5-15-03

     Well you guys, I'm here and I'm safe. The flight didn't really suck much at all, and Chris was right there to pick me up at the airport. The airport smelled exactly like wet dog, and I was warned to get used to that scent quick. We met a really, really rude Japanese cabbie and wound up dragging all of my luggage the mile and a half to Chris' apartment. Good to know that cabbies are the same the world over.

     The apartment is quite small but shockingly adequate. There's storage space galore. There's a tiny kitchen area with a two burner stove (hob for Alex). The stove doesn't have an oven though. The oven is actually located in a dual microwave/baking oven unit. Chris doesn't know how to use that yet, so I'll wait for lessons from Reggie or Stephanie (friends who've been here a while). There's a multi-function table, an itty bitty sofa-like thing that is about 3 inches off the ground, and a bed that's bigger than a twin but not quite a  full. The floors are a very pretty wood, and Chris has put down a number of cute area rugs. The only really ugly things are the faux leopard print furry bean bags that came with the place. I guess I get the need for additional seating, but they're hard on the eyes. Since that's my biggest complaint, I'm lucky indeed.

     Last night we watched American movies on TV...they all had Japanese subtitles. Looks like we also get an English version of CNN as well. Better than I'd expected given the circumstances. This morning, I had Japanese Doritos and Japanese frosted flakes for breakfast (they came in a silly bag instead of a box with a tiger, but tasted the same). Shell, you will pleased to know that there was low fat gyuunyuu to go along with it. Today I get a tour of the apartment complex and of the surrounding area. There are a ton of little stores and such that are easily within walking distance. Since the fridge is about the size of a shoebox, I think we'll be making frequent stops at the store.

     Well that's it for now. Mom, if you wouldn't mind sending me e-mail addresses for Alex and William, I would appreciate it a lot. Shell, if you have a better address for MA and one for dad, that would be greatly appreciated.

Take care y'all.

-MaryGail