New Years Holidays in Kofu

Unlike last years totally forgettable New Years celebration, this year was far more fun and enjoyable. The New Years holiday are one of Japans most important celebrations. Most people get a nice little break from work to usher in the New Year. For me it was extra nice, 16 days off, well kind of. More on that later. But for over two weeks I was given a nice break from my responsibilities of teaching. While I have had breaks in the past, long ones in fact, each one before had been filled with deep worrying or I was without money, so I couldn't enjoy it at all. This vacation however was really the first I could say I really had and could enjoy.

I didn't get to do a whole lot this time, mainly just relax and take in the nice quietness of home. But I did go to a lot of end of the year parties with old friends. This is a common custom in Japan to do with friends and coworkers. I ended up going to about four of these parties, including a nice one on New Years Eve. Of course the main meal of these parties is lots of beer. They are a lot of fun, and really help to relieve all the built up stress the year has presented on people.

For the most part I would say I had a great time. I enjoyed the parties and seeing friends, and even watching the numerous tv specials during New Years week. Japan likes to bring out the best and weirdest programs at this time for special viewing. But I have to admit when I am at home, I feel quite lonely. Pretty much everyone I know has someone to be with here, and they always talk about it. I however am alone still, looking and hoping for that special girl to appear in my life. I know it will happen one day, but I get kinda sad when I hear everyone talk about how special it is to be with someone on the holidays. Maybe next year I will have a similar experience. 

There was however one thing that definitely was disappointing. I, as everyone else had at my office, been given 16 days of vacation. However a few days before the end of my vacation I get a email from a co worker begging me to cover for her classes the day before I was supposed to return, because she needed to have surgery. I had made plans and I wasn't supposed to take over her classes at all according to the attendance plan we have at my school,  but there was a problem. All of her backup teachers were out of the country, or had a reason they couldn't go to work. So I was called in as a replacement. Even though I had made major plans, I had to say yes. The teacher was very grateful for my sacrifice, as unlike everyone else, I would have one less vacation day. I went in and did it, and it was ok. But in a funny twist I found out later that her surgery did not happen, as there was a complication. But I guess its good I could help out this time. 

Now I'm back at work, and this week I had my picture taken for a advertisement for a magazine. I was pretty excited, but at the end of the week I was informed that the final decision hasn't been made yet about using my picture in the ad. I hope it will be, but I will be sad if it isn't. But I will find out soon, lets hope my picture is used.

More to come soon!