The first week back at work was pretty slow. I taught about half as many lessons as usual, and it was generally an easy start to the calendar year.
I received a nengajo, or New Year’s greeting card, from a student. She had drawn the picture of a tiger on one side and written a short note. “It’s the year of the tiger. It’s an active year.” Sounds good. “It’s a year of trials.” Sounds not so good. I guess what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger…
After work, I went to the gym, mostly.
On Friday, I found a game room at the community center, where you can find a HUGE selection of beautifully-maintained board games and card games. The cards are all in individual sleeves so as to stay clean with unfolded corners, and you won’t find a single game with a missing piece. It’s open every Friday night, and I imagine it will be a regular addition to my calendar from now on. It’s nice to have something fun to do that doesn’t involve alcohol — it’s rare since we get out of work at 9pm.
On Wednesday, I found a new bar. It’s tiny, with only five seats at the counter, and dimly lit with red lights. I can’t remember the name, exactly. It’s a mix of Japanese and German (really!) that translates to Jet Black something.
The bartender is very chatty, and the only way to get a moment’s silence is to send him off to build you a complicated cocktail (all the ones I had were very delicious). If you ask to use the toilet, you have to climb a steep set of stairs that feels more like a ladder and walk through what seems to be that bartender’s bedroom. It’s, uh, interesting. Easy commute for him.
That’s all I have for this week! Thanks for reading.
Alisa & a Visa 