Three months later

It is so hard to believe we arrived in Japan 3 months ago.  On the one hand, it seems like yesterday that we were in the chaos of leaving the US - spending time with all our loved ones.  It was such a whirlwind at the end, tying up loose ends and getting everything ready.  The plane ride was exciting and quick.  And then this new chapter started. 

Staying in Azabujuban was fun and interesting.  It was hard at times since it was so urban.  We stayed very busy as we tried to adjust to Japan.  There were so many things to see and do.  But by the end of a month and a half, we were so ready to settle down into our new life.

After moving to Hikarigaoka, it took us a couple weeks to find our way.  Life with out furniture or a proper kitchen was trying to say the least.  But we managed, with smiles on our faces (some more than others). 

As we have continued to get settled, we've had good days and bad.  We've eaten more than our fair share of sushi and tried lots of new Japanese recipes.  And it finally is beginning to feel like we actually live here.  We are making friends and figuring out where things are.  Our son is enjoying swimming lessons and making lots of friends.  We have found a routine, which is so comforting.

There are still lots of hard days.  Not being able to converse with people, especially children, is really hard for me.  Each day when we arrive at the park, the children often greet us enthusiastically and tell me things.  But I have no idea what they are saying most of the time.  It makes me feel horrible to not be able to share in their everyday lives - the good parts and the bad.  I also sometimes feel bad about my lack of Japanese language skills when chatting with the moms, as someone often has to translate for me. 

I am still waiting for the culture shock to really hit.  I remember vividly when I melted down due to culture shock in Osaka 15 years ago.  I was searching and searching for a new pair of shoes that I needed for work.  I couldn't find any stores that carried my size!  I tried again and again to find somewhere that carried size 25, but every store would shake their head no and tell me the biggest size they carried was 24.5!  Finally, my friend suggested we go to a pancake restaurant.  After all, a plateful of carbs often helps me feel better.  While waiting for our order, I broke down sobbing and whining.  My friend patiently listened as I told him my woes.  I didn't realize this for a while, but the waitress kept trying to deliver our pancakes.  But every time she would approach, I'd let out a sob and she'd back away trying not to invade our privacy.  Finally, he motioned for her to please bring the food.  I've never seen a waitress drop plates and run away so fast!

I think I've been avoiding the big culture shock turmoil due to several factors. 

1. I've spent lots of time in Japan over the years, so everything isn't as new and overwhelming as it used to be. 
2. Being a parent, I have someone else to consider when getting into a downward spiral.  I often avoid getting too negative because I try to keep my son as my first priority. 
3. Spending time outside everyday.  This has been so good for both my son and me.  We are stopping and smelling the roses, in a way, which is helping us to take things a bit slower.

After three months, I'd say we are doing well.  We're still adjusting, but that isn't anything different about Japan.  It is just life - always changing, always evolving.  We just get to eat delicious sushi anytime the desire strikes us.

Flowers from my husband to celebrate 3 months in Japan.