Halfway

We are halfway through our year abroad in Kyoto, Japan. Sometimes it is hard to believe we have been here for six months and sometimes it feels like we have always lived here! It's a huge understatement to say that we certainly have been enjoying ourselves.

Here is a top ten list of things that I have learned so far.

1. Reading and Writing in Hiragana and Katakana is actually possible.
   
2. Our Landlords are AMAZING. We are so lucky to have met the Tanaka-sans!
   
3. High Speed Trains are wonderful. Convenient, Comfortable and FAST.
   
4. I love festivals! It's fun to soak in the unique and fun elements of the culture here.
5. One should never eat sandwiches purchased on train platforms. Really. Never.
   
6. Learning about Ikebana and Tea Ceremony is very interesting and enjoyable.
   
7. Trying to make new friends in a non-English speaking foreign country is a lot like the singles bar scene... but for two. Luckily, it has worked well!
8. Japanese food is delicious. For the (silly) sushi haters out there, it's important to note that foods like okonomiyaki, curry, onigiri, ramen, yakisoba, tempura, donburi and gyoza rarely include "things from the sea" and are extremely tasty.
   
9. Skype is a very useful piece of technology. There's nothing like video conferencing with your cats. I mean... with your family and friends. :)
   
10. Getting e-mail/postcards/letters/packages from loved ones can really make your day. Thanks guys!
    

Here's hoping that the next six months will be just as action-packed. Considering that I'm in control of my schedule, I trust that further adventures, travels and excitement are guaranteed. As always, if anyone wants to join in on the fun, you can. Just come visit. We'd love to show you around. 日本はとてもすばらしいくにですね！