Takashima Island

In Gamagori there is an island, just off shore, housing a collection of old Shinto Shrines. It’s a small island, not even a mile across.

Besides the shrines, there are beaches around the outer edge of the island which are known for their shellfish.

After paying respects at the various shrines, it’s a quick walk back from the exit, though not necessarily and easy one.

There is an uneven path set between the hill the shrines are perched upon and the surrounding beaches. Some places are quite steep, especially for those wearing inappropriate shoes. The walk is only about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on how many pictures you stop to take or shells you decided to collect.

My friends and I took about 40 minutes for obvious reasons.

Happy Birthday, Mom

We might be miles apart, but we’re always under the same sky, connected by the flow of the great oceans, and will never stop thinking about each other. I wish you all the happiness in the world.

Rolling Hills

It’s hard to believe that Golden Week is over. It went by too fast. My next vacation isn’t until August. I also can’t believe that it’s something I can find complaint about.

Back in the US, I never really had any holidays. If I was lucky, I might have Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and Easter off. Since coming to Japan, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to not only have two days off a week, but to also have paid vacations.

When I speak to people from outside the US, they can’t believe that vacations aren’t the norm for us, especially if we don’t come from a white collar – middle class family. I’ve lived here for just under a year and I already find myself wondering if I could ever go back to living as I did back home. Something tells me I wouldn’t. it’s startling, but I wonder if I’ve left my home country for good.

Up High – Meijimura

In Meijimura, there is a tall partial building, which was once part of a bank. It’s about four or five stories tall and afords one hell of a view.

Spring is Here

So, Monday was the spring equinox, which means that spring is here. Finally. This winter felt pretty long, even though it wasn’t all that bad compared with New York. I’m just happy for the warmer weather and increase in flowers.

The Lone Blossom

In New York, Spring is usually a pretty short affair. The best weather normally arrives in May. March is known for being windy, while April is known for its rain. May and June have the best warm weather, though the end of June can be pretty hot.

Plum Blossoms

The plum blossoms are starting to bloom. People are starting to get excited for the upcoming flower viewing season. This year has been especially mild (or so I am told), so the season should be here soon. I have already been invited to two viewing parties, one with the Education Department (my office), and one with a school I have yet to teach at but have a friend at. My friend from Anjo and I are also trying to get something set up with that school and a few of our students.