Mission Accomplished

Lots of happenings lately on this side of the world, and as such it has been a while since my last post. Two very important events have come to fruition after many months of waiting, planning, and training (all of these do not apply to both situations, however). To begin with, I completed my first 10K today, that being my own personal accomplishment. I also tried on, and ALMOST fit into a pair of size 10 jeans today...one of the largest sizes in Japan mind you, but nonetheless, a huge accomplishment in my current battle with my weight. 5 more pounds and those babies are MINE!
But the biggest news of late is that the final countdown is over and T has finally set foot on Japanese soil for a new adventure. I have to say he was a sight for sore eyes after 8 months of separation. I guess you never really know how much someone means to you until you have to say goodbye to them, and then you realise how much you missed them while they (or you, as the case may be) were gone. Though it was a short visit this time, we packed a lot into a few days, including a trip to Disney Sea and to check out some geekness in Akihabara, but mostly just relaxing and enjoying each others company. Though he is off and running on his own adventure up North, it won't be long til our next visit...much less than 8 months to be sure!
Also of note, the new term has begun and I finally have a 2 day (in a row) weekend to enjoy. Finally the freedom to be able to pick up and take off for the weekend. Bliss!
I feel like I have so much to be grateful for these days. Cherry blossom season is just around the corner and I seem to be making lots of plans with friends for get togethers over the next few weeks. This month is sure to fly by. Spring, they say in Japan, is a time for new beginnings and farewells. I am experiencing plenty of both as old teachers leave, and new ones arrive. Though I am sad to see people I have come to know and admire leave, I am happy in the knowledge that I am busy making my own new beginnings...the future looks brighter than ever...:)

I'll leave you with a few pics of the latest adventures, below.



Monsieur, waiting in line to the Indiana Jones ride at Disney Sea




Saying goodbye to some of my students




Taking a Peruvian cooking class with the Narashino International Association




Karaoke in Katsutadai

Sadly, all the pictures of T and I were taken by our friend as well as by T's camera and I haven't received any of these yet. I will update those on Facebook as I receive them, but in the meantime, here is a quick video of our group of friends inside Disney Sea :)