Oops...again

Hi! So I seem to have a habit of forgetting about my blog! Here's a run-down of the events since we last met:

*I had my first 'welcome party' (or 'enkai' in Japanese). It's basically an all-you-can-eat-and-drink fest. I encountered some interesting cuisine-fish scales and chicken skin...mmmm. This was followed by an 'after party' which involved karaoke and cocktails. The morning after my co-workers were looking a little worse for wear, hilarious!

*I bought a SUPER new bike, with two baskets-one on the front and one on the back! I'm very smitten; I've named her Betty. I can't wait to bling it up with some crazy Japanese gadgets.

*Went to an outdoor BBQ at one of my new friends'relatives place-they own a local farm, and I swear all of the Yubari melons come from their backyard. Needless to say I walked out with one under my arm. We played with fireworks (yeah, you can buy them at the convenience store here!!), and I made some new little friends-'we sang 'Heads, Shoulders, Knees & Toes' together!

*I signed myself up at the local video store, and borrowed a dvd to keep me sane in the rain we've been having.

*Went to the 'Bon Odori' festival in Yuni town. I wore traditional Japanese dress, danced, ate and played bingo! I then went back to my 'Japanese Mumma's' house for supper.

*Went to Sapporo orientation for three days and was incredibly happy to be having an English conversation with people at a normal speed again! It was extremely busy with workshops, seminars, training and welcome parties.

*I got taken into Sapporo for a facial!

*And...I started school yesterday! I had to do a welcome speech at the school assembly...in Japanese-I'm sure I made a million mistakes, but my JTE (Japanese Teacher of English) said I was fine ha ha-I think she was being nice! I met all of the students and staff, got a tour and sat in the staffroom planning my first lesson, which was today! I taught second and third graders (8th and 9th graders back home), I''m so worn out from repeating things over and over, and being super enthusiastic. I had maps and photos and stamps and games, I think it went over well!

So...that's it-I start at my second school tomorrow-wish me luck!!