Late-night Blogging

So I really should be in bed right now.... but I'm still running on my newest JET info high!

A couple of days ago I got an email with details of my assignment!  FINALLY!

Now it is a countdown clock until August 19th when I make my way to Japan.  I have been assigned the prefecture of Shimane, in a little town called Okuizumo.  It is still the main island of Japan (Honshu), on the Western side of the island.  A probably more well known landmark is that I will be a couple of hours north of Hiroshima.

I was apprehensive at first, I'll admit.  When I first did my google search to find out exactly where this place was, I was a little sad that I would be out in the country (the closest major city to me is about an hour away, and it is still nothing compared to the bigger cities).  But when I first filled out my application I was actually hoping that I would get placed in a small city.  The idea of the big hustle and bustle that comes with a major city like Tokyo and Kyoto sound more appealing to me as a visit, not a permanent living place.  And from where I am, it's actually not that far from Kyoto if I wanted to drive out there for a weekend.  I stayed for a few days during study abroad, and I love all the temples that you can visit there!

The other advantage I realized to my placement comes two-fold.  Firstly, the cost of living should be far less expensive since I will not be in a big city.  This means that I should have plenty of money to save a little nest egg for my return, and still afford to go on some fun vacations during my stay.  Secondly, being out in the country means that I get to use a car!  It's going to be different for sure, and something to get use to, but I think I'm going to love the mobility!

The last minor worry is that my apartment is going to be really small.  I only say this because I already have family making reservations to come visit me, and this means that either we will all be trying to cramp into my little apartment, or I will have to help find them a hotel to use.

Fun side note:  lol I had started this post late at night, but then forgot to publish it before I went to bed....   oh well!