Things that make you go, hmm... Last week was Thanksgiving in the US, but I live here in Japan and there was hardly any mention of the holiday except from fellow Americans. However, the big thing that was on people's minds was Black Friday--which made me go, "Huh?" Black Friday is such an American thing: … Continue reading Black Friday, Japan
Category: Life in Japan
Point Cards and Stamp Cards in Japan
I am at Fujiya, our local cake place, choosing which cake to eat for dessert tonight. I make my choice and take out the money for this purchase. The lady pauses for a moment before she rings up my order. She seemed to be waiting for something. And then, "Do you have your point card?" … Continue reading Point Cards and Stamp Cards in Japan
Hanging On
Hubby is going through a crisis right now. He's thinking about quitting his job, mostly because there are things that he just can't deal with at his workplace. Unfortunately, the bulk of the comforting and the encouragement falls onto me. Frankly, it's a little draining sometimes. Though I'm usually very supportive, I'm a little tired … Continue reading Hanging On
Consumption Tax Hike Japan 2019
So it's been more than a week since the consumption tax hike here in Japan. I haven't experienced anything earth shattering since then. Considering all the media attention and the panic that ran rampant in the streets regarding this issue before October 1st, I find the second week really underwhelming. But let me back track … Continue reading Consumption Tax Hike Japan 2019
Coursera, EdX, and MOOCs
The problem when you live in Japan is that everything is in Japanese, especially for those of us who live in areas that are not as connected globally. You do have to rely on the local language most of the time--so if you choose to take classes, most of it will be in Japanese. Enter … Continue reading Coursera, EdX, and MOOCs
Do I Really Need Life Insurance?
Okay, I'll admit, I don't have life or disability insurance. Somehow, I seem to be okay with it. I know, however, that as an adult, it's one of those things that I need to take care of. The thing is, my husband and I have no children. I am also not the main breadwinner in … Continue reading Do I Really Need Life Insurance?
Summer
I'm on a two-week break from teaching. Hooray! I've debated whether I should take some time off from blogging, but really, what's the point? I need to keep writing, or my skills will atrophy. At least, that's what I delude myself into believing. In all honesty, though, I just want to keep it up because … Continue reading Summer
