping. A paper with a number is then dispensed. Then, when my number was called, the emotionless lady asked me how I wanted my hair. There were 6 pictures at the waiting area; 3 of them were of men. Thereafter, I chose #2 who had a more feminine haircut. Most importantly, they don't wash your hair.

In the end, I hated my haircut. The $10 was worth the tragedy; she spent a considerable amount of time combing and cutting my damaged hair. My split ends are gone, and it'd grow~

Lesson of the day? If you're poor, nothing means jack.

P.S. Thanks Lukas, for the picture~

*#&$!#$@&#$@*&^%$#$%^&*!

During our 3 visits to Odaiba, we did a little walk-by research on the various artists who do animated portraits throughout the area. Feeling good about a chain of artists who are under a guy who is renowned internationally, we went right ahead to 2 girls. We were hoping to get the girl on the right, because we have seen her previous work on another couple. However, the girl on the right volunteered, because they alternate on customers. These "brand name" artists were the best amongst all of them. They were about $35 for a color, 2 people, head only portrait. After this incident, I favor New York who is known for their "5 minute, 5 dolla!" a portrait.

Anyway, the picture above is one of the many pictures we took that day.

And, THIS is what was drawn of us (or should I say, ME!):

School, School, School!

Although school has started more than a week ago, my vacation has finally ended. My Japanese skill has deteriorated to the lowest. I'm at an unknown time zone now. I woke up at 5 am. It's 7:30, and I am still awake.

From now on, I shall suffer from the discontinuity of fine dining. This is exactly what happens when I'm spoiled. Symptoms began on the day of Rob's departure. My coughs are getting worse at night. I am suffering in my room with instant ramen. (Okay, not really. I actually like and miss instant ramen.)

Yesterday, I dyed my hair out of boredom. The sun's up. It's 7:27 am, and I intend to continue my procrastination by typing this entry...

Thankfully, I have things to look forward to. My trip to New York, Taiwan, and maybe, Hong Kong. Rob's return in May. Mom's visit in August. I can't wait to do everything, Summer-style.

Ironically, New Yorkers often bitch about the hikes in subway rides, movie tickets, etc. We don't know how good we have it! In fact, I miss New York for those factors. I refuse to pay $18 to watch a movie here. In addition, I would like to go back to the $2 subway ride to anywhere 24 hours a day, WITH BUS TRANSFERS (despite the graffiti and garbage)! Tokyo needs to realize that youngsters stay out after midnight, and $7 to Tokyo is way too expensive!

Sidenote: For the commercial, "For everything else, there is MasterCard," they should put it a fine print that it does not apply worldwide (especially Japan). In addition, Visa won't take you everywhere, as they advertise at the Narita Airport.

お台場 - Take 3

Throughout Rob's 3-week stay, we paid our visits to Chiba, Harajuku, and Shibuya a good number of times. We each had our own individual favorities throughout Tokyo and Chiba. Rob and I would wait on line to get into Mr. Donut to grab our favoritie Honey Glazed and Angel Cream. Yumm! Being the regular at Starbucks in NY, we found our favorite coffee in Japan - Tully's limited edition Tiramisu Latte. Others include a restaurant in Shibuya specialized in gyoza, fresh onigiri, etc.

Originally, we wanted to visit Odaiba 2 more times before Rob's departure. We planned our day extremely well. We arrived to Odaiba at 2 pm. We have had our magical days, but this day was "eventful." By the end of the day, we visited every where that is worth going in Odaiba. At last, we declared it to be our last trip to Odaiba this winter.

At Pallette Town, there was a ferris wheel that proclaims to be the most romantic. It was a 15 minute long, 115m high, neon lit ride. The view is not as beautiful as imagined, because it was located further away from the main attractions, such as the Rainbow Bridge. The wait and cost were well worth as we went up and around inside an all-glass car. It was around 11 pm, and the surroundings were packed with couples.

Being sport lovers, we visited the arcade to play table hockey, soccer, and table tennis. We visited Mega Web, the Toyota Showroom. Although Rob has proven to be a better zombie killer at the Jersey Shore, I have proven myself to be a better, faster driver in a real simiulator race car. We spent a considerable amount of time in a Coca Cola Gallery, Universial Design, etc.

The most time was spent in Venus Fort, a vanilla/blue sky themed shopping center. Most of our day was ruined when we got a portrait drawn of us. The artist must have hated me. However, the food there made me happy. With Rob here, it was endless fine dining. One of the many reasons why we are so poor (or at least, temporarily for Rob). We have made an observation that... they are mad cheap on drinks!

海浜公園

海 浜公園　is the place where it was previously mistakened to be the center of Odaiba. We rode on the ferris wheel. It wasn't a holiday or a weekend; therefore, the number of people on the park was countable with one hand.

Unfortunately, we missed the last water bus to Odaiba. Even still, nothing had stopped us. We continued our trip to Odaiba. It was a turning point to our day when we discovered Pallette Town and Venus Fort.

Because we arrived after sunset, we didn't spend much time at Odaiba, our second time around. The transportation system in Tokyo has definitely proven to be a burden to the way we plan our everyday.

Tokyo Tower

We visited Tokyo Tower at night. It was beautiful and romantic. Unfortunately, I was still recovering from my stomach virus. For 3-4 days, I had a fever, I was fatigue, and I puked nonstop. Thankfully, Rob went to the supermarket, and cooked お粥 for me. Apparently, it was quite obvious to Rob, because I showed every symptom. Thankfully, I didn't have to go to the hospital. That is the last thing on my agenda. (Btw, DO NOT go to the sushi restaurant across from the bike shop in Inage! They were expensive and bad, even to the never-a-complaint-about-food Rob.)

Besides the typical Tokyo Tower, we visited a few places inside. Do not go to the Wax Museum. The quality was bad. Julia Roberts did NOT look like her in any way. New York's wax museum is much more realistic.

Anyhow, we also visited the Trick Art Gallery... I think the pictures explain themselves.

I also sent these pictures to my parents. Oh, I can't wait for their reaction. The gallery was worth every penny. I can't wait until they have a new one. I'd visit it over and over again... just to take pictures like the ones below.

Disney Sea

First thing we did was, of course, buy Mickey hands and Minnie ears. Over all, it was definitely a "couple's place." Most rides were for relaxation, not thrill. The place was beautiful.

Considering it is my first time going anywhere Disney, I wasn't as excited as I thought I would be. I mean, I was excited to go to Disney Sea, but not the "Discover the magic" Disney as they advertise back home with a boy who wakes his parents up at 5 am.

The day was rather cold, but we survived by wearing thick Mickey gloves and drinking corn chowder. We managed to take lots of pictures by asking the workers in uniforms there.

One unfortunate event is that we didn't get to ride on the gondola. We took a picture in it though~

Not to be girly, but I feel like I'm in Aladdin and Jasmine's world at one part of Disney Sea. Every direction I look at, I would recall a scene from the animation.

Surprisingly, Cinderella was not involved in any way. That upsets me. Heh.

New Year's Day

浅草 Asakusa

We arrived to Asakusa at around 4 pm. It was extremely crowded. We immediately entered the end of the line. While we were moving with the crowd, Rob found warm 甘酒. Other than that, we didn't have any festive, New Year food.

When we had finally arrived to the temple, coins were being thrown. We managed to get in front of the crowd, make our wishes, and throw our coins. I hope it's good luck, but I got hit with a coin.

We both got fortune telling papers; unfortunately, they were both merely "regular luck."



There were so much more to the night. Rob found the yummiest marinated fish.
It was like 大学祭, but grown up style.

Later that evening, we went to a random Japanese restaurant where we found the most reasonably priced sashimi. There were some that were gooey, but they were all fresh and satisfying. =)

New Year's Eve

We were informed that Tokyo station has illumination, and off we went~ Apparently, "Tokyo Millenario" is an annual event. We saw signs, and BOOM, it was flooded with people and cops. Despite the length of the line, the anticipation was over within an hour. From afar, it looked like the Taj Mahal, or a casino.

Throughout the night, we stumbled upon volunteers to take pictures for us, sample alcohol from Bailey's, live orchestras, an outdoor festival, and an indoor event at the Tokyo International Forum.

On the way to nowhere-land, Rob found "supernatural power."

Rob ate the biggest chili dog I have ever seen, and I found my new, favorite strawberry wine from Austria. Unfortunately, we downed a bottle later that night. It was the worst experience I have had with wine. We ate our way through the night; we even bought Sri Lanka food, but it wasn't very impressive.

Inside the International Forum, there were vendors from hotels, the new FIFA ball, etc.

Oh boy. There were so much more to that day than I can explain in this entry.

お台場 (Odaiba)

We travelled to Odaiba by Yurikamome Line. It is by far the most beautiful train ride I have ridden on. We visited the typical tourist attractions there. Although it is simply a suspension bridge, they take a lot of pride for their "Rainbow Bridge." I strongly recommend everyone to pay a visit in the summer when you want to get away from the city. It has plenty to do. There is a beach, entertainments, shopping, cruises, etc.

We started our journey at Fuji TV. We visited a "museum," where I did not recognize most of their stars and shows. However, I took a picture of what-I-would-like-to-call a head-butt cockroach thingy.

Next up, "New York." I sent this picture to my parents. I wonder if they would freak out, wondering where I was.

At Sony's Mediage, we found the Aibo dog. It was love at first sight. Later that night, we were even more entertained by a shopping center's cleaning robot where a 6 or 7 year old boy vowed to fight it. I CHOOSE YOU, PIKACHU!

We walked through the boardwalk, aka "Decks." Inside, there was Little Hong Kong where we found our favorite arcade game: 3 puck-play table hockey, and familiar street signs. On the same building, there was another place with a theme of Japan in Showa-3os. It had old-school things where we don't relate to.

The Next Few Days

On Boxing Day, Rob and I went to Harajuku, because it is one of the few places where I am more familiar with. We found one of our favorite restaurant in Tokyo, La Pausa. They have yummy thin crisp pizza.

On the 27th, I brought Rob to Makuhari Messe Outlet where we did not do much shopping.

For the week, we were bumming in the room. We were catching up with the TV shows back home. i.e. "Everybody Hates Chris," "Joey," etc. We cooked only once or twice out of spontaneousness.

Rob's Arrival

Blessed with the random wireless internet connection, I'm typing in my blog again. More updated and longer entries! Woohoo!

Anyway...

Rob arrived at around the sunset of X'mas Eve. I was quite nervous waiting at the arrival gate at Narita Airport. My eyes were bouncing left and right at the 2 exits as if I were watching an intense tennis match. After an hour, Rob arrived, looking more energetic than anyone would have expected after a 14 hr flight.

The first few days were a blur. We were on the same time schedule, but we were definitely not in Tokyo time, New York time, or London time. Up until a point, I don't know if it was dinner I was eating. I was affected by my imaginary jetlag more than Rob was.

On Christmas Eve, we exchanged presents. I got 2 presents (One for my Birthday). Ironically, I guessed both presents playfully, despite the amount of times he denied it. I got 2 blue boxes, one with a white ribbon, and the other with red. Later, I introduced Rob to Saizeriya where he fell in love with the Doria dish.

Despite our unwillingness to get out of the comfortable bed, we dragged ourselves out for a more proper dinner at Chiba. We had a feast at a random Japanese restaurant. I managed to embarrass myself with my poor language skill in front of Rob.