wish I could go back again, too Your pictures are beautiful. (what more should I say?)
Thanks for a few minutes of unadulterated enjoyment.
Natasha in Stuttgart (an ex-pat who likes it in Europe, but made the mistake of tasting Asia last year. The world is too big for one lifetime.)
cream of wheat! i love your photography! i am glad you documented you stint in japan so well and that i got to read it. maybe you'd just have to be japenese to get over your non-materialistic least favorites. but you did list generosity and hospitality :) hope to see yuo soon!
My Thanks Jennie, thanks for taking me with you to Japan. Your blogs have been my only vehicle that I'm sure I'll ever have to the Far East. I got to see not only Japan but also other places such as Singapore and Malaysia. What fascinating stories and pictures of your time abroad. I enjoyed myself!
Sorry it's over... Great lists. Thanks for doing this blog. It was great for us to keep in touch this way, and I think it was wonderful chronicle of your 2-year experience. Your photography gives us a "Jennie view" of Japan, too. Nice shots.
Of course, we're glad you are back and so near to home. Also, looking forward to your next move in life with VISTA in Pocahontas County.
What a Trip!!!! Hi Jennie,
Once again I loved reading your blog. You lived in Japan for two years and I shared a tiny portion of your experience via these blogs. What a trip it has been for me and how much fun my students had learning about another culture. Thanks for sharing your life there. I know it was hard to live it and record it at the same time, but you did an awesome job! Thanks,
Love,
Marilyn
Amazing Journey Hi, I've always look forward to reading your blog. And now I am also sad, like the people you have touched in your adopted hometown that you are leaving. Your writings were not only insightful but educational. I'm a Japanese-American and your writings have helped me better understand and learn more about my culture. Best wishes on your next leg of the journey.
Tears Jennie, talking about being moved to tears. I teared up reading your blog, especially the part about the adult English class. I'm so proud! I love our music so much, and to think that my daughter is across the sea teaching a Woody Guthrie song and all the music of our American history, it just makes me want to tell everyone that the future is bright for us all -- I don't know why, but somehow I grow less pessimistic because my daughter is bridging the gap between one side of the world and another. And you’ve just started. It seems that everything I wanted you to know and appreciate all that I value is there in you, and you are sharing it with others wherever you go. Yep, I’ve teared up. Can’t wait to see you and to go to the Cliff Top Festival and dive into that good old-time Appalachian music!!
So many memories! I really enjoyed reading this as it brought back a lot of memories of when I taught English in South Korea in 1999. Like you I had a lot of troubles with finding an appropriate level for my adult class- I really admire your musical solution! I didn't go on to an educational career but I look back on the whole experience as a very valuable- if occasionally maddening!- time of my life. Best of luck for your future career in education, I've no doubt you'll do very well.
coming to a close Jen jen, I am glad that at least one of us made it out to see the famed cotton candy mountain. I can’t believe I missed it again this year and now there won’t be another chance. At least I get to see your pictures. It looked amazing! I hope you’re enjoying the last three months we have here. A long overdue round of ale on the beach is in call.
Cherry Blossoms The pictures of the cherry blossoms are so beautiful, Jennie. It would be wonderful if you could do something with them when you get home. Maybe make cards of them or something. I'm glad you were able to see this "in person" before you leave. Love, Aunt Elaine
wow and envious Hi Jennie,
Your blog entry made me want to visit your present spot in the world more than ever. I'm proud of you for having such an adventurous spirit and all of the talents you possess. Wow, to see the world from a different geographic perspective and envious of Maureen who is heading that way soon. Much Love, Marilyn
Rumble rumble Aw man, seeing that meal for Warahondo is making me so hungry! >_< It was really nice to just go into a restaurant and order, wasn't it?! Oh, by the way - I think I told you that Yoko, the owner, married someone from Aomori, right? Well, my friends told me that "Warahondo" is Tsugaru-ben (the dialect spoken on the west coast of Aomori) for "children". I didn't know that one yet. I think I'm gonna fly down there next month just so I can order some more food!! Lunch... so far away.... ~_~
I am amazed! Was that open-air train cold? Those bridges look so scary! I am glad you met the family who took such good care of you. Miss you alot. Mama
My name is Jennie. I come from West Virginia state in the U.S. I just graduated college and headed off to Japan to teach English for an indefinite amount of time. This is my online blog I created, so that family, friends and anyone else can get the updates on what's going on over here in the Inland Sea.... full info
natasha
non-member comment
wish I could go back again, too
Your pictures are beautiful. (what more should I say?) Thanks for a few minutes of unadulterated enjoyment. Natasha in Stuttgart (an ex-pat who likes it in Europe, but made the mistake of tasting Asia last year. The world is too big for one lifetime.)