The pace of life at school continued at full speed and what we have achieved has been remarkable, but it will be very nice to take a breather. Having said that, I do appreciate the calm and quiet that Tokyo has to offer. It really is contrary to how the city is portrayed in the media. When I have a moment, I enjoy walking to different parts of the city - to the parks, the various events and the shopping districts.
I am also getting used to the cold, especially when there are days of beautiful blue sky, but I am not looking forward to February, the coldest month. Snow in November was a surprise - the first time in 54 years and I realise I do need to be a little better prepared for the range of weather eventualities. Snow boots, wellies and a longer down jacket are high up on the shopping list.
I have also come to appreciate just how easy it is to get out of Tokyo and to explore the countryside. A school service learning trip to Minamisanriku, the town that was destroyed by the tsunami in 2011 was fascinating and despite the background, was highly enjoyable. The stories the people shared were heartbreaking, yet they are now in such good spirits and are just getting on with the rebuilding of their town.
An overnight trip to Atami on the coast, with three colleagues was most refreshing as well. We headed up to the hills to be rewarded with a sneak peak of Mt Fuji, but also soaked up the views of the ocean and the coastline. The highlight, however, was the 7 course dinner which we enjoyed wearing our yukata’s (like the 200 other people in the hotel) and the show!
And now, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
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