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It's been hard to know what to write about lately. To be honest, the holidays here were a bit of a roller coaster for me. Lots of ups and downs. A friend of mine tells me that Japan has layers and layers and the longer you stay here the more layers you go through. Some are interesting and other can really throw you off your game. I don't think I am ready yet to talk about some of the more difficult experiences I have had here. I am still correlating data as they say. Trying to make sense out of and find the best way to deal with my surroundings.

The english school has had some good news and some bad. In the bad, one of my students from a small group I teach has decided to stop going. Sensei and I discussed that matter and decided to offer them a reduced rate until they could find a 3rd body to fill the seat. It was sad to see, but understandable. There are a lot of available english teachers in Japan right now as well as a recession in the economy here. Sensei asked if I wanted to continue with the class and I said of course, that we are in this together. But I can't shake the feeling that all this is hanging by a string. But the good news is we do have a new class for a few months. A pair of teenage boys who will be travelling to Vancouver for a week are taking 3 months of lessons until they go. So something positive.

I spent new years in Shizouka. I had a good time. After midnight we moved to a Latino dance club. I watched Japanese Salsa on new years morning. It was beautiful.

I had a birthday on Sunday. I ended up being treated to dinner at Yakko by Ozawa Sensei and a friend of his. Bruce from Ottawa was there also. A very nice guy who has been friends with other english teachers here in the past. It was a very nice time. We ate and drank and talked for about 4 hours.

All is well here now. Being back into Karate helps me keep my focus on why I am here. I'll be busy with classes the next few days. Otherwise there isnt much to write about. Hopefull I can hook up with Kaoru soon for another epic style ride in Japan.

Only about 4 more months left to go here. Time is running out.