I love the feeling you have after an excellent church service. When the pastor finished today I felt like jumping up and grabbing a flag and charging out to battle. Really motivating.
Well, let me go back a bit, explain things. For those of you who may not know, I love Jesus. I have been saved since mid-July of 2001, and love talking about my walk before and after that time with anyone who will listen. I also love hearing the testimonies of others.
I've had the opportunity to attend services in churches ranging from a dirt floor chapel in Mexico in a city barely recognized by the Mexican government, to worshiping in the largest church in the San Antonio area, John Hagee's Cornerstone Church (which is awesome, I highly recommend you attend).
I have been able to participate in some amazing things, none of which would have been possible prior to my salvation. I have helped build a church near the one I mentioned above in Mexico. I was able to be on the ground in New York two months after 9/11 and work with the Salvation Army to give gifts to children of families who had lost their jobs due to the tragedy, and in the same trip, I was able to feed 9/11 workers, firemen, and policemen who were helping to recover remains from the site. Those are two of my most memorable moments that God made possible for me to participate in and I'm sure they will be dwarfed by things He will call me to in the future.
I'm not trying to say "I am great" but that He is great for allowing me to be a part of these missions and actions. They would have been done had I not been there, by someone else who would have answered His call. I am thankful I was listening at the time to hear myself called.
The reason I am writing all of this is I want so share the joy I've been able to have while I've been a Christian. I am not one to push my beliefs on others, on the contrary, I very strongly believe in the free will to choose your life. I've chosen His path, and I'd love to tell you more about it.
17 November 2008
27 October 2008
Superbaby
So, Emily calls me and says "Guess what your son is doing?". Naturally I know my son is awesome so I prepare myself. She said he was feeding himself by holding his own bottle.
Now, those of you who know us are aware we are fervent breastfeeding advocates, as there is no replacement for the natural food that was meant to be fed to children. Recently though Emily has found that Jackson sleeps better at night if he has a bottle of formula as his evening meal so we've been supplementing breast milk with some formula.
So, I know that every parent thinks their child is super in some way or another, but my boy seems to consistently do new and amazing things every day, or so Emily tells me. I believe her, as I've seen him roll himself over at two weeks, and demonstrate incredible newborn strength by lifting his head and pushing off my chest with his arms and legs several times. I unfortunately have to go with the photograph I am about to post, to see my son do his latest amazing feat, with more to follow I'm sure. So, here you are, my son, superbaby.
Now, those of you who know us are aware we are fervent breastfeeding advocates, as there is no replacement for the natural food that was meant to be fed to children. Recently though Emily has found that Jackson sleeps better at night if he has a bottle of formula as his evening meal so we've been supplementing breast milk with some formula.
So, I know that every parent thinks their child is super in some way or another, but my boy seems to consistently do new and amazing things every day, or so Emily tells me. I believe her, as I've seen him roll himself over at two weeks, and demonstrate incredible newborn strength by lifting his head and pushing off my chest with his arms and legs several times. I unfortunately have to go with the photograph I am about to post, to see my son do his latest amazing feat, with more to follow I'm sure. So, here you are, my son, superbaby.
24 October 2008
Fishing in Japan
I was able to go fishing with my father-in-law recently while he and my mother-in-law visited Emily and I and it was some of the most fun I've had since we got to Japan. We actually went out fishing twice, once with the MWR rec shop on base and once with a professional guide we found in Nagasaki.
The MWR trip was fun, we went up towards Hirado and met with a Japanese fisherman who ferryed us out to a small island where we stayed for about five hours and fished. I caught five ugly cow fish and a decent sunburn. My father caught some sort of barracuda-tuna type fish as well, which was pretty cool looking.
The second trip we went on was made able to happen when we saw a fishing shop on the way home from the Nagasaki Bio Park (Zoo). We stopped in and through some Japanglish, charades, and my awesome translator friend, we booked a trip for a few days later. We arrived at the shop to a warm welcome of coffee and hard-boiled duck eggs. We visited somewhat and headed for the marina.
First we went a bit to the northwest, towards Sasebo harbor, and fished several spots along the way, but having no luck with getting any fish, we decided to go after some squid.
On the way back through the Sakai Channel, which has the strongest current in Japan, we got to see some awesome turbulence. This picture is of tidewaters rushing around a small island which holds a lighthouse. There were dozens if not hundreds of whirlpools, some were small, but some were very capable of swallowing a person. You can wear your lifejacket if you want, but its best to just stay in the boat, because no amount of personal floatation is gonna save you.
We fished for squid the rest of the trip, with my father catching five decent ones. I hooked a couple but wasnt able to land them. I did catch a pufferfish though, ugly thing. We then headed back to the shop where we had Japanese tea and sat around the fire for a while. Hiro-san, our guide, invited Emily and my mother-in-law to come out and go to see some fireworks in his boat, which we accepted and it was amazing.
01 October 2008
The picture you've all been waiting for...
Well, we have it. The long sought after, much talked about, and until now, only observed by my lovely wife and I. A picture of Jackson with his eyes open and in a good mood. Now, these were taken with my cellphone, so they aren't awesome, but they turned out pretty well. Emily and I call this his "lucid face" because he'll just sit and stare and look around at stuff and seem interested, almost like he's learning, taking things in. Anyway, here you go.
Absolutely the cutest thing I've ever seen. Thats all for today, hopefully we'll be bringing him home tomorrow, which will be approximately 7:00PM Wednesday home-time.
Absolutely the cutest thing I've ever seen. Thats all for today, hopefully we'll be bringing him home tomorrow, which will be approximately 7:00PM Wednesday home-time.
29 September 2008
Sakita-san
So, everyone is asking about the infamous JapDreamy that Emily keeps talking about. Well, his name is Sakita-san, (san doesnt mean Mr., its just a suffix for someone's surname, it can mean Mr., Mrs., etc.)or Doctor Sakita (I believe that is how its spelled, have only heard it spoken and seen it written in kanji). He is very cool, very nice, very young. He has an excellent rapport with Em and talks to her very comfortably, so much so I think it intimidates him when I'm around, so I just keep to myself and nod when he says stuff. He speaks good English, but like many Japanese, they are shy, and nervous to speak to us in our language, afraid they don't speak it like we do. They know they learn book English, and we don't speak anything like book English, so they are always excited to pick our brains for words they don't know. Its fun to talk to them. Em and I try to use Japanese and they try to use English and we all laugh. Anyway, a picture of Sakita-San and Jackson is below.
Current update is that everything is well and Emily is up and around today, fully off pain meds. Only two days of painkillers is impressive even for her. She says she feels way better than she did after her surgery last summer, but this was more difficult. I think the payoff for this one makes it a better deal all around. It looks like we'll be getting out of the hospital on Friday or Saturday, according to Sakita-san.
The Japanese word of the day is Otokonoko/Otokonohito which roughly means boy/man, respectivly. I've been using my Japanese software, so I'll try to include a new useful word from now on.
Current update is that everything is well and Emily is up and around today, fully off pain meds. Only two days of painkillers is impressive even for her. She says she feels way better than she did after her surgery last summer, but this was more difficult. I think the payoff for this one makes it a better deal all around. It looks like we'll be getting out of the hospital on Friday or Saturday, according to Sakita-san.The Japanese word of the day is Otokonoko/Otokonohito which roughly means boy/man, respectivly. I've been using my Japanese software, so I'll try to include a new useful word from now on.
My Son...
My Son... does many funny and cute things throughout the day. I thought I might try to capture some of them and share. He is quite expressive, in many ways. He may not always get his point across, but he sure lets you know he has one.
So, here are some examples of what I've seen my son do. He...
Yawns. Its really quite cute.
Has a hairy back. Kind of like Grandpa Mark. Is it sad that my son has more body hair than I do, because he does.
Sleeps really well, when he wants to. And when he is asleep, he is ASLEEP.
Takes naps with Daddy. Daddy can't wait to do this at home, and not in an uncomfortable hospital bed.
Gets angry. I call this his "consternated face".
Waves his arms while he sleeps, usually because he startles himself. Not enough to wake up, just enough to jump and throw his arms in the air. Really funny. Check out the cool baby Jedi robe. Unfortunately, they are hospital property, and I couldn't get it into Emily's purse before the army of nurses saw we'd changed him and snatched it up.
He also makes funny faces while he sleeps, sometimes right after scaring himself.
He does many more things, they just haven't been captured on camera yet. He squirms a lot, when he's not asleep.
I have to keep a good grip on him, he tried to escape once, no kidding, and can actually push himself away from me with his arms, a little.
He doesn't like hats, because a surefire way to get him to calm down is to take his off.
He doesn't like to sleep alone, because if he's in his bassinet, he'll holler and fuss, but if he lays down with Mom or Dad, he's just fine.
He can kick, well, sort of, he straightens his legs out and kind of does a bicycle thing if he's really angry.
He doesn't seem like he's only two days old, probably because we treated him like a baby when he was still in the womb. The day goes by fast just hanging out with him and Emily. It has made things easier though, because he knows our voices well and responds to them.
There will of course be more to follow, this is just what I did today.
So, here are some examples of what I've seen my son do. He...
Yawns. Its really quite cute.
Has a hairy back. Kind of like Grandpa Mark. Is it sad that my son has more body hair than I do, because he does.
Sleeps really well, when he wants to. And when he is asleep, he is ASLEEP.
Takes naps with Daddy. Daddy can't wait to do this at home, and not in an uncomfortable hospital bed.
Gets angry. I call this his "consternated face".
Waves his arms while he sleeps, usually because he startles himself. Not enough to wake up, just enough to jump and throw his arms in the air. Really funny. Check out the cool baby Jedi robe. Unfortunately, they are hospital property, and I couldn't get it into Emily's purse before the army of nurses saw we'd changed him and snatched it up.
He also makes funny faces while he sleeps, sometimes right after scaring himself.
He does many more things, they just haven't been captured on camera yet. He squirms a lot, when he's not asleep.
I have to keep a good grip on him, he tried to escape once, no kidding, and can actually push himself away from me with his arms, a little.
He doesn't like hats, because a surefire way to get him to calm down is to take his off.
He doesn't like to sleep alone, because if he's in his bassinet, he'll holler and fuss, but if he lays down with Mom or Dad, he's just fine.
He can kick, well, sort of, he straightens his legs out and kind of does a bicycle thing if he's really angry.
He doesn't seem like he's only two days old, probably because we treated him like a baby when he was still in the womb. The day goes by fast just hanging out with him and Emily. It has made things easier though, because he knows our voices well and responds to them.
There will of course be more to follow, this is just what I did today.
27 September 2008
My son has been born.
Well, Jackson Ryan Pauley is now fully in this world. He was born via C-section at 1842 (6:42PM for you civilian folks) on 26 September, 2008. That is of course Japan time, he's almost a full day old now. He was 7.5 pounds and 19.7 inches long, and came out with a head of black hair. Emily and I both being blond babies don't know whats up with that, but who knows. I am just at home briefly to get some sleep and clean myself up before I head back to the hospital to see him and Emily. I unfortunately was not able to be present for the actual birth, since it was a surgical procedure, but I saw him when he was about 10 minutes old and was holding him five minutes after that. As the pictures will show, he's got lungs on him. The first picture is "Jackson's First Picture" as he is only seconds old. The second is him announcing himself to the world, or at least the operating room. Next is him in his cool little robe, and finally Jackson sleeping with his Momma. More to follow.
26 September 2008
Baby Soon!!!
It has been decided between Emily and I and our nice Doctor, that her labor is not progressing as it should. Therefore, Jackson Ryan Pauley will be born via Cesarean Section surgery at approximately 1530 Japan time (About 1130 PM Washington time) on September the 26th. Strangely, this is the ninth anniversary of Emily and I first meeting, which is a funny story, ask me and I'll tell you some time. I am cleaning up at home and am about to head back to the hospital to participate as much as they will let me. More info to follow.
23 September 2008
Japanese Hospitals
Well, once again, the Japanese take personal responsibility to a higher level. America could never handle the amount of work the patient is required to do in Japan.
Emily has to weigh and measure herself, go and get the necessary items to provide a urine sample, and then check in. She has to complete questionnaires on a regular basis, but at least the questions are different and pertain to important stuff. The Japanese do not often ask the same questions, so they communicate better than American hospitals, where you pretty much have to re-check-in on each floor/department you visit.
She is now 39 weeks pregnant, and about to give birth to my son, my first son, which by the grace of God and the mercy of the Navy which I so love, I have been allowed to stay with her for the birth and not hear about it from an American Red Cross Message.
She has to share a room with three other pregnant Japanese women, who laugh and giggle when she makes a confused face when she can't understand the nurses who try to speak English, but hey, they're Japanese. Some of them do very well, and some just prattle off in Japanese expecting their smile to get the meaning across, it doesn't, but at least they are nice about it. She has a community sink where all the females in the maternity floor do their morning business, and a community shower/bathroom in which they were so kind as to install two western-style toilets. Otherwise she would have to use this:
And there is a schedule for the showers. Always fun to wait in line with a bunch of hairy-legged pregnant women. Anyway, all of this is in her Blog as well, in much better detail than I can provide.
I'm writing today about an observation I had during the day Emily checked in, because I had to make multiple trips to the hospital with stuff for her, namely lunch, which she discusses also. I noticed that there are only four basic conditions in the entire group of Japanese I see at the hospital.
1. Old, there are a lot of really old folks in Japan altogether, and many of them are at the hospital. I'm not talking grey-haired aunt who makes cookies old, I'm talking bent-over, frail, nearly blowing away in the wind, about to turn to dust old. And these old folks are rugged, because I see them walking around on the streets all the time. Old folks live longer here, because they often do not end up in homes or living alone, the families take care of them.
2. Pregnant, I see lots of pregnant folks because I go see Emily on the preggo floor, where they are all over. I'm often the only male on the entire floor as well, because Japanese husbands arent often involved with the pre-birth stuff, and often not with post-birth, they are busy working.
3. Facial injury, I can't tell you how many Japanese I've seen with huge gauze bandages over one entire side of thier faces. How can so many people get who knows what to happen to an entire half of their face? I'm not talking bandaids, or light stitching, I'm talking car-wreck, third-degree burn, massive facial trauma. All ages too. Maybe its just that huge facial bandaging is very noticable, but I've seen way more than I do anywhere else.
4. Other, or otherwise fine outward appearance. Everyone else I see looks fine, or is in a support role. Like me, showing my wife to the maternity ward, or helping that loved one with the scald under the left eye, or guiding that elderly grandmother to the prescription counter.
Emily has to weigh and measure herself, go and get the necessary items to provide a urine sample, and then check in. She has to complete questionnaires on a regular basis, but at least the questions are different and pertain to important stuff. The Japanese do not often ask the same questions, so they communicate better than American hospitals, where you pretty much have to re-check-in on each floor/department you visit.
She is now 39 weeks pregnant, and about to give birth to my son, my first son, which by the grace of God and the mercy of the Navy which I so love, I have been allowed to stay with her for the birth and not hear about it from an American Red Cross Message.
She has to share a room with three other pregnant Japanese women, who laugh and giggle when she makes a confused face when she can't understand the nurses who try to speak English, but hey, they're Japanese. Some of them do very well, and some just prattle off in Japanese expecting their smile to get the meaning across, it doesn't, but at least they are nice about it. She has a community sink where all the females in the maternity floor do their morning business, and a community shower/bathroom in which they were so kind as to install two western-style toilets. Otherwise she would have to use this:
And there is a schedule for the showers. Always fun to wait in line with a bunch of hairy-legged pregnant women. Anyway, all of this is in her Blog as well, in much better detail than I can provide.
I'm writing today about an observation I had during the day Emily checked in, because I had to make multiple trips to the hospital with stuff for her, namely lunch, which she discusses also. I noticed that there are only four basic conditions in the entire group of Japanese I see at the hospital.
1. Old, there are a lot of really old folks in Japan altogether, and many of them are at the hospital. I'm not talking grey-haired aunt who makes cookies old, I'm talking bent-over, frail, nearly blowing away in the wind, about to turn to dust old. And these old folks are rugged, because I see them walking around on the streets all the time. Old folks live longer here, because they often do not end up in homes or living alone, the families take care of them.
2. Pregnant, I see lots of pregnant folks because I go see Emily on the preggo floor, where they are all over. I'm often the only male on the entire floor as well, because Japanese husbands arent often involved with the pre-birth stuff, and often not with post-birth, they are busy working.
3. Facial injury, I can't tell you how many Japanese I've seen with huge gauze bandages over one entire side of thier faces. How can so many people get who knows what to happen to an entire half of their face? I'm not talking bandaids, or light stitching, I'm talking car-wreck, third-degree burn, massive facial trauma. All ages too. Maybe its just that huge facial bandaging is very noticable, but I've seen way more than I do anywhere else.
4. Other, or otherwise fine outward appearance. Everyone else I see looks fine, or is in a support role. Like me, showing my wife to the maternity ward, or helping that loved one with the scald under the left eye, or guiding that elderly grandmother to the prescription counter.
05 September 2008
Ship Life
Well, I've had a dose of the ship, and its something else. I've never been in such close quarters with so many people for so long. Its not like shore where you can not only go home after work and be away, but during work you can always hop into a patrol car and drive around for a few hours by yourself. There are always people around, always. Its not too bad though, I get along with everyone, and we've gotten to where we've felt each other out and know what bothers each person. Some folks try too hard to hold onto the little bit of personal space that they have, and protect it. I say let it go, its calming. Relax and find personal space in your head, because we are all packed in here and not going anywhere. Just a short one today, some thoughts, comment if you like.
08 July 2008
Workin 9 to 5
So, I've been on the ship now for a couple weeks, and I'm still learning where a lot of stuff is, but it will all come to me in time. I've gotten to jump right into some stuff I would never have imagined myself being responsible for. I'm standing duty, mustering personnel, reporting to the CMC and officers, things only the high ups at my old command did, I'm handling. All the folks I work with are great, we all get along well. I think I'm going to enjoy ship life. I've even gotten to sleep in my rack a bit, and its not that bad. Here is a picture of what a single rack unit looks like in berthing. Mine is like the middle one. This picture would be impossible to take in my area though, because there are three more about three feet across from mine, and two more sets to the left. The next picture will explain.
We not only have the wall lockers you see at the end, but we have "coffin lockers" which are underneath our mattress. There is a hinge at the back and you open it much like an old-style desk in school.
Here is an example of how many racks are in a small space, and there are dozens of units like this throughout several different berthings on the ship.
For more pictures, and a humorous explanation on how you to can experience shipboard life, click on this link. http://www.midwaysailor.com/military/shiplife.html
I found it very funny, and all too true.
We not only have the wall lockers you see at the end, but we have "coffin lockers" which are underneath our mattress. There is a hinge at the back and you open it much like an old-style desk in school.
Here is an example of how many racks are in a small space, and there are dozens of units like this throughout several different berthings on the ship.
For more pictures, and a humorous explanation on how you to can experience shipboard life, click on this link. http://www.midwaysailor.com/military/shiplife.html
I found it very funny, and all too true.
24 June 2008
My Ship
I saw my ship today.
It was one of the most beautiful things I'd ever seen.
I saw it pushed sideways to the pier by tugs and I got to go on board and see how big it really was. The well deck is massive inside. The MA office was small, but there's only like 8 of us, so its no big deal. I met my bosses, all of which seem very awesome. I entered through the port side hangar bay and only got to see a few parts of the ship, and I can't wait to stand duty and patrol the whole thing. It was so big, I think its one of the largest things I've ever seen.
I report for my first workday (really just check-in, but I have duty on Saturday) tomorrow, and I can't wait.
It was one of the most beautiful things I'd ever seen.
I saw it pushed sideways to the pier by tugs and I got to go on board and see how big it really was. The well deck is massive inside. The MA office was small, but there's only like 8 of us, so its no big deal. I met my bosses, all of which seem very awesome. I entered through the port side hangar bay and only got to see a few parts of the ship, and I can't wait to stand duty and patrol the whole thing. It was so big, I think its one of the largest things I've ever seen.
I report for my first workday (really just check-in, but I have duty on Saturday) tomorrow, and I can't wait.
08 June 2008
Monkeys, Capybaras, and Babies
Well, I'll start out with an exciting experience I had this morning, which in my mind trumps the rest of the day which was also a lot of fun. I awoke this morning and got up, showered, got my clothes ready and checked on my lovely wife who was still relaxing in bed. She was talking to Jackson (our baby due in October) and I thought I might participate as well. Since I am able to, I got right down by him and was saying hello, and I put my ear to Em's belly to listen to him, and he kicked me in the head! I couldn't be prouder, my boy has a good kick, he'll be a strong one. I talked to him some more and we had breakfast.
Our plan today was to go south to Nagasaki and check out the Nagasaki Bio Park, which is pretty much a zoo, but much more interactive than a stateside zoo. Its a good walk, a few hours, but you get to see dozens of monkeys, fish, birds, plants, llamas, and other critters, some of which I'd never seen before in my life. The interactive part is the best, which allows you to feed many of the animals, some of which right from your hand. You can also get really close to many of the animals, some of which is fun, some which are not so much.
The first big attraction is the Insectarium, which is ultra-creepy, as its all stuff like Hercules and Rhinoceros beetles, which are way too big for insects. Some of them looked like they could weight several ounces.
After that is a petting area, which had squirrels, rats, turtles, guinea pigs, hamsters, and other small furries that could be picked up and handled.
Further up the path though was my favorite part of the park by far. The Capybara area. Now if you don't know what a capybara is, here's a picture.
Yes, I am petting it, I fed it also, right from my hand. It felt like an old hairbrush, very coarse, but very friendly. There were about 15 of them just walking around in this small fenced area. I had to wade through about 30 hysterical Japanese children who for some reason thought the capybaras were going to eat them all alive. Even when they saw me emerge unscathed, they still would squeal whenever one would walk towards them. These same children protested though when their parents tried to get them out of the fenced area. Too scared to interact, but too fascinated to leave, strange.
After that was a Rhino who was asleep, but very large, and very close. It was not to be interacted with, but they do allow you to feed them at specific times on Sundays, but it had already passed by the time we got there, so we missed out.
Further down the trail, there is an area with a cluster of cages holding goats, raccoons, and lesser red pandas. Now, these are normal animals I'm familiar with, but there were some others that simply ran loose which I'd never seen before. The best description I can give is a cross between a rabbit and a small deer. No tail, longer deer-like legs, with a rabbit-like face. There were about 20 and they would run back and forth between these two buildings. Having no experience with them, I approached but did not get too close, as they appeared to have formidable claws on their front and hind feet, and I didn't want to get killed by a rabbit-deer, what kind of story would that be? (further research revealed the animal to be a Patagonian Cavy, see below)
Next was the monkey area, and by monkey area I mean, the monkey cage you can walk through, with the monkeys. Now, monkeys look cute, so I thought I might get close to see if one would run up my arm and perch on my shoulder for a picture. The monkey reached out and grasped my hand, and I thought I was in the clear, but I was suddenly rewarded with a bite, hehe. Not a bad one, no blood, but it sure startled me, and the monkey may have learned a new word or two. Suffice it to say, I didn't try to hold any more monkeys. They were cute though.
After that were the hippos, but they were all underwater or sleeping, so there was little activity there. It started to sprinkle a little at this point, so unless we saw something incredible, we made for a covered area. The aquarium was next, and it had a huge amazonian fish in it, which I also researched and know to be an Arapaima, the largest freshwater fish in the world, some reaching over 400 pounds.
At this point we have reached the end of the zoo, which is a huge loop of one-way traffic, which was nice as you cannot miss anything and don't have to compete with people walking every which way like in other zoos.
We then went out for lunch and returned home, tired and having had a great day.
Our plan today was to go south to Nagasaki and check out the Nagasaki Bio Park, which is pretty much a zoo, but much more interactive than a stateside zoo. Its a good walk, a few hours, but you get to see dozens of monkeys, fish, birds, plants, llamas, and other critters, some of which I'd never seen before in my life. The interactive part is the best, which allows you to feed many of the animals, some of which right from your hand. You can also get really close to many of the animals, some of which is fun, some which are not so much.
The first big attraction is the Insectarium, which is ultra-creepy, as its all stuff like Hercules and Rhinoceros beetles, which are way too big for insects. Some of them looked like they could weight several ounces.
After that is a petting area, which had squirrels, rats, turtles, guinea pigs, hamsters, and other small furries that could be picked up and handled.
Further up the path though was my favorite part of the park by far. The Capybara area. Now if you don't know what a capybara is, here's a picture.
Yes, I am petting it, I fed it also, right from my hand. It felt like an old hairbrush, very coarse, but very friendly. There were about 15 of them just walking around in this small fenced area. I had to wade through about 30 hysterical Japanese children who for some reason thought the capybaras were going to eat them all alive. Even when they saw me emerge unscathed, they still would squeal whenever one would walk towards them. These same children protested though when their parents tried to get them out of the fenced area. Too scared to interact, but too fascinated to leave, strange.After that was a Rhino who was asleep, but very large, and very close. It was not to be interacted with, but they do allow you to feed them at specific times on Sundays, but it had already passed by the time we got there, so we missed out.
Further down the trail, there is an area with a cluster of cages holding goats, raccoons, and lesser red pandas. Now, these are normal animals I'm familiar with, but there were some others that simply ran loose which I'd never seen before. The best description I can give is a cross between a rabbit and a small deer. No tail, longer deer-like legs, with a rabbit-like face. There were about 20 and they would run back and forth between these two buildings. Having no experience with them, I approached but did not get too close, as they appeared to have formidable claws on their front and hind feet, and I didn't want to get killed by a rabbit-deer, what kind of story would that be? (further research revealed the animal to be a Patagonian Cavy, see below)
Next was the monkey area, and by monkey area I mean, the monkey cage you can walk through, with the monkeys. Now, monkeys look cute, so I thought I might get close to see if one would run up my arm and perch on my shoulder for a picture. The monkey reached out and grasped my hand, and I thought I was in the clear, but I was suddenly rewarded with a bite, hehe. Not a bad one, no blood, but it sure startled me, and the monkey may have learned a new word or two. Suffice it to say, I didn't try to hold any more monkeys. They were cute though.
After that were the hippos, but they were all underwater or sleeping, so there was little activity there. It started to sprinkle a little at this point, so unless we saw something incredible, we made for a covered area. The aquarium was next, and it had a huge amazonian fish in it, which I also researched and know to be an Arapaima, the largest freshwater fish in the world, some reaching over 400 pounds.
At this point we have reached the end of the zoo, which is a huge loop of one-way traffic, which was nice as you cannot miss anything and don't have to compete with people walking every which way like in other zoos.
We then went out for lunch and returned home, tired and having had a great day.
04 June 2008
Been Busy
We have been very busy here, as is indicated by the lack of recent posts. Our friends moved in a couple apartments down which is nice as they are going to have a boy only a couple months before Jackson is born. We met them in the indoc class and have gotten along very well, as like us, they are adults, and can carry on mature conversations about real life. The husband is a civilian who works on base and they got a car before us, which has been convenient as he goes to work at the same time as me.
I've spend the last week familiarizing him with the train system and the other things we've been able to learn about in our short time here. Emily has made me able to jump into things much quicker than I ever used to, as we have ventured into several areas off the beaten path and are now able to share these experiences with others and show them the interesting things we've seen that make life here easier.
We are also about to buy a car. I suppose it could be called a car, its kind of a Japanese SUV though. It is a Suzuki Wagon R (Mine is silver). Sort of a van/minivan/mail truck. The Japanese call it a "kei car" or keijidosha. That literally means "light automobile", which it is. The engine is a 1.0 or 1.3 liter straight three. Yes, three-cylinder engine, great for gas mileage, since fuel is 4-5 dollars a gallon here. I love the train, and will still ride it often as it is convenient to get into town and to work. It's also less expensive.
There is quite a bit of a process to buy a car here.
Japan has what is called JCI, which means Japanese Compulsory Insurance (I think), which is essentially an automatic insurance policy. It is obtained through an extensive inspection. Blinkers, windows, tires, brakes, lights, everything is checked. This is done every two years.
The base then requires additional liability insurance. This is paid a year in advance, but its not bad, only about $250, since I'm now over 30 and an E-5.
Then, you have to pay road tax, which is due every year by May 31st.
Then you have to get a government parking sticker, because to have a car, you have to have an assigned parking space. Kind of like if Aberdeen, or any city, kept track of every residential space, and only allowed you to have as many vehicles as could be parked in the spaces allotted to you. This would be handy in several areas of the US.
Then of course I have to get base decals, which obviously, allows me to drive the vehicle on base and park it in government areas off base.
Fortunately, my car dealer handles the JCI and the parking, I already have the insurance done, which is required before you can even purchase a car, and the base part can be done whenever.
So, as I said, busy, but having fun doing it all. We should have the vehicle on Friday, so we'll be exploring this weekend, finding new things. Might go to the zoo in Nagasaki, and while we're there see the peace park, which is ground zero for the atomic bomb. I want to go to Imari and see pottery caves, something Em is excited about also.
I still have a tough time believing I'm in Japan, and no only that, but I'm driving around, riding the train, talking to people, eating all kinds of who knows what, and often don't want to, hehe. I recommend this to everyone, we've had the time of our lives so far, and we've got three years to go.
I've spend the last week familiarizing him with the train system and the other things we've been able to learn about in our short time here. Emily has made me able to jump into things much quicker than I ever used to, as we have ventured into several areas off the beaten path and are now able to share these experiences with others and show them the interesting things we've seen that make life here easier.
We are also about to buy a car. I suppose it could be called a car, its kind of a Japanese SUV though. It is a Suzuki Wagon R (Mine is silver). Sort of a van/minivan/mail truck. The Japanese call it a "kei car" or keijidosha. That literally means "light automobile", which it is. The engine is a 1.0 or 1.3 liter straight three. Yes, three-cylinder engine, great for gas mileage, since fuel is 4-5 dollars a gallon here. I love the train, and will still ride it often as it is convenient to get into town and to work. It's also less expensive.
There is quite a bit of a process to buy a car here.
Japan has what is called JCI, which means Japanese Compulsory Insurance (I think), which is essentially an automatic insurance policy. It is obtained through an extensive inspection. Blinkers, windows, tires, brakes, lights, everything is checked. This is done every two years.
The base then requires additional liability insurance. This is paid a year in advance, but its not bad, only about $250, since I'm now over 30 and an E-5.
Then, you have to pay road tax, which is due every year by May 31st.
Then you have to get a government parking sticker, because to have a car, you have to have an assigned parking space. Kind of like if Aberdeen, or any city, kept track of every residential space, and only allowed you to have as many vehicles as could be parked in the spaces allotted to you. This would be handy in several areas of the US.
Then of course I have to get base decals, which obviously, allows me to drive the vehicle on base and park it in government areas off base.
Fortunately, my car dealer handles the JCI and the parking, I already have the insurance done, which is required before you can even purchase a car, and the base part can be done whenever.
So, as I said, busy, but having fun doing it all. We should have the vehicle on Friday, so we'll be exploring this weekend, finding new things. Might go to the zoo in Nagasaki, and while we're there see the peace park, which is ground zero for the atomic bomb. I want to go to Imari and see pottery caves, something Em is excited about also.
I still have a tough time believing I'm in Japan, and no only that, but I'm driving around, riding the train, talking to people, eating all kinds of who knows what, and often don't want to, hehe. I recommend this to everyone, we've had the time of our lives so far, and we've got three years to go.
27 May 2008
RIP Sydney Pollack
A great American director has died. Sydney Pollack succumbed to cancer on Monday and he will be sorely missed. He directed some of my favorite movies, Jeremiah Johnson and Out of Africa being the foremost.
I remember the first time I saw Jeremiah Johnson, it was a movie night at the gun shop and having Mike, John, and Dave there to tell me what I was missing by having never seen it made it all that much better.
I can't remember how many times I've sat with my mother and seen Out of Africa, and in discovering Sydney's death, I've learned my wife has not seen it so we'll be purchasing it soon.
I did finally get her to see The Usual Suspects, and as always she amazes me in her movie intuition. Do you know who Keyser Soze is?
I digress, my sympathies and thoughts go to his family, and I hope he suffered little in the end.
I remember the first time I saw Jeremiah Johnson, it was a movie night at the gun shop and having Mike, John, and Dave there to tell me what I was missing by having never seen it made it all that much better.
I can't remember how many times I've sat with my mother and seen Out of Africa, and in discovering Sydney's death, I've learned my wife has not seen it so we'll be purchasing it soon.
I did finally get her to see The Usual Suspects, and as always she amazes me in her movie intuition. Do you know who Keyser Soze is?
I digress, my sympathies and thoughts go to his family, and I hope he suffered little in the end.
26 May 2008
Our Apartment
We've moved into our new apartment, and it is awesome.
It is on the second floor of a very new building, built in 2005, but it has no stairs, as is a requirement to Emily and I, after having lived in the Jackson Park house. The apartment is all one level, three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a great kitchen and a good sized living room. Aside from all that, is the view. We live right on the Sasebo river, and its almost like having a backyard, but not having to maintain it.
I've set up the front bedroom as my office, and the back room will be Jackson's room. The main bedroom is where we put our queen bed and it is also where the coolest toilet in the world is attached. The master bath off our bedroom has an enormous shower, like one you'd see on MTV Cribs, and an awesome toilet. It has heated seats, and a dual-angle bidet built in.
Our washroom has a nice large sink and another bathroom attached to it. It has a regular toilet though, but a nice clawfoot style bathtub/shower. I have yet to soak in it, maybe tomorrow.
We also experimented with the train, which is very cool, and inexpensive. Only 240 yen from our apartment to the station which is a 10 minute walk from the base. This compared with a 2100 yen taxi ride to the base. My next challenge is to get a long-term train pass so we don't have to carry change with us each time. The schedule is nice, and no joke, you can set your watch to the stops.
That will be all for now. I'm glad to finally have my normal computer back and online. The internet provided by the landlord is excellent.
Signing off now, had a nice four day weekend, time to return to the normal schedule of mustering and PT.
21 May 2008
Driving in Japan
Well, I've driven in Japan. And frankly, its no big deal. Yeah, its on the left side of the road, the wheel's on the right side of the car, and the lanes are very narrow (I constantly feared I would scrape against the other cars).
Well, I'll start at the beginning.
The day started with me trying to get the money out I needed to sign the lease on my Cho (apartment). My advice, if you ever open a Bank of America account, open a worldwide account, because the Washington St. accounts have no capability to do external transfers, among other limitations that irk me to no end. But, I was able to get the money due to the diligence of the ladies at Navy Federal Credit Union. I had to make a lovely international call to BOA to up my debit card withdrawal limit. I then went to NFCU and got the 3000.00 out and converted it to 3,000,000 yen, which was cool, cause I was a millionaire, hehe.
Then, I went to the Navy Exchange and rented a vehicle so we could pick up some necessities and move our stuff to the cho once we got the keys. I then went and picked up my lovely bride and we went back to the NEX to get cleaning stuff and go to our lease appointment.
We met our landlord, who speaks no English, but its ok because our facilitator translated and there is a system in place for any future issues we may have. We signed and were on the way to our house. This would be the first time we drove off-base, and it was fun. The traffic wasnt bad at all, and we managed to find it just fine, having only been there once before, but its not too diffucult, its right off the main road. Also, there is a train station not 200 feet from our front door that drops you 10 minutes walking distance from the base, so that will be my commuter for a while till we save up car money.
We got to our house, which is on the 2nd level, and the apartment has great security. There is a locked automatic door that we just turn our key in and it slides open. We then ride up our cool elevator and our house is almost right in front of us. We purchased a lovely kitchen caddy, which I proceeded to fight up the stairs and half-assemble before we headed out for dinner.
We once again ate at Mike's (Japanese) which was once again awesome. I kind of feel like eating at a Mexican place in Japan is a bit like cheating. But, we'll hit up a yakiniku place again soon I'm sure. I'm going to get Emily to try takoyaki. It is really good, kinda strange, but good.
We then returned home and got a welcome basket (much like the one that greeted us when we arrived at midnight) ready for a buddy who is flying in tonight and will also be checking in to the Essex.
Well, I'll start at the beginning.
The day started with me trying to get the money out I needed to sign the lease on my Cho (apartment). My advice, if you ever open a Bank of America account, open a worldwide account, because the Washington St. accounts have no capability to do external transfers, among other limitations that irk me to no end. But, I was able to get the money due to the diligence of the ladies at Navy Federal Credit Union. I had to make a lovely international call to BOA to up my debit card withdrawal limit. I then went to NFCU and got the 3000.00 out and converted it to 3,000,000 yen, which was cool, cause I was a millionaire, hehe.
Then, I went to the Navy Exchange and rented a vehicle so we could pick up some necessities and move our stuff to the cho once we got the keys. I then went and picked up my lovely bride and we went back to the NEX to get cleaning stuff and go to our lease appointment.
We met our landlord, who speaks no English, but its ok because our facilitator translated and there is a system in place for any future issues we may have. We signed and were on the way to our house. This would be the first time we drove off-base, and it was fun. The traffic wasnt bad at all, and we managed to find it just fine, having only been there once before, but its not too diffucult, its right off the main road. Also, there is a train station not 200 feet from our front door that drops you 10 minutes walking distance from the base, so that will be my commuter for a while till we save up car money.
We got to our house, which is on the 2nd level, and the apartment has great security. There is a locked automatic door that we just turn our key in and it slides open. We then ride up our cool elevator and our house is almost right in front of us. We purchased a lovely kitchen caddy, which I proceeded to fight up the stairs and half-assemble before we headed out for dinner.
We once again ate at Mike's (Japanese) which was once again awesome. I kind of feel like eating at a Mexican place in Japan is a bit like cheating. But, we'll hit up a yakiniku place again soon I'm sure. I'm going to get Emily to try takoyaki. It is really good, kinda strange, but good.
We then returned home and got a welcome basket (much like the one that greeted us when we arrived at midnight) ready for a buddy who is flying in tonight and will also be checking in to the Essex.
19 May 2008
Weekend Fun
On Saturday we went into town and cruised the arcade, which is what they call the big shopping area. After getting some food, we took the plunge and got cellphones, and all I can say is wow.
The deals over here make Verizon look like an evil conglomerate.
The phones make the ones we left behind in the states look like cups with string.
I can watch live tv on my phone, it has an English/Japanese translator, word processor, GPS, internet, email, and who knows what else that I just haven't found. Now, getting past the Japanese menus takes a big, but once you get it switched over its ok. The manuals are only in Japanese so you kind of have to hit buttons and see what they do, hehe. The phone is amazing though, its a Sharp 922SH by Softbank. I'll be sending my odd number out to those who know who they are.
On Sunday, we went on our fishing trip, which was essentially, get dropped off at the reservoir while the rest of the people went on a hike up the mountain. We got a bit of sun, some of us too much (sorry Em.) and didn't catch any fish, but it was fun, we saw some beautiful country.
That evening we had yakiniku for dinner, which is like the Japanese barbecue I talked about a while ago. They bring plates of sliced raw meat, and you cook it on a grill. Lots of fun. Its a gas grill so it cooks quickly and like I said before, no restaurant in the states would allow unsupervised danger like that, way too much liability. The Japanese have enough honor to know if you are dumb and burn yourself, its your fault, not the restaurant's.
We are just relaxing today, I mustered this morning and will in the afternoon. Nothing else going on that I know of today, might catch a movie tonight or something.
The deals over here make Verizon look like an evil conglomerate.
The phones make the ones we left behind in the states look like cups with string.
I can watch live tv on my phone, it has an English/Japanese translator, word processor, GPS, internet, email, and who knows what else that I just haven't found. Now, getting past the Japanese menus takes a big, but once you get it switched over its ok. The manuals are only in Japanese so you kind of have to hit buttons and see what they do, hehe. The phone is amazing though, its a Sharp 922SH by Softbank. I'll be sending my odd number out to those who know who they are.
On Sunday, we went on our fishing trip, which was essentially, get dropped off at the reservoir while the rest of the people went on a hike up the mountain. We got a bit of sun, some of us too much (sorry Em.) and didn't catch any fish, but it was fun, we saw some beautiful country.
That evening we had yakiniku for dinner, which is like the Japanese barbecue I talked about a while ago. They bring plates of sliced raw meat, and you cook it on a grill. Lots of fun. Its a gas grill so it cooks quickly and like I said before, no restaurant in the states would allow unsupervised danger like that, way too much liability. The Japanese have enough honor to know if you are dumb and burn yourself, its your fault, not the restaurant's.
We are just relaxing today, I mustered this morning and will in the afternoon. Nothing else going on that I know of today, might catch a movie tonight or something.
16 May 2008
Driving Test and Mt Eboshi
We went to our driving class this morning, which was very interesting. The Safety Officer for the base is a retired Marine who has been in Sasebo for 38 years. He was very funny and taught us a lot of useful information about driving around. It was really cool because we had a special guest in the class. The Sasebo Police Chief and his Chief Criminal Investigator were there to observe the class. We then took the test which was 50 questions which Em and I both passed. After lunch we came back and took our driving test which we both also passed and we were issued our Armed Forces Japanese Driver's Licenses. All in all we spend about four hours in class. This is absolutely nothing compared to Japanese Driving School. Driver's Ed in Japan is highly controlled. It costs about $3000.00 to take the class, you don't' get a learners permit, so mom and dad are not allowed to teach you to drive, if they do its a big employees and their families, and only if they have a valid stateside license.
After class we got the paperwork going to get our household goods sent to our new apartment which will be next Thursday, the 22nd. We are very excited. I so want to get into my own place and start decorating.
On the way back from there we passed the Outdoor Adventure Center and I rememberd there was a hike leaving at 1600 for Mt. Eboshi, which I had wanted to do. I paid and got a spot reserved and took Em back to our room where she was looking forward to taking a nap. I changed and headed back for a nice hike. As I thought, the other guys on the hike were all the same sailors I'd been with all week checking in and taking classes so we had a good talk, as several of them are coming to the Essex also. Mt. Eboshi is about 900 meters tall, which is a little less than a mile. We probably hiked about half that. Not too far, except it was a fairly steep grade, and not what you'd call a "developed trail". The view though, amazing. Unfortunatly there was a lot of haze and fog, which messed up the pictures, but the eye could see through it well and I saw the whole town, the base, the LCAC base, the fuel depot, everything. It was amazing.
Also today, we ate at Mike's Tex Mex, which is tucked into what appears to be an alley, but isnt, just a simple one-way street between some buildings. The food was amazing, better than Mazatlan or Azteca, thats for sure. No free chips though, which was a bummer but its ok, you don't care when you get the awesome food.
Back at the Lodge now, getting ready for bed, gonna have fun tomorrow, might get a cellphone, we'll see.
After class we got the paperwork going to get our household goods sent to our new apartment which will be next Thursday, the 22nd. We are very excited. I so want to get into my own place and start decorating.
On the way back from there we passed the Outdoor Adventure Center and I rememberd there was a hike leaving at 1600 for Mt. Eboshi, which I had wanted to do. I paid and got a spot reserved and took Em back to our room where she was looking forward to taking a nap. I changed and headed back for a nice hike. As I thought, the other guys on the hike were all the same sailors I'd been with all week checking in and taking classes so we had a good talk, as several of them are coming to the Essex also. Mt. Eboshi is about 900 meters tall, which is a little less than a mile. We probably hiked about half that. Not too far, except it was a fairly steep grade, and not what you'd call a "developed trail". The view though, amazing. Unfortunatly there was a lot of haze and fog, which messed up the pictures, but the eye could see through it well and I saw the whole town, the base, the LCAC base, the fuel depot, everything. It was amazing.
Also today, we ate at Mike's Tex Mex, which is tucked into what appears to be an alley, but isnt, just a simple one-way street between some buildings. The food was amazing, better than Mazatlan or Azteca, thats for sure. No free chips though, which was a bummer but its ok, you don't care when you get the awesome food.
Back at the Lodge now, getting ready for bed, gonna have fun tomorrow, might get a cellphone, we'll see.
15 May 2008
Class Field Trip
We went on the promised field trip today with our Indoc class. It was very fun, and I was extremely happy to get a chance at eating some octopus balls.
Now, I know what your thinking, and no, they arent Japan's version of the rocky mountain oyster. They are ball shaped only. The best description of Tako Yaki I can think of is a chunk of octopus, some cheese, and pancake batter, cooked into a sphere about two inches in diameter. It is then seasoned, covered with either japanese barbeque sauce or japanese mustard, and then sprinkled with green onions or bonita flakes, which are thin shavings of meat from the bonita fish. You eat them while they are steaming hot, and they are quite good. Tough task with chopsticks, as they can be slippery, but they flex when you squeeze them, so they arent impossible to handle. Those of you who are rabid Anthony Bourdain fans saw him eat these on the Osaka Episode. An excellent episode to watch if you are curious about japan.
We got to see Kashimai Pier, which is where the ferry to Kujuku-shima is. Kujuku-shima means "99 Islands". There are actuallyl 208 islands, but the fishermen got tired of counting at 99 and stuck with that name, somewhere around 600 years ago. The islands are extremely beautiful and can be seen at http://www.sasebo99.com which is also the main Sasebo tourism website with links to many other attractions in this area.
We then went to Huis Ten Bosch, which is promounced all together, and sounds something like "hostenbosh" when said properly. It is a replica Dutch village near the large housing area south of Sasebo. There are links from the above website to check it out. For those of you back home in Washington, its much like Leavenworth, although its a large park like attraction, with admission. No rides though. Hundreds of years ago, when Japan was closed off to world trade, the only contact they had was with the Dutch, who left many cultural impressions on this area.
We also saw the Sasebo Train station, which is how I'll be getting to work hopefully, as there is a rail line near our apartment in Nonaka-Cho. Cho means neighborhood.
By the way, we set the appointment to sign the lease and move into our new apartment today, and we are very excited. Our first day there will be a week from today.
I managed to coordinate our move-in date with our shipment so our stuff will get delivered very quickly and we'll spend the first night sleeping on a real bed, our bed. Very excited.
Gotta get off here though, need to study for my driving test, I get my Japanese Driver's Licence tomorrow, so there will be one more Baka Gaijin on the road. (That means "stupid foreigner".)
Now, I know what your thinking, and no, they arent Japan's version of the rocky mountain oyster. They are ball shaped only. The best description of Tako Yaki I can think of is a chunk of octopus, some cheese, and pancake batter, cooked into a sphere about two inches in diameter. It is then seasoned, covered with either japanese barbeque sauce or japanese mustard, and then sprinkled with green onions or bonita flakes, which are thin shavings of meat from the bonita fish. You eat them while they are steaming hot, and they are quite good. Tough task with chopsticks, as they can be slippery, but they flex when you squeeze them, so they arent impossible to handle. Those of you who are rabid Anthony Bourdain fans saw him eat these on the Osaka Episode. An excellent episode to watch if you are curious about japan.
We got to see Kashimai Pier, which is where the ferry to Kujuku-shima is. Kujuku-shima means "99 Islands". There are actuallyl 208 islands, but the fishermen got tired of counting at 99 and stuck with that name, somewhere around 600 years ago. The islands are extremely beautiful and can be seen at http://www.sasebo99.com which is also the main Sasebo tourism website with links to many other attractions in this area.
We then went to Huis Ten Bosch, which is promounced all together, and sounds something like "hostenbosh" when said properly. It is a replica Dutch village near the large housing area south of Sasebo. There are links from the above website to check it out. For those of you back home in Washington, its much like Leavenworth, although its a large park like attraction, with admission. No rides though. Hundreds of years ago, when Japan was closed off to world trade, the only contact they had was with the Dutch, who left many cultural impressions on this area.
We also saw the Sasebo Train station, which is how I'll be getting to work hopefully, as there is a rail line near our apartment in Nonaka-Cho. Cho means neighborhood.
By the way, we set the appointment to sign the lease and move into our new apartment today, and we are very excited. Our first day there will be a week from today.
I managed to coordinate our move-in date with our shipment so our stuff will get delivered very quickly and we'll spend the first night sleeping on a real bed, our bed. Very excited.
Gotta get off here though, need to study for my driving test, I get my Japanese Driver's Licence tomorrow, so there will be one more Baka Gaijin on the road. (That means "stupid foreigner".)
14 May 2008
Cultural Relations
We finished the classroom portion of our Inter-Cultural relations course here. It is part of the mandatory Indoctrination class that everyone, sailors, dependants, and civilian workers, must attend when arriving in Japan.
Tomorrow we go on our field trip and see the surrounding area. We are excited to see things in the area, such as tourist attractions, shopping malls, train stations, and similar things. Its only a small snippet of the things that are available to us, most of which we have found already in our off-base travels, but its something to do and we arent trapped in a classroom all day.
We went to dinner tonight with an officer and her family who met me and another sailor who is checking into the Essex. We got a good tour of the area from her husband, who is a veteran also, and went to dinner at a japanese barbeque restaurant. It was awesome. They bring you a big tray of raw meat, beef, pork, and I'm not talking just sirloin bits either. I had heart, stomach, innards (unknown inside parts?), squid, cabbage, eggplant, and other various things. The really cool part is, you cook each item yourself, a task no American restaurant would allow due to liability. There is a big gas grill built into the table and you lay your meats and veggies on it and cook and eat and cook and eat. The pieces are small so they cook fast, you place them on your rice bowl and then chow down.
We will take lots of pictures tomorrow, and maybe I'll figure out how to post some on here, hehe.
Tomorrow we go on our field trip and see the surrounding area. We are excited to see things in the area, such as tourist attractions, shopping malls, train stations, and similar things. Its only a small snippet of the things that are available to us, most of which we have found already in our off-base travels, but its something to do and we arent trapped in a classroom all day.
We went to dinner tonight with an officer and her family who met me and another sailor who is checking into the Essex. We got a good tour of the area from her husband, who is a veteran also, and went to dinner at a japanese barbeque restaurant. It was awesome. They bring you a big tray of raw meat, beef, pork, and I'm not talking just sirloin bits either. I had heart, stomach, innards (unknown inside parts?), squid, cabbage, eggplant, and other various things. The really cool part is, you cook each item yourself, a task no American restaurant would allow due to liability. There is a big gas grill built into the table and you lay your meats and veggies on it and cook and eat and cook and eat. The pieces are small so they cook fast, you place them on your rice bowl and then chow down.
We will take lots of pictures tomorrow, and maybe I'll figure out how to post some on here, hehe.
12 May 2008
The Housing Search
We had our housing brief today, at which time we were informed of our rent ceiling, our utilities allowance, COLA, and all the other information we need to live either on or off base.
At first we were fairly dead set on living on base. On base housing gives you two locations, one of which is right near the base, but is only 20% of the total base housing. One is about 30 minutes away, and is the other 80%. Guess which one is offered first every time. I had no desire to live 30 minutes away, so I started thinking about off base options.
Without getting into the grimy details, there are a few options off base, regular rent setup, or a setup that is much like base housing, but yet off base in the community. We looked at an awesome apartment that is about 15 minutes from the base through the city, and it was amazing. The rent is 165,000 yen, which is about $1,650 a month, but we get $1,600 a month in housing allowance so I'm more than willing to kick in 50 bucks for how great it is.
Its in the Nonaka area and has a grocery store, a bus stop, and a major highway all within a block. A great covered parking space, a nice balcony, and a beautiful view of the Sasebo River. We are very excited.
At first we were fairly dead set on living on base. On base housing gives you two locations, one of which is right near the base, but is only 20% of the total base housing. One is about 30 minutes away, and is the other 80%. Guess which one is offered first every time. I had no desire to live 30 minutes away, so I started thinking about off base options.
Without getting into the grimy details, there are a few options off base, regular rent setup, or a setup that is much like base housing, but yet off base in the community. We looked at an awesome apartment that is about 15 minutes from the base through the city, and it was amazing. The rent is 165,000 yen, which is about $1,650 a month, but we get $1,600 a month in housing allowance so I'm more than willing to kick in 50 bucks for how great it is.
Its in the Nonaka area and has a grocery store, a bus stop, and a major highway all within a block. A great covered parking space, a nice balcony, and a beautiful view of the Sasebo River. We are very excited.
11 May 2008
The Ginza Experience
Well, if I wasn't sure I was in a foreign country, I know it now. We have been spoiled on base because the majority of the Japanese folks we see speak English pretty well and getting what you need is fairly easy.
As I said in the quick post this morning, we were planning on taking a taxi to the Ginza. We did this in the early afternoon and discovered the Ginza is similar to a giant, and I mean GIANT strip mall, but much nicer.
The Ginza, or as its known officially, the Sasebo Yonka-cho Shopping Mall(Yonka-cho means "Four Cities", as it has four distinct sections) is almost a full kilometer in length. There is so much to see, we must have walked it three or four full times, giving us near three miles of walking today.
There are so many shops, as they range from the size of a small room, to a large McDonald's. They coincidentally had a McDonald's, and a Starbucks.
I did find a computer store, but surprisingly, there was only one, and I look forward to getting back to look at it when I have more time. Also, I plan to methodically go into each and every store to look at everything.
There are also 100-yen stores, which are equivalent to a Dollar Store, but the stuff is way better quality than Dollar Store stuff. Its closer to Wal-Mart quality I would say.
There are several watch and jewelery shops also. I am in the market for a watch, but I'm not up to spending 33,000 yen ($3300.00) on a Tag Heuer that will only get scratched up on the ship. Most of the shops had fairly high quality (and high priced) stuff in them, and I would go shopping there again.
The customer service trend of Japan was continued with the vendors, they were all friendly and helpful. Its not that I expect this to change, but I'm still getting used to everyone being this way. With the service being so good here, and tipping considered as rude, when we get back to the states, nobody is getting a tip, because I've never gotten this level of service in America, and I'm expected to tip, no way. They are proud of their jobs here, and don't need any extra to make themselves feel good. We need to get the American service industry into this, because when tips are expected, but the service doesn't reflect it, whats the point?
Anyway, our trip today was fun, the Ginza is cool, and I can't wait to get back. Tomorrow we go to our housing brief and get put on the list for a home, and I'm really hoping we get a house near Main Base, which would be walking distance to the Ginza and the base itself. We'll see how that goes. Also, starting Tuesday, we have our Indoctrination class, which teaches us about Japan and the base, we'll go on tours, and get started on our Japanese Driver's Licenses.
That will be all for today, we are beat, will post more later.
As I said in the quick post this morning, we were planning on taking a taxi to the Ginza. We did this in the early afternoon and discovered the Ginza is similar to a giant, and I mean GIANT strip mall, but much nicer.
The Ginza, or as its known officially, the Sasebo Yonka-cho Shopping Mall(Yonka-cho means "Four Cities", as it has four distinct sections) is almost a full kilometer in length. There is so much to see, we must have walked it three or four full times, giving us near three miles of walking today.
There are so many shops, as they range from the size of a small room, to a large McDonald's. They coincidentally had a McDonald's, and a Starbucks.
I did find a computer store, but surprisingly, there was only one, and I look forward to getting back to look at it when I have more time. Also, I plan to methodically go into each and every store to look at everything.
There are also 100-yen stores, which are equivalent to a Dollar Store, but the stuff is way better quality than Dollar Store stuff. Its closer to Wal-Mart quality I would say.
There are several watch and jewelery shops also. I am in the market for a watch, but I'm not up to spending 33,000 yen ($3300.00) on a Tag Heuer that will only get scratched up on the ship. Most of the shops had fairly high quality (and high priced) stuff in them, and I would go shopping there again.
The customer service trend of Japan was continued with the vendors, they were all friendly and helpful. Its not that I expect this to change, but I'm still getting used to everyone being this way. With the service being so good here, and tipping considered as rude, when we get back to the states, nobody is getting a tip, because I've never gotten this level of service in America, and I'm expected to tip, no way. They are proud of their jobs here, and don't need any extra to make themselves feel good. We need to get the American service industry into this, because when tips are expected, but the service doesn't reflect it, whats the point?
Anyway, our trip today was fun, the Ginza is cool, and I can't wait to get back. Tomorrow we go to our housing brief and get put on the list for a home, and I'm really hoping we get a house near Main Base, which would be walking distance to the Ginza and the base itself. We'll see how that goes. Also, starting Tuesday, we have our Indoctrination class, which teaches us about Japan and the base, we'll go on tours, and get started on our Japanese Driver's Licenses.
That will be all for today, we are beat, will post more later.
Quick Mother's Day Morning Post
We are getting ready to got to Mother's Day Brunch at the Harbor View Cafe, which is somewhere between Denny's and Bridges. Probably closer to Bridges, and of course, with the excellent customer service.
Afterward, we are going to get a Taxi to the Ginza, which is a large shopping area near the base.
This is a quick one, but I'll post more in the afternoon when we get home.
Afterward, we are going to get a Taxi to the Ginza, which is a large shopping area near the base.
This is a quick one, but I'll post more in the afternoon when we get home.
09 May 2008
Attachment
Well, I felt my first real loyalty to this place and its people today.
I was having breakfast, and I observed some civilians, I imagine they were contractors or GS's, in the restaurant, and in my opinion, they were incredibly rude to the Japanese waiter. They didn't do anything purposeful, they were just uninformed and ignorant.
They came into the Harbor View Club with a large group and informed a waiter they had a group of nine coming. He of course immediately proceeded to go set up an area for them so they could sit together, as they are awesome, as I've mentioned before. The group however, disregarded his efforts completely and just sat at two tables near my wife and I.
I had a hard time not standing up and approaching the civilian I observed to be in charge and informing him of their error. As I have not been here long, I am not about to make waves of this size quite yet, but if I saw something like this six months to a year from now, stand by.
I can definitely am feeling attached here, and I like it, but don't worry mom, I still plan to come home after this tour.
I was having breakfast, and I observed some civilians, I imagine they were contractors or GS's, in the restaurant, and in my opinion, they were incredibly rude to the Japanese waiter. They didn't do anything purposeful, they were just uninformed and ignorant.
They came into the Harbor View Club with a large group and informed a waiter they had a group of nine coming. He of course immediately proceeded to go set up an area for them so they could sit together, as they are awesome, as I've mentioned before. The group however, disregarded his efforts completely and just sat at two tables near my wife and I.
I had a hard time not standing up and approaching the civilian I observed to be in charge and informing him of their error. As I have not been here long, I am not about to make waves of this size quite yet, but if I saw something like this six months to a year from now, stand by.
I can definitely am feeling attached here, and I like it, but don't worry mom, I still plan to come home after this tour.
07 May 2008
First Day
Well, we walked around a bit this morning and realized that we really like it here. Again, I have to mention the awesome customer service. I had been told about it, but you never really know something until you've seen it first hand, and its something.
The weather here is nice, good walking around weather, warm, but not too hot, and not much wind. I plan to venture further away tomorrow morning, maybe walk to the NEX, not sure.
I did find the bowling alley, which makes a mean burger, and we had lunch there. Short walk from the Lodge.
Right now we are relaxing and watching Seinfeld DVD's (Thanks mom-in-law, really).
Will update tomorrow after we handle housing, medical, pay update, indoc, etc. Might take a nap.
The weather here is nice, good walking around weather, warm, but not too hot, and not much wind. I plan to venture further away tomorrow morning, maybe walk to the NEX, not sure.
I did find the bowling alley, which makes a mean burger, and we had lunch there. Short walk from the Lodge.
Right now we are relaxing and watching Seinfeld DVD's (Thanks mom-in-law, really).
Will update tomorrow after we handle housing, medical, pay update, indoc, etc. Might take a nap.
In Japan
Well, we made it.
First, there's a nine and a half hour plane ride, which isn't too bad until you realize you've been on a plane for about six hours, and it hits you, and all the suffering and swelling kicks in, making up for the time you didn't notice.
The first sign we weren't in Kansas anymore (although, I don't think I've ever really been in Kansas), was the obvious lack of English, anywhere. I realize its arrogant to just expect to see English everywhere, but its something you get used to seeing, and you miss it. The Japanese are great about pictures though, and there is some English to guide you along the way.
Then, figuring out how to go through customs, which required us to pick up all of our bags, go through, then re-check all of our bags, during which time no one looked in them, although they were scanned, and we had nothing to declare (which I wasn't able to say, as I was told by the movies everyone says when they go through customs).
I exchanged some money for yen, which gave me two paper bills and several small plastic-like coins. I used them to buy some water. We thought about getting food but nothing looked good enough to experiment with. We found the correct bus and even got off on the right spot. We then found the correct gate, figured out when to board, and got on the correct flight.
Its very hard to mess up, they are sooooooo awesome with customer service here, like no one has ever imagined. I'm afraid I lightly offended the nice man on the bus when I started unloading my bags from the bus (this is before we re-checked them in) and didn't let him get them all. You can literally ask anyone for help. Imagine asking someone working at a T-mobile booth how to get to the Verizon booth and them not only helping you, but smiling, joking, and then walking you all the way there. Thats how cool it is.
And then we flew from Tokyo to Fukuoka and that was only an hour and a half, which is nothing now. The Navy bus was waiting and we drove for two more hours to the base which is where I am now, about to go to sleep.
First, there's a nine and a half hour plane ride, which isn't too bad until you realize you've been on a plane for about six hours, and it hits you, and all the suffering and swelling kicks in, making up for the time you didn't notice.
The first sign we weren't in Kansas anymore (although, I don't think I've ever really been in Kansas), was the obvious lack of English, anywhere. I realize its arrogant to just expect to see English everywhere, but its something you get used to seeing, and you miss it. The Japanese are great about pictures though, and there is some English to guide you along the way.
Then, figuring out how to go through customs, which required us to pick up all of our bags, go through, then re-check all of our bags, during which time no one looked in them, although they were scanned, and we had nothing to declare (which I wasn't able to say, as I was told by the movies everyone says when they go through customs).
I exchanged some money for yen, which gave me two paper bills and several small plastic-like coins. I used them to buy some water. We thought about getting food but nothing looked good enough to experiment with. We found the correct bus and even got off on the right spot. We then found the correct gate, figured out when to board, and got on the correct flight.
Its very hard to mess up, they are sooooooo awesome with customer service here, like no one has ever imagined. I'm afraid I lightly offended the nice man on the bus when I started unloading my bags from the bus (this is before we re-checked them in) and didn't let him get them all. You can literally ask anyone for help. Imagine asking someone working at a T-mobile booth how to get to the Verizon booth and them not only helping you, but smiling, joking, and then walking you all the way there. Thats how cool it is.
And then we flew from Tokyo to Fukuoka and that was only an hour and a half, which is nothing now. The Navy bus was waiting and we drove for two more hours to the base which is where I am now, about to go to sleep.
27 April 2008
My time off with my folks
I've spent the last few days with my parents, as I am on transfer leave and will report to Japan and my ship in about a week. I've had a good time with my parents, and we've just done whatever, nothing special, no extravagant events, just hanging out, doing whatever they would have been doing had I not been here. Going to garage sales, driving out to the beach to have dinner, watching television. I think it makes them feel good to just have me around as much as possible, but I hope the moment when I do leave its not too hard on them.
I spent some time with my brother today also, as he came garage sale hunting with us. Not much to look at, garage sales were poor today, but I only look for specific stuff, be that new computer stuff, guns and ammo, tools, knives, and any police/military memorabilia. I love old military patches and uniforms, they fascinate me.
If its not obvious, I've changed the direction of this blog, there will still be gun-related posts, but not as often, and it will be a more general daily life blog.
I surprised my wife today, I bought myself a wedding ring. Those of you who are close to us will of course know that I lost the titanium ring she bought me when we were married, as it was sized to my size ten finger I had when I was still near 280. As I shortly therafter lost nearly 100 pounds to join the Navy, my finger shrank, but I continued to wear the ring, until one day while kayaking with my family off Neah Bay I discovered I had lost the ring in the ocean. This was very tough on my wife and she has not felt right with me not having a ring. "Gotta keep the hoe's off you" she says, and I agree, we don't want any hoe's coming up and trying to steal me away, hehe. Anyway, I'll wrap this first new general post up with that, and hopefully this new direction will lead to something good.
I spent some time with my brother today also, as he came garage sale hunting with us. Not much to look at, garage sales were poor today, but I only look for specific stuff, be that new computer stuff, guns and ammo, tools, knives, and any police/military memorabilia. I love old military patches and uniforms, they fascinate me.
If its not obvious, I've changed the direction of this blog, there will still be gun-related posts, but not as often, and it will be a more general daily life blog.
I surprised my wife today, I bought myself a wedding ring. Those of you who are close to us will of course know that I lost the titanium ring she bought me when we were married, as it was sized to my size ten finger I had when I was still near 280. As I shortly therafter lost nearly 100 pounds to join the Navy, my finger shrank, but I continued to wear the ring, until one day while kayaking with my family off Neah Bay I discovered I had lost the ring in the ocean. This was very tough on my wife and she has not felt right with me not having a ring. "Gotta keep the hoe's off you" she says, and I agree, we don't want any hoe's coming up and trying to steal me away, hehe. Anyway, I'll wrap this first new general post up with that, and hopefully this new direction will lead to something good.
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