Wednesday, December 27, 2006
P.S.
It has been silent because I have been trying to spend and enjoy as much time with Danny as possible. There are certainly been enough happening to write about, I just haven't. :) I know you all understand.
The Car
I said there were a lot of updates to make, so here is another. Danny and I went through a week long fiasco trying to get new tires on the car. The autoport here or in Yokosuka wouldn't do it, so we tried to find a place in town. The first place we went to was call Eneos. They are a gas station and tire place. The put brand new tires on the front, but the back is what really needed it. After being there for over an hour and a half, we had to go find another place. They said there was a rusty bold and it could only be removed by a tire place. So we drove up and down 16 (that is the road that connects Yokohama to Yokosuka) trying to find one. We went to one and they said they didn't have the tires we needed so we kept driving. Stopped by another tire place and they told us the same thing, so we went home.
Later we saw one that did tires and they ordered our tires for us. I took the car in for an appointment a few days later. They also said they couldn't remove the bolt (we had been told by Eneos that a tire place would have the right tools to remove it). Finally I just bought the tires and went down to Yokosuka to talk to some people who spoke English. That is what made this whole fiasco so much more difficult- we don't speak Japanese!
Anyway, the autoport said they could remove it, but they couldn't put our tires on. After Danny talked to them again they said they would take it off and replace it with a new one. THEN, they found out their bolts were the wrong size and refered us to a place in town in Yokosuka called Kanagawa Tire. We went there and the guy told us the bolt had been rounded off by people trying to remove it and that it was a special bolt that only the dealership could remove. By then it was 5 pm and we just wanted to go home.
I don't remember exactly when we went at it again, but Danny found a location of an English speaking Nissan dealership in Yokohama. We found it and talked to them. They said they could take it off but our car wouldn't be done until 4 pm (it was 11 or 1130), but they said if we went to the dealership near our house it could be quicker. So we drove back to Negishi and to the dealership. They got our car in as soon as they could and worked very hard to remove the bolt. They finally got it off and didn't have to bust it. In the process of putting the new tires on they replaced 8 bolts. They aren't the exact ones that were on the car before, but they were good enough.
So after a week of much frustration and spending as much money on new tires as we spent on the car to begin with, we finally got new tires on the car. We wanted to drive to Yokota, but couldn't drive on the freeway with the bad tires and, well, couldn't find it. One day, we got so lost we were in Tokyo. That was a frustrating time, but that is a story for another day!
Later we saw one that did tires and they ordered our tires for us. I took the car in for an appointment a few days later. They also said they couldn't remove the bolt (we had been told by Eneos that a tire place would have the right tools to remove it). Finally I just bought the tires and went down to Yokosuka to talk to some people who spoke English. That is what made this whole fiasco so much more difficult- we don't speak Japanese!
Anyway, the autoport said they could remove it, but they couldn't put our tires on. After Danny talked to them again they said they would take it off and replace it with a new one. THEN, they found out their bolts were the wrong size and refered us to a place in town in Yokosuka called Kanagawa Tire. We went there and the guy told us the bolt had been rounded off by people trying to remove it and that it was a special bolt that only the dealership could remove. By then it was 5 pm and we just wanted to go home.
I don't remember exactly when we went at it again, but Danny found a location of an English speaking Nissan dealership in Yokohama. We found it and talked to them. They said they could take it off but our car wouldn't be done until 4 pm (it was 11 or 1130), but they said if we went to the dealership near our house it could be quicker. So we drove back to Negishi and to the dealership. They got our car in as soon as they could and worked very hard to remove the bolt. They finally got it off and didn't have to bust it. In the process of putting the new tires on they replaced 8 bolts. They aren't the exact ones that were on the car before, but they were good enough.
So after a week of much frustration and spending as much money on new tires as we spent on the car to begin with, we finally got new tires on the car. We wanted to drive to Yokota, but couldn't drive on the freeway with the bad tires and, well, couldn't find it. One day, we got so lost we were in Tokyo. That was a frustrating time, but that is a story for another day!
Our Christmas
Merry Christmas everyone. Hope you all had a great one. It was sad being away from home, but Danny and I enjoyed having our first Christmas together and making our own traditions and memories. The tree was in the house and very bare for a while, so it was great when Danny came home so we could decorate. I am putting pictures at the end for you to see. We exchanged gifts to each other on the 23rd. Wanted to do it on Christmas eve, but Danny had watch so I went to go pick him up at 8 on Christmas. When we got home we opened presents while sitting on the floor. We tried to get Mocha to unwrap (attack) stuff, but she just wouldn't do it no matter how much catnip was involved. That night I made my very first all-Lori Christmas dinner. I bake two pre-smoked Turkey drumsticks, as well as making greenbean casserole, potatoes (from box) and gravy (from package), stuffing (from box), rolls (from roll) and apple pie (from can). So, despite all the "premade-ness" it turned out well. I didn't want to spend all day in the kitchen, so it worked out perfect for the two of us. We still have turkey, stuffing, and green bean casserole in the fridge. Oh, and half an apple pie.
There are many, many other things to write about, but I am trying to keep this post on topic. I will write more again soon. Ryen is flying in to Japan tomorrow afternoon, so I will have to take an insanely long and lonely train ride to Narita to pick her up.
Here is the pictures:
There are many, many other things to write about, but I am trying to keep this post on topic. I will write more again soon. Ryen is flying in to Japan tomorrow afternoon, so I will have to take an insanely long and lonely train ride to Narita to pick her up.
Here is the pictures:
Monday, December 18, 2006
English lessons
I had my second trial lesson today at one o'clock. It is now three and Kosuke (the owner of the school) just called and told me that she wants to continue lessons because she really liked me. The other woman is still thinking because she was looking for a older teacher and I told her that one was my first time, so she is a little nervous about it. I had to be honest with her. Anyway, I get to start regular lessons with Chihiro after Christmas. Yay!
Friday, December 15, 2006
Sorry
I know, I know. Its been a long time since I've posted. With Danny just being home I hope you all understand. We both have been a little under the weather and quite lazy.
Yesterday, I slept from noon to three after we got home and Danny slept til between 4 and 5. It was his day off, but we had to go to the hospital because he was getting the lump removed from his head. (They call it a wen) It only took about 30 minutes and didn't seem to hurt him, but the thing was on a blood vessel so he bled a bit and they wrapped his head so he looked like a injured soldier from the civil war. It was really quite funny. He also got two stiches. The doctor shaved his hair off where he cut, so last night I shaved all his hair off so he didn't look too funny. At least he won't have the bump anymore. It was small, but easier to have it off.
The ship Christmas party was wednesday. Danny made a big fuss at first about going, but it wasn't bad. Buffet style food and a gift raffle. Danny was like the 4th person drawn, but he picked the 72 hour liberty and put it back. Someone else can use it more and the officers are encouraged to leave it for other people anyway. I wanted the television. Maybe next year!
Speaking of Christmas, and to answer all your questions Grandma, we did get the tree decorated. We did it on monday night after dinner. We put the first ornament on together, which was the "first christmas" one Tracy sent us (thank you Tracy). It was really cute. So he put on the ornaments from his childhood and I put on the ones I bought at a store here. The tree is full and we didn't even put them all on, but the back is empty. Danny really crammed them on there too. It looks beautiful though and I took lots of pictures. I will put those up later. We also took pictures with Mocha and, no, she hasn't knocked over the tree. She just wraps her toy around the branches 30 million times. Danny says she just wants to decorate the tree, but I take the toy away for a while.
Our tree has presents under it and looks very festive now. Of course, Danny hasn't wrapped my present yet, but I already know what it is 'cause I picked it out in Hong Kong. I think we are being pretty frugal with Christmas and that is a good thing. I just can't wait for Christmas day.
PS. I wanted to let Cheryl know (if Dad or Grandma read this, please pass it on) that we got both packages-theirs and the one from Julie- and I cried when Danny opened it. He was perplexed why we got marshmellows, a sweet potato, canned green beans and french fried onions, but I understood pretty quickly and it made me cry. Thank you for that. I am excited to make at least the green bean casserole.
Other news: I had my first English lesson today. In fact, I just got home about half an hour ago. We met at Starbucks, which wasn't the best place because it was so noisy. I hope the lesson went well. I was so nervous and there was definitely a communication barrier there, but I hope that she will continue having lessons with me and I will get better at this. It was just a trial lesson, so she may decide that she needs a different and more experianced teacher, but now that I've met her it may be better next time. I have another lesson on monday (I try to plan these for Danny's duty days). I feel a little more prepared, but still extremely nervous. Wish me luck.
We hope to have Kana and Yuichi over for dinner this weekend. She just told me she is sick and her voice sounds like a man. Yes, those were her words. I couldn't help but laugh, but I feel bad for her too. Hopefully she will be better before sunday. I want to make dinner and have a nice evening.
Danny is home early morning tomorrow. I am alone tonight. Sad, but I am getting used to it. Goodnight everyone.
Yesterday, I slept from noon to three after we got home and Danny slept til between 4 and 5. It was his day off, but we had to go to the hospital because he was getting the lump removed from his head. (They call it a wen) It only took about 30 minutes and didn't seem to hurt him, but the thing was on a blood vessel so he bled a bit and they wrapped his head so he looked like a injured soldier from the civil war. It was really quite funny. He also got two stiches. The doctor shaved his hair off where he cut, so last night I shaved all his hair off so he didn't look too funny. At least he won't have the bump anymore. It was small, but easier to have it off.
The ship Christmas party was wednesday. Danny made a big fuss at first about going, but it wasn't bad. Buffet style food and a gift raffle. Danny was like the 4th person drawn, but he picked the 72 hour liberty and put it back. Someone else can use it more and the officers are encouraged to leave it for other people anyway. I wanted the television. Maybe next year!
Speaking of Christmas, and to answer all your questions Grandma, we did get the tree decorated. We did it on monday night after dinner. We put the first ornament on together, which was the "first christmas" one Tracy sent us (thank you Tracy). It was really cute. So he put on the ornaments from his childhood and I put on the ones I bought at a store here. The tree is full and we didn't even put them all on, but the back is empty. Danny really crammed them on there too. It looks beautiful though and I took lots of pictures. I will put those up later. We also took pictures with Mocha and, no, she hasn't knocked over the tree. She just wraps her toy around the branches 30 million times. Danny says she just wants to decorate the tree, but I take the toy away for a while.
Our tree has presents under it and looks very festive now. Of course, Danny hasn't wrapped my present yet, but I already know what it is 'cause I picked it out in Hong Kong. I think we are being pretty frugal with Christmas and that is a good thing. I just can't wait for Christmas day.
PS. I wanted to let Cheryl know (if Dad or Grandma read this, please pass it on) that we got both packages-theirs and the one from Julie- and I cried when Danny opened it. He was perplexed why we got marshmellows, a sweet potato, canned green beans and french fried onions, but I understood pretty quickly and it made me cry. Thank you for that. I am excited to make at least the green bean casserole.
Other news: I had my first English lesson today. In fact, I just got home about half an hour ago. We met at Starbucks, which wasn't the best place because it was so noisy. I hope the lesson went well. I was so nervous and there was definitely a communication barrier there, but I hope that she will continue having lessons with me and I will get better at this. It was just a trial lesson, so she may decide that she needs a different and more experianced teacher, but now that I've met her it may be better next time. I have another lesson on monday (I try to plan these for Danny's duty days). I feel a little more prepared, but still extremely nervous. Wish me luck.
We hope to have Kana and Yuichi over for dinner this weekend. She just told me she is sick and her voice sounds like a man. Yes, those were her words. I couldn't help but laugh, but I feel bad for her too. Hopefully she will be better before sunday. I want to make dinner and have a nice evening.
Danny is home early morning tomorrow. I am alone tonight. Sad, but I am getting used to it. Goodnight everyone.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Guess what!!
For those of you who didn't know, Danny is home. Yay!! I am so excited about spending our first Christmas together.
I'll try to post again soon.
I'll try to post again soon.
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Video
Okay, so following the conversation about what our cat will eat and talking with my mother-in-law about Japanese food, I had to post this for all who hadn't seen it yet. It is really funny.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Car problems
The back two tires on our new car are pretty bad and I have been told on multiple occasions that they need to be replaced. The back left tire has a slow leak, so everytime I want to drive it, I have to go to the autoport and get more air in the tire. Of course I can only do this when they are open, which is very limited hours on tuesday and friday. They told me that they can't replace my tires because their machines are not right for the tires I need. I don't know what it is all about, but the point is they can't/won't do it. So when I went to Yokosuka today to get groceries (their commissary is much larger than ours) I stopped by the Autoport there. Turns out they won't do them either!
It is a real big pain. Now we will have to go into town to get them done which isn't (hopefully) a huge hassle, but it will probably be more expensive. Everything in Japan is expensive. Just kinda frustrated by this whole thing. I am waiting til Danny gets home to get this taken care of, but when he comes in I have to pick him up and he will have to take the car everyday (once he gets his license) because the home-to-work bus doesn't run on holiday standdown because most people don't have to go to work everyday but Danny does. I am concerned about the car because I don't know how much longer this is going to work and how soon we can get it fixed. Of course I am worried about our safety cause the tire could blow at any moment while driving down the road at 60 km/h!
It is a real big pain. Now we will have to go into town to get them done which isn't (hopefully) a huge hassle, but it will probably be more expensive. Everything in Japan is expensive. Just kinda frustrated by this whole thing. I am waiting til Danny gets home to get this taken care of, but when he comes in I have to pick him up and he will have to take the car everyday (once he gets his license) because the home-to-work bus doesn't run on holiday standdown because most people don't have to go to work everyday but Danny does. I am concerned about the car because I don't know how much longer this is going to work and how soon we can get it fixed. Of course I am worried about our safety cause the tire could blow at any moment while driving down the road at 60 km/h!
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Funny
We have a truely Japanese cat. I just found out tonight that she likes miso soup paste. How weird is that?
Just wanted to let you all know that my email is not working. Usually when they are doing maintainence the page comes up telling you so. This morning, I just get the message from Firefox or internet explorer telling me that "this page cannot be displayed". I am not sure what is going on, but I'll try to tell you when it is up again.
UPDATE: Hey all, my email is FINALLY back!
UPDATE: Hey all, my email is FINALLY back!
Just one picture
Mindy sent this to my email the other day and I wanted to share it with you because it is so cute. It is her, Christine and I in the hotel in Hong Kong. It may look like a nice hotel from the lobby, but it really wasn't that great.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Job
Many of you have been asking about how my job search is going. There wasn't much happening until today. A week ago I went to Yokosuka and got what you would call a "family stamp". Is an engraved stamp made of glass that has your family name on it. I wrote down my name in English and the people working at the store translate it into katakana which is a form of Japanese writing that is used for foreign words. I need that to get a bank account.
I was told by the school that I needed a bank account with Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi or a percentage of my wages would be taken out to send it to a different bank. So on thursday I opened an account. It was very difficult because I don't read or speak (much) Japanese and they don't speak much English. It all worked out okay though.
Then I went to the legal office. They told me that military and dependents technically need a working visa to teach in Japan. I was told that most employers are willing to look past this though. I sent all this information to the school and waited many days to hear back. I was getting anxious because I was told I could have a trial lesson with a student and wanted to get started as soon as possible.
Today, I finally got an email back. The man who runs the school told me there was still a student available and I would have to meet them at a train station. Working without a visa isn't legal and it isn't illegal. So instead of being "employed" I am "joining them". This also aleviates the need to take 20% taxes out of my paycheck. Even though I will recieve money from the school, it is as if it is coming directly from the student. I am really happy that he was willing to work with me and I am excited about getting started, but I am still so nervous because I have never done this before. I will get paid 2,000 yen (about $20) for 60 minutes and likely have a lesson once a week.
The elementary school keeps bugging me. I turned in my application and it was sent to the main office in Japan, but apperently there is something missing. I just haven't bothered to take the time to walk over there yet. I am so tired of going through all this shit for one part time job. Government jobs are ridiculous. Anyway, I'll go over there eventually and try to work it all out. Unfortunately, I think I know what is missing and I don't know all the information to complete it.
Well, wish me luck!
I was told by the school that I needed a bank account with Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi or a percentage of my wages would be taken out to send it to a different bank. So on thursday I opened an account. It was very difficult because I don't read or speak (much) Japanese and they don't speak much English. It all worked out okay though.
Then I went to the legal office. They told me that military and dependents technically need a working visa to teach in Japan. I was told that most employers are willing to look past this though. I sent all this information to the school and waited many days to hear back. I was getting anxious because I was told I could have a trial lesson with a student and wanted to get started as soon as possible.
Today, I finally got an email back. The man who runs the school told me there was still a student available and I would have to meet them at a train station. Working without a visa isn't legal and it isn't illegal. So instead of being "employed" I am "joining them". This also aleviates the need to take 20% taxes out of my paycheck. Even though I will recieve money from the school, it is as if it is coming directly from the student. I am really happy that he was willing to work with me and I am excited about getting started, but I am still so nervous because I have never done this before. I will get paid 2,000 yen (about $20) for 60 minutes and likely have a lesson once a week.
The elementary school keeps bugging me. I turned in my application and it was sent to the main office in Japan, but apperently there is something missing. I just haven't bothered to take the time to walk over there yet. I am so tired of going through all this shit for one part time job. Government jobs are ridiculous. Anyway, I'll go over there eventually and try to work it all out. Unfortunately, I think I know what is missing and I don't know all the information to complete it.
Well, wish me luck!
Update, again
Aaahh, I am still getting over those comments she made. She continued to write terrible stuff to me and then got mad I wrote her back. I can't just let her say crap about me and let me walk over me. I gotta stand up for myself. Anyway, I hope this is the end of it. I am ready for it to be done. I though I escaped the drama in high school, but apperenly some people carry it in to their late 20s and for the rest of their lives. I almost feel sorry for them, but because I am on the recieving end, it is very difficult. It is going to take me a long time to forgive her for what she has done. I haven't drug other people into it though. We have mutual friends and they really don't know what is going on. If they do, it isn't because I told them. I know better than that and I really hope she does too. I really do think people like me and they aren't just acting like they do just for the fun of it.
Thank you for your love. It makes me feel better, but I have a long way to go.
Thank you for your love. It makes me feel better, but I have a long way to go.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
I totally forgot
Somedays, I just forget we have a blog. Sorry to all those of you who check everyday and there is nothing new. There isn't much to write about in life so no reason to write a new blog.
Sometimes, things only seem to get worse around here. Danny says he feels like the little dutch boy with his finger in the dike keeping the water back. There is more and more crap happening everyday and I am sure he is pretty tired of dealing with it.
Things aren't much better on land either. I am finding out that Navy wives aren't any better than anyone else out there and I have apperently made friends with the wrong people. I think a gal took my comments the wrong way 'cause now she has told me that I am too negative (basically implying that I hate life and have no respect for the wonderful things I have) and wants nothing to do with me- which is okay because I don't want to be "friends" with someone who hates me. The thing that makes me angry is that, 1, she doesn't even know me and has no grounds to make judgements about who I really am, and 2, that she has made me question who I am. I am, if you haven't figured it out already, a very sensitive person. I am crushed because she completely exploded at me and I am mad that she has the power to do that to me. She makes me feel like I am a terrible person with no feelings who cares about no one but myself and lives to complain to people. I know I have my negative moments, but I am no better or no worse than anyone else in this world. I love my life, I love my husband, I love my family, I love my friends and I love the opportunites that I have been given. Many people never get the chance to do the things that I do and I want to take full advantage of that.
While I am crushed now, when I put myself back together and regain my dignity I will not be afraid to tell her that although she may get joy in attempting to ruin other people's lives, I am stronger because I know who I am and I will not be pushed around by people like her. For now, I will "nurse my wounds" in solitude.
UPDATE: She wrote to me again. I wrote her back but hope I never hear from her again. I don't think I am any better than her and understand I can be negative at times, but I am more of a optimistic pessimist in a fun sort of way. I don't live my life to complain. I just hope that she has some sort of excuse for her obsurd behavior.
Sometimes, things only seem to get worse around here. Danny says he feels like the little dutch boy with his finger in the dike keeping the water back. There is more and more crap happening everyday and I am sure he is pretty tired of dealing with it.
Things aren't much better on land either. I am finding out that Navy wives aren't any better than anyone else out there and I have apperently made friends with the wrong people. I think a gal took my comments the wrong way 'cause now she has told me that I am too negative (basically implying that I hate life and have no respect for the wonderful things I have) and wants nothing to do with me- which is okay because I don't want to be "friends" with someone who hates me. The thing that makes me angry is that, 1, she doesn't even know me and has no grounds to make judgements about who I really am, and 2, that she has made me question who I am. I am, if you haven't figured it out already, a very sensitive person. I am crushed because she completely exploded at me and I am mad that she has the power to do that to me. She makes me feel like I am a terrible person with no feelings who cares about no one but myself and lives to complain to people. I know I have my negative moments, but I am no better or no worse than anyone else in this world. I love my life, I love my husband, I love my family, I love my friends and I love the opportunites that I have been given. Many people never get the chance to do the things that I do and I want to take full advantage of that.
While I am crushed now, when I put myself back together and regain my dignity I will not be afraid to tell her that although she may get joy in attempting to ruin other people's lives, I am stronger because I know who I am and I will not be pushed around by people like her. For now, I will "nurse my wounds" in solitude.
UPDATE: She wrote to me again. I wrote her back but hope I never hear from her again. I don't think I am any better than her and understand I can be negative at times, but I am more of a optimistic pessimist in a fun sort of way. I don't live my life to complain. I just hope that she has some sort of excuse for her obsurd behavior.
Friday, December 01, 2006
I have to rant...
Okay, I don't do this too often so I have to take my chance to complain. Skype sucks. I can't call anyone on their landline phone and no one can call me. Well, technically they can but neither of us can understand the other. Why am I wasting money on this? Maybe I should just get vonage.
UPDATE: My dad called me this morning and Skype worked beautifully. I got to talk to him for a whole hour. How weird is that?
UPDATE: My dad called me this morning and Skype worked beautifully. I got to talk to him for a whole hour. How weird is that?
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Pictures from Hong Kong
Like I said before, Danny has most the good pictures but I posted what I could. I think some are accidentally missing, but these are good for now. When he gets home and gives me the rest then I will make a new slideshow. The weather was in the 70s and cloudy most the week. When we went to Victoria's Peak I was sweating while standing in line and the sun came out so the view was amazing as you'll see. BTW, Victoria's Peak is the highest point on the island. They have an awesome website here: The Peak. It was definitely the highlight of the trip.
Almost Christmas
It may feel like Christmas in Western Washington with all that snow, but I have to do everything I can to make it feel festive around here. Yes, I know it isn't even December 1st yet, but I have to get movin'.
Really, I just started. Today I went to our mini-exchange and bought a live Christmas tree. We wanted a fake one, but they wanted $150 for one. We got a Noble fir and it was only $35. It is a pretty nice tree. I bought a stand and skirt for it and can't wait for Danny to get home so we can decorate. I think I have to go to a Japanese store to buy decorations because our Exchange's selection sucks. I just want some simple colored balls and a nice top, but we don't have any. I gotta find stockings too. The funniest thing about our tree is that it was shipped here from Tacoma, so it is like having a good ol' tree from home. I just hope the cat doesn't try to eat it, climb it or knock it over. Tinsel is out of the question.
I know, I haven't put up pictures of the Hong Kong trip yet. I'll go get my camera right now. I honestly don't have many good ones. Danny took most of them because I was too lazy to dig my camera out of my purse. It kept turning itself on in there too.
Anyway, just wanted to give an update. Hope everyone in Washington stays warm and dry.
Really, I just started. Today I went to our mini-exchange and bought a live Christmas tree. We wanted a fake one, but they wanted $150 for one. We got a Noble fir and it was only $35. It is a pretty nice tree. I bought a stand and skirt for it and can't wait for Danny to get home so we can decorate. I think I have to go to a Japanese store to buy decorations because our Exchange's selection sucks. I just want some simple colored balls and a nice top, but we don't have any. I gotta find stockings too. The funniest thing about our tree is that it was shipped here from Tacoma, so it is like having a good ol' tree from home. I just hope the cat doesn't try to eat it, climb it or knock it over. Tinsel is out of the question.
I know, I haven't put up pictures of the Hong Kong trip yet. I'll go get my camera right now. I honestly don't have many good ones. Danny took most of them because I was too lazy to dig my camera out of my purse. It kept turning itself on in there too.
Anyway, just wanted to give an update. Hope everyone in Washington stays warm and dry.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Letting you know
Yes, I am still alive. Just to clear things up/let you know I was gone this last weekend. I left on wednesday and came back tonight (monday) from Hong Kong. I couldn't tell you all I was going because it gave away the location of Danny's ship. Yes, I know some people knew before that I was going and then things were canceled. It changed again and ended up working out that I could go. Danny got to spend most of the time with me and we enjoyed ourselves. Unfortunetly now his XO is being a @$$ and telling him that he isn't allowed to take leave to spend time with me anymore. He only took one day, which didn't start until 5 pm anyway, because he had duty and wanted to get off the ship so he could spend the night at the hotel. I don't understand what that guys problem is. Anyway, I am here. Sorry if you have been trying to contact me. I will be here from now on.
P.S. I'll tell you more about the trip and post pictures later. I have been awake for way too long and don't have the desire to go into it right now.
P.S. I'll tell you more about the trip and post pictures later. I have been awake for way too long and don't have the desire to go into it right now.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Finally!
Housing turned the heat on this morning. It is about time! Of course, the heat in the office doesn't work and the nob to adjust the heat in the bathroom is missing. I don't care right now, our house is warming up. I had a hell of a time sleeping last night because it was about 14 degrees C (57 F) downstairs and at least 3-5 degrees colder upstairs. That means it was probably about 10-12C (50-53F) in our bedroom. That is too cold to sleep comfortably. In fact, I'll give you the image of what I would have looked like. I was wearing sweatpants and a sweater and heavy socks. I had a heat pad on my feet and an extra blanket as well as the down comforter, both of which came up to my nose. I also had the hood on so all you could see where my eyes and nose. After all that, I was still freezing! I won't be cold tonight!
Sunday, November 19, 2006
English Teaching
I sent my resume on friday to the Ladies English School in Tokyo. She wrote me back this morning and asked me to meet her at this train station. I am assuming she wants to do an interview. I am excited but I am so nervous.
Just wanted to share that news with you.
Just wanted to share that news with you.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Funny
I read this online and instead of emailing to everyone who would find it funny, I just decided to post it here.
How to Stay Married
A man and a woman had been married for more than 60 years. They had shared everything. They had kept no secrets from each other except that the little old woman had a shoe box in the top of her closet that she had cautioned her husband never to open or ask her about.
For all of these years, he had never thought about the box, but one day the little old woman got very sick and the doctor said she would not recover. In trying to sort out their affairs, the little old man took down the shoe box and took it to his wife's bedside.
She agreed that it was time that he should know what was in the box. When he opened it, he found two crocheted dolls and a stack of money totaling $95,000. He asked her about the contents.
"When we were to be married," she said, "my grandmother told me the secret of a happy marriage was to never argue. She told me that if I ever got angry with you, I should just keep quiet and crochet a doll."
The little old man was so moved; he had to fight back tears. Only two precious dolls were in the box. She had only been angry with him two times in all those years of living and loving. He almost burst with happiness.
"Honey," he said "that explains the doll, but what about all of this money? Where did it come from?"
"Oh, that?" she said. "That's the money I made from selling the dolls."
How to Stay Married
A man and a woman had been married for more than 60 years. They had shared everything. They had kept no secrets from each other except that the little old woman had a shoe box in the top of her closet that she had cautioned her husband never to open or ask her about.
For all of these years, he had never thought about the box, but one day the little old woman got very sick and the doctor said she would not recover. In trying to sort out their affairs, the little old man took down the shoe box and took it to his wife's bedside.
She agreed that it was time that he should know what was in the box. When he opened it, he found two crocheted dolls and a stack of money totaling $95,000. He asked her about the contents.
"When we were to be married," she said, "my grandmother told me the secret of a happy marriage was to never argue. She told me that if I ever got angry with you, I should just keep quiet and crochet a doll."
The little old man was so moved; he had to fight back tears. Only two precious dolls were in the box. She had only been angry with him two times in all those years of living and loving. He almost burst with happiness.
"Honey," he said "that explains the doll, but what about all of this money? Where did it come from?"
"Oh, that?" she said. "That's the money I made from selling the dolls."
Thursday, November 16, 2006
its STILL cold!!
I think the Navy is trying to torture us.
Okay, sorry for stating the obvious.
It is super cold around here. Okay, not freaky Seabeck 29 degrees, but 58-60 inside the house is too cold. They started running water or something through the steam pipes in the heaters and we all got excited that they were going to turn the heat on early (it isn't coming on until Nov. 22nd). Turns out it is just the water. No heat. Thats just mean!! I'll make sure not to get frostbite on my fingers as I sit here and type. Okay, I am being dramatic but I am sure you understand. Everyone knows what it is like to have to type or use the mouse when your fingers are freezing.
Anyway, onto other things. Pratically had a mental breakdown this morning about money, so I am returning to my determination to get a job. I went to Yokosuka today and got fingerprinted for the subsitute position and will turn that in tomorrow with a copy of my passport. That FINALLY completes my application and I can be considered for the position. I also have been looking at English Schools online and found an awesome all womens one. I have been emailing with the owner or director of the school. She gave me some information on the school and encouraged me to apply. I am so super duper excited about it. I will probably send her my resume tomorrow. Wish me luck!! Yay.
Okay, sorry for stating the obvious.
It is super cold around here. Okay, not freaky Seabeck 29 degrees, but 58-60 inside the house is too cold. They started running water or something through the steam pipes in the heaters and we all got excited that they were going to turn the heat on early (it isn't coming on until Nov. 22nd). Turns out it is just the water. No heat. Thats just mean!! I'll make sure not to get frostbite on my fingers as I sit here and type. Okay, I am being dramatic but I am sure you understand. Everyone knows what it is like to have to type or use the mouse when your fingers are freezing.
Anyway, onto other things. Pratically had a mental breakdown this morning about money, so I am returning to my determination to get a job. I went to Yokosuka today and got fingerprinted for the subsitute position and will turn that in tomorrow with a copy of my passport. That FINALLY completes my application and I can be considered for the position. I also have been looking at English Schools online and found an awesome all womens one. I have been emailing with the owner or director of the school. She gave me some information on the school and encouraged me to apply. I am so super duper excited about it. I will probably send her my resume tomorrow. Wish me luck!! Yay.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
earthquakes and tsunamis
Yes, there was an earthquake near Japan. It was over 1000 miles north of Tokyo. There was also a tsunami warning as you may have heard. So far, there hasn't been any big waves and we are perfectly safe here. I am far away from the water and on a large hill. They issues warnings anytime there is a large earthquake. Yokosuka should be fine as well. Just wanted to tell you all this before someone freaked out. Not that I think any of you would.
This week is flying by
I didn't realize how long it has been since I wrote a blog. Not a whole lot is going on around here. I have been out to lunch with friends most this week. I was glad when I finally got to spend a day at home.
Mocha is getting bigger. She is between 5 and 6 months now and it won't be too long before she can't be considered a kitten anymore. She is quite the talker and I can't seem to figure out what she wants. Not a whole lot different than having a baby I guess. She is always whining about something and it is usually because she wants me to sit down so she can lay in my lap. I must be sitting too much though 'cause I've gained about 2 lbs. since Danny left though I am trying so hard not to. About the cat though, she is pretty well trained. All I have to do is call her and she'll come. I am pretty impressed. She is spoiled though.
It has been cold around here. It isn't that bad outside, but they don't turn the heat on for over a week and it has been about 15 degrees celsius inside at night. That is about 59-61 degrees. I am freezing to death and I know Danny would love it, the crazy boy. Of course he is not here to keep me warm when i need it either. It was a little warmer last night and the office right now is about 70. The living room is the coldest though. I can't wait for them to turn on the heat. It is pretty frustrating, especially when you are not allowed to have space heaters. How dumb is that?
Mocha is getting bigger. She is between 5 and 6 months now and it won't be too long before she can't be considered a kitten anymore. She is quite the talker and I can't seem to figure out what she wants. Not a whole lot different than having a baby I guess. She is always whining about something and it is usually because she wants me to sit down so she can lay in my lap. I must be sitting too much though 'cause I've gained about 2 lbs. since Danny left though I am trying so hard not to. About the cat though, she is pretty well trained. All I have to do is call her and she'll come. I am pretty impressed. She is spoiled though.
It has been cold around here. It isn't that bad outside, but they don't turn the heat on for over a week and it has been about 15 degrees celsius inside at night. That is about 59-61 degrees. I am freezing to death and I know Danny would love it, the crazy boy. Of course he is not here to keep me warm when i need it either. It was a little warmer last night and the office right now is about 70. The living room is the coldest though. I can't wait for them to turn on the heat. It is pretty frustrating, especially when you are not allowed to have space heaters. How dumb is that?
Friday, November 10, 2006
More pictures of Japan!!
I didn't want to miss autumn so I took my camera out (Sierra gave me her old one and the pics come out better than my original). The Negishi Shinrin (Forest) Park is next to the base. Thursday was sunny and beautiful so I got some great shots. Yes, they are computer enhanced, but the camera just can't capture what the eye sees. It needs some help along the way. Enjoy.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Yokota
Hey, I am writing from Yokota tonight. I am staying at Sierra (Fisher) and Ryan's, her husband, place. It was quite an experiance to get up here. Not incredibly difficult, but there was a little anxiety involved. I left my house at 8:45 this morning and got to Yokota at 11:20. That is one long trip. I took the train the whole way, but it was hard to find one that was going as far as I needed to go. Oh well, I made it here alright. It is a stereotypical air force base, but it is nice and their apartment is homey too. Not much to say, just wanted to give everyone an update on my life. I'll be home tomorrow. Hopefully my cat isn't too lonely.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Another trip to Yokohama
Today I went to Yokohama with some friends who live on the base. We went to the Landmark Tower and walked to Yamashita Park. Here is a slideshow of the pics!
P.S. I did not take the pic looking straight down (and I never would have!!). Also, the elevator that took us up is one of the fastest in the world. It is quite an experiance...
P.S. I did not take the pic looking straight down (and I never would have!!). Also, the elevator that took us up is one of the fastest in the world. It is quite an experiance...
Friday, November 03, 2006
Changes to blog
You can obviously tell that I have made some visual changes to the blog. I am trying to find a format that fits the theme of our blog, but it is hard to find. I have made some other changes as well. You no longer have to be a member to post a comment on the blog, but I did turn on word verification. I am going to test this out for a time to see how it works and if anyone is using it. If I get spam or the only people commenting are those who have been all along, then I will change it back just to be safe. If you have any problems, please email me and I will try to fix it.
The lawn
Can someone tell me how to fix a weed eater? I was almost done with the lawn and the cable was going farther in, so I stopped to fix it for about the 3rd time. Well, now when I turn it on, the cable spins right out an onto the ground. I can't make it stay in! Help!
Thursday, November 02, 2006
More mikoshi parade
I haven't figured out how to download this one yet, but here is another quick video about the Mikoshi parade. You can't see us in it, so don't bother looking. This video was taken on base, but we were in the back... Here is the link: http://www.news.navy.mil/management/videodb/player/video.aspx?ID=8137
Is it?
Is it really too quiet around here? I have been trying to post every few days, I just don't think there is much to write about. I have been having terrible migranes the last few days, but now I am drugged. It is getting a little better.
Tried to weed eat the lawn yesterday. That was a mess. I guess I have to take care of it today.
I get my couch tomorrow. I am so excited. I have to call the furniture people today and find out when they are delivering. I also got a notice that housing is going to replace our appliances. When I called them yesterday, I was told they would come in Monday morning and replace our range, refridgerator, washer and dryer. Yay!
This sunday I am going to a little get together here in Negishi. A friend, Shannon, is hosting a bunch of people from the base who have never been up here. I am trying to take them to Yokohama first to sightsee. On tuesday I think I am going to Yokota to see Sierra. I may spend the night, so don't expect to hear from me.
Not really much else to say. I don't like to talk about my pathetic life. It just makes it more real.
Tried to weed eat the lawn yesterday. That was a mess. I guess I have to take care of it today.
I get my couch tomorrow. I am so excited. I have to call the furniture people today and find out when they are delivering. I also got a notice that housing is going to replace our appliances. When I called them yesterday, I was told they would come in Monday morning and replace our range, refridgerator, washer and dryer. Yay!
This sunday I am going to a little get together here in Negishi. A friend, Shannon, is hosting a bunch of people from the base who have never been up here. I am trying to take them to Yokohama first to sightsee. On tuesday I think I am going to Yokota to see Sierra. I may spend the night, so don't expect to hear from me.
Not really much else to say. I don't like to talk about my pathetic life. It just makes it more real.
Monday, October 30, 2006
All I want...
I am pathetic, I really am. My birthday is over, Kana went home, and all I can do is sit around thinking about how bored I am and how the only thing I wanna do is see Danny. I found out the other day that I am not going to be able to see him when I was hoping to, so I am pretty bummed about that. It is almost November and I am not going to have any family for Thanksgiving and I just a birthday without any family too.
Yes, some nice things happened. I met Kana at the Yokohama train station and we went to dinner. It was the best Chinese food I have ever had. Trust me, the stuff in the states is crap compared to this. She bought me a pretty pink rose from a flower shop I love and then came to the house. She bought toys for the cat and gave me a really awesome picture frame. We made pumpkin spice cake together and watched the new Curious George movie. Danny called me before I went to meet her and again today. Now all I can think about is how much I miss him and about how homesick I am getting.
It would be so easy for me to get home. I could catch the same flight I did on the way here out of Yokota which flies out once a week. I would be space A, which means I may not get on the flight if there are not enough seats available, but it would only cost me a little over $25. You really can't beat that. I just don't know what I should do. I have to wait for my cat to get fixed before I can even think about leaving. I have to take her in to the vet and then officially adopt her. Then I have to watch her to make sure she is healing okay. By then it will be at least the middle of November. I am not sure if there would be less of a possibility of empty seats on the plane. Anyone taking official leave for thanksgiving would have priority over me. Anyone who really needs to get home at a certain time is more likely to take a civilian flight out of Narita. Sorry for rambling, I just need some input. I am really lonely over here and I just don't know what to do. I am making friends, but it is just not the same. It is exhausting to hang out with people you really don't know and it is hard to relax in a country that is not your own. Most of you have probably never experienced this, but take my word for it. Its hard.
I am open for your comments and input. I am incapable of making a decision on my own.
Yes, some nice things happened. I met Kana at the Yokohama train station and we went to dinner. It was the best Chinese food I have ever had. Trust me, the stuff in the states is crap compared to this. She bought me a pretty pink rose from a flower shop I love and then came to the house. She bought toys for the cat and gave me a really awesome picture frame. We made pumpkin spice cake together and watched the new Curious George movie. Danny called me before I went to meet her and again today. Now all I can think about is how much I miss him and about how homesick I am getting.
It would be so easy for me to get home. I could catch the same flight I did on the way here out of Yokota which flies out once a week. I would be space A, which means I may not get on the flight if there are not enough seats available, but it would only cost me a little over $25. You really can't beat that. I just don't know what I should do. I have to wait for my cat to get fixed before I can even think about leaving. I have to take her in to the vet and then officially adopt her. Then I have to watch her to make sure she is healing okay. By then it will be at least the middle of November. I am not sure if there would be less of a possibility of empty seats on the plane. Anyone taking official leave for thanksgiving would have priority over me. Anyone who really needs to get home at a certain time is more likely to take a civilian flight out of Narita. Sorry for rambling, I just need some input. I am really lonely over here and I just don't know what to do. I am making friends, but it is just not the same. It is exhausting to hang out with people you really don't know and it is hard to relax in a country that is not your own. Most of you have probably never experienced this, but take my word for it. Its hard.
I am open for your comments and input. I am incapable of making a decision on my own.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
quick update and a few thoughts
Sorry I haven't written in the last few days. I have been busy with my compass class (new navy wife orientation). It has been particularly interesting because there are Japanese wives in the class and I get to learn a little about the area. It is way better than taking it in Bremerton because I already know too much about it! I have to drive 45 minutes to the base everyday (but our car gets fantastic gas milage) and it runs from 9-1, so I loose a large chunk of the productive part of my day. It is 11 though and I have been busy.
I think the military is just out to use up our time. I am now applying to subsitute for office positions in the elementary school and I pretty much have to sign my life away. I think I have used up a few trees and a ton of.. well, where ever ink comes from. It is a heck of a lot of work when you don't even know if you'll get the job. They make you fill out forms you would only have to complete if your were actually getting the job. I will never complain about applying for a non-governmental job again (unless I forget about the hours I have spent doing this!)
Danny seems to be doing a little better and I hope he has given up the campaign to get as little sleep as possible. I think he said he was hoping to get at least 8 hours tonight.
One last thing before I go to bed... I just wanted to say happy birthday to Becky and Beth. I feel like I am forgetting someone. Well, forgive me. I have spent the last two hours filling out government forms! (And no body better forget mine!)
I think the military is just out to use up our time. I am now applying to subsitute for office positions in the elementary school and I pretty much have to sign my life away. I think I have used up a few trees and a ton of.. well, where ever ink comes from. It is a heck of a lot of work when you don't even know if you'll get the job. They make you fill out forms you would only have to complete if your were actually getting the job. I will never complain about applying for a non-governmental job again (unless I forget about the hours I have spent doing this!)
Danny seems to be doing a little better and I hope he has given up the campaign to get as little sleep as possible. I think he said he was hoping to get at least 8 hours tonight.
One last thing before I go to bed... I just wanted to say happy birthday to Becky and Beth. I feel like I am forgetting someone. Well, forgive me. I have spent the last two hours filling out government forms! (And no body better forget mine!)
Monday, October 23, 2006
Another rainy monday
Things are okay around here. I have been keeping busy hanging out with friends and making some new ones. Not much to say, except that the cat is driving me crazy as normal. Her newest thing is prying the closet open and hiding in there. I don't understand it. She has the shortest memory span in the world. She will be laying on my lap purring then I have to get up and go to the bathroom or something. When I come back she acts like she is afraid of me and runs away. Someone suggested I should call her Dory (from Finding Nemo for those who don't know).
Danny has been writing me lately. He has been gone a week and things have been very stressful for him. It doesn't sound like he is getting a lot of sleep and hasn't adjusted to having duty everyday. To make matters worse, he just got kicked out of his room becuase someone else will be sleeping there. I don't know how long this will last or why it is okay ('cause he isn't getting a new room), but I just hope things get better for him. I told him "at least I won't kick you out of our bed" :).
Thats pretty much all the update for now. I am going to "new navy wife orientation" this week, so hopefully I will learn something.
Danny has been writing me lately. He has been gone a week and things have been very stressful for him. It doesn't sound like he is getting a lot of sleep and hasn't adjusted to having duty everyday. To make matters worse, he just got kicked out of his room becuase someone else will be sleeping there. I don't know how long this will last or why it is okay ('cause he isn't getting a new room), but I just hope things get better for him. I told him "at least I won't kick you out of our bed" :).
Thats pretty much all the update for now. I am going to "new navy wife orientation" this week, so hopefully I will learn something.
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Finally
So, I broke down and bought a couch yesterday. I swear it looks better than the picture lets on. It was a set of a sofa and a loveseat. I get it on the 3rd.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Things that remind me of home
This is more like an inside joke, but my dad used to have this on a shirt and I had to post it here so he could see it. The things I remember...
Trust me!
Trust me!
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Yokosuka Report
Danny and I were on the Yokosuka report (the base's "televised magazine"). It should be online until the end of wednesday here if you wanna see it. http://www.cfay.navy.mil/News/YokosukaReport.htm
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
You know you are a Navy wife when...
You know you are a Navy wife when you are shopping in the commissary the day your husband leaves and you have to go home because they start playing love songs by Chicago over the speaker system and you think you are going to cry.
Guess who is alone again...
Yup, thats right. Alone. Again. I am already counting down the days til I go to Hong Kong. I find great joy in looking forward to that. Other than that, there isn't much to look forward to. My search for a job has been unsuccessful. I don't have much to say. This last weekend Danny and I went to Tokyo and participated in a festival in Yokosuka called the Mikoshi parade. We carried the Mikoshi through the streets of downtown Yokosuka and onto the base. Traditionally in Japan, a mikoshi looks like a small shrine and is said to carry a divine spirit. The navy has its own mikoshi that has the names of all the commands associated with the base. The mikoshi carriers where a shirt called a hapi coat, a good luck necklace and a cloth wrapped around the head like a head band. I will post pictures.
In Tokyo, Danny and I went to Akihabara (a area dedicated to technology, very popular with the American men) and Ueno. The first was obviously Dannys thing, he had a goal and a purpose, and the second was to keep me happy. In Ueno we walked around the Ueno park, which was huge and really beautiful and had McDonalds before we came home. I had McDonalds here before, but it tasted better this time and I am still excited about getting tea with sweetener and lemon.
I have a few things to accomplish soon. I heard they are having a 75% off sale at the furniture depot, so I gotta go look at that, and a navy wife orientation class next week. I was suposed to visit Sierra in Yokota, but I don't think it is going to work out. Since my birthday is soon, Kana is going to come to the house after she gets off work and spend the night here. I am really excited.
Alright, I am going to post some pictures now. Enjoy. P.S. Ueno is pronounced "oo-way-no"
Pictures: 1- Convience store 2- Yokohama 3-Danny in Ueno park 4- me in Ueno park 5- Danny and I in Ueno park 6&7- more Ueno park 8&9- Ueno/ typical Tokyo scene 10- Danny at Mikoshi parade
In Tokyo, Danny and I went to Akihabara (a area dedicated to technology, very popular with the American men) and Ueno. The first was obviously Dannys thing, he had a goal and a purpose, and the second was to keep me happy. In Ueno we walked around the Ueno park, which was huge and really beautiful and had McDonalds before we came home. I had McDonalds here before, but it tasted better this time and I am still excited about getting tea with sweetener and lemon.
I have a few things to accomplish soon. I heard they are having a 75% off sale at the furniture depot, so I gotta go look at that, and a navy wife orientation class next week. I was suposed to visit Sierra in Yokota, but I don't think it is going to work out. Since my birthday is soon, Kana is going to come to the house after she gets off work and spend the night here. I am really excited.
Alright, I am going to post some pictures now. Enjoy. P.S. Ueno is pronounced "oo-way-no"
Pictures: 1- Convience store 2- Yokohama 3-Danny in Ueno park 4- me in Ueno park 5- Danny and I in Ueno park 6&7- more Ueno park 8&9- Ueno/ typical Tokyo scene 10- Danny at Mikoshi parade
Monday, October 16, 2006
Pictures of our fuzzy baby
The shelter named her Sandy, but we are thinking about renaming her Mocha. She was being cute last night, but then she got mad at me for pushing her out from under the dresser at 11 last night. She did it again this morning, so now she runs from me and is hiding in some box downstairs. I am glad she got some bonding time with Danny before he left.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Our new addition
Danny and I have a fuzzy child. She is a tabby cat named Sandy. I would post pictures, but she is always hiding in our cardboard forest. I bought a can of tuna today and bribe her with a few pieces. She will eat them out of my fingers. Actually, she licks it until it falls apart and waits for me to pick up and put it near her mouth again. I moved her dish way back into her hiding spot and I think she was eating earlier. Usually she shakes when I pet her, but she has a really loud purr if you find her happy spot (she likes butt scratches). I am hoping she comes out sometime during the day. She spent all of last night walking around the house meowing. I feel so bad for her. Hopefully she won't be freaked out tomorrow when Danny comes home.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Car Time
So I just wanted to let everyone know that Lori and I are finally getting a car. While the public transportation is great here, it's not always convenient. So anyway, we're getting a 1991 Nissan Skyline (yes, a Skyline). However, it's only a 4-banger and a 4 door, so it's not the sporty thing everyone always thinks about. Regardless, it's only $700 and it runs well and frankly that's all that Lori and I need. Anyway, I figured it was my turn to post so have a good one everybody!
Monday, October 09, 2006
Something new I discovered
So, I finally watched "Lost in Translation" tonight. The storyline is dumb, but it is so accurate to Japanese culture. It is funny to watch it and recognize so many things I have experianced myself. They are almost all little things like the sounds in the background (like the ravens, sirens or trains) or just recognizing places in Tokyo. If you haven't seen it, you should watch it. Ignore the story and just pay attention to the Japanese culture. It is hillarious for me and incredibly accurate. If you have watched it, you should again just to get a new perspective on Japan.
Since I am writing, just wanted to let everyone know that I am doing better than two weeks ago. Things don't go perfect all the time, but I have been trying to stay upbeat and busy. Danny is starting me on an exercise routine and I have been working on my garden, so I am happy. I think I am going to get brave tomorrow and explore by myself. There is SO much I want to see while I am here and am not going to sit around waiting for everyone else. Plus, I have more freedom to do what I want when I am alone.
In regards to my garden, my goal is to be voted first place yard while we're here. Danny and I are already talking about how we want to lay everything out. We should have a car soon, so I will be able to go to the Home Store (Japanese Home Depot or Lowes) and get some stuff. I am really excited and proud of it already. Most my plants were freebees from people who PSCed, but they're still plants. Even my potting soil was free!
I think there was one more thing I was gonna say, but I forgot. It will come to me later. Goodnight everyone.
Since I am writing, just wanted to let everyone know that I am doing better than two weeks ago. Things don't go perfect all the time, but I have been trying to stay upbeat and busy. Danny is starting me on an exercise routine and I have been working on my garden, so I am happy. I think I am going to get brave tomorrow and explore by myself. There is SO much I want to see while I am here and am not going to sit around waiting for everyone else. Plus, I have more freedom to do what I want when I am alone.
In regards to my garden, my goal is to be voted first place yard while we're here. Danny and I are already talking about how we want to lay everything out. We should have a car soon, so I will be able to go to the Home Store (Japanese Home Depot or Lowes) and get some stuff. I am really excited and proud of it already. Most my plants were freebees from people who PSCed, but they're still plants. Even my potting soil was free!
I think there was one more thing I was gonna say, but I forgot. It will come to me later. Goodnight everyone.
Friday, October 06, 2006
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Softball game
Last night, Danny played softball on base with a bunch of people from the ship. His team lost, but it was fun and I got a few pictures. There may be more later.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
still here
Sorry I haven't written in a while. Not much to write about. Just wanted you to know that we're still alive. I'll write again in the next few days.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
update on my thumb
I had my appointment at 10 this morning to get my stiches out. I was nervous and sweating. My blood pressure was up and my temp was 99.9 degrees! Anyway, the doctor told me I was ready to get them out (if they take them out too early it will open back up and bleed). Fairly quick and only a little pain. He could tell I had been babying it (oh come on, I am a young married woman with no kids, I need something to baby) and told me to massage it and move it around. Kind of like thumb exercises. I also need to use it as normal. That will be hard to do, but I am working on it. The muscles in the thumb are a little tense and I am still getting feeling back into the top of my thumb, but I am doing alright. It doesn't even look that gross.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Someone tell me whats wrong with me
I don't like to trouble everyone with my issues, but I just feel like I need someone to talk to and this is the best I can do, especially considering that it is only 2:30am in Washington. I really don't know how to start this, but I'll try the best I can for it all to make sense.
So, I am getting used to Danny being home then gone then home again. Obviously that is the name of the game when you're married to the military. He was gone for two weeks and after the first few hours I was fine. Lately when he was gone last weekend or tonight when he had shore patrol I have been completely useless. I stay in bed until 10 am even though I went to bed at 9 and I get nothing accomplished during the day. I didn't fold the laundry (from yesterday) , I didn't do the dishes (also from yesterday), I didn't take a shower, get dressed until two, check the mail, go to the elementary school to check on the job, eat lunch, make the bed, or even go outside. I watched tv, check my email, and completely wasted my day. When I check my email and don't have anything new, I cry about it for 10 minutes. When Danny called me to say hi and I tried to explain how I felt, I cried.
When Danny is coming home at night, I am fine. I get everything done-eventually. I did the laundry, cleaned the bathroom, did the dishes before I made a dinner that was not out of a box. I even worked out and took a shower. I even left the house to check the mail (I got the stuff from you, Tracy, and I love the picture of Danny you sent. It worked perfect in that little frame) and buy a few groceries I need for dinner.
I feel completely unmotivated and emotionally drained. I care very little about anything. If I don't want to do something I don't even if it needs to get done. Except for a little stress last night and a small lack of motivation at the end of the day, the day ended on a good note and I was fairly happy. I feel like such a waste of time and space since I accomplish nothing and I have no reason to get anything done. I know it would make me feel better if I actually did something but I don't care.
Tell me whats wrong with me. I need a psychiatrist, don't I? No, I'm not pregnant, so don't even suggest it. I wish someone could help, but I feel pretty helpless sometimes.
So, I am getting used to Danny being home then gone then home again. Obviously that is the name of the game when you're married to the military. He was gone for two weeks and after the first few hours I was fine. Lately when he was gone last weekend or tonight when he had shore patrol I have been completely useless. I stay in bed until 10 am even though I went to bed at 9 and I get nothing accomplished during the day. I didn't fold the laundry (from yesterday) , I didn't do the dishes (also from yesterday), I didn't take a shower, get dressed until two, check the mail, go to the elementary school to check on the job, eat lunch, make the bed, or even go outside. I watched tv, check my email, and completely wasted my day. When I check my email and don't have anything new, I cry about it for 10 minutes. When Danny called me to say hi and I tried to explain how I felt, I cried.
When Danny is coming home at night, I am fine. I get everything done-eventually. I did the laundry, cleaned the bathroom, did the dishes before I made a dinner that was not out of a box. I even worked out and took a shower. I even left the house to check the mail (I got the stuff from you, Tracy, and I love the picture of Danny you sent. It worked perfect in that little frame) and buy a few groceries I need for dinner.
I feel completely unmotivated and emotionally drained. I care very little about anything. If I don't want to do something I don't even if it needs to get done. Except for a little stress last night and a small lack of motivation at the end of the day, the day ended on a good note and I was fairly happy. I feel like such a waste of time and space since I accomplish nothing and I have no reason to get anything done. I know it would make me feel better if I actually did something but I don't care.
Tell me whats wrong with me. I need a psychiatrist, don't I? No, I'm not pregnant, so don't even suggest it. I wish someone could help, but I feel pretty helpless sometimes.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Yokohama V
High rise buildings and small amuzement park. I am not sure why the buildings look curved in that one picture...
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