JPOP!?

I have never really been up to speed with Japanese music; there are few songs that I actually like. I heard this one and was surprised to find that I liked it! It's not my usual choice of Japanese music, but it's cute.

Done picking up the pieces.

I am finally over it all. I have gathered all the shattered remnants of my self-esteem and trust and pieced them back together. A chip remains forgotten here and there, but I've finally managed to branch out and allow myself to make new friends.

BLARGH.

I enjoy being busy. Heck, I kind of revel in it.

School. Work. Hang out with friends. School. Fieldwork. Homework. School. Work. Homework. HangoutHangoutHangoutHangoutHangout Homework. Repeat.

Weekends are not adequate because there are tasks to be carried out.

I need one day, just ONE day in there to be precisely "BLARGH". To just veg out and play some video games, lie in bed, read, and eat comfort foods. Basically, a day to be somewhat of a lazyass.

...blargh.

Sometimes..

The artist and child in me feel one in the same.

Winter Reunion in Japan.

<--Julie & Ben in Osaka, 2007.

The Doraemon one piece was only for pictures, I promise.

During the summer following highschool, I participated in this summer study in Japan program through AFS. I have a lot of fond memories of that trip, as well as many amazing friends - who I am happy to say I am going to meet again! Ben (New York), Jason (Philly) and Kristine (San Jose) and I are meeting up again in Kansai region, the location of our previous experience.

I'll be in Osaka from December 27th to January 8th. New Years in a different country? Can't wait. After the 8th I'll be in Tokyo till the 18th, where I will be staying with a friend. I have to scrimp and save all my money until then, but I'm looking forward to it like no other.

20.

As of August 14th, I am 20-years-old.

I had a good birthday full of surprises, beaches, bike riding, baked goods & sushi.

This was only topped by a good four days in sunny but chilly Santa Barbara with amazing friends, shopping and fun.

I could say more and I could say less, but right now I feel content with just saying...well, that I feel content. :)

Home from China!

After nearly a month of teaching and touring in China, I am finally home! Although China was a great experience, I am thoroughly enjoying being home. There really is no other place like it.

Here are a few highlights of my trip.

Teaching in Shanghai

Classes were divided into five sections according to age, ranging anywhere from 3-13. My homeroom class were 5-7 years old, and incredibly adorable. I miss them already. 

The youngest class during the zenith of the solar eclipse. Total darkness.

Shanghai Nightlife

Shanghai Gardens

Sightseeing in Beijing

The Great Wall of China. Should be called the Great Stairs of China - climbing it was a really big feat, considering the steps were more like jumps and I am incredibly out of shape. :X

Dragon ferry at Summer Palace.

Temple of Heaven.

Forbidden City.