It's the little things...

It's the little things that can make you really appreciate living in a new country. Like the fact that everyone in Japan is tiny, making size 28 jeans incredibly easy to find (unlike in Australia, where they are an incredibly rare beast). Since I've gotten over the shock of paying two months' rent from the one pay cheque (the joy of moving), I decided it was time for new jeans. And I know I should use this blog to discuss politics, literature etc, but seriously, these jeans fit like they were made for me (apart from the legs, which they hemmed for me while I waited - you just don't get that type of service in Aus!). So I present: jeans. (Notice in the corner of the photo you can see a bed. A real bed. No more futon! Joy of joys!)


Also, my hair changed colour. Work seem to be okay with it. Huzzah!



On Thursday I had my first 2nd day of a weekend in a long time, and so went indoor climbing with my new (Kettle-)housemate Jasmine and her friend Rachel. 'Twas fun, I've never been before, and apparently I'm quite monkey-like in my climbing, so I do believe I'll go again. This Thursday in fact.

Not sure who does their advertising, but they should be fired.




Climbing shoes: not sexy.

The start is the hardest part.

Success!!

Not sure exactly what's happening here. I think I got stuck.

Jasmine putting us all to shame - overhangs are so difficult!

This one especially!

I've progressed a bit with my Japanese. I attempted my first kanji characters. Here is my attempt at Happy Birthday.


Also, this notice was left on the noticeboard at work when the typhoon was approaching Tokyo - bless our staff, they try so hard.


Finally, I've decided I'm going to buy a digital piano. I promise to upload my version of Chopsticks in a future entry. You have been warned.

Things I've learnt in the last month.

• Patrick Wolf is a brilliant performer. He better come back to Tokyo soon.

• The world's second largest Statue of Liberty can be found in Odaiba, Tokyo.

• When making sushi, use freshly cooked rice. Rice that has been stored in the fridge for a day loses its stickiness, and doesn't make good sushi rice. It does make the process of making sushi that much more hilarious though, especially after a beeru or wine.
  

• The video for Moloko's Forever More is awesome. Like the song.

• English guys can be real jerks. But then so can I.
  
• Fiona Apple makes wonderfully therapeutic music for when you're angry. (Not really something I've learnt recently, more a rediscovery.)
  
• Standing up to drunks in bars who think they can intimidate you by pointing out your sexuality does wonders for your self esteem.
• Great Expectations really is a very enjoyable book.
• はしでごはんをたべます。

I know I've been really slack lately, and promise to put more photos up soon.