Well so many exciting things have happened since I last wrote on this page. It is hard to know where to start!
Well lets start in May...
My Mum came over and visited me for 12 days. It was lovely to see her and catch up. We did a lot of going to the local craft store (the ladies almost knew us by first name by the time Mum left!) While Mum was in Japan I had planned a two day hike in the south of Wakayama - Kumano Kodo is the name of the place. Beautiful is the best way to describe it and also very interesting. The group comprised of 7 people - 2 guys and 5 girls. Mum and I were the only foreigners! We had an awesome time - trust me - the walk is tough, but it was very rewarding to finish what we set out to do.
Next walk was on an island off Kada called Tomoga. An easy relaxing walk was had and a game of dodge ball was had with a group of scouts. Those kids can throw - you definately know when you are hit that is for sure!
Three weekends ago I finally got into the water for a surf. It was great. Waves were very gentle but a decent size. I caught 3 and I wasn't half excited, still need to practise my steering as there are many more people out in the water over here! One of my fellow teachers let me know the waves were coming in. Thank you!
Two weekends ago was my co-worker (mate) birthday. I learnt all about American food (no wonder they are known to be a largely over weight nation - their food is GOOD and plenty of it - apple cobbler is AWESOME!) We also went to Nara (yeh!) and it reminded me a bit of Australia. There was actually flat land that were fields with trees and no houses! We saw the biggest Budda statue and trust me it is HUGE! We managed to meet up with someone who had trained with us too and ate together. I had delicious mountain vegetable soba - I had two servings it was so good!
Now for last weekend. I had planned a cultural experience of learning Japanese style flower arranging. While arranging I was invited to go kayaking down Kinokawa river. Can you see me saying no?! Anyway, I had my first experience in a river kayak (yes, quite a few circles were paddled!), managed to get through some very baby rapids (FUN!) and didn't fall out! That evening I learnt how to do one handed pushups. I can just (I mean just too) do one if I stretch the truth a tiny bit! I need to get in some more practise!
So that is the latest. I hope everyone is doing well and hope to hear from you soon.
