Izu Adaptation

Izu Adaptation

It was in my second year in The Village that I really started to delve into the community and figure out how to get by in Japan.


The Old Capital

The Old Capital

My first trip to Kyoto necessitated the purchase of five disposable cameras. These were my first photos ever.

Familiar Faces

Familiar Faces

Socks gets a girl, the K.s disappear, and I return to Shizuoka for another round of Gaijin Kabuki.

And So It Begins Again

And So It Begins Again

Going back home after two years is an alienating experience.


Bullet in the North

Bullet in the North

On my way to Akita, torrential rain strands me in P. Rock just long enough to bid farewell to Socks.

Great Legs of Fire!

Great Legs of Fire!

There's nothing like the roar of 5000 people to ignite your  Great Legs of Fire.

Taiko Festival

Taiko Festival

I get a date! Oh, and, yes, this year's Drum Festival is absolutely fantastic.


Culture Exchange

Culture Exchange

I learn how to make mochi, then I teach my kids how Christmas is really supposed to be done.

Hokkaido II: The Return

Hokkaido II: The Return

Skiing in a Santa suit turns out to be the best idea I've ever had.

Kamakura

Kamakura

A. and I head out to the nation's temporary capital to see a Great Buddha, pray for health, and wash our money.