“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.”
― Lao Tzu

I told myself that I would blog more often, but low-and-behold it’s already April and the new school term has already begun. I’ve settled into my new apartment in the city, but there are still a few things I need to buy before it becomes more like home. One really important appliance is probably the washer/dryer, but that’ll be purchased this upcoming weekend. I also need a proper bed, but I’m not minding the futons at the moment. Lastly, I want a nice, sturdy, and comfortable office chair for my desk as I’ve been unable to really work at home yet. All in due time, though, I suppose.

Some of my closest friends and I met for a picnic/hanami in the park, in Osaka, last weekend. The sakura bloomed incredibly early this year so we were a bit late, but regardless we made the best of it and had a great and memorable time together. On an unrelated note, I’ll be heading back to the Philippines with my family for the first time since I was a toddler, in September. I invited Yuki to come with me, so we might be going together if Yuki can get that time off. We’re even participating in a challenge where if we bring home any ￥500 pieces, we’re putting them all in a bag in order to save/use as extra spending money for our trip. In the end, I’m really excited to be going, but it’s a bit bittersweet because my little brother will be in-theatre (deployed) during that time, so he will be unable to go.  Hopefully we can plan another trip together once he’s back, as I think it’s important for the entire family to learn more about our family’s heritage, origin, and roots.

In other news, Yuki has been talking to me about how he wants to get a dog and although it sounds great, the long-term commitment of being a pet owner (but more-so being a non home-owning pet owner in Japan) worries me a bit. I’m hesitant for the time being, but I think it’s for good reason. I think that until I can get some reassurance regarding what will become of me and the type of job and income I’ll have once my 5th year on the JET program comes to an end – it’ll be easier for me to have a solid answer. Although there is a plan already set in motion, I don’t want to give out any details or “jinx myself” until I know 100% that that job is secured.

At any rate, I still have plans to blog in the future about my experience of moving in Japan, so please stay tuned for that.

Cheers!