Off the coast of Japan

Sunday, November 22 – Off the coast of Japan
17:49

I’m currently in-transit between Yokohama and Kobe. There’s around 150 other passengers that are on the ship with me, including Ryan, Viki, Eric and a few of my other friends. I am really trying to be productive today. I just began my 10 page paper for my West and the World class, and I have every intention to finish it today.
I went to a child’s yoga class today, that was instructed by Ian. He had plans in school to do a study on yoga for children with behavioral issues, within his short amount of study he noticed a difference in the children, but had Stella and couldn’t continue his study. The class he instructed today was the class he gave to those students. It was a really nice class. He told me I should come to his regular classes on A days, which I plan to do. I really enjoy him and his family. They’re really great people.

I also received my package from home today. I have “thug a test” family. About a month or two ago (ship time is very strange, and you are mentally unable to keep track of real time) I asked my mother to send me peacock feathers. The peacock feathers are to do a ceremony of sorts (from The Darjeeling Limited) in Hawaii with some of my pals. I received a relatively heavy package, and as I was heading back to my room carrying it, I went through all the possible things it could be. I knew if it was a package and not just an envelope, there was going to be Double Stuf Oreos. What I didn’t expect was a bunch of other goodies, including DR. PEPPER! This package is going to be a life saver during our ten day haul.

And as I was writing this, cute little Stella came on the intercom to have us all sing happy birthday to Rita (the voice). I love days that are different from the rest.

I plan to look into the JET program. If I get accepted this would involve me living in Japan and teaching English. I’ve only spent around 30 hours in Japan so far, but I’ve really enjoyed it. There’s A LOT to do. I have always loved the Asian culture. Although it’s minimally difficult to find, there is Dr. Pepper in vending machines.

My funds are running really low. I’ve had a few unexpected expenses on the ship, including a visa for Viet Nam that I didn’t know about (which the majority of the ship didn’t know about, including teachers). I also didn’t know what to expect in a few of the countries, and didn’t budget correctly.  The expenses I have left are for my Osaka stay, Hawaii, the Ambassador's Ball, etc. I’m having a minor freak out, but I think I will make it.

It is difficult to think that the voyage will be over in 22 days. The ten day trip between Japan and Hawaii may be a tough one - full of school work, a global studies exam, and collection of pictures.