Moving out, moving in

Well, after 2 1/2 years of moving back to Canada, I've finally moved out of the family home and into a place of my own. It was a long time to be at home - much longer than expected - but I felt I had to finish school and pay my parents back before I could justify moving out.

Moving out was hard, and not for logistical reasons. My parents were not at all happy with my decision - likely they felt hurt that I chose not to live with them. I think it was the hardest for my dad, who kept pouting and trying to come up with excuses to keep me at home. His latest is that it is more environmentally sound if I stay at home - smart guy, he's appealing to issues that I care about! It was hard to leave them, and I do feel guilty - but I am happier and feel much more free.

I am pretty much moved in now. Just yesterday I had my piano moved, which turned out to be a harrowing experience. FYI, do not pick the cheapest mover when moving a piano, especially when there is no elevator in your apartment building! There were three guys: one young guy who was very inexperienced, an older guy who wasn't the sharpest knife in the drawer, and the driver, who - thank god! - knew his stuff, but was just a little string bean of a man. I was a little worried when the driver started instructing the other two - shouldn't they already know how to do this? His impatient tone and sighs of exasperation were not instilling any confidence in me! It was obvious that he was the only who had done this before.

As they were pulling and pushing my poor piano up the first flight of stairs, it occurred to me that these movers - a kid, a guy who is a bit soft in the head, and one skinny guy - might not be able to move it up. I was terrified that the piano was going to slide down the stairs and kill one of them. Luckily, one of the building residents, Dave from #7, stopped to watch and ended up helping them. With every heave, I held my breath and braced for the worst! And then, at the very top of the second flight of stairs, Dave pulled at a slight angle, and the piano started to tip towards the banister! I had the horrifying vision of it falling over the edge, destroying everything in its path, smashing into the ground, creating a huge gaping hole, and breaking into a huge pile of wood, strings, and piano guts. Thankfully, they were able to straighten it and they moved it without any incident into the apartment. I was really shaken up and had to sit down after that! Why oh why did I not choose the violin as my instrument?

Spring cleaning

It is now cherry blossom season in Japan, and here in Victoria. I've always loved seeing all the trees full of pink and white blossoms, the streets covered in petals and the air full of their fragrance. When I was a little girl, I used to be so sad that they would live for only a couple of weeks. It seemed such a shame that something so beautiful could be gone so quickly. Then again, if the flowers were to last forever, I'm sure we would not appreciate them so much. I am sure that is one of the reasons why the cherry blossom is so cherished in Japan.

This trip was different than all of the others. I certainly couldn't call it "travelling" as I was not there to see sights - it was more of a "homecoming." Still, the act of getting on a plane and going somewhere always reminds me how much I miss travelling and how much it means to me. I know I've been extremely fortunate to have gone to so many places. I have travelled to more places than most people dream of. I really have had a charmed existence. At one point, I thought that I've travelled enough, and if I were never to go to another country again, I would be content with what I've done. Yet, there is a big part of me that thinks that travelling is so important for personal growth - and without it, I'd stagnate.

I think I'm ready for another big trip - 4-8 weeks backpacking somewhere. Of course, in my current job, this is not possible. I have two weeks holiday, which goes up to three after next year, I think. Two weeks is just not enough time. Even on this trip to Japan - a country where I've lived and am familiar with - I felt that the time was too short.

Before I started this job, my intent was to work or volunteer abroad. Now I'm staying even longer than I had intended - my contract is until March 31, 2009. I love my job - it is fulfilling and challenging, and I work with amazing people, both colleagues and clients. But...I am uncomfortable with the commitment sometimes. I don't really feel as if I am ready to settle yet - settle into that job, into Victoria, into this life. I feel I still have other things to accomplish. At 32, I feel that time is running out. One day, I may have my own family, my parents to take care of, etc. At this point in time, I am free. So, I should take advantage of it.

I've started thinking about becoming a school teacher. For those who have known me all my life, I'm sure you're not surprised! Teaching has been a lifelong passion of mine and pretty much all of my jobs have been related to education. My parents have been suggested becoming a school teacher ever since I came back from Japan. However, I've never really given it any serious thought until this trip and realizing that you get 2 months of holiday in the summer plus winter and spring break! Of course, holiday time is not the only reason I would consider this career change, but it definitely plays a role! Plus I could work in other countries or volunteer as a teacher during summer holidays.

I haven't made any concrete decisions yet. Obviously I will need to consider all the factors, like the job market in BC, how easy it would be to get a work visa in a different country, what the job is like, where to study, etc. Luckily I have a lot of friends who happen to be teachers, so I'll be asking for advice. And I have to consider that I'll have to go back to school. (Only a year and a half off and I'm back already!) I've missed the application deadline for the September start, and I have to do some upgrading anyhow. Seems odd that I am thinking of a career change to feed my travel bug...but a rewarding career is important to me and this is the best one I can think of that will give me job satisfaction as well as time and money to travel. Plus, if I ever have kids, we'll have holidays together!

Spring is time for new beginnings and clearing out the cobwebs!

Natsukashii

Goodbyes - that word is an oxymoron to me. I have never been good at them, nor do I think that they are particularly good!

When I left Japan for two and a half years ago, I was one stressed out, emotional mess. I was so busy with packing, cleaning, and getting ready for my trip and moving back that I had no time to properly say goodbye to anyone. My head was full of my upcoming trip to India, the dread of going back to grad school, anxiety about my uncertain future, and sadness about leaving. My last day was spent frantically running around, closing my bank account and settling things with my landlady. I said a quick　goodbye to my teachers, rushed through a last lunch at my favourite udon place, and before I knew it, I was hugging Mr. Oe and Hatsumi goodbye at the train station and then I was gone, speeding away from my life and towards the unknown. As I looked at Lake Biwa for the last time, I promised myself that I'd come back.

Now that I've finished school and am working, I have finally had chance to visit again. Sure, I could have gone somewhere new, but it was really important to me that I see everyone who has been so kind to me for the three years that I was in Japan. I was a little nervous and apprehensive - what if everything has changed and I am disappointed? Will things be the way I remember? Will I find that I have nothing in common anymore with my friends and colleagues? (And how am I going to communicate with my dismal Japanese?!) Is it true that you can't go back?

When I arrived at Kansai airport, it really felt like I was going home in a way. (I think I have been to that airport more times than the Vancouver one, what with all the travelling I did!)　Surprisingly, I ran into one of my former students on the train. She is now 21 - when I first taught her, she was 15! She was a first-year student when I just started, so I was her teacher for almost her entire high school years, and watched her graduate. She was one of the "punk" kids and we had fun reminiscing - with my broken Japanese! - about how we used to share music and run into each other when snowboarding. She took out her mobile and showed me pictures of some of her former classmates and updated me on everyone. It is amazing how they are so grown up. A few are already moms - early pregnancies seems to happen in the countryside - others are in university or working.

I went back to Takashima high school yesterday and I felt a bit like a ghost coming back to haunt the place! Everyone was really surprised to see me and it was really fun to catch up. I was kind of surprised to see that not much has changed - some teachers are married or have had kids - but mostly things seem about the same. Unfortunately I just missed graduation, so none of my former students are there anymore. I do miss them, and when I see the new ones in the hall and see all their energy and potential, it really makes me miss teaching.

The town itself also hasn't changed much. A few shops and restaurants have closed, and a few new ones have opened, but mostly things are the same. Seems like people remember me - I went to my favourite tofu restaurant and the owners were surprised to see me and gave us a huge block of their handmade tofu to go along with my meal! Good thing my friend has a tofu-loving baby - don't think I could put that in a doggy bag!

So far, I have really enjoyed coming back and seeing everyone. I haven't felt disappointed or weird at all. I am touched by everyone's warm welcome and I really feel that I am so lucky to have met such amazing people.

As I was taking the train yesterday, looking at the monkeys in the rice field, green leafy mountains and the sun sparkling off the lake, I briefly thought about moving back. I could probably find a teaching gig in Kyoto, and I would have the opportunity to travel again. But then I think about my friends and family and career at home, and I know that I wouldn't truly be fulfilled. It is a bit of a dream world living in Japan as a foreigner, and unless I find really rewarding, meaningful work, I can't see myself staying here long-term. Visiting is really wonderful and I will stay in touch with all my friends, but my life here is finished. You really can't go back.

Adventures in the forest

Sunset at East Sooke Park

A couple of weekends ago, the weather was beautiful and sunny - perfect for a hike. Linh and Stewart called me up to go for a hike at East Sooke Park with their friends, and I accepted without any hesitation. Nice weekends in February are a rare thing in Victoria!

Thinking it was just a 10km hike, I figured it would take about 2-3 hours. After all, I can run 10k in less than an hour, so it shouldn't take that long, right? So I packed light - one apple, some chocolate to share with everyone, and one water bottle. As it was so nice out, I just wore two-long sleeved shirts and jeans.

The hike, the Coast Trail, is absolutely beautiful - hiking in and out of the forest, you get stunning views of the ocean, cliffs, mountains, and little islands. The views were breathtaking. Physically, it was quite demanding; we were constantly climbing up and down and jumping over little creeks. I don't think there was a flat bit during the entire hike. It was all good though - excellent company and great food. Lucky for me, everyone else was much more prepared - we had fresh carrot juice, cheese, bread, chocolate, fruit, and even wine! It is amazing how good food tastes after exercise and some fresh air. Too bad you can't bake that into a baguette. Taking time to admire the views and eat, the first part of the hike was very enjoyable.

But then we looked at the map and I started to worry. We had hardly done any of it after a few hours! Hiking up and down steep paths obviously took a lot longer than we had anticipated. Then Stewart revealed that the website had warned that the hike was "challenging" and that it would take 6-8 hours! Considering that we started at NOON, time was getting to be a concern...

We made some good time after that, but the sun was starting to set and we were still quite far off. As it started getting dark, everyone started to get a little nervous - it became harder to see the trail markers. Considering that we were sometimes very near the ocean and the paths were very narrow, we also started being a lot more cautious. Every sound in the forest became creepy or scary. All I could think of was "The Blairwitch Project!" Thank god it was a clear full moon and Sabine and Jorge had headlamps.

After about two hours of hiking in the dark, we finally made it to the parking lot, shivering and tired. However, that was not the end of the saga, as we were locked in the park! The gate was closed and we got a note on the car saying that we had to hike 4km to the nearest payphone and call the RCMP! We walked a ways until we found a house that didn't look too intimidating - and didn't have big scary dogs charging at us - and phoned the ranger. Glad we didn't make it to the payphone because apparently it is out of order! Why they don't have a phone IN the parking lot, I have no idea.

And finally, I got home TWELVE hours after I had left. I was just glad that there was an extra jacket and everyone else had enough food and water. I remember the first time I went to East Sooke Park, my friend was aghast that I had bought nothing with me, whereas I laughed at him for carrying food, water, a flashlight and a knife for a little walk in the park. Never again. From now on, I'll be well prepared when I go hiking - and I'm definitely buying a headlamp!

Tumbling into the new year

Happy new year! May 2008 be a successful one full of new experiences and fun.

For me, the new year started with a bang - literally. On new year's eve, I was at a masquerade party at my friend's place. At about 3 am or so, I stumbled up to her room on the second floor of the house. The party was still going, but I was ready for a little lie-down. About an hour later, I got up to go to the washroom. It was dark, I didn't have my contacts in, and I was probably still a little drunk...and I completely forgot that I where I was. I missed the first step, and with sickening feeling in my stomach, I fell down the entire flight of hardwood stairs and crashed into the door!

Needless to say, the party stopped immediately and everyone rushed over to see what was going on. Apparently I looked completely dazed - eyes half shut and crumpled in a very awkward position. This part was really quite hazy, but I just remember feeling quite embarrassed and after a couple of minutes, I insisted on getting up. I felt a little shook up, but was able to go back to sleep.

How lucky am I! I could have been paralyzed or broken something...but I walked away from this fall with only some bad bruising, a scar on my forehead and a few bumps on the head. Later, I went to see the doctor - I had some headaches - and I most likely have a mild concussion. So I have the small inconvenience of not being allowed to exercise or drink for a week or so, but that's a very small price to pay!

This is not the first time I've had a major accident or a close call - maybe somebody up there is trying to tell me something?? Funnily enough, one of my new year's resolutions was to take myself - and life - less seriously. There is no point in obsessing and worrying about things you cannot control, change, or have. Who knows when my luck will run out or when my clumsiness will finally get the better of me? I feel like I've been given a second (or maybe fourth!) chance. Better to not be afraid and just go for it!

The up side is that my client told me that in Chile, if you begin the new year in a bad way, the next 364 days will be the complete opposite and be really good. (Maybe the rationale is that things can't get any worse?) So 2008 should be a good one!

And FYI, anytime someone falls from a height that is higher than themselves onto a hard surface and seems a little dazed or loses consciousness, they should see a doctor - they probably have a concussion. And they should NOT be allowed to fall back asleep for hours at a time - especially if they black out - because they may fall into a coma and not wake up!

Building a Bridge - A Case in Favour For

Last Wednesday, I attended a mentoring conference in Vancouver, an event that I had been looking forward to as we are starting our own mentoring program at VIRCS. I always like going over to the mainland as there are friends and family there, as well as great eats and shopping.

My journey started Tuesday afternoon. I left the office at 1:30 to catch the 3:00 ferry. I wanted to arrive in Vancouver early enough to buy dinner for my grandma, who has had a nasty fall recently. Everything was fine until the bus broke down in Saanichton. Although the bus driver assured us that another bus was coming shortly, we waited about 15-20 minutes. You'd think that they would send two buses - one that would go through Sidney and another that would go directly to the ferry terminal - but no, they sent one bus, crammed us all in, and slowly meandered through Sidney. Those who rushing for the ferry were stuck watching in frustration as the 3:00 ferry sailed away from the terminal.

Two hours later, I boarded the 5:00 ferry. I arranged for my brother to pick me up at a bus station, but more delays occurred due to traffic and so on. I finally arrived at my grandma's doorstep at 8:00pm...SIX AND A HALF HOURS after I left the office. My aunt had already bought some takeout, so I missed my chance to buy dinner and my poor grandma had her meal well after her usual schedule.

Next day, the conference ended at 4:30. There was a wine and cheese reception after - a great networking opportunity - but I thought I would have a quick glass and then head off early so as not to repeat the debacle of the day before. At about 4:50, I left for the bus station downtown, thinking I had plenty of time before the 7:00 ferry. After all, the Vancouver buses only take about an hour or so to get to the terminal. I texted my brother to compare the times for the public bus and the Pacific Coach Lines, and decided to treat myself to the coach, but I misread his message and thought it left at 6:20. So I wandered around a bit and then made my way to the station. Suddenly I was hit with the sinking realization that there was no way that the coach would leave so late and started to panic. I arrived at the station at 5:50, but the coach had already left at 5:30! I had no idea that the coach would actually take longer than the bus. By now, it was too late to catch any bus, and I was stuck waiting 2 hours for the next ferry - again. Of course this time I had no one to blame but myself...although I am convinced that the long travel day yesterday must have addled my brain a little. I caught the 9:00 ferry and my other brother kindly picked me up so that I wouldn't have to take the bus. I arrived at 11:00...six hours after leaving the conference.

So, in total, I travelled about 12.5 hours. Let's see where I could have gone in this time:
Vancouver to Toronto: 6 hours, 20 minutes
Vancouver to London: 9 hours, 40 minutes
Vancouver to Tokyo: 10 hours, 25 minutes
Vancouver to Mexico City: 10 hours, 30 minutes (via L.A.)

Of course, I'd have to add six hours of travelling time to get to Vancouver...

Normally I would not be in favour of building a bridge. I like living on an island. But when it takes me more time to travel to Vancouver and back than it does to fly to Japan, I have to re-think it a bit. Some Islanders are worried about "city slickers" invading Victoria - but I am willing to risk it!

On the up side - and I can see the funny side of things now that a few days have passed and my blood pressure has returned to normal - I got to read a lot from The Know-It-All, a gift I received from my friend, Susan. It is a memoir of this guy who has read the Encyclopaedia Britannica from A-Z, micropedias AND macropedias.

This is an impressive feat in my eyes. Our family are also proud owners of the EB - I remember years ago, a salesman came to the restaurant and pitched to the books to my dad. My father, who has always regretted not getting a university degree, was seduced by the fancy leatherette covers. Hoping to provide the privileges for his kids that he never had, he bought a set. I also tried reading all the volumes, thinking that I would know everything at the end. I didn't even make it through Volume 1 - A-ak to Bayes - but then again, I was 11. That's the great thing about The Know-It-All; the author has compiled a kind of "Best of the EB" in bite-sized entries. I'm already on "T" in only a week!

One of my favourite entries was about Sherlock Holmes. Watson, his assistant, was amazed that Sherlock was familiar with over 100 different kinds of tobacco, yet could not name the planets in the solar system. Sherlock replied that the brain could only hold a certain amount of information, and he chose to remember only what was useful to him; being able to identify tobacco could help him to finger a suspect, whereas knowing which planet is after Jupiter is completely useless. So there you go - all that information about how an internationally-trained engineer can get his/her P.Eng designation, or the licencing requirements for a crane operator has somehow pushed out any knowledge I had about bus schedules in Vancouver!

Ice-capades extravaganza

For my birthday, I wanted to do a fun activity, like ice-skating. I called up the local rec centre for the drop-in schedule, but that night was "teen night." While adults were welcome to join, I was warned that it might be a "bit chaotic." I really wanted to skate, and I thought to mysellf, "How bad could it be?" So I asked everyone to dress up in the clothes they used to wear in high school and show up at 7:30.

Wearing a hideous sweater that is eerily similar to a favourite of mine in Gr. 8, my brother and I went to the rec centre at the set time. To our surprise, there was a huge line to get in - and we were the only people over the age of 12! The noise was deafening. Still, it was really fun - and I only fell once!

At this point, my brother asked, "Why don't we go to the pub...now?"

Emily is pretty in pink

"I'm not too sure about this!!"

Ah, the 80s...age of the ugly sweater

Jillian's feathered hair, a Heather Locklear tribute