Looking Back

Looking Back

The Month in Review:

As we begin February, it is time for me to write my monthly report. Technically speaking, I haven’t been in Japan for a month yet, but this report covers all that I have done in January. As part of the report, I puttogether a summary of different categories within my life. While the following is rather dry, I thought my blog readers might find it interesting and informative.

Host Family:

I have a wonderful host family, and I’ve enjoyed settling in and getting to know them. My 8-year-old host brother has adjusted to me, and we get along very well. My 13-year-old host sister has been a great help as I learn Japanese; she has a notebook where she writes down new Japanese words and phrases that I am learning. Sugoi-ne! My host parents are wonderful. My host mom makes me feel like part of the family. She understands about the little things that make one feel “included” in family life. Something as small as a bedtime hug means a lot, and I really appreciate all that she has done.

Language:

I do think I’m learning Japanese, but I wish I were learning it faster! While I don’t feel overwhelmed, I do think right now Japanese is overwhelming me. I’m trying to remember so much, and while slowly and steadily different phrases and words are beginning to “stick”, there is still a lot that my brain just hasn’t sorted out or processed. I often catch myself mimicking different words and phrases as I hear them. I also try to use as much Japanese as possible in my everyday conversations. Right now it might be patchy, and I know I have a way to go for grammar, but I do feel like I’m gradually remembering more and more.

Work:

Work has been going very well. I certainly have stayed busy, and there’s always something that I can do when I have extra time. I enjoy coming to the office each day (I look forward to Mondays!), and it’s nice as I get into a routine.

Out and About:

So far, I have not done any research for my cultural project. I just picked up a new book on Japanese history, and I plan to put aside a small amount of time several nights a week for researching my cultural project.

I look forward to getting to know my way around Tokyo more in the coming month. Right now I’m just familiar with the JR Yamanatoe line as far as Shibuya and of course, the Seibu-Shinjuku line. I am hoping to gradually visit more areas and grow more confident in getting around Tokyo and using the subway.

Here's a map of the subway. It's the only one I could find with the Seibu-Shinjuku line, so please forgive the highlighting!

Well, that’s the report. What do you think? Was it interesting? Please feel free to comment any thoughts or questions that you have. I’d love to know what my readers are thinking and be more than happy to answer your questions.