At school, we navigated 3 more instances of remote learning as case numbers in Tokyo peaked around holiday times and with just 2 ½ weeks of the year left, COVID came to the middle school. We had 3 positive cases in one class. We shut down the middle school for a couple of days until contact tracing was complete and then had just the affected class out of school for a week, plus those who were close contacts. Not the way we wanted to end the year as the middle school dance had to be cancelled and the Grade 9 graduation ceremony shifted to being for parents and teachers only. Yet I felt we navigated the challenges in a caring and respectful way and the year ended on a positive note. I am putting it down as another story for my collection, but not a week I would want to repeat!
The logistics involved in leaving Japan are complex and it sure was a relief to be done … except when I got to the airport and opened my wallet, I realised that I forgot to post my health card as had been requested!
The best possible scenario was if my replacement moved into my apartment but with a dog and 3 cats this could not occur. So, I had to sell all my furniture and clean and empty the apartment completely. Not even a toilet roll could be left. And, I must say that selling my belongings through a Facebook group again reminded me that there are two kinds of people: those who are nice to deal with others and those who are just plain rude! It should also be noted that I have 34 boxes being shipped to Adelaide and 3 suitcases with me!
Despite the States of Emergency that just rolled from one to the other and more ‘home’ time than I would have hoped in my final 6 months, I still got out and about in a safe way and managed some fabulous meals and good times with friends. Trips to Zao Onsen and Kyushu at Spring Break were highlights and here are some other random photos of my days.
Naturally, I was sad to be leaving Japan, Tokyo and Nishimachi. I learned so much in my time at the school (both how to lead and how not to lead) and I will miss it and my friends but I know it is the right move and I am happy and excited for the next chapter to begin.
By the way, I think I did pretty well in quarantine too. I got some great advice to stick to a routine, exercise every day and to go without alcohol!! This plan of action really helped and I was glad that I had a big room and that the food was 97% good. It is just my view that is a little lacking, especially as I am at The Sydney Harbour Marriott!
Well done on surviving the quarantine. I'm not sure how I would cope with 14 days being cooped up. You are very resilient. Interested to hear about your next chapter. I reckon you have some plans but are playing your cards close to your chest.... fingers crossed for your next 24 hrs.
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