Arrival

I am now officially in Japan! I arrived several hours ago after an unexpectedly pleasant flight; all incoming JET Program participants on the flight were seated together, so we chatted and got to know each other before, during and after the flight. I was hoping to post a picture of my flight buddies, Loren and Miki, but it'll have to wait. Even so, it was nice to talk to many people who are in exactly the same situation as I am!

We had some very tearful goodbyes as the airport, which was to be expected, but nothing really prepares you for that final wrenching yourself away from those you hold most dear. I was really glad that Dad, Mutz, Nathan and I were able to spend a good amount of time chatting at the Starbucks before I had to leave, but it didn't make the parting any easier! However, I will certainly admit that I am glad to have the goodbyes over with and the joy of meeting new people ahead.

The Keio Plaza hotel is in the Shinjuku section of Tokyo, which is very much like Times Square in many ways, but it is unmistakably Japanese in both signage and nature. My first meal here was spaghetti with a sauce of fish roe (tarako) and sea urchin (uni), which was absolutely delicious. Japanese-style Italian food is a fun cuisine to try.

I have orientation for the next two days, for which I am not particularly excited. It promises to be tedious in light of the many items on the agenda and uncomfortable in light of the fact that one must wear a suit, but it'll be a great place to meet more JETs, especially those who will be in the same area of Japan.

Off to sleep!