Jeanneabeck’s Weblog

A few days ago the weather abruptly changed from the scorching summer heat and humidity we’d all become familiar with to fall-like weather. It’s been so nice lately; being able to comfortably snuggle between the covers at night without suffering from heat stroke.  I look forward to seeing the leaves change and to get more chances to get out and see Japan.

I’ve now realized how important it is to get out and have a vacation while being a foreinger in a foreign country.  This may sound strange to the native people here, but living in a smaller city can be trying on a foreigner.  You get tired of being stared at/treated differently/etc. and need to spend a fun weekend away.  I’m thinking that from now on I need to make sure we get out of Iida once every month or two.  With the 5 day national holiday weekend coming up we’ll be going to at least Matsumoto where Ryan can see one of the 4 most famous and traditional castles in Japan.  We also need to make a trip up to Nagano City for his visa reentry permit.   These two places, of course, are in Nagano Prefecture.  I hope to get in contact with some friends soon or otherwise plan another trip around Japan.

At the same time Iida hasn’t been to bad.  Our concert is less than a month away so the number of practices has picked up considerably.  Also we always have Kitty  and our online games.  This weekend was Kitty’s two month anniversary with us.  It feels like she’s been here at least six months.  Funny how time flies and how her small furry body has added so much extra to our home.  As Ryan says, it’s nice to have a furry around.