If you read yesterday's article of my blog, you could feel "Hum mm, Keiko is tired and desperate!" Yes, I was.
Getting exhausted this morning, I sensed strongly that I needed the toughness.
Everybody is working hard & there are so many people who are working harder around me, including my hubby... I shouldn't whine!!
Therefore, I decided to have "aggressiveness." Toughness will come with aggressiveness, if my theory is correct.
I've decided to have " the day's objectives."
Today, my objectives were:
1. Giving a good trial lesson a prospective of my baby class, and make her and her mommy my students!!
2. Welcoming my new private student, make him comfortable, and give him a helpful lesson to pass the EIKEN.
3. Give Hide, the most clever students of mine, "better" lesson than usual!
They are specific objects.
My "general" theme is..."Be ENERGETIC!!!"
Basically, I'm not a energetic person( I really want to be so, though.)
When I was a wedding emcee, ( I am still eager to restart my career, though) I tried to be hyper during my work.
But when it comes to English teacher job??? I should be the same!!
Today, my "spirit" (in Japanese, KIAI??) worked well. I did my best on the busy day, and...I hope the "spirit" goes on longer!!!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Monday, September 29, 2008
Help!
My friend had been visiting this weekend, and we went to Omotesando and Shibuya.
We visited fascinating boutiques, brand-new confectioneries, and had dinner at a wonderful Spanish restaurant...
I had a great time, but apparently I had fun too much... Now I'm in trouble with preparing for tomorrow's classes and study for EIKEN!
I just don't have time! I'm exhausted, but I have to stay up late today...but can I do a professional job with such a bad condition??
It's always hard to juggle some issues...
Well, don't give up! Pump up!
We visited fascinating boutiques, brand-new confectioneries, and had dinner at a wonderful Spanish restaurant...
I had a great time, but apparently I had fun too much... Now I'm in trouble with preparing for tomorrow's classes and study for EIKEN!
I just don't have time! I'm exhausted, but I have to stay up late today...but can I do a professional job with such a bad condition??
It's always hard to juggle some issues...
Well, don't give up! Pump up!
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Tokyo New? Discovery
If you come to Tokyo, where would you like to go sightseeing?
In the case of me (I am a Tokyo resident, though) and Rio, Isetan Girls, Some new French sweet shops in Ginza, and H & M (they opened the first Japanese branch in Tokyo!) We shopped , ate, and... I found the new and old Tokyo specialty.
That is...Monjayaki! We went to Tsukishima, and had two Monja as dinner.
There were several international tourists, and we explained some menu even though we were also "laymen" of Monja. It's salty, but it's really good!
You should try it if you visit Tokyo!!
In the case of me (I am a Tokyo resident, though) and Rio, Isetan Girls, Some new French sweet shops in Ginza, and H & M (they opened the first Japanese branch in Tokyo!) We shopped , ate, and... I found the new and old Tokyo specialty.
That is...Monjayaki! We went to Tsukishima, and had two Monja as dinner.
There were several international tourists, and we explained some menu even though we were also "laymen" of Monja. It's salty, but it's really good!
You should try it if you visit Tokyo!!
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Old Friends
I haven't had many guests, but...to get out of reclusive life? I had two guests today.
Rio, is my former co-worker when I worked for the Labor Standard Bureau. She came from Asahikawa to attend a training. Coincidentally, Masami, who lives in Saitama, but who is also my former co-worker, has attended the same training.
So, I invited the two to my home and cooked dinner!
It was a little bit hard to wash clothes, clean the whole room and cook with not-energetic condition, ( I think I am having a cold...) but old friends gave me energy.
Rio is staying my home. Where will we go tomorrow?
I have a busy life, buy it's always fun to hung out with close friends☆
Rio, is my former co-worker when I worked for the Labor Standard Bureau. She came from Asahikawa to attend a training. Coincidentally, Masami, who lives in Saitama, but who is also my former co-worker, has attended the same training.
So, I invited the two to my home and cooked dinner!
It was a little bit hard to wash clothes, clean the whole room and cook with not-energetic condition, ( I think I am having a cold...) but old friends gave me energy.
Rio is staying my home. Where will we go tomorrow?
I have a busy life, buy it's always fun to hung out with close friends☆
Friday, September 26, 2008
Teamwork
Today, our school got an inspection. Inspection? It's not exactly correct...
Let me explain. The language school I work for is a nationwide school. So, there are many "branch schools." I worked at a branch in Tokyo, along the Yamanote line.
Our school branch has achieved good profit in those days, so... today, several managers from other branches came to see "how to make a good profit!!"
However, the education manager of the headquarters also came...so, we should be careful not to give him some reasons to warn about teaching.
However, as a result, we have done well because of our "teamwork."
Most of our good results came from our manager, Rie, and our head teacher, Toshi's hard work. The thing I really admire them is they are very good at "asking for help" and "thanking."
They reported the head quarters that "We did it because of our teamwork." But it's not easy unless they share us information frequently, & explain the situations a lot.
If we (other teachers) did something for the school, they never forget to say "thank you!"
If they don't have time, they send "thank you e-mail" to us.
They are also "employees" of the school, but...they are very persistent to be successful as a language school, and a business.
I have seen some autocratic bosses, but nobody can everything without co-workers' help. I know there are some people who don't have to work or simply can't, but I really think everybody needs to have a job, especially when I learn a lot from my job.
Let me explain. The language school I work for is a nationwide school. So, there are many "branch schools." I worked at a branch in Tokyo, along the Yamanote line.
Our school branch has achieved good profit in those days, so... today, several managers from other branches came to see "how to make a good profit!!"
However, the education manager of the headquarters also came...so, we should be careful not to give him some reasons to warn about teaching.
However, as a result, we have done well because of our "teamwork."
Most of our good results came from our manager, Rie, and our head teacher, Toshi's hard work. The thing I really admire them is they are very good at "asking for help" and "thanking."
They reported the head quarters that "We did it because of our teamwork." But it's not easy unless they share us information frequently, & explain the situations a lot.
If we (other teachers) did something for the school, they never forget to say "thank you!"
If they don't have time, they send "thank you e-mail" to us.
They are also "employees" of the school, but...they are very persistent to be successful as a language school, and a business.
I have seen some autocratic bosses, but nobody can everything without co-workers' help. I know there are some people who don't have to work or simply can't, but I really think everybody needs to have a job, especially when I learn a lot from my job.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Strategies, Outcomes, and the Truth
On Wednesdays, I have the hardest class to teach. Every Tuesday night, I feel headache whenever I remember the class.
That class is...4-5 years old class. There are just two boys in the class.
Makoto: Good at speaking English, a handful, disobedient, and violent.
Takeru: So-so English speaker, weak, and always crying.
Fortunately, I had a follow-up training last week. Then, a trainer told me some strategies. Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to take this opportunities to report those...outcomes.
Strategy 1: (The trainer said)"Make mothers involved. Mothers are great to them.
Before the class, tell the mommies "Please praise them A LOT after the class!"
In the class, tell them "I know you are good at speaking English! Let's
study English A LOT today, and I will report how you does great to your mommies!" Then...if the boys behave badly, turn your expression sad and said, "Oh! I'm sorry I can't tell your moms that you are doing great...""
Outcome1: When I met them, I would talk to the mothers after I put my teaching materials in the classroom. But the boys followed me! So I didn't have time to speak with mothers... But it's good! They came to the classroom by themselves!!
Strategy 2: "Introduce the point system. Use the "smiley" magnets and tell them they are their points. if they do a good job, give them a point on the board. If they do something bad, take it away. Be careful to give the points back if they do a good job, and not to make a big difference between them."
Outcome 2: It works the violent one, Makoto... But the weak one, Takeru started to cry when I took his point away! And he run out of the classroom...
After he came back, the two boys kept saying, "Take Makoto(Takeru, I mean the other one)'s points away! He behaved bad!!"
It...worked??? It might bear another conflict between them!!
Strategy 3: "Makoto always refuses take out his flash cards? OK. Draw their favorite characters on a drawing paper. And let them spread their flash cards on the papers. If they see their favorite characters, they may take out their cards soon."
Outcome3: It seemed to work for Makoto... He took out his flash cards, but started to tear the Thomas pictures from the drawing paper! Takeru? He was still crying, and refused to take out cards.
These strategies didn't ...work??? Could be, but I felt relieved after the class because I was sure they enjoyed the class. Even though I was kicked and they "escaped" from the classroom several times, I learned "don't take it personally! They like you, but they just want to try "where is your limits."
I said no when they behaved bad, but I didn't get angry. After the class, I praised them in front of their mothers about the things they did good.
However, after all lessons were over, when I told the story to the head teacher, Toshi, I think I found the truth.
He said, "Oh! Takeru CRIED when his smiley was gone?? HOW CUTE he is!! I envy you cause you can teach such cute boys!! ...Ops, I'm sorry! Isn't my reaction what you expected??"
...Yeah, but it's OK... I thought "what a troublesome child Takeru is!!"
But Tashi's feeling is exactly what attracts children...
...It's a long way to be a popular teacher...
That class is...4-5 years old class. There are just two boys in the class.
Makoto: Good at speaking English, a handful, disobedient, and violent.
Takeru: So-so English speaker, weak, and always crying.
Fortunately, I had a follow-up training last week. Then, a trainer told me some strategies. Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to take this opportunities to report those...outcomes.
Strategy 1: (The trainer said)"Make mothers involved. Mothers are great to them.
Before the class, tell the mommies "Please praise them A LOT after the class!"
In the class, tell them "I know you are good at speaking English! Let's
study English A LOT today, and I will report how you does great to your mommies!" Then...if the boys behave badly, turn your expression sad and said, "Oh! I'm sorry I can't tell your moms that you are doing great...""
Outcome1: When I met them, I would talk to the mothers after I put my teaching materials in the classroom. But the boys followed me! So I didn't have time to speak with mothers... But it's good! They came to the classroom by themselves!!
Strategy 2: "Introduce the point system. Use the "smiley" magnets and tell them they are their points. if they do a good job, give them a point on the board. If they do something bad, take it away. Be careful to give the points back if they do a good job, and not to make a big difference between them."
Outcome 2: It works the violent one, Makoto... But the weak one, Takeru started to cry when I took his point away! And he run out of the classroom...
After he came back, the two boys kept saying, "Take Makoto(Takeru, I mean the other one)'s points away! He behaved bad!!"
It...worked??? It might bear another conflict between them!!
Strategy 3: "Makoto always refuses take out his flash cards? OK. Draw their favorite characters on a drawing paper. And let them spread their flash cards on the papers. If they see their favorite characters, they may take out their cards soon."
Outcome3: It seemed to work for Makoto... He took out his flash cards, but started to tear the Thomas pictures from the drawing paper! Takeru? He was still crying, and refused to take out cards.
These strategies didn't ...work??? Could be, but I felt relieved after the class because I was sure they enjoyed the class. Even though I was kicked and they "escaped" from the classroom several times, I learned "don't take it personally! They like you, but they just want to try "where is your limits."
I said no when they behaved bad, but I didn't get angry. After the class, I praised them in front of their mothers about the things they did good.
However, after all lessons were over, when I told the story to the head teacher, Toshi, I think I found the truth.
He said, "Oh! Takeru CRIED when his smiley was gone?? HOW CUTE he is!! I envy you cause you can teach such cute boys!! ...Ops, I'm sorry! Isn't my reaction what you expected??"
...Yeah, but it's OK... I thought "what a troublesome child Takeru is!!"
But Tashi's feeling is exactly what attracts children...
...It's a long way to be a popular teacher...
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Good Listener
A few days ago, I received e-mail from my friend.
The last time I sent her e-mail was 5 months ago. She invited me a party, but I couldn't make it because of work. I told her so, and let her know how I had been getting along. She didn't reply to me, but now she did ( I knew it because her e-mail's title was just "re: ( my title of the former mail)."
She didn't mention about my former mail, wrote about herself, and asked me a question.
...I don't want to say I didn't feel good about her e-mail, because it happens sometimes. However, when I feel "oh, s/he is not a good listener!", I tend to keep a distance from her/him. I don't do it deliberately, but the principle is simple.
"I can't enjoy being with people who are not good listeners." Except for some people who are truly entertainers & can make us laugh just talking about themselves, I think we need to be "good listeners." Why? because we, human beings have natural desire which tells "please listen to me!"
I love having a conversation which is "catch ball."
For example, if I ask her, "How are you? How's your work? How's your family?"
She replies, "I've been great. Thank you for asking! How about you? Do you enjoy your new job?" etc, etc.
It seems "common knowledge," but some people can't do this.
When I talk with those people, I feel like I am doing "dodge ball."
S/he just throws his ball (keep talking about their own topics,) and I don't have a ball to throw( I can't talk about myself because they seem not be interested in.)
I heard the Google's CEO, Eric Schmidt, always "ask" and "listen to" other people's talks. He said, "It's because as long as I listen to, I can get information I might not know!" I think he is the real clever.
So, why do I keep this blog? Because here is the only place I can keep "talking" about myself! Yes, the blog is the place where the writer can play "dodge ball."
You don't "have to" catch my ball. But if you have time to see my game, please join!
The last time I sent her e-mail was 5 months ago. She invited me a party, but I couldn't make it because of work. I told her so, and let her know how I had been getting along. She didn't reply to me, but now she did ( I knew it because her e-mail's title was just "re: ( my title of the former mail)."
She didn't mention about my former mail, wrote about herself, and asked me a question.
...I don't want to say I didn't feel good about her e-mail, because it happens sometimes. However, when I feel "oh, s/he is not a good listener!", I tend to keep a distance from her/him. I don't do it deliberately, but the principle is simple.
"I can't enjoy being with people who are not good listeners." Except for some people who are truly entertainers & can make us laugh just talking about themselves, I think we need to be "good listeners." Why? because we, human beings have natural desire which tells "please listen to me!"
I love having a conversation which is "catch ball."
For example, if I ask her, "How are you? How's your work? How's your family?"
She replies, "I've been great. Thank you for asking! How about you? Do you enjoy your new job?" etc, etc.
It seems "common knowledge," but some people can't do this.
When I talk with those people, I feel like I am doing "dodge ball."
S/he just throws his ball (keep talking about their own topics,) and I don't have a ball to throw( I can't talk about myself because they seem not be interested in.)
I heard the Google's CEO, Eric Schmidt, always "ask" and "listen to" other people's talks. He said, "It's because as long as I listen to, I can get information I might not know!" I think he is the real clever.
So, why do I keep this blog? Because here is the only place I can keep "talking" about myself! Yes, the blog is the place where the writer can play "dodge ball."
You don't "have to" catch my ball. But if you have time to see my game, please join!
No-no, "yes"man
My classes always finish 8:00 or 9:00pm. It means I usually go back home around 9:00-10:30pm when I work. But today, my private student of the last class canceled his, so I was supposed to leave the school 7:00pm.
However, when I went to the school, a manager said, "Well, your new private student said he would come to school to apply for the class around 8:00pm. If you are free after the last class, will you stay here to talk with him, hopefully, start the first class?"
...WHAT???
I hadn't refused school requests from our manager or the head teacher because I wanted to be a "reliable" teacher as soon as possible.
But, lately I've been tired, or somewhat jaded, so I stopped to be a "yes-man!"
(You know, correctly, "yes-woman...")
I said without hesitation, "Oh, I'm sorry! I have an appointment today. I can't make it."
What appointment? "Window-shopping with myself."
Of course co-workers should help each other. I want to do my best, but, frankly speaking, except for "the time when I teach", the time I stay school is almost "voluntary." I don't get paid! Everything I do at school is great learning for me, but sometimes I could be realistic.
...However, after I finished lessons, I found a visitor ( a prospective student.)
So I served tea, and talked with her for 15 minutes.
The 15 minutes is OK to me and for our school.
Well, I will be a person who can recognize "when I can say yes, when I can say no!"
However, when I went to the school, a manager said, "Well, your new private student said he would come to school to apply for the class around 8:00pm. If you are free after the last class, will you stay here to talk with him, hopefully, start the first class?"
...WHAT???
I hadn't refused school requests from our manager or the head teacher because I wanted to be a "reliable" teacher as soon as possible.
But, lately I've been tired, or somewhat jaded, so I stopped to be a "yes-man!"
(You know, correctly, "yes-woman...")
I said without hesitation, "Oh, I'm sorry! I have an appointment today. I can't make it."
What appointment? "Window-shopping with myself."
Of course co-workers should help each other. I want to do my best, but, frankly speaking, except for "the time when I teach", the time I stay school is almost "voluntary." I don't get paid! Everything I do at school is great learning for me, but sometimes I could be realistic.
...However, after I finished lessons, I found a visitor ( a prospective student.)
So I served tea, and talked with her for 15 minutes.
The 15 minutes is OK to me and for our school.
Well, I will be a person who can recognize "when I can say yes, when I can say no!"
Monday, September 22, 2008
Desperate
I have been wondering...
How do wives in the world manage to be compatible with household chores and work??
On Friday, I was offered to teach one more school by the area manager.
That was honored to me because the area manage trusted me to do well at the new school. So, I accepted it "temporarily" because I still have a plan to do my emcee job on weekends. However, my school now needs more teachers who are flexible, and I want to get "reliance" from my school & I need to be a reliable & profitable teacher, so I decided to stuck with my teacher job, so far.
On the other hand, I have some pressure to "pass" the first grade of EIKEN this fall.
To work more & study more, I need time...but I still consume a lot of time for my chores. To make some strategies to cut the time more, I counted how much time I consumed on this weekend. On Saturday and Sunday, 340 minutes. So... 5 hours and 40 minutes?? That is long!
I need to "innovate" something to be a super? lady, no, maybe "normal" lady."
By the way, "the chore time" includes "to decide my fashion coordination this week."
It took one hour, actually... Well, that is important chore!!
How do wives in the world manage to be compatible with household chores and work??
On Friday, I was offered to teach one more school by the area manager.
That was honored to me because the area manage trusted me to do well at the new school. So, I accepted it "temporarily" because I still have a plan to do my emcee job on weekends. However, my school now needs more teachers who are flexible, and I want to get "reliance" from my school & I need to be a reliable & profitable teacher, so I decided to stuck with my teacher job, so far.
On the other hand, I have some pressure to "pass" the first grade of EIKEN this fall.
To work more & study more, I need time...but I still consume a lot of time for my chores. To make some strategies to cut the time more, I counted how much time I consumed on this weekend. On Saturday and Sunday, 340 minutes. So... 5 hours and 40 minutes?? That is long!
I need to "innovate" something to be a super? lady, no, maybe "normal" lady."
By the way, "the chore time" includes "to decide my fashion coordination this week."
It took one hour, actually... Well, that is important chore!!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Theater & KARAOKE Room!
What is like your dream house?
Basically, I don't care so much about interior things, but there is thing I had dreamed about the house.
That was...a kind of ...studio? I love singing, so I thought it would be great if I had a "soundproofing" room in my house.
But, it is convenient to live in a condo in Tokyo, and it's expensive to have such a special room. Therefore, my "dream" ended up just a "dream."
However, however. today...I found the biggest perk (for me) which I hadn't noticed in our condo!!
I applied for using a theater room in my condo through a "mathematically challenged" guard( note; read the "Can you count?" section!)a few days ago. Tonight, my hubby and I watched the movie, "CHICAGO" there.
It was very pleasure to watch a gorgeous movie in a big room like a theater with biting favorite pizza & tasting a bottle of wine!
But more than the movie, pizza, and wine, the thing made me delighted was...KARAOKE!
I didn't know it, but the theater room has an up-to-date KARAOKE machine!
So...we could sing just two of us in a big theater room!!
Of course we could go to KARAOKE outside, but the machines are the same, and residents can use the room 100yen per hour! Isn't it wonderful???
I could say, it's almost "my dream came true!" I can sing by KARAOKE if I take one minute walk from my home, maybe without applying make-up!
Oh, but I have to reserve the room in advance, and the maximum length for using it is three hours. That is not so convenient...but it's OK!
I can meet interesting people like the mathematically-challenged guy before I reach "my??" KARAOKE room☆
Basically, I don't care so much about interior things, but there is thing I had dreamed about the house.
That was...a kind of ...studio? I love singing, so I thought it would be great if I had a "soundproofing" room in my house.
But, it is convenient to live in a condo in Tokyo, and it's expensive to have such a special room. Therefore, my "dream" ended up just a "dream."
However, however. today...I found the biggest perk (for me) which I hadn't noticed in our condo!!
I applied for using a theater room in my condo through a "mathematically challenged" guard( note; read the "Can you count?" section!)a few days ago. Tonight, my hubby and I watched the movie, "CHICAGO" there.
It was very pleasure to watch a gorgeous movie in a big room like a theater with biting favorite pizza & tasting a bottle of wine!
But more than the movie, pizza, and wine, the thing made me delighted was...KARAOKE!
I didn't know it, but the theater room has an up-to-date KARAOKE machine!
So...we could sing just two of us in a big theater room!!
Of course we could go to KARAOKE outside, but the machines are the same, and residents can use the room 100yen per hour! Isn't it wonderful???
I could say, it's almost "my dream came true!" I can sing by KARAOKE if I take one minute walk from my home, maybe without applying make-up!
Oh, but I have to reserve the room in advance, and the maximum length for using it is three hours. That is not so convenient...but it's OK!
I can meet interesting people like the mathematically-challenged guy before I reach "my??" KARAOKE room☆
Clue of Solutions
Today, I had a follow-up training for teaching kids' English at the headquarters.
I was looking forward to having it! Since I started to teach them three months ago, I got many "mysteries" that I didn't imagine when I had a new teacher training.
The trainers are young ladies, but they are very experienced teachers.
They are obviously "the cream of the crop," so in demo lessons, they treated teaching goods like magicians, changed their impersonation like puppeteers, and did gestures like panto mimers. I can't do that right now, but their demo lessons were like entertainment! They said, "You can use gestures and impersonation to have your kids understand English sentences. Think about the time when you learn Russian or something, which is the language you have never learned. Kids who start to learn English are the same. So, be an actor, and be hyper all the time when you are teaching English!"
Well, that is difficult when I have to teach three consecutive kids' classes...
However, I feel grateful about our school's training system!!
I asked my trainer some advice about my naughty 4-5 years old boys who are always running, deny to take our teaching materials,hit and kick each other, and try to take their pants off each other. I thought they were extremely handfuls, but the trainer said with a big smile,
"Well, they have no problem! It is clear that they like you so much!
They don't skip classes & not try to escape from your class. They like you very much. They are trying to figure out how much you "let them free" because you are so kind. I have some solutions! ...(omission)... If they don't work for the boys, I have another suggestions. You know, some new teachers often call us and ask advice. Don't hesitate to make contacts with us! Call me anytime!!"
I have been troubled with those kids for three months, but now I finally found "the clues of the solutions." I will write what kind of solutions I was told, later.
But today...I'm thankful, and very sleepy!! Good nighｔ☆
I was looking forward to having it! Since I started to teach them three months ago, I got many "mysteries" that I didn't imagine when I had a new teacher training.
The trainers are young ladies, but they are very experienced teachers.
They are obviously "the cream of the crop," so in demo lessons, they treated teaching goods like magicians, changed their impersonation like puppeteers, and did gestures like panto mimers. I can't do that right now, but their demo lessons were like entertainment! They said, "You can use gestures and impersonation to have your kids understand English sentences. Think about the time when you learn Russian or something, which is the language you have never learned. Kids who start to learn English are the same. So, be an actor, and be hyper all the time when you are teaching English!"
Well, that is difficult when I have to teach three consecutive kids' classes...
However, I feel grateful about our school's training system!!
I asked my trainer some advice about my naughty 4-5 years old boys who are always running, deny to take our teaching materials,hit and kick each other, and try to take their pants off each other. I thought they were extremely handfuls, but the trainer said with a big smile,
"Well, they have no problem! It is clear that they like you so much!
They don't skip classes & not try to escape from your class. They like you very much. They are trying to figure out how much you "let them free" because you are so kind. I have some solutions! ...(omission)... If they don't work for the boys, I have another suggestions. You know, some new teachers often call us and ask advice. Don't hesitate to make contacts with us! Call me anytime!!"
I have been troubled with those kids for three months, but now I finally found "the clues of the solutions." I will write what kind of solutions I was told, later.
But today...I'm thankful, and very sleepy!! Good nighｔ☆
Friday, September 19, 2008
Can you count?
One of the reasons we chose our condo is the 24hours security system.
From 9:00am to 6:00pm, caretakers are stationed at the security office, and security guards are there and patrol in the condo other time.
Another reason is having nice facilities. We have a gym, party room, Japanese tea ceremony room, theater room, and guest rooms.
However, since we moved, we have never used them!
So, my hubby and I planned to use the theater room this weekend.
We needed to book the room. I went to the security office to fill in the application form after my work. That was obviously after 6:00pm, so a guard was there.
I filled in the form, and got home.
A half hour later, I got a call from the guard. The below is the conversation between us. G is the guard, and K is me, Keiko.
G: "Hello. You booked a theater room, but I said three hours is the maximum for using it."
K: " Yes, you said so. So, I booked from 7:00pm to 10:00 pm."
G: "It's FOUR hours!"
K: "Excuse me? I said, from 7:00 to 10:00."
G: "Right, 7 is one hour, 8 is two hours, 9 is three hours, and 10 is four hours."
K: "... Well, listen. At 7, I will start to watch a movie, at 8, one hour passes, at 9, two hours pass, and at 10, three hours pass. You got it?"
G: "What??? I'm confused..."
K: "OK sir, try it. Subtract 7 from 10. What is the answer?"
G: " Let's see... THREE???"
K:" Good! Now you got it, right?"
G: " I see! I am sorry!!"
...Can you believe it??? I live in a nice condo, but how can they hire such a mathematically-challenged guy??? (God, I'm kind enough to use a political correctness word!!)
...Maybe it's OK cause he made my day to give me a material for the blog...
From 9:00am to 6:00pm, caretakers are stationed at the security office, and security guards are there and patrol in the condo other time.
Another reason is having nice facilities. We have a gym, party room, Japanese tea ceremony room, theater room, and guest rooms.
However, since we moved, we have never used them!
So, my hubby and I planned to use the theater room this weekend.
We needed to book the room. I went to the security office to fill in the application form after my work. That was obviously after 6:00pm, so a guard was there.
I filled in the form, and got home.
A half hour later, I got a call from the guard. The below is the conversation between us. G is the guard, and K is me, Keiko.
G: "Hello. You booked a theater room, but I said three hours is the maximum for using it."
K: " Yes, you said so. So, I booked from 7:00pm to 10:00 pm."
G: "It's FOUR hours!"
K: "Excuse me? I said, from 7:00 to 10:00."
G: "Right, 7 is one hour, 8 is two hours, 9 is three hours, and 10 is four hours."
K: "... Well, listen. At 7, I will start to watch a movie, at 8, one hour passes, at 9, two hours pass, and at 10, three hours pass. You got it?"
G: "What??? I'm confused..."
K: "OK sir, try it. Subtract 7 from 10. What is the answer?"
G: " Let's see... THREE???"
K:" Good! Now you got it, right?"
G: " I see! I am sorry!!"
...Can you believe it??? I live in a nice condo, but how can they hire such a mathematically-challenged guy??? (God, I'm kind enough to use a political correctness word!!)
...Maybe it's OK cause he made my day to give me a material for the blog...
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Bankruptcy of the Lehman Brothers
Although I am less interested in world news than I should be, I couldn't stop reading articles about the bankruptcy of the Lehman Brothers.
What a nightmare happened! It was the forth largest stock brokerage firm in the U.S, and the employees were "elites..." However, now the company's stock price dived, and once became $1!! The employees had been given some parts of their salaries as "stocks." Now those turned out "papers." I heard some employees (used to be, unfortunately...) sold the company's logo stuff on e-bay.
Now, people on the Wall street are whispering, "Who's next?" Even though an insurer American International Group had government-backed bailout, it doesn't meant they were "salvaged." Some of my friends have been working for an American major brokerage firm. I know they are excellent wherever they go, but I am worried they might be under hard situation.
However, it's not just American thing, or "an American company" thing.
We have possibilities of "(economical) emergency" all the time.
In the case, what "salvages" us? Money? Friends? Mentors? Brain? Strategies? Physical strength? Mental strength? Flexibility?
...In any way, it's not waste of time to make & save your properties for the unforeseen future.
What? Why am I writing this serious topic, unlikely usual me?
Because I want to prepare for EIKEN's essay test!
Thank you for accompanying me☆
What a nightmare happened! It was the forth largest stock brokerage firm in the U.S, and the employees were "elites..." However, now the company's stock price dived, and once became $1!! The employees had been given some parts of their salaries as "stocks." Now those turned out "papers." I heard some employees (used to be, unfortunately...) sold the company's logo stuff on e-bay.
Now, people on the Wall street are whispering, "Who's next?" Even though an insurer American International Group had government-backed bailout, it doesn't meant they were "salvaged." Some of my friends have been working for an American major brokerage firm. I know they are excellent wherever they go, but I am worried they might be under hard situation.
However, it's not just American thing, or "an American company" thing.
We have possibilities of "(economical) emergency" all the time.
In the case, what "salvages" us? Money? Friends? Mentors? Brain? Strategies? Physical strength? Mental strength? Flexibility?
...In any way, it's not waste of time to make & save your properties for the unforeseen future.
What? Why am I writing this serious topic, unlikely usual me?
Because I want to prepare for EIKEN's essay test!
Thank you for accompanying me☆
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Recluse?
Today was supposed to be an active day.
I planned to go to a beauty saloon, talk with my familiar staffs, and visit the Toastmasters Club in Omotesandou.
...However, when I went to the venue of the Toastmasters' meeting, the members were not there.
I couldn't contact with somebody because I didn't take a note of their cell phone number. It was supposed to be my first visit of the Japanese Toastmasters...
But I found myself even being glad, "Wow! Then I can go home and watch my favorite TV show!"
Last night, I was thinking about what I was doing one year ago.
I looked my last year's schedule note. ...I had some classes, but not everyday.
At that time, I had already taken many English classes & wanted to concentrate on the TOEIC studying and some presentations.
However, I neither work nor raise kids, so... I think I could be active more! But I wasn't.
I thought I was basically outgoing, but...what if I am a recluse??
The excuses why I don't go out on day offs are, ①I have to do chores and study.
②I don't want to waste my time to apply make-up and do hairdo.
However...maybe I just enjoy being alone at home, right??
The "ideal" me is "outgoing, communicative English teacher and bilingual emcee."
When can I do so???
I planned to go to a beauty saloon, talk with my familiar staffs, and visit the Toastmasters Club in Omotesandou.
...However, when I went to the venue of the Toastmasters' meeting, the members were not there.
I couldn't contact with somebody because I didn't take a note of their cell phone number. It was supposed to be my first visit of the Japanese Toastmasters...
But I found myself even being glad, "Wow! Then I can go home and watch my favorite TV show!"
Last night, I was thinking about what I was doing one year ago.
I looked my last year's schedule note. ...I had some classes, but not everyday.
At that time, I had already taken many English classes & wanted to concentrate on the TOEIC studying and some presentations.
However, I neither work nor raise kids, so... I think I could be active more! But I wasn't.
I thought I was basically outgoing, but...what if I am a recluse??
The excuses why I don't go out on day offs are, ①I have to do chores and study.
②I don't want to waste my time to apply make-up and do hairdo.
However...maybe I just enjoy being alone at home, right??
The "ideal" me is "outgoing, communicative English teacher and bilingual emcee."
When can I do so???
Monday, September 15, 2008
EIKEN
Originally, I was just interested in TOEIC as an English test.
Other major English tests, for example, TOEFL is for entrance of a university and I don't plan to do it so far, and EIKEN is...there were big differences between grades, I thought.
But now, my current employer, a language school, give teachers who have the first grade of the EIKEN good treatment.
They give us better salary ①those who have over 900 of the TOEIC ②those who have the first grade of the EIKEN.
I am eligible ①、but if I am qualified ②...I will get better one.
Other than that, if I am be able to teach a class for getting the first grade of the EIKEN, the hourly salary will be the highest!
...Other than these, "getting the best grade of the EIKEN" will makes me more "qualified" teacher. I can give some advice my students, not only about TOEIC, but also EIKEN. I should be a professional about any English tests.
Moreover, EIKEN supporters say, "TOEIC just has a listening test and a reading test, but EIKEN tests us writing and speaking as well. Also, a score of the TOEIC expires two years, but once you get an EIKEN grade, it will be "a lifetime long qualification!"
Under those influence, I started to prepare for the EIKEN a month? ago.
It is not easy for me to pass the first grade, because...I don't have enough knowledge about vocabulary & current affairs!!
The essay test has a large part of this test. I write this blog everyday, but the topics of EIKEN are not like this informal writing.
For example, "Should more be done to eliminate world hunger?" or "Does society give the rights of animals enough consideration?" ...At the speaking test, we have to make a speech about those kinds of topics!!
It could be not only my English problem, but also just "my" problem.
I just watch informative TV shows, like Tokudane （とくダネ）or King's brunch（王様のブランチ）instead of reading newspaper.
I should correct not only my study habits, but also just "my" habits to grow a "cultured" adult!!
Other major English tests, for example, TOEFL is for entrance of a university and I don't plan to do it so far, and EIKEN is...there were big differences between grades, I thought.
But now, my current employer, a language school, give teachers who have the first grade of the EIKEN good treatment.
They give us better salary ①those who have over 900 of the TOEIC ②those who have the first grade of the EIKEN.
I am eligible ①、but if I am qualified ②...I will get better one.
Other than that, if I am be able to teach a class for getting the first grade of the EIKEN, the hourly salary will be the highest!
...Other than these, "getting the best grade of the EIKEN" will makes me more "qualified" teacher. I can give some advice my students, not only about TOEIC, but also EIKEN. I should be a professional about any English tests.
Moreover, EIKEN supporters say, "TOEIC just has a listening test and a reading test, but EIKEN tests us writing and speaking as well. Also, a score of the TOEIC expires two years, but once you get an EIKEN grade, it will be "a lifetime long qualification!"
Under those influence, I started to prepare for the EIKEN a month? ago.
It is not easy for me to pass the first grade, because...I don't have enough knowledge about vocabulary & current affairs!!
The essay test has a large part of this test. I write this blog everyday, but the topics of EIKEN are not like this informal writing.
For example, "Should more be done to eliminate world hunger?" or "Does society give the rights of animals enough consideration?" ...At the speaking test, we have to make a speech about those kinds of topics!!
It could be not only my English problem, but also just "my" problem.
I just watch informative TV shows, like Tokudane （とくダネ）or King's brunch（王様のブランチ）instead of reading newspaper.
I should correct not only my study habits, but also just "my" habits to grow a "cultured" adult!!
What happens in...
One of the movie that my hubby and I had longed for watching was...
"What happens in Vegas!" http://www.whathappensinvegasmovie.com/
（ベガスの恋に勝つルール）
On account of our loyalty?to Las Vegas, we have been trying to watch many movies which were shot in Vegas.
The main characters of this movie are Cameron Diaz and Ashton Kutcher.
The one I admire her fashion and style, and the one I LOVE his appearance!
Perfect match!
However, before we went to "worship" the perfect site and perfect couple, we (mostly I ) had a place to go to.
The Hokkaido food exhibition, again! Last week, I went to Shinjuku Keiko department store's, but this week, the one is Shinjuku Odakyu's.
Actually, the current one is bigger.
My aim was Hokkaido's new "especialty," the fresh caramel from Hanabagake farm!
http://www.hanabatakebokujo.com/
When we visited Hokkaido last month, so many people waited for a loooong line to get this at an airport.
We couldn't get it at Keiko's Hokkaido exhibition, too, but this time...
We got up early unlikely us, and arrived at the store at 10:30.
Yes, it was already past the opening time, but we guessed we could get it because they sell the fresh caramel 800 boxes for a day!
However, when we arrived there, they were already sold out.
What a monster "especialty!" If somebody have tasted it, please tell me what it is like...
By the way, the Odakyu's Hokkaido food exhibition was terribly crowded.
I think we have never experienced such a high density!
Numerous people waited for crowded lines to get Hokkaido's food, sweet, etc,etc.
My hubby was totally scared and said..."What happens in Odakyu!! Everybody is so crazy!"
After that, we waited for almost 2-stations-distance to browse some interior shops.
It has been four months since we moved our new condo, but our interior hasn't been completed. We walked around Shinjuku 3 chome, and we knew the area's "specialty" was guy people...
Then we found some guy couples there! How did I know whether they were couples or friends? Well, basically I am totally out of loop, but I CAN figure out they have "issues" because apparently they gave off "chemistry!!"
I said to my hubby, "What happens in Shinjuku 3 chome!? I have no idea!!"
However, the "original" movie, "What happens in Vegas" was awesome!
I didn't know my favorite actress, Lake Bell http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/contributor/1808924254
was starring. She was stunning & feminine actress in Boston Legal, my favorite TV show. But in this movie, she became a broad-acting actress!
Of course the main two were fascinating!
But while I was watching the movie, I realized...
I am not fat, might be skinny, but look at Cameron Diaz!
I think she exercises a lot, so...her figure is perfect!
I just have been eating what I like recently, and no exercise.
What happens in my body! I should do something, as soon as possible...
"What happens in Vegas!" http://www.whathappensinvegasmovie.com/
（ベガスの恋に勝つルール）
On account of our loyalty?to Las Vegas, we have been trying to watch many movies which were shot in Vegas.
The main characters of this movie are Cameron Diaz and Ashton Kutcher.
The one I admire her fashion and style, and the one I LOVE his appearance!
Perfect match!
However, before we went to "worship" the perfect site and perfect couple, we (mostly I ) had a place to go to.
The Hokkaido food exhibition, again! Last week, I went to Shinjuku Keiko department store's, but this week, the one is Shinjuku Odakyu's.
Actually, the current one is bigger.
My aim was Hokkaido's new "especialty," the fresh caramel from Hanabagake farm!
http://www.hanabatakebokujo.com/
When we visited Hokkaido last month, so many people waited for a loooong line to get this at an airport.
We couldn't get it at Keiko's Hokkaido exhibition, too, but this time...
We got up early unlikely us, and arrived at the store at 10:30.
Yes, it was already past the opening time, but we guessed we could get it because they sell the fresh caramel 800 boxes for a day!
However, when we arrived there, they were already sold out.
What a monster "especialty!" If somebody have tasted it, please tell me what it is like...
By the way, the Odakyu's Hokkaido food exhibition was terribly crowded.
I think we have never experienced such a high density!
Numerous people waited for crowded lines to get Hokkaido's food, sweet, etc,etc.
My hubby was totally scared and said..."What happens in Odakyu!! Everybody is so crazy!"
After that, we waited for almost 2-stations-distance to browse some interior shops.
It has been four months since we moved our new condo, but our interior hasn't been completed. We walked around Shinjuku 3 chome, and we knew the area's "specialty" was guy people...
Then we found some guy couples there! How did I know whether they were couples or friends? Well, basically I am totally out of loop, but I CAN figure out they have "issues" because apparently they gave off "chemistry!!"
I said to my hubby, "What happens in Shinjuku 3 chome!? I have no idea!!"
However, the "original" movie, "What happens in Vegas" was awesome!
I didn't know my favorite actress, Lake Bell http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/contributor/1808924254
was starring. She was stunning & feminine actress in Boston Legal, my favorite TV show. But in this movie, she became a broad-acting actress!
Of course the main two were fascinating!
But while I was watching the movie, I realized...
I am not fat, might be skinny, but look at Cameron Diaz!
I think she exercises a lot, so...her figure is perfect!
I just have been eating what I like recently, and no exercise.
What happens in my body! I should do something, as soon as possible...
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Specialty
My hubby and I have enjoyed most of food in Japan since we came back here.
But, one thing we miss America (just speaking about food,) is...STEAK!!
So, today, after we went to our favorite outlet mall, we stopped by the Outback steakhouse at Minamiosawa(南大沢。）
When we lived in the States, Outback steakhouse http://www.outback.com/ is one of the most popular restaurants. Whenever we went there, we had to wait at least 20 minutes.
We had already researched where the branches are in Japan.
In Shinagawa, Shibuya, and Minamiosawa.
Today, we went to the least (seemingly) crowded one!
The restaurant was in the big building, not likely in the U.S.
But the interior and the menu were almost exactly the same as American ones.
(Oh, the restaurant is originally from Australia, though)
Besides us, a black family sat, enjoyed dinner, and celebrated the wife's birthday.
There were some black waiters, too. The scene was like when we were in the States! We just reminisced our American days.
When we ordered, we asked whether drinks were refillable and we could take the food out if we couldn't eat everything. The answers were "yes" to both questions.
Wow, that's great!
They have American good food habits and their original menu, but here is in Japan, so we could order in Japanese!
We felt really happy.
However, when we had "climax," I mean, when we were eating the main dish, we felt something different.
We ordered the Rib eye steaks, our favorite ones, but the taste was...actually, not as good as the ones we had in the States.
Then we realized a cliche.
we could have the area's specialty even if we were not there, but it is better if we have them, exactly in the area!!
But I am still happy. I don't know how many times I can have "the specialty."
I may live there or travel, but I'm happy if I am with my hubby.
We have some little "flaws" in our daily life, but if we are healthy and be together, that is the perfect!!
But, one thing we miss America (just speaking about food,) is...STEAK!!
So, today, after we went to our favorite outlet mall, we stopped by the Outback steakhouse at Minamiosawa(南大沢。）
When we lived in the States, Outback steakhouse http://www.outback.com/ is one of the most popular restaurants. Whenever we went there, we had to wait at least 20 minutes.
We had already researched where the branches are in Japan.
In Shinagawa, Shibuya, and Minamiosawa.
Today, we went to the least (seemingly) crowded one!
The restaurant was in the big building, not likely in the U.S.
But the interior and the menu were almost exactly the same as American ones.
(Oh, the restaurant is originally from Australia, though)
Besides us, a black family sat, enjoyed dinner, and celebrated the wife's birthday.
There were some black waiters, too. The scene was like when we were in the States! We just reminisced our American days.
When we ordered, we asked whether drinks were refillable and we could take the food out if we couldn't eat everything. The answers were "yes" to both questions.
Wow, that's great!
They have American good food habits and their original menu, but here is in Japan, so we could order in Japanese!
We felt really happy.
However, when we had "climax," I mean, when we were eating the main dish, we felt something different.
We ordered the Rib eye steaks, our favorite ones, but the taste was...actually, not as good as the ones we had in the States.
Then we realized a cliche.
we could have the area's specialty even if we were not there, but it is better if we have them, exactly in the area!!
But I am still happy. I don't know how many times I can have "the specialty."
I may live there or travel, but I'm happy if I am with my hubby.
We have some little "flaws" in our daily life, but if we are healthy and be together, that is the perfect!!
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Unconditional Love
A few days ago, when I was about to fall asleep in the morning on my day off( I always take a looong nap on my day offs,) the phone rang.
I didn't take it because I wanted to sleep, but the caller was leaving her message on my answering machine, and that was my mom.
"Hello, Keiko, are you leaving home? I want to send chicken (she buys specific chicken from her favorite farm) to you, so when are you at home?"
...I gave up, and took the phone.
A half hour later I hung up the phone, I was almost falling asleep again, then...
The phone rang again. My answering machine answered instead of frustrating me, and that was my aunt.
"Hi, I will send pumpkin to your home. When are you at home?"
...Actually, they are very good at "waking me up" on my day offs... It happens all the time!
But of course I didn't complain!
They often send me food because of their kindness.
Tonight, I got a big cardboard box from my mom.
There were not only chicken, but also several kinds of sashimi, fish for grill, and "mommy handmade" stuff. She baked bread, made ketchup, blackberry jam, seasoned salmon, boiled beans, and pasta source, etc, etc, and sent them to us.
My mom was a nutritionist. Since I was a kid, she was always in the kitchen, and made everything from scratch. Not only breakfast to dinner, but also sweets & any kinds of source. I thought I would be a housekeeper like mom, but after I grew up, I realized... "We can buy them everything at stores!!"
Anyway, whenever I got these stuff from my parents, my parents-in-law, or my relatives, I feel their unconditional love. Also I sense, I shouldn't take them for granted.
By the way, whenever my hubby and I have dinner, he"put aside" his unfavorite dishes to my side discreetly.
I always notice that and say, "Hey! You should eat everything!"
Then he says, "Please love me unconditionally! I want to eat just what I like!"
...Oh honey, it is not called "unconditional love," but "spoiling love!!"
I didn't take it because I wanted to sleep, but the caller was leaving her message on my answering machine, and that was my mom.
"Hello, Keiko, are you leaving home? I want to send chicken (she buys specific chicken from her favorite farm) to you, so when are you at home?"
...I gave up, and took the phone.
A half hour later I hung up the phone, I was almost falling asleep again, then...
The phone rang again. My answering machine answered instead of frustrating me, and that was my aunt.
"Hi, I will send pumpkin to your home. When are you at home?"
...Actually, they are very good at "waking me up" on my day offs... It happens all the time!
But of course I didn't complain!
They often send me food because of their kindness.
Tonight, I got a big cardboard box from my mom.
There were not only chicken, but also several kinds of sashimi, fish for grill, and "mommy handmade" stuff. She baked bread, made ketchup, blackberry jam, seasoned salmon, boiled beans, and pasta source, etc, etc, and sent them to us.
My mom was a nutritionist. Since I was a kid, she was always in the kitchen, and made everything from scratch. Not only breakfast to dinner, but also sweets & any kinds of source. I thought I would be a housekeeper like mom, but after I grew up, I realized... "We can buy them everything at stores!!"
Anyway, whenever I got these stuff from my parents, my parents-in-law, or my relatives, I feel their unconditional love. Also I sense, I shouldn't take them for granted.
By the way, whenever my hubby and I have dinner, he"put aside" his unfavorite dishes to my side discreetly.
I always notice that and say, "Hey! You should eat everything!"
Then he says, "Please love me unconditionally! I want to eat just what I like!"
...Oh honey, it is not called "unconditional love," but "spoiling love!!"
Friday, September 12, 2008
Take your time
Busy day, again.
On such busy days, I always try to identify..."where my destination is."
So far, I am still groping how I can teach English better, how I can contribute to my school, how I can make my students improved their English, and how I can have them "trusted" me.
In addition to that I don't get used to teaching job, I have been studying for Eiken, STEP test next month. And I...really want to get the first grade.
Of course I have to do my housework, and I have to look for my new emcee agent...
Tons of things to do!
However...if I think, "where is my destination? What kind of person do I want to be?"
I can make an order of my priorities.
And then, I say to myself. "Take your time!"
Taking your time is not always bad. Some of my students say that it takes time to improve in English. But it's OK! If you know your "destination," I mean "objectives," the time when you have struggled how to reach the destination could be very precious.
People who took time when they had to do so, I am sure they can "break through" someday. The time you have struggled makes your very patient, tough, and smart.
OK, at the last of this article, I should confess...
I don't know why my writing characters changed!
I should take "learning how to use PC" in my "priorities" list!!
On such busy days, I always try to identify..."where my destination is."
So far, I am still groping how I can teach English better, how I can contribute to my school, how I can make my students improved their English, and how I can have them "trusted" me.
In addition to that I don't get used to teaching job, I have been studying for Eiken, STEP test next month. And I...really want to get the first grade.
Of course I have to do my housework, and I have to look for my new emcee agent...
Tons of things to do!
However...if I think, "where is my destination? What kind of person do I want to be?"
I can make an order of my priorities.
And then, I say to myself. "Take your time!"
Taking your time is not always bad. Some of my students say that it takes time to improve in English. But it's OK! If you know your "destination," I mean "objectives," the time when you have struggled how to reach the destination could be very precious.
People who took time when they had to do so, I am sure they can "break through" someday. The time you have struggled makes your very patient, tough, and smart.
OK, at the last of this article, I should confess...
I don't know why my writing characters changed!
I should take "learning how to use PC" in my "priorities" list!!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Capacity
It's been a hard day, baby...
In the early morning, I felt so tired that I took nap after I sent my husband off.
I had been in bed at the last minute I had to wake up, and rushed to get ready to go work.
At school, I had a trial lesson student. She was two-year-old baby girl.
Because she is a baby...it took a looong time to set up everything. Actual lesson time was just 10 minutes, but I played with her mostly in English, for an hour and a half.
I sent the baby and the mother off with twitching smile, and literally "rushed" to prepare three kids lessons in 30 minutes. I didn't have time to eat lunch.
I taught three kids lessons, and 4-5 year old boys were lousier than ever.
I got seriously mad..,it was not only they were bad, but also I was hungry, I guess...
After three consecutive energetic kids lessons, I "rushed" again to prepare two adult lessons in 50 minutes.
Fortunately, I had time to buy food and eat it!
On those busy days. I am always depressed how small my capacity is.
At the trial lessons, I was irritated that the school manager proceeded everything(like talking with the mother, taking memory photos, explaining materials, and so on) very slowly. I understand they would glad if we talked with them longer, but...time is limited, especially for me, a part time teacher!!
However, there obviously "exist" generous people who have very big capacity.
I mean, they can think about how other people think, suffer, or worry. They are always eager to help us. They always take everything in good ways.
They are real pros, but they can understand people who are struggling.
Like Eriot who was an emergency teacher of my school, like Sally who was my tutor in the U.S, I have always admired them & longed for if I can be like them...
But, it's hard to "enlarge" my capacity box!
Wait a minute! My 4-5 year class boy, he didn't flip my skirt over today!
We promised he didn't do it anymore last week, so he might remember that!
Oh God, I wasn't aware the one thing he did good.
How small my capacity is!!
...But, he kicked me instead of that...
Is that my capacity's problem!???
In the early morning, I felt so tired that I took nap after I sent my husband off.
I had been in bed at the last minute I had to wake up, and rushed to get ready to go work.
At school, I had a trial lesson student. She was two-year-old baby girl.
Because she is a baby...it took a looong time to set up everything. Actual lesson time was just 10 minutes, but I played with her mostly in English, for an hour and a half.
I sent the baby and the mother off with twitching smile, and literally "rushed" to prepare three kids lessons in 30 minutes. I didn't have time to eat lunch.
I taught three kids lessons, and 4-5 year old boys were lousier than ever.
I got seriously mad..,it was not only they were bad, but also I was hungry, I guess...
After three consecutive energetic kids lessons, I "rushed" again to prepare two adult lessons in 50 minutes.
Fortunately, I had time to buy food and eat it!
On those busy days. I am always depressed how small my capacity is.
At the trial lessons, I was irritated that the school manager proceeded everything(like talking with the mother, taking memory photos, explaining materials, and so on) very slowly. I understand they would glad if we talked with them longer, but...time is limited, especially for me, a part time teacher!!
However, there obviously "exist" generous people who have very big capacity.
I mean, they can think about how other people think, suffer, or worry. They are always eager to help us. They always take everything in good ways.
They are real pros, but they can understand people who are struggling.
Like Eriot who was an emergency teacher of my school, like Sally who was my tutor in the U.S, I have always admired them & longed for if I can be like them...
But, it's hard to "enlarge" my capacity box!
Wait a minute! My 4-5 year class boy, he didn't flip my skirt over today!
We promised he didn't do it anymore last week, so he might remember that!
Oh God, I wasn't aware the one thing he did good.
How small my capacity is!!
...But, he kicked me instead of that...
Is that my capacity's problem!???
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Unexpected Visitor
He showed up when I cooked for a-few-days dinner(cause I have to work late tomorrow and day after tomorrow.) It was 9:00pm sharp. I was not with my husband.
When he arrived in front of me, I was so unprepared that I had totally no idea what I should do. Why did he came here...our new condo, which is half-year-old, and 11th floor!!?? That is a question...
He...is...a cockroach!!
He flied around the kitchen. I had no idea because there were several dishes I just finished to cook in the kitchen! I couldn't use insecticide, and I forgot where a flapper was... I called my hubby, but he was so cold because he was still working busily.
"OK, OK, I don't have a reinforcement, I should fight with it alone..."
I said to myself. And...I hit it by a box and immediately sprayed insecticide.
(I have my dishes "evacuated.") I screamed, not because I won, but because I didn't want to see its "corpse." But I couldn't let him alone, so I picked it using the box and flushed it into the toilet bowl.
After that...whenever I go to the toilet, I am afraid he might appear again as a ghost!
I am a thinking citizen, I am working hard every day...
God, please don't give me such a hardship!!
When he arrived in front of me, I was so unprepared that I had totally no idea what I should do. Why did he came here...our new condo, which is half-year-old, and 11th floor!!?? That is a question...
He...is...a cockroach!!
He flied around the kitchen. I had no idea because there were several dishes I just finished to cook in the kitchen! I couldn't use insecticide, and I forgot where a flapper was... I called my hubby, but he was so cold because he was still working busily.
"OK, OK, I don't have a reinforcement, I should fight with it alone..."
I said to myself. And...I hit it by a box and immediately sprayed insecticide.
(I have my dishes "evacuated.") I screamed, not because I won, but because I didn't want to see its "corpse." But I couldn't let him alone, so I picked it using the box and flushed it into the toilet bowl.
After that...whenever I go to the toilet, I am afraid he might appear again as a ghost!
I am a thinking citizen, I am working hard every day...
God, please don't give me such a hardship!!
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Hint of Fall
Compared to MUGGY yesterday, it was nearly "fall-like" weather today.
I wore a long sleeve shirt because I wanted to feel "a hint of fall." I was too hot to wear it noon... but when I finished my work, it became cool enough.
My private student canceled the last class today, so...I could go to the "Hokkaido Food exhibition" again! I got a (le) mont-blanc(モンブラン）! It was also, I could feel "a hint of fall"☆
We can say, not only "fall in the best season for eating," but also "as well as reading."
Right now, I have been trying to read an English book "ten pages per day."
To get the first grade of STEP(英検）、and full score of the TOEIC in a year, I realized I had to READ a lot! Of course I have to do exercises for the tests, but reading can build my fundamental skills.
However, after the work, I memorize (just tried, though) 35 vocabulary, keep a blog ,and read a book... I keep my resolutions, but with "drowsing."
Maybe, for me, "fall is the best season for...SLEEPING!!"
I wore a long sleeve shirt because I wanted to feel "a hint of fall." I was too hot to wear it noon... but when I finished my work, it became cool enough.
My private student canceled the last class today, so...I could go to the "Hokkaido Food exhibition" again! I got a (le) mont-blanc(モンブラン）! It was also, I could feel "a hint of fall"☆
We can say, not only "fall in the best season for eating," but also "as well as reading."
Right now, I have been trying to read an English book "ten pages per day."
To get the first grade of STEP(英検）、and full score of the TOEIC in a year, I realized I had to READ a lot! Of course I have to do exercises for the tests, but reading can build my fundamental skills.
However, after the work, I memorize (just tried, though) 35 vocabulary, keep a blog ,and read a book... I keep my resolutions, but with "drowsing."
Maybe, for me, "fall is the best season for...SLEEPING!!"
Monday, September 08, 2008
Team Spirit
I had reunion with my contemporaries. I mean, the "new-blood" teachers who had trainings as the same time with me.
Others are full-timers, so they have contributed to the school more than me.
Their common concern is "we want to show our team spirit, but we need to improve in our English more, so we need more time to study."
They are quite serious & sincere girls, so we did the "book-store-touring" to talk about which materials for English study are good!
After the reunion, I went to the Tokyo Dome to support my hubby's company's baseball team. Now, the national amateur baseball team tournament has been being held. My hubby's company's team (he is not an athlete, you know!) became best eight yesterday.
Tonight was the quarterfinal game.
My hubby "had to" go there as a staff and "had to" support their games, but I didn't expect to do that.
However, yesterday, my hubby said, "Common, let's go! Please come!"
...So, I made it.
I imagined to sit quietly & just "watch" the game like most Americans watching baseball games, but...here is Japan!
As westerners were surprised to watch the Japanese supporters at Olympics, we made a lot of noise during the game!
I know players can't "rest" during the game, but we also couldn't "rest."
There are many cheer girls & boys who always encouraged us to make some noise.
Clap, scream, sing songs...
Actually, I was exhausted!! My hubby looked the same.
I asked him,"why did you want me to come here?"
He smiled, "I just want you to know how hard to show the team spirit!"
I growled, "ahhh...OK. And, what else?"
He shrugged his shoulders, "I thought I could make an excuse for not going "team spirit party" after the game if I am with you!"
Ummm...it makes sense!
But fortunately? his company's team won. So...he and his co-workers have to demonstrate their team spirit more and more!
Good work☆
Others are full-timers, so they have contributed to the school more than me.
Their common concern is "we want to show our team spirit, but we need to improve in our English more, so we need more time to study."
They are quite serious & sincere girls, so we did the "book-store-touring" to talk about which materials for English study are good!
After the reunion, I went to the Tokyo Dome to support my hubby's company's baseball team. Now, the national amateur baseball team tournament has been being held. My hubby's company's team (he is not an athlete, you know!) became best eight yesterday.
Tonight was the quarterfinal game.
My hubby "had to" go there as a staff and "had to" support their games, but I didn't expect to do that.
However, yesterday, my hubby said, "Common, let's go! Please come!"
...So, I made it.
I imagined to sit quietly & just "watch" the game like most Americans watching baseball games, but...here is Japan!
As westerners were surprised to watch the Japanese supporters at Olympics, we made a lot of noise during the game!
I know players can't "rest" during the game, but we also couldn't "rest."
There are many cheer girls & boys who always encouraged us to make some noise.
Clap, scream, sing songs...
Actually, I was exhausted!! My hubby looked the same.
I asked him,"why did you want me to come here?"
He smiled, "I just want you to know how hard to show the team spirit!"
I growled, "ahhh...OK. And, what else?"
He shrugged his shoulders, "I thought I could make an excuse for not going "team spirit party" after the game if I am with you!"
Ummm...it makes sense!
But fortunately? his company's team won. So...he and his co-workers have to demonstrate their team spirit more and more!
Good work☆
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Your moment!
Eric is an ET. Yes, he is an extraterrestrial. No, he is an "emergency teacher" at my school!
Today, we had a farewell party for him. Because Sam came from Australia to be our full-time teacher, Eric goes back to the head office.
Eric looks like a typical English man. His motions are gentle, and his voice is really soft. He might look like a snob, actually.
But the fact is...he is really enthusiastic, sincere, and humorous guy!
He wrote many posters about events or "welcome boards" for new students. He was all thumbs, so his posters were like children's originals. However, those warmed students' heart. He always clapped, did some characteristic movements, or even sing sometimes yo make his classes enjoyable.
There are many legacies he left, but what I admire him most is that he remembers every students' full names! And then, when the student came, he said cheerfully.
For example, "Hey! Akira Sato's moment!!" like this.
This magical word put a spotlight on each student.
Therefore, today, when we were at the Yakiniku restaurant, we often mimicked Eric saying, "Eric's moment!" "Bob's moment!" when the person talked enthusiastically.
There were Eric, from England, Bob, from America, Sam, from Australia, and my head teacher Toshi, manager Rie, and me.
Our English has such diversity, so sometimes it was difficult for me to understand...
But I appreciate I am in such a circumstance!
I think why Eric did so much work is because of his passion.
People who have "soul" and "passion" always influence well to people around him/her.
So, let's start to have both of those! Then, it's going to come..."Your moment!!"
Today, we had a farewell party for him. Because Sam came from Australia to be our full-time teacher, Eric goes back to the head office.
Eric looks like a typical English man. His motions are gentle, and his voice is really soft. He might look like a snob, actually.
But the fact is...he is really enthusiastic, sincere, and humorous guy!
He wrote many posters about events or "welcome boards" for new students. He was all thumbs, so his posters were like children's originals. However, those warmed students' heart. He always clapped, did some characteristic movements, or even sing sometimes yo make his classes enjoyable.
There are many legacies he left, but what I admire him most is that he remembers every students' full names! And then, when the student came, he said cheerfully.
For example, "Hey! Akira Sato's moment!!" like this.
This magical word put a spotlight on each student.
Therefore, today, when we were at the Yakiniku restaurant, we often mimicked Eric saying, "Eric's moment!" "Bob's moment!" when the person talked enthusiastically.
There were Eric, from England, Bob, from America, Sam, from Australia, and my head teacher Toshi, manager Rie, and me.
Our English has such diversity, so sometimes it was difficult for me to understand...
But I appreciate I am in such a circumstance!
I think why Eric did so much work is because of his passion.
People who have "soul" and "passion" always influence well to people around him/her.
So, let's start to have both of those! Then, it's going to come..."Your moment!!"
Saturday, September 06, 2008
Coaching and Teaching
As a matter of fact, I have still been in...the dream world. I mean, "the Beijing Olympics" dream world.
It has been...two weeks? or three weeks? since it was over. However, I have still watched videos of Olympic athletes' special programs, and read some magazines about them.
Today, I watched the NHK special program of the Japanese swimming team coach, Mr. Hirai. He has been coaching Kousuke Kitamura and Reiko Nakamura.
Among five medals the Japanese swimming team got in this Olympics, Kitamura got three and Nakamuraya got one.
As you can know from the fact...Mr.Hirai is so talented coach!
From the TV program, I learned a lot, actually...as a teacher.
First, (it can apply for any jobs, though,) "big success comes from lots of failure."
Mr. Hirai did some mistakes at the Sydney Olympics, and they made him more persistent and professional.
Second, "it is important to give advice in "simple" words."
I think it's significant! Coaches, teachers, some people who "teach" something to people, tend to be wordy. Because I want to teach many things to my students, sometimes I explain too much & point out many things. But I understand I could have my students get confused!
Third, "Instructors should see one step further than pupils (students.)"
When Mr. Hirai got excited like a swimmer himself, he couldn't get a good result. Instructors should always be level-headed, and project their future, he said.
I know I have to think about how my students can keep studying English forever, but if I forget this "essence," I tend to "just" teach daily classes.
Ummm... we can always learn from people who are the "cream of the crop!"
While I was watching the program being impressed, my hubby kept saying...
"Honey, come back to the reality world! The Beijing Olympics were over!
Now, we are having our regular life, OK?!"
....I KNOW IT!
It has been...two weeks? or three weeks? since it was over. However, I have still watched videos of Olympic athletes' special programs, and read some magazines about them.
Today, I watched the NHK special program of the Japanese swimming team coach, Mr. Hirai. He has been coaching Kousuke Kitamura and Reiko Nakamura.
Among five medals the Japanese swimming team got in this Olympics, Kitamura got three and Nakamuraya got one.
As you can know from the fact...Mr.Hirai is so talented coach!
From the TV program, I learned a lot, actually...as a teacher.
First, (it can apply for any jobs, though,) "big success comes from lots of failure."
Mr. Hirai did some mistakes at the Sydney Olympics, and they made him more persistent and professional.
Second, "it is important to give advice in "simple" words."
I think it's significant! Coaches, teachers, some people who "teach" something to people, tend to be wordy. Because I want to teach many things to my students, sometimes I explain too much & point out many things. But I understand I could have my students get confused!
Third, "Instructors should see one step further than pupils (students.)"
When Mr. Hirai got excited like a swimmer himself, he couldn't get a good result. Instructors should always be level-headed, and project their future, he said.
I know I have to think about how my students can keep studying English forever, but if I forget this "essence," I tend to "just" teach daily classes.
Ummm... we can always learn from people who are the "cream of the crop!"
While I was watching the program being impressed, my hubby kept saying...
"Honey, come back to the reality world! The Beijing Olympics were over!
Now, we are having our regular life, OK?!"
....I KNOW IT!
Friday, September 05, 2008
Hokkaido Food Exhibition
When my hubby and I went to my home island, Hokkaido, he said.
"Your parents and relatives always talk about food, serve much food over our capacity, and go out to eat anywhere... Is here the FOOD kingdom!??"
I think....yes, it is. Hokkaido is abundant for agriculture and seafood!
Therefore?? when department stores in Tokyo hold "the Hokkaido Exhibition," it means "the Hokkaido Food Exhibition!!"
I found an advertisement for the Shinjuku Keio department store this morning.
They would hold the Hokkaido Exhibition from today. I was excited!
Today, luckily, two of my private students canceled classes, and I didn't have to attend a business meeting. My class would start from 4:00 pm today (even though I have to go to school at least one hour earlier to prepare classes,) so...I could go to the exhibition to get a gorgeous lunch!
If I were asked, "on your last day of your life, what food would you like to eat?"( I know it's a cliche question, though...) I would definitely answer, "crab and prosciutto(uncured ham!!)"
Apparently prosciutto is not Hokkaido's specialty, but crab, clearly is!!
I rode on an elevator of the Keio store with excitement to go to the exhibition.
There were seven ladies in the elevator including me, and all of them got down on the exhibition floor.
"Ummm... I have many rivals," I think...
My another object, fresh caramels made in the Hanabatake Farm had been already sold out, but I could easily get "crab lunch box" by the Kushiro Shimada store.
"Wow, I won the rivals!" I was thrilled & wanted to stay there more, but I rushed to go to school.
At school, I opened the crab lunch box which cost 1,680 yen with beating.
Then, I noticed...of course crab, and lots of white rice!
At the exhibition, it looked "full of crab," but they "disguised" carefully to look like crab.
I mean, as a result, it was "full of white rice & some crab."
I laughed to see my gorgeous lunch & I realized.
This good taste & this commercialism...
Even though here is not my hometown, "I CAME BACK TO JAPAN!!"
"Your parents and relatives always talk about food, serve much food over our capacity, and go out to eat anywhere... Is here the FOOD kingdom!??"
I think....yes, it is. Hokkaido is abundant for agriculture and seafood!
Therefore?? when department stores in Tokyo hold "the Hokkaido Exhibition," it means "the Hokkaido Food Exhibition!!"
I found an advertisement for the Shinjuku Keio department store this morning.
They would hold the Hokkaido Exhibition from today. I was excited!
Today, luckily, two of my private students canceled classes, and I didn't have to attend a business meeting. My class would start from 4:00 pm today (even though I have to go to school at least one hour earlier to prepare classes,) so...I could go to the exhibition to get a gorgeous lunch!
If I were asked, "on your last day of your life, what food would you like to eat?"( I know it's a cliche question, though...) I would definitely answer, "crab and prosciutto(uncured ham!!)"
Apparently prosciutto is not Hokkaido's specialty, but crab, clearly is!!
I rode on an elevator of the Keio store with excitement to go to the exhibition.
There were seven ladies in the elevator including me, and all of them got down on the exhibition floor.
"Ummm... I have many rivals," I think...
My another object, fresh caramels made in the Hanabatake Farm had been already sold out, but I could easily get "crab lunch box" by the Kushiro Shimada store.
"Wow, I won the rivals!" I was thrilled & wanted to stay there more, but I rushed to go to school.
At school, I opened the crab lunch box which cost 1,680 yen with beating.
Then, I noticed...of course crab, and lots of white rice!
At the exhibition, it looked "full of crab," but they "disguised" carefully to look like crab.
I mean, as a result, it was "full of white rice & some crab."
I laughed to see my gorgeous lunch & I realized.
This good taste & this commercialism...
Even though here is not my hometown, "I CAME BACK TO JAPAN!!"
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Cultural Difference
At school, when I made the school's brochures with Sam, who just arrive in Japan from Australia a few weeks ago, he started to talk about "culture shock" experience.
"When I went to my new apartment with a manager, Rie, I was about to enter my room. Then Rie screamed, "No!" I had my shoes on.
Last weekend, I went shopping. When I was getting in a dress room, a clerk also screamed, "No!" I had my shoes on.
It's very hard to recognize where I have to take my shoes off! Why do you take off yous shoes in houses, or even dress room??"
Why... I wanted to ask him,
"Why didn't you take off your shoes inside houses!?? It seems uncomfortable!!"
But I didn't. I talked to my student, Yumi, who was there listening to our conversation.
"He is saying, Yumi. How would you explain?"
Then, Yumi, an university student who are from Kyoto, said.
"Well, I remember my grandmother said to me,"If you come in a house having your shoes on, your happiness will get out from the house because you bring outside dirt into the house."
...I see! Even I have never heard the Japanese belief, the Australian was quite persuaded.
"Wow, now I'm embarrassed! I should pray to come my happiness back to my apartment! As well as the boutique's dress room, too!"
Sam said he came to Japan because he wanted to live in the different culture.
Well, now you are doing it!
"When I went to my new apartment with a manager, Rie, I was about to enter my room. Then Rie screamed, "No!" I had my shoes on.
Last weekend, I went shopping. When I was getting in a dress room, a clerk also screamed, "No!" I had my shoes on.
It's very hard to recognize where I have to take my shoes off! Why do you take off yous shoes in houses, or even dress room??"
Why... I wanted to ask him,
"Why didn't you take off your shoes inside houses!?? It seems uncomfortable!!"
But I didn't. I talked to my student, Yumi, who was there listening to our conversation.
"He is saying, Yumi. How would you explain?"
Then, Yumi, an university student who are from Kyoto, said.
"Well, I remember my grandmother said to me,"If you come in a house having your shoes on, your happiness will get out from the house because you bring outside dirt into the house."
...I see! Even I have never heard the Japanese belief, the Australian was quite persuaded.
"Wow, now I'm embarrassed! I should pray to come my happiness back to my apartment! As well as the boutique's dress room, too!"
Sam said he came to Japan because he wanted to live in the different culture.
Well, now you are doing it!
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Kicking the bad habit
Yes, the bad habit.
To me, it is...being a night owl!!
How bad is it?
Basically, I can stay up late at night. I do study, enjoy some hobbies, even household things...at late night!
But I still need to sleep from 6-8 hours per day.
Therefore, I had taken a nap to catch up with my necessary sleeping time.
Recently, my work time got my bad habit worse.
I come home around 9:00pm-11:00pm when I work. After that, I prepare meal, eat it, wash the dishes, study for the STEP test (Eiken) which I have to take in October, take a bath, and write a blog. Finally, I go to bed around 1:00-2:00pm!
However, do you notice? Instead of the late time to go home, my work starts also late.
So...I can do "prepare meal" thing or dairy study before I go to work, but in the time I should do those, I am "taking a nap" instead of going to bed late at night.
But it's opposed to the human nature!!
I should work hard ( I mean, including household chore and study) in the day time, and sleep at night!
Today is my day off. I went to bed at 2:00 am last night, but I tried not to take a nap, but to do housework which accumulated recently because of my schedule & not-good health condition.
It worked!
I had done pretty much household work until 4:00pm, and then...I went to bed.
I "had to" rest a little to take the STEP model test!
(Studying is always my excuse of taking a nap beforehand..."I should make my brain clear! etc...)
That was not a good plan, actually.
Instead of taking a test, I did the regular work(I mean, cooking;) late and eventually...now, it's already 1:30pm!
Some people say, "People who conduct household chore well can conduct their work well, too."
Ummmm... that's why I don't make a point while I am working!!
But I don't give up! I will do some experiments to "kick the bad habit!!"
We'll see...
To me, it is...being a night owl!!
How bad is it?
Basically, I can stay up late at night. I do study, enjoy some hobbies, even household things...at late night!
But I still need to sleep from 6-8 hours per day.
Therefore, I had taken a nap to catch up with my necessary sleeping time.
Recently, my work time got my bad habit worse.
I come home around 9:00pm-11:00pm when I work. After that, I prepare meal, eat it, wash the dishes, study for the STEP test (Eiken) which I have to take in October, take a bath, and write a blog. Finally, I go to bed around 1:00-2:00pm!
However, do you notice? Instead of the late time to go home, my work starts also late.
So...I can do "prepare meal" thing or dairy study before I go to work, but in the time I should do those, I am "taking a nap" instead of going to bed late at night.
But it's opposed to the human nature!!
I should work hard ( I mean, including household chore and study) in the day time, and sleep at night!
Today is my day off. I went to bed at 2:00 am last night, but I tried not to take a nap, but to do housework which accumulated recently because of my schedule & not-good health condition.
It worked!
I had done pretty much household work until 4:00pm, and then...I went to bed.
I "had to" rest a little to take the STEP model test!
(Studying is always my excuse of taking a nap beforehand..."I should make my brain clear! etc...)
That was not a good plan, actually.
Instead of taking a test, I did the regular work(I mean, cooking;) late and eventually...now, it's already 1:30pm!
Some people say, "People who conduct household chore well can conduct their work well, too."
Ummmm... that's why I don't make a point while I am working!!
But I don't give up! I will do some experiments to "kick the bad habit!!"
We'll see...
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
New Blood
It had been raining hard for several days, but today, weather forecast said there was just "a little" chance of rain.
I brought a very small & light collapsible umbrella just in case.
However..."a little chance" and "just in case" hit me unfortunately.
Right after I went out riding a bike, it started to rain hard.
I grabbed a collapsible umbrella and opened it...but it became raining harder & harder...actually, it was like a heavy squall!
Even though I had an umbrella, it was so small that I was "conquered" by the squall.
My hair & blouse became completely wet as if I just took a shower wearing a suit.
My new pair of shoes was once taken off because of wetness, and my paper bag which accommodated teaching materials was worn out.
I shouted literally, "No way! I am so unlucky!!"
But here is another one who has a difficulty with weather.
That is...Sam, a new teacher from Australia!!
He just came to Japan from Melbourne a few weeks ago.
In Australia, you know, it is mid-winter! Since he arrived in Japan, he said he had "utterly" been in trouble to get used to the hot, humid Japanese summer.
Even though it became much cooler lately, today, he kept saying "It's hot! It's hot, isn't it??"
Anyway, he tried to talk with many students as possible as he could.
Good luck, new blood!
But actually, his height is almost same as mine & he is skinnier than me.
I mean, he is so young that he looks like a high school student!
Are you OK, Sam?? Well, I hope he will be OK...
I brought a very small & light collapsible umbrella just in case.
However..."a little chance" and "just in case" hit me unfortunately.
Right after I went out riding a bike, it started to rain hard.
I grabbed a collapsible umbrella and opened it...but it became raining harder & harder...actually, it was like a heavy squall!
Even though I had an umbrella, it was so small that I was "conquered" by the squall.
My hair & blouse became completely wet as if I just took a shower wearing a suit.
My new pair of shoes was once taken off because of wetness, and my paper bag which accommodated teaching materials was worn out.
I shouted literally, "No way! I am so unlucky!!"
But here is another one who has a difficulty with weather.
That is...Sam, a new teacher from Australia!!
He just came to Japan from Melbourne a few weeks ago.
In Australia, you know, it is mid-winter! Since he arrived in Japan, he said he had "utterly" been in trouble to get used to the hot, humid Japanese summer.
Even though it became much cooler lately, today, he kept saying "It's hot! It's hot, isn't it??"
Anyway, he tried to talk with many students as possible as he could.
Good luck, new blood!
But actually, his height is almost same as mine & he is skinnier than me.
I mean, he is so young that he looks like a high school student!
Are you OK, Sam?? Well, I hope he will be OK...
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