Tak's Milestone: September, 2000

September 30, 2000 =Back in Hometown

Was supposed to update this last night? Well, yes... though, last night was definitely crazy...

I told my boss that I would need to leave the office for home around 7pm in order to secure my ride with my brother for home this weekend. I even had to be absent to the party held that night... Nathan (Crawford) kept asking me that I should delay my schedule going home so that I could stay with them for fun... Well, if it were by train... I wouldn't mind to do so. Though in this case, I didn't have a choice.

I am sure that they were talking about the impression they got on me... etc. with some drinks in that gathering!

First call from my brother... around 8:30pm. He told me that he just got a haircut and ready to get back to work since lots of troubles happened. Added that he should be available around 10pm to hit home.

Second call... was around 10pm... said I just needed to wait a little longer. Then, my father called around 11:30pm, checking upon me if I had left Tokyo yet.

After that call, I started falling asleep... was really tired after 1st week complete in new office.

Got another call... was from my brother. It was 12:15am (of course, Saturday already) and told him that he would go home now and come to pick me up around 1am. Then, I went up to nearby station to meet him around 1am.

We got together and left my place around 1:15am. He said that I might sleep since it was late... though, I at least tried to keep him company... so he won't drive and sleep.

How long does it usually take? About 4.5 hours from my place without any traffic. You know, how crazy to go through Tokyo where every part of the city is always congested. We talked and talked... in a car all night long. Literally, all night long.

Why? Well, around Shizuoka area... time-wise, 3:30am, we hit the tale of traffic. Must be some kind of accident! Man, damn it! There was NO MOVE for that traffic... even after waiting 25 minutes or so. My brother (driver) decided to take a nap, asking me to stay with this so that I could wake him up to move if getting started. I heard from others that accident was just happened and there was a big trailer laying across the all lanes. We were out of hope at that time.

After 1 hour and 45 minutes, finally trailer was moved away and we resumed. It was a bit after 5am. Then, he accelerated his Mercedes... quite fast at around 100 MPH. Seriously! Why? He wanted to go home ASAP since he was really tired and sleepy. You know what? we were pulled over when moving at that speed. Officers were nicely asking him why so extraordinary fast... We had to stay with officers for 20 minutes or so. He came back in the car with ticket. Ticket mentioned minimum fine of 6,000 Yen... not for seeding... was for some lane change violation! He apparently bullshitted with the officer and succeeded to talk him out.

The another serious sleepiness hit him... around 5:45am... so I FINALLY offered to drive even though I was quite uneasy to operate automobile in Japan since narrow highway system. Though, I really felt I had to. So I did drive from that point until arriving home, which was 7:30am.

As you can see, my journey with my brother was a little interesting like above.

Above all, my plan, updating this page yesterday, didn't complete.

What did I do after coming home today? Well, I pretty much stay home... for rest. Will do things about buying and gathering necessary stuff for my new apartment tomorrow.

Foyer mentioned I looked like gaining some weight after going to Tokyo? No shit! I really did lose some... I guess he forgot how I looked like before.

Tomorrow, I pack stuff and hit back to Tokyo in the afternoon... if my brother says so.

See you tomorrow then.

20:13

September 28, 2000 =Ogaki-jin's 1st Sale Online!

I finally got a great ease... phone got connected. So I don't have to carry this 4-pound-laptop around anymore. This makes a big difference... really big.

I will get cable Internet sometime in December and will disconnect this phone upon that service becomes available to my apartment. Now I have to pay by minute for connection to Internet. I probably won't stay too long online.

First time to do something on this web page rather than this daily update you look at. Sale... I hereby sell "hard-shell" backpack!

There are 2 sizes --- large and medium. Colors are various. I am sure that you don't want to order this American made stuff with me in Japan... You can see real stuff on some other commercial website such as [ boblbee.com ] for your purchase. Heard that they were around $230 or so. So basically, I want to sell these to those who are in Japan. Price? All right, all right. I just give you the price... don't be surprised. It's for $125 with NO tax. If you want one from me, you have to pay shipping charge upon that price. Of course, you can choose lowest one to ship overseas.

Are they new? Of course. Brand new!

See the protection seems really good and you can put even laptops in them! Plus, you can add more stuff in them... so your hands are totally free to do anything else, rather than holding heavy bags with pain!

So - if you really want me to reserve one for you, please email me --- [ ogakijin@ogaki.net ] now! Supplies are limited (not really).

Of course, I will answer any question you might have for this. Don't you think this is pretty good deal? Even ordering from US, I should be able to send this cheap via regular postal mail... so you should STILL save some bucks out there! Interested?

In that photo... can you see, it's me! Well, I asked Mr. Mori - coworker to do pose for a picture like that. Didn't take my request... so I had to volunteer like that.

You know what? It must be a great Christmas present for your kids or any youngsters! (Don't you agree?)

Since couldn't get online yesterday... emails had been accumulated in the box at the server... wow, got some many messages... from tkoich, yk110, Brittany, Andrea, Kitty, and more! I have to answer all those right away? Maybe I do so over this weekend.

For this weekend... will go home, Ogaki. I need some rest! Plus, I have to take some stuff back from home for my apartment. I still have a couple pairs of suits that I need for work! My brother will give me a ride to home tomorrow night... he's got to attend to his best friend's wedding then. Other than that... I mean if he wouldn't be able to give me a ride to home I won't do so.

Will see you from home tomorrow night... since driving home takes about 4 hours, it may be really late at night... good chance for no update... or do update in following morning!

Don't forget about letting me know if you are interested in that "hard-shell" backpack! Just email me!

22:58

September 27, 2000 =Phone Wasn't Connected...

Hey! It's me, Ogaki-jin *Tak* --- who got an excuse not to update this page yesterday due to tremendous amount of fatigue... I don't remember much how all went at night... know I came home around 10:30pm straight from work... then, laid down... that was it. Actually, what was really it... That's why no update.

Today... was the day supposedly I get phone connected. It wasn't so... unlikely. Made several attempts and found out all in vain. Damn it.

Oh, I need to cuss more for something else. Yesterday... missed 2 calls from Robyn. Shit! She called once right around lunch time. Then, called me again around 7pm at night (Japan time, I mean) --- I almost could pick up the line with her for the second call... I checked my cellular phone only 3 minutes later than when she called. Damn it.

Why I am saying this? Because she was going to Columbia with her HUSBAND (now, Edgar's husband!)... I won't get to talk to her again so easily. Will miss her so much --- my ONLY sister.

Just heard that Miyuki got promoted on her job... man, ALL of my ex's were promoted. I never get anywhere like that yet. I guess, at least I gave those ladies good luck. Don't you agree? I certainly have a positive influence on women. Don't you wanna date me for trial (if you are female)?!

Very envious. Anyway, congrats!

I haven't eaten much... lately. I try to eat least for dinner because of it's lateness. See, usually I come home around 10pm or even later... don't want to eat much at late night because I believe that most part (of food) would go in to my fat... don't want to gain anymore. Seriously, want to lose more. Remember, I want to lose 20lbs before the New Year from the time I came back to Japan.

Speaking of which --- what for dinner? I picked up a bag of sandwiches at nearby convenience store and also bought a bottle of Chinese tea. Cost 410 yen (almost 5 bucks).

And plus, I keep trying to minimize the amount of drinking soda. Did you know that Japan has "Dr. Pepper" - the most disgusting drink ever produced on the earth! I mean, I hate that stuff. Robyn loves that drink somehow ---

Some people kept asking like "Are there any good-looking female in the office?" I know lots of people concern if I can get steady girlfriend or not... You know what? Don't look around... really don't. Don't know why I don't do so... maybe I can't. Or I am simply blind. I only know that there are lots of nice young fellows (both male and female).

There is a guy named Nathan --- from San Francisco... joined the company... I think he should be the one to ask that question and to be able to tell me who is available in the market or not. His job in the company? Oh, that's simple and he's really great at it... flirting in the office. He's been having too much fun with too many different gals. I should tale him to see how he does his job so well.

Oh well --- today's update was a little bit pessimistic... huh?

23:30

September 25, 2000 =Ogaki-jin Can Be Continued?!

Came home right before the date changed... now it's 11:45pm. Wow! What a life I've got in Tokyo --- my question is... if I can continue Ogaki-jin like this (I mean, everyday) or not... I know, it's going to be extremely difficult if I come home like this late everyday.

If my commute would be driving a car, wouldn't that difficult because I had been doing so until last month. Though, now I have to walk and and to take trains (never be able to sit down since it's so packed). You know this consume whole a lot of my daily energy --- which I never experienced. Cannot imagine that Tokyo people do this all for their lives!

Work was finished around 8pm, a bit earlier than usual (thank goodness) and called Nishi - who is the first boss I've ever got in my entire life. Do you remember he was in Atlanta about almost 4 years ago? Here he is:

I visited his office located in next building from where I work. Then, waited for 20 minutes or so and he took me out for dinner... sort planned before.

We talked and talked and talked. Tons of stuff to cover! We were at the same time eating Japanese food since I chose to. Didn't want any Western tonight.

This was such nice reunion for me to Nishi.

Today... was pay day. Everyone (usually) get wire transfer... no checks used in Japan (not too common between individuals). Though, since I still don't have any back account in Tokyo, the Company gave me cash!

Over-time pay is always a month later... so today's amout is pure from the base salary. Hmmm... I get this much?!?! Hey!

Who in the world kept calling me to my cellular phone? I've got 3 calls missed from noon thru 5 o'clock! Numbers were shown as 0584-81-4118, 0584-81-4119, and 0584-81-4111. Of course, 0584 is Ogaki's area code... though, I don't know those numbers... none of my friends has those numbers for sure.

After finding this out, I kept thinking of the number 81-4111... sounds so familiar. Then after thinking over and over, came to a conclusion. It MUST be the number for Ogaki City Hall! Though, why?

Maybe I get sued by the City since I take advantage of Ogaki for this domain?

Or maybe the City offers me something in exchange of the domain? What else?

I don't think I would get arrested... that's police work, not city government... What would you think? And how in the world getting my cellular phone number? Oh, it's mentioned on this web, hahaha ---

Maybe I get another call while tomorrow lunch. Will be interesting.

Gee, I better go for sleep. Am tired and need to get up early again...

You know what kind of efforts made in order to keep up with this page up to date? I woke up early this morning and carried this 5 lb laptop to the office. Actually, went in the hotel lobby nearest to the office and hooked it to public telephone for update. You know how much I dedicated myself for YOU!

Well, I will do the same for tomorrow morning... until my phone get connected. Got it?

See ya!

0:02+1

September 24, 2000 =First Night, Not on Honeymoon But in New Place

How was your weekend? Oops, ya'll are still having weekend at this point, huh! Now it's 9:43pm in Japan... means still 8:43am, Sunday... wow, you still got a whole day to go!

Spending first night in new apartment. Left my brother's apartment by taxi with many luggage. Came to this apartment, of course not furnished at all. Brought all stuff in, then I went out for shopping. At least to buy window and shower curtain. Was thinking to go to Daiei, major superstore, in South Gyotoku, 2 train station away from the nearest station, Urayasu. Though, I came to find that there was a competitor to Daiei, Seiyu, right next to the Urayasu Station. So I didn't have to take train.

Bought curtain and other stuff. The concept? GREEN. I know, my favorite colors are rather pink or blue... not green, however I've got futon whose cover was green... I want to have one united color for my new apartment.

Came back and started settling in. Well, I know I am fond of doing things like that.

Then, in the late afternoon, I went out again to same area to buy more like alarm clock and ISDN terminal for phone connection (for this week).

Oh, I better tell you... so far my apartment has NO TV, NO refrigerator, NO washer, NO dryer, NO VCR, NO CD player --- most notably, NO FURNITURE!

Well, my parents are expected to come to Tokyo in 2 - 3 weeks and bring me old TV and VCR... so until then, I will be out of real world! HAHA.

Even this update... I don't even know when to be able to upload... maybe tomorrow (Monday) morning?!

Am I ready for another week of hard work? Maybe not. I needed this weekend a bit longer... because... you know.

Hey, got an email from Robyn and Edgar... must have come back from honeymoon. Maybe honeymoon baby? Who knows?! --- Well, they are going to Columbia on Tuesday, I thought. Well, bien viaje, ya'll! (Spanish with Southern)

Got a gift from Kitty. Thank you! I really liked it. She sent me a lighter. I wanted to have a lighter for a long time EVEN THOUGH I never smoked and never would. Just one of items.

yk110 is coming to Japan in December?! For good? or just vacation? I am sure that it's vacation-wise. Or one of slight chances, she is coming to her parents for permission of getting married? This might be a secret deal. Right?

Too bad... Tokyo Giants (in Japanese Pro-Baseball) won the pennant of the League Championship. My (Nagoya) Dragons finished at the second.

Good news? Young marathon runner Takahashi won the gold medal in Sydney (@Olympic Games, Goofy!) as the first Japanese athlete ever won the gold medal in marathon. She is originally from Gifu and graduated from same high school as my brother's. This is a great news hit Japan any more than anything else today (more than Giants'.)

That's about it today. Did I bore you? Maybe. Sorry, man.

22:04

September 23, 2000 =Not Moving But Cleaning?

Came home around 1:30am and went bed like a little after 2am... woke up around 9am. --- way later than the time when I planned to get up for this morning.

Plus, Olympics Game caught my eyes and couldn't move on then... had to watch the baseball game between Japan and Korea. Man, we lost that game... and this was jinxed to the soccer game tonight... against US! We lost that game too, darn it.

Hence, forced to change my day plan... moving in to new apartment.

Since my brother's gone to home in Ogaki, his apartment is entirely for me... at least for now. So I didn't push too much myself to get all done.

Well, I left for Urayasu, at least to pick up the keys of apartment. The location of the apartment is kind tough to get from where I currently stay. There is no direct connection in train system... And I ended up taking several different trains... which were operated by different organizations. So I was sort gone nuts about how to buy and which combination tickets to buy in order to make all transfers. Man, it's like solving puzzle, trust me!

I am Japanese and reading or seeing things in Japanese, still not making sense easily! Maybe, I am NO LONGER ordinary Japanese fellow?! Plus, Tokyo subway... like maze and went up to train platform for wrong direction, etc. Shame and shame!

Well, finally got a key from the Realtor and went in the apartment. Stayed there for longer than 4 hours since gas man would come for connection and I needed to be present. Plus, my parents sent me some stuff such as Futon for new living environment. First visitor to my new place wasn't gas man. It was a guy for the census!!! Well, it was pretty easy (like took me to fill out within 10 minutes) compared to the one you have in US.

Then, shortly after that --- gas man came.

Waited for the last expected visitor for delivery... didn't come for a while. My father called and telephone company called to my cellular phone while waiting. Started raining outside and made me feel like waiting forever!

Delivery man was at my door around 4pm... Brought 3 boxes in and all wet. DIRTY. Unpacked a little bit. Glad that my Mom added some necessary stuff. You know, Mother is always right (well, some minor errors sometimes) and great (most of the times)!

Then, on the way back to Urayasu Station, decided to calculate how long it takes to get there on my own foot... was told 5 minutes. Well, under rain and holding the umbrella, kind intentionally walked at steady pace... took me 4 minutes and 34 seconds! Pretty close!

After coming to where I stay... I cleaned my brother's place... not all because I didn't want to touch too many things. Though, cleaned bathroom and living room. They weren't clean, I better explain this way- Now I feel much better to be in here for tonight.

I may surprise my brother since I cleaned up this place a little bit? Maybe... maybe not. I just wanted to do something in return, since my brother treated me quite well after the initial misunderstanding with him when coming to this place a few days back.

Tomorrow morning, will take a taxi to move in. Have 2 pieces of large suitcase and 2 bags... plenty enough to call a cab! Hope it wouldn't cost too much.

Please do expect some delay in my update for a couple of days or even I may miss doing this... since no telephone available yet at new apartment. Should get connected by following weekend, actually, when going home in Ogaki. Will try to update this via public phone after work or so. Please keep this in mind.

See you later!

23:31

September 22, 2000 =Last Train for the Day!

Hmmm, had to catch the last train for the day to go home... probably this is to become my daily life style from now on?! Would say so-

Working up to 9pm, once again; then my coworkers asked me to join them, as a part of my welcoming party... Well, I am sure that they needed to have reason or excuse to get out of office quickly... plus another drinking occasion. Yes, of course, I did go with them ---

Sorry, picture isn't that great...

Bar we went to is near the office and it's called "Right on the Equator" --- serving some spicy, like Mexican, kind of dishes. Of course, I did enjoy them with some mixed drinks. All other men in that picture chose to take a taxi together... but me and Kyoko - only female in that group (& the picture) for the occasion. Kyoko and I went on to the train station and took the same train... spontaneously the same (sort of) direction.

Anyway, the party was fun! Needed it. We all laughed about the incident happened the other day, one of coworkers in Narita Office told me that I looked like 34 years old. We all laughed.

Oh, last train to catch... trained I took were all PACKED. How in the world going on like that? It's a hell, seriously. No shit! So many people stayed that late at work or drinking? Obviously so! Last trains were moving around quarter 'til 1am...

This must be crazy, don't you think?

Before forgetting about this... took a picture of my desk, new desk.

Of course, the desk is pretty clean since I have no documents around. Well, in a month or two, I am sure that it's very difficult to see the surface of desk! Haha.

Sorry for late update... am busy, man!

23:04+1

September 21, 2000 =Back to Work!

Back to work, back to work, back to work, damn it!

First day to be at my desk... with old laptop. I was told that my laptop (by NEC) was backordered now and have to use old old laptop by Toshiba.

I was given a cellular phone... so now I have to take two with me all the times?!

Work... became hard work... I remember that I clocked in around 8:50am... then clocked out at 9:05pm. Yeah, 12 hours of work. It wouldn't be that tough if today was day after a trip like from US. Though, I am very tired since I have to deal with jet lug at the same time as I work like that.

Work itself was nothing new since I did know most of stuff, already. It was just different way of doing same thing from US. Nothing much really new to me, anyway.

Lunch --- spaghetti with two other sales guys from the same department where I belong to.

Dinner? Well, I got home around a bit after 10pm, didn't have much appetite and should eat much in the first place after 10pm, so I just had a piece of bread with a drink.

Commute wasn't bad in the evening... though, it's incredible in the morning! Tons of people... cute, ugly, yankee-looked, nice old guy, whatever! I took JR (Japan Rail) and took me about 50 minutes... I guess, this length would be the same from new apartment. Or possibly a little bit longer.

Did I like the first day at my desk? So-so. I guess, all what I need is to getting used to. Nothing else for now. Plus, I need to save some money since I am already broke... after paying off for apartment contract, etc. I shouldn't spend any more than 1,000 JPY a day for a while, at least.

Spent 850 JPY for lunch and 210 JPY for bread and a drink... oops, more than 1,000 JPY!

Plan is plan, huh! (hehe) See you tomorrow then.

Jay in Fritz Atlanta is leaving Fritz for Internet company? Good for him. Good luck for your new career! Will keep in touch with you too.

22:51

September 20, 2000 =Back in Japan

Back in Japan... back to reality...

DL 55 from Atlanta for Narita, Tokyo, Japan... after check in at the counter, there was an announcement that Delta wanted to have 10 volunteers to take another route since the flight may face the weight restriction.

Offer was $500 cash or $700 travel certificate with 5 hour delay getting in Japan via Northwest flight. Did I say yes? Why not?! --- I did. Waited and waited for a quite long time... almost an hour. Then, you know what? Another announcement indicated that all were clear and all volunteers should go on board. Well, didn't get cash then.

Flight was okay --- for 13 hours and a half. Arrived about 30 minutes later than scheduled. It was almost 2pm on 20th.

In-flight movie was "Where the Heart is." I fell asleep and couldn't watch it entirely.

Then I killed quite time in the airport... too early to go to my brother's apartment which I didn't know the location. Then finally came to the station near the apartment. My brother came to pick me up... He was busy and didn't want to come to pick me up on this particular day.

Well, I am ready for tomorrow, yes, I've got to work!

I should be okay leaving here around 8am in order to make the office by 9am. Sure hope so. This place is much closer to the office where I work than new apartment I've got.

Tired... please pardon me for today... Bye!

21:34

September 19, 2000 =Ogaki-jin; No Update

Website Ogaki-jin has no update

due to being in-flight of DL 55 (Dept@10:05am)

Atlanta - Narita, Tokyo, Japan

September 18, 2000 =Eyemodule for Visor!

Slow morning... I needed it. Slept in and slept well then. Felt much better. Bad thing? I have to leave for Japan tomorrow! Could I have more time here for my TRUE vacation? Attending to Robyn's wedding is part of my vacation... though, I want more time like other people would like to.

Forgot to mention for a while... well, let me correct that... I finally got a chance for this introduction, eyemodule for Visor! I got this when I got here in US:

Black part on the top of the Visor

It's a tiny thing sticking into Visor's expansion slot. So I have another gadget to deal with. Quality isn't as great as ordinary digital camera such as mine, FinePix 700 by Fujifilm... though, it is a nice toy as using in place where no one else come to recognize that I am taking picture. Yes, spy gadget.

Today after Mom comes back from school, went out to Asheville for shopping --- since I needed to buy a new suitcase before going back to Japan. After buying a suitcase, Mom wanted to drop by another shop nearby - where lots of Halloween stuff for sale. Yes, I said Halloween... Then, I tried shooting some.

Things hanging on window... at least you can recognize all stuff... good enough as spying. I guess, level of quality in pictures would vary depending upon brightness... so I may have better pictures hereafter.

What kind of places can I use? Good question. Maybe I can use this eyemodule in shops where no one would like to hold the camera... so that I can introduce what kind of stuff available in Japan, etc. Or maybe I can take some pictures of cute girls in bars?! - Maybe so!

Well, I have to go into another packing session which I am about to be a professional about.

Of course, I called Fritz Atlanta to talk to several people... letting them know that I was doing okay. Thanks goodness, the office has 1-800 toll-free telephone number I could take advantage of.

Those Fritz people, please donate money into a cup at the reception... the cup said, "Please donate money to have Tak come to the party!" I need to get $500 from ya'll so that I pay the rest and come over to see ya'll!!! (SERIOUSLY)

I heard that Kathereen Robie was now pregnant! Congratulations! I guess, Jay and Kathereen had comfort once they moved in a new home!

Well, I have to leave this place at 5:30am! in order to catch the airplane from Asheville for Atlanta... then, I will take a long flight out of Atlanta... flight time is about 14 hours!

See you on 20th from Tokyo!

20:55

September 17, 2000 =Cleaning Up!

www.ogaki.net - now the most famous personal web page in Waynesville, NC, in addition to the most popular Japanese website in Atlanta, GA...

A day after the wedding, there are no couple of groom and bride. Went on their honeymoon and heard that they've got stuck in Atlanta Airport since their destination, Destin, FL, were part of area affected by a storm. Flights were canceled many time from the morning. They finally got the destination at night... ended up spending a day in the airport... which is good to tell their kid of their incident! (haha)

Incident... What I learned from Robyn's wedding... those who go on their honeymoon... don't need to take their underwear with them as like Robyn left hers all behind!

Wow, bride didn't take any underwear? --- which I saw all (her underwear) in unloading things off the car from the wedding.

Although, I doubt that I would do the same for my honeymoon... In fact, Robyn didn't take underwear intentionally... someone else (won't leak the information here) took them out of her suitcase while the reception! In other words, groom and bride should have locked their suitcase if they ask someone else to carry...

Hahaha!

While they're enjoying keeping company each other in the busiest airport of the world, I had to participate the cleaning up from the fantastic wedding and its reception.

Am I tired? Yes. Really. Very. Every time I sat down for a rest home this afternoon, I instantly fell asleep! Even at night, I cannot keep up with TV... Since I flew in US on Thursday, didn't see much part of preparation, though it wasn't so difficult that that process was really tough and took such a long time! I can tell like that from my experience in cleaning all up!

Great job, folks! Mom, Sandra, Lee, Auntie, and all others involved.

Oh, sorry I kind messed up in pictures on 15th. They all were fixed to browse.

Got lots of emails from many friends... thanks! Sorry I couldn't respond all right now... here I can receive the emails, not sending any out due to setting at local Internet connection (different POP from ISP).

Tomorrow, will fly back to Japan via Atlanta. Very early morning like having to get up around 5am! No update for tomorrow.

Bye!

September 16, 2000 =Wedding! - not mine, Robyn's!

Hello, ya'll! Robyn is now FINALLY married to Edgar and her name is changed to Robyn Haynes Restrepo ---

I have tons of pictures today, of course from the wedding... so I will minimize of my writing today (again?):

Smiling after all done!

Sam Kaufman

Both families in a picture!

Howdy, the pastor

Mr. & Mrs. Holer and Trisa (right) <- Congrats on new baby, Trisa!

Balfoua = organist, Butch and friend... my friend, Butch!

Kelly and John, Lee and Ann...

Mmmm... Stacy "Smilie" got a nice girlfriend, Susan...

(World is not FAIR!)

Mom and Tak

Linda & Sandra, and a little lady smiled at me...

Kaufman Family on left and ...

Mac (right picture) showed up with his Harley-Davidson... Cool dude!

I was doing things as usher... did I do good job? Yeah, I escorted Kelly and John to totally wrong spot and succeeded to embarrass them sitting in the front! HAHAHA! I am sure that Kelly can make a joke about this for rest of her life --- I know how she is...

Anyway... ceremony went excellent and reception was great! Man, still cannot imagine that Robyn is now married! I met her for the first time in Brevard College about 8 or 9 years ago... We shared pretty much everything thereafter... now I became the witness of her marriage. Then what's next? I come to see her first born baby soon? Wow, we are certainly going on our lives for sure. Though, still hard to be aware of all as it is now.

After the reception, bloom and bride were hitting to Atlanta as the beginning of their honeymoon... with the car like:

"Just Hitched!"

Wow!

Anyway, congratulations, Edgar and Robyn! Have a happy life together!

We all are happy for you both!!!

We love you!

0:38+1

September 15, 2000 =Day Before Wedding...

Day before the wedding...

Ready for everything? Guess NOT! We all were running everything behind?! Somewhat. The sign at Robyn's church (picture above) shows it's ready - haha.

Picture on left is the church where the wedding ceremony will take place tomorrow, 9/16/00, from 6 o'clock at night. Then, reception will follow thereafter in the Thatcher Hall in the same place. You know what? I heard that about 150 people would attend all this... wow, that must be the big one. Didn't know Haynes Family have had that many connections!

Anyway...

I was told that I needed to go to brunch with Robyn, Lee (Robyn's brother), and others to Dave's (Robyn's father) house. I was dum enough not to realize that Edgar and his family would come too. Plus, this was the first occasion that two different families come to meet in the history! How come did this hit me quick to realize all?

Apparently, Robyn and Edgar were quite nervous about this meeting (of course!).

Edgar's family, arrived in Waynesville last night from Columbia, is of course, Spanish speaker... Yes, this is international marriage... if you haven't noticed. Communication was kind of mixed... in Spanish and English. I was SUPPOSED to use much Spanish... though, since I haven't used it much, I couldn't speak up well... probably understanding in listening is much better than communicating with them from my side.

Edgar's mother (left) and sisters (w/ Mom on right)

Here's snap shots from all day today... it's easier to deal with for today's update because if I talk what happened today on and on, it will last quite bit...

Thatcher Hall... I helped a little bit about this preparation.

Nice decoration about hanging lots of pictures of two families

Wow, who in the heck is this?! (Still look old?)

Have got tuxedo... first time to wear in my life, by the way = Did I look okay? Hope so.

At 6pm, rehearsal took place in the church... and dinner session was held at Michael's --- the restaurant I really wanted to go for a long time. Food was excellent... had a chicken with fruit salsa. Plus, 2 waitresses serving us in there were cute (though seemed too young for me!)

Restaurant "Michael's" in Waynesville, NC

----- Edgar's family

Uncle Brother (left) and others -----

----- Paula, Chris, and Sandra -----

Bride and Bloom were busy eating! -----

Anyway, it was a long day, really. Tomorrow --- would be even longer. Who knows?! Robyn was packing her stuff for honeymoon starting tomorrow. I am sure that bloom and bride would be very tired by the time everything gets done and ready to hit the honeymoon.

Anyway, congrats!

May post more pictures tomorrow.

9:28+1

September 14, 2000 =Back in US!

Folks, you know what? I am BACK! --- in US.

In the morning, still had to work... a little bit. Wasn't that bad and quite easy. Then, I spoke with everyone in the office for my thanks on training (because it was last day in that office). Then, hit to the airport.

Man, Narita (Tokyo) Int'l Airport was huge and lots of shopping area with many restaurants! Could spend hours in there for sure. You know, I always flew out of Nagoya Airport, nearest to Ogaki, my hometown, and that place isn't as big as Narita, I realize.

DL 56 Narita - Atlanta... flight was packed and lots of Japanese tourist. It's in September and thought if this was a good time for Japanese people to travel? Don't know the truth. Anyway, funny thing happened in the aircraft:

There was a lady walking down the aisle and I was sitting the same side today. Then, she came back all the way and stopped right next to me and said:

"Ogaki-jin?"

I felt like "How in the world I got recognized by someone else in nowhere with my handle name (on line)???"

Then, I looked up and saw the lady --- it was a friend of mine, Yoko. I met this lady in Atlanta back in May... she stayed with my house for a few days since she was friend to yk110 (my roommate).

What a coincidence!

She told me that she thought that it would be me... because of necklace... then, glasses which was uniquely shaped with waving design. She concluded that it got to be me... so she decided to speak to me.

She was on her way to Florida where she gets lesson on career. She teaches babies how to swim... It was so nice to see her and nice to have some kind of surprise in some place so unexpected to meet someone like that.

Anyway, DL 56 went very smooth and no delay for arrival in Atlanta. Then, I made several calls in the Atlanta Airport --- until the connection flight to Asheville, North Carolina.

Was delayed. An hour or so. So I was sitting in a chair where the gate for the flight. I slept and slept... didn't have any control... thought that slept enough on the way to US in flight... must not be enough then. I only saw a movie --- "Love and Basketball." Wow, that was pretty good. I liked it. Other movies? Yeah, I skipped.

After getting in Asheville, had to drive (my American) Mom's car up to Waynesville. Wow, first time to drive a car for a month or so. I drove okay... drive was about 45 minutes. Tired and sleepy... although, made it okay.

Went to house of Sandra's --- Mom's friend, first. Supposedly, a party on Robyn took place. Since flight delay, they just left when I got there. Then, I went to Nannie's place because I was told that they went to that direction to drop Nannie off. So I got there... Tim (Robyn's cousin) and Nannie were there and told me that they just left again! Oh well, I spent about 20 minutes for rest in that house and had a little chat.

Then, finally came (my American) home. Yes, everyone was there.

Robyn told me that I got a Japanese haircut. Well, is that so? Maybe.

They all were surprised with how small the cellular phone from Japan was. You know, I am a gadget person and they are always curious what kind of new toy I got time to time. This time, Visor and cellular phone.

Gave Robyn the present from Miyuki (my ex-) and she was quite glad with what she got --- table mattress. They were beautiful!!! Was glad too because it took up a quite space in my small suitcase.

Then, going bad finally - Zzzzzzz

8:41+1

September 13, 2000 =Now Training Is Over!

Yippie! yippie! yippie! It's about time to come to an end (of training session)!!! Tomorrow, I STILL have to go in to the office for a few hours, though that would be it. My flight with Delta 56 is to depart out of Narita Int'l Airport at 3pm, of course tomorrow afternoon.

Gee, no one has updated me about new iBook (from Apple)!!! I really missed this update... too bad. Now new iBook series have different colors... do I buy one? Well, wish so. Since staying at the hotel where costs me lots of money for connection, I have been out of all information like that. I really miss it.

Oh tonight is last one for me to stay here in hotel... in other words, I have to PACK *again* -- you know, how many times so far I packed and unpacked.

Good thing, I asked one of coworkers in the office to hold some stuff of mine. He said okay... so I will bring one of bags to him for temporary storage. Am very thankful and so glad about this.

You know, Tokyo isn't the place where you drive your car around. You USE public transportation. This means, you have to WALK with your luggage to anywhere you want to go! This is what I have been doing... really painful to do, though. Darn used to way American life goes... drive to anywhere!

You know what happened? --- lady in the office, her name is Emi Takahashi --- asked me how old I was over the lunch time. Well, I asked her a question like "How old do you think I am?!" in return.

"34" - That was what she really thought! Truly beyond my imagination... I look like that old. I know, I have a friend, Andrea, keeps calling me OLD MAN since I always tell her as "young lady." Shocking to me? Not quite. Though, I was surprised, at least.

I have to think... if really look like that?! Mmmmmm.

I guess, I am not popular among girls... because they don't think I am in their range by age... maybe?

Wow, SpringF (Japanese female I met in Atlanta, now in Japan) is now going to London for grad school? Good for her! Remember, we threw a big farewell party on her departure out of Atlanta in the past?! --- Too bad that I won't get a chance to see a cut girl (haha).

Congratulations, SpringF!

Tomorrow, you probably won't see me on line... since I will be on board to the flight to Asheville, North Carolina. I will say hello from US on next update!

See ya! Wish me for the safety and stay tuned to CNN if any plain crush or not!

21:08

September 12, 2000 =Still in Training Session

Humid... very much so. It's about the middle of September... should make me feel a bit about fall. Not yet like that yet, though.

As influence of typhoon getting closer to Okinawa Island, Japan, rain was everywhere. Notably about Nagoya... thousands of homes went under water since nearby river couldn't handle much water flowing...

How about my house in Ogaki? Well, this flood took place in Nagoya area... so my home should be safe. Anyway, that's very scary, though.

According to NHK, Japan's national channel, there were 6 people so far killed by this disaster.

Earthquake and flood?! Man, mother nature's been really active!

People in the office still think of my NEW GADGET, orange Visor, as Game Boy by Nintendo. Not only several people... but actually more. Though, most of those people thought that anyone wouldn't even dream about bring toy in to the office. Well, that was right. Damn right. Though, because of orange color, you don't have to assume my such important device as FUN TOOL. Well of course, Visor can be used for fun too.

I guess, after the training session start working in Tokyo office and more people would come to a doubt about my stuff. Don't you guess so?

Don't you think my diary getting boring day by day? Don't have much stuff to write about... I guess it's because I am currently under training? or because I don't have freedom to go out since I got stuck with hotel located nowhere to go for me?! Well, hope I can have more topics to talk about.

You know, I have to pay hotel per minute for telephone usage. In other words, it's so limited for me to stay on line. In fact, I don't stay on line... just connect to Internet and upload this file... that's always it.

It has to take a while to settle all with myself... in order to have more accessibility to Internet. Upon that, I surely can provide more to talk about with interesting sites, etc.

Just be bear with me for a while... like until October.

21:11

September 11, 2000 =Almost Hit by a Forklift?!

Que pasa?! --- Mmmmm, I was almost hit by a forklift today... was labeling in the warehouse, the one bonded. Then, suddenly the wooden pallet in front of myself just moved quickly toward myself... actually hit my toe. GEEE!

Wow... what a crazy fork man!

Anyway, I was safe and no hurt. Though, I was told that in this bond area of Tokyo Int'l Airport, about 3 people got killed by trucks and forklift. In fact, there is a man in the office was just coming back from injury... hitting by forklift. No kidding!

In the morning... didn't do much since Monday is busiest of the week. So people around myself were doing things quickly and I didn't want to interrupt them much... even though I was there for training.

Thereafter, actually after lunch --- started actual work. Do some documentation, etc. Better than nothing to do for a moment. Overall, it was light for me because all other people were busy.

My father made a deposit for my apartment contract... so it's now secured about moving into the apartment in Urayasu. I really hope I would come to like living there. Commute shouldn't be a problem and environment ought be safe... I suppose. Well, upon moving in, will update you what kind of place I live.

How nice to keep up with ALL details of my life, huh! (haha)

Oh well --- let me go off the line tonight. Sleepy.

Today's lunch ... Bento (lunch box) with pork teriyaki

Supper ... bread (didn't have much appetite) with ice coffee (like breakfast?)

see ya!

21:25

September 10, 2000 =No Rain Finally ---

No movies... what did I do then? Woke up around 10am... since I was on the phone with Miyuki (my ex-) up to 2am... over the cellular phone. Cannot or don't want to imagine how much this will cost.

Oh, in Japan, whoever makes a call, that person is responsible for the entire cost. Totally opposite, US --- cell phone users are charged for air time.

Miyuki wanted me to bring some gift to Robyn getting married following weekend. Oh, did I solve my problem with luggage? Well... not really. Though, I sent the suitcase, which was sent from home in Ogaki last week, to home back tonight. That's the only solution I had this moment.

To assume, my brother will go home this weekend (for something). He said, he would pick it up and bring that back to Tokyo for me. I sure hope that will come to happen.

Will see-

Some Japanese readers look at this English page, in addition to Japanese one. That's not fair!!! (I guess, I complained this before---). You know, I always type all from scratch in English and Japanese, respectively. I am HUMAN being... in other words, I tell more about myself throughout two different pages!

Anyway...

Oh, getting back to what I've done today:

By the hotel shuttle bus, went to a different shopping center called "Aeon" which was bigger than one yesterday. That place had a really international atmosphere... food court had Chinese, Thai, Italian and other cuisine. I almost ate in Thai place... though, you know where I ended up in?

--- McDonald's! *hahaha*

Had "Teriyaki (beef) Burger." Was okay. Had to take a while to get seated in that place... It was certainly packed. I never had any experience that I had to wait to eat in McDonald's. Have you?

That mall had some familiar names / brands... Starbucks, Sport Authority, etc. I guess, I am STILL in US?

Starbucks, almost went in for a cut of Cafe Latte... though as soon as seeing a long line, quit going in. Like McDonald's and IBM, Starbucks will come to make more money in Japan than home country for sure.

3 more days for training... then go back to US! Wow.

Rain will resume tomorrow... man! Give me a break! I don't want to get soaked!

21:17

September 9, 2000 =Earthquake? Wow!

Hi, ya'll! I haven't checked my BBS page in English... Saw a message from Brenda! Sorry, I couldn't respond timely... and too bad that Terry and Robin left Fritz. I guess, the office where I used to work was no longer same since I left plus now, more people left.

M 4.4 --- do you know this kind of figure? Yeah, earthquake.

It was the first time to experience it for a long time, really long time. Earthquake was occurred around Tokyo area and no major damage or any Tsunami (big wave). The area I stay didn't indicate any big figure in scale of the earthquake, although I definitely felt it while it was in progress. I guess, it's because I am on the top of the building, 10th floor.

Did I work today? Nope-

Did I go out? Well, I did... though, not a big deal since it was raining hard outside and didn't motivate me to do much. I just went to a shopping center called "JUSCO" - that's it. What did I do in there? Just looking around. Read some magazines and ate some noodle, etc.

At least, it was relaxing... until the time I was leaving out of that place.

Got a call from my brother who had been asked to come to my hotel in this evening to pick up my extra stuff. I definitely needed his help for this because I have too much stuff with me and need to store somewhere before leaving for US ---

Brother told me that he was busy and couldn't come. Damn it (sorry for cussing).

Hence, I kind lost myself from what to do next. I've got 4-5 pairs of suits, shoes, etc. I don't need those until 21st when going to Tokyo office after this training. I did really count my brother in for this. Though, he wasn't quite cooperative --- which was unfortunate.

Mmmm, what should I do with this?! Don't have friends in this area and...

Oh well, if happens, happens whatever!

Let me talk to you tomorrow... probably need some drinks. See ya!

21:16

September 8, 2000 =Now Weekend... About Time!

I say, "Thank goodness... it's weekend!" --- truly saying so. I had been waiting and waiting for too darn long time. Even though I still do have some concerns about apartment and this hug luggage I have, I try to relax myself as much as possible for now.

Woke up around 7am this morning... didn't feel too bad, compared to other mornings I had this week since I had a bit longer period of time for sleep last night.

It was rainy outside, again. Since I got here in Narita, the weather wasn't being cooperative to me, at least. I cannot let my portable umbrella go. Went downstairs for breakfast and got the shuttle bus to the airport at 8:15am as always.

Today's training session was a bit different since I now learn Customs clearance process for today and Monday. No more break bulks ("BB"). I took notes about differences I encountered from US procedure. Most of them were similar with minor differences. I guess, trainer - Mr. Tajima (very nice guy) had easy time on me for this training since I'd already carried some (or most of) knowledge needed for this process.

You know what? I really recognized myself as no longer real Japanese --- for me, it's much easier to take notes in English rather than in Japanese. I usually read figures in English - because it's faster! I am NOT ordinary Japanese fellow...

Today was the due date for a deposit on apartment contract. Since I sent an express mail to my father for the regard, I thought he would do so. In the afternoon, I got a call from Realtor for this contract and he was concerned since there was no deposit made at that time. Urgently called my father as well as mother home. Found out that my father did take a look at what I sent. Though, he didn't care much about this urgency. I included a memo as instruction what he needed to do with it. I cannot make a contract without my father's signature and other proof...

Father told me that he didn't know anything about the documents I sent. After that call, my mother told me that she saw him opening the envelop. I don't know what the truth is out there... though, no deposit was made - Hope he would do so on Monday so that this deal would be still on. Otherwise, I have to start another hunting session on my own. Will see what happens.

My brother called me a couple days ago... asking me if interested in brand new Fujitsu FM-V laptop... retail-priced about $3,000- he could have sold me (because I am his brother) with around $1,500. I declined that offer right away since it was NOT Mac and I didn't have any extra cash... for anything big like that. he, by return, complained about what Macintosh didn't carry any compatibility with any Windows machine. He told me, "It is useless unless machines were 100% compatible with Windows OS." You know what? I disagree (as usual?).

Oh, better start washing my clothes... don't have many clothes left to wear from tomorrow on. Let me update Japanese page now and do laundry thereafter.

Folks, have a good weekend. Oh, those who read this in US, sorry, I've got going into weekend a bit earlier than what you have. Don't work too hard then.

21:30

September 7, 2000 =Yeah... It's a CAMP!

Someone told me that I was in the military camp... I absolutely agree with that person! Military camp... I don't think I can come up with any better terminology of the situation I am in...

Since my (new) company installed new computer system, people are really swamped. I can give you an example how crazy this is. As you know (if you read this everyday-), I am in the training session taking place at the Narita Office next to Tokyo Airport (NRT). The office's closing time this week is like this:

Monday, 4th - 3 am

Tuesday, 5th - 11:30 pm

Wednesday, 6th - 1 am

Thursday, 7th - still open at this moment (9:20 pm).

I am NOT kidding! Like I was in the office up to 11pm last night, people (actually more than 15 people) were working at the time of my leave. Not only men, but some some female workers included here.

I am sure that, by now, you don't want to come to Japan for work.

Me? I try to think that this won't be like this for rest of my life --- in other words, try to stay positive about how the life goes. At least, I can say, there is a drastic and significant difference from the way I lived in US.

Oh, you need to see a bit detail about my typical day:

Getting up around 6:30am... shower, etc. thereafter. Then breakfast on the 1st floor. I have to take the airport shuttle at 8:15 sharp. It takes a while to get the airport from the hotel... 20 minutes, maybe. Getting off the bus at Terminal 2, and take an escalator to downstairs (1st floor) and then, have to take an elevator to basement. Then, have to pass the train station, then take stairs to ground level again. So now I have to walk about 15 minutes to the Cargo Area... Lots of security gates to pass. I usually get into the office around 8:50 or 8:55am. I so far don't have any tardiness.

Working in the office all the morning... lots of paperwork to handle. Then, lunch time - precisely from 12 to 1pm. The office building is huge and there are lots of catering. I usually pick up some lunch box to eat (cost around 5 dollars). Then, another session of paperwork up to 4pm. Thereafter, I need to go to a local trucking company to observe and learn the process of picking and inspection process... this lasts until 9pm (usually). After this, I can come back to office and usually can leave for hotel.

Well, this didn't go well last night...

I am pretty beat.

Oh, I should thank yk110 and Miyuki... for kind messages. Yes, I will try to take care of myself. I will be okay ---

Cannot wait for weekend... even though I feel a bit uneasy about it because I am in the middle of nowhere and don't know where to go. Cannot go to Tokyo because it's too far. Coworkers won't have even single weekend at this particular time of season since the system carries lots of glitches in it.

What should I do then? Maybe staying inside the hotel all the times. At least, I can relax.

I've got a good news... ONLY good news. The company tried to force me to have a new email address under Fritz.com domain... used to be "tak.yamada@fritz.com" and I was asked to use "takashi.yamada@fritz.com" because they didn't want to recognize my first name with nickname. Though, I wanted to use "tak-" since lots of people in the organization have recognized that way and I have a sincere feeling toward my nickname. Head person of the office today brought me a piece of paper mentioning of my email address. Company now allows me to have "tak.yamada@fritz.com" - Oh cool!

All right, that's it for tonight. Thanks for reading!

There are only 7 days left to go to US... for Robyn's wedding! Robyn, are you ready for your life time change?! Hehe.

21:40

September 6, 2000 =Ogaki-jin Needs A Rest?!

What's up? Thanks for a day off yesterday. You know what? I almost skipped updating this page even for today... since I just came back to hotel.It's 12:37am.

Did I go out for some fun? Wish that were true. I was at work up to a little after 11pm... then coworkers took me out for eat and came back to hotel now... this is truly what happened tonight.

I thought this was nothing but training session. I was quite wrong. Damn wrong. I was a part of tonight's project and had to work like that late... Mmmmmm. I really thought that I would be able to go home quick tonight so that I could rest a bit...

It was all about my dream, I guess.

Since I didn't update this website last night? Foyer called me up to my cellular phone... it was about time when I was just out of office... He wanted to check up on me how I was doing, etc. He knew better about this kind of work environment and customs... he just laughed and laughed with whatever I told him over the phone.

My cellular phone keeps ringing... with emails from friends in US and calls from my family... My Dad and brother called me yesterday and Mom did the same tonight.

Zzzzzz --- am so sleepy now. Let me move on writing in Japanese for the other side of the website and let me go to sleep.

0:48+1

September 4, 2000 =Orientation Is Over...

Orientation on new job is over... finally and moved to a new location. Narita - yes, it's airport... in Tokyo. Job training starts taking place in the office next to the airport from tomorrow until the 14th.

Yes, my stay in hotels is still to continue...

Today's stay... Narita Airport Washington Hotel. Seems very nice hotel... Stay on the top floor which is the 10th. Too bad that I cannot see the view since it's dark outside. Though, I am sure that it must be pretty nice.

On the way to come over here... was taking a Airport Shuttle Bus from the place near the office. It was a big bus... and I was the only person to the airport. Since I saw the hotel building which was my final destination, I suddenly asked the driver, "Sir, can you possibly drop me off over there rather than the airport?"

Well, the bus was up to the airport... and I was planning to take a taxi up to the hotel.

Driver was okay with it since the run was last for the day and I was the only customer. Of course, he asked me NOT to tell others that I got a ride to hotel rather than the airport.

I guess, I was lucky; he was very nice too.

Shhhhh, please don't tell others about what happened! (haha)

Other than this, have NOTHING pretty much to tell you for today... sorry!

Oh, I tonight activated a new email with my cellular phone (via famous "i-mode" of Japan!). If urgency, you can contact me anytime thru this email... It's "ogakijin@docomo.ne.jp" - Still can use "ogakijin@ogaki.net" too.

Email me, folks!

21:38

September 3, 2000 =Fun Place --- Shibuya, Tokyo

Japan's most trendy are... Shibuya (still in Tokyo). I spent all day in that area. I guess, this place should be considered as the center of Japan's fashion. It's very unique. Very.

I went out to that place around 10am... went in so many places for eyewears, casual clothes, etc. Man, I found so many interesting stuff. Did I buy? Nope. You know what? I am not sure that I can be a Japanese city boy with that kind of fashion or not.

Walking all day long... made me quite beat and I decided to rest. What did I do? I decided to see a movie. Choices were between Mission Impossible 2, White Out (Japanese movie), Pokemon 2000 (out of question), etc. I kind wanted to see the White Out... though decided not to since it was just packed.

Then compromised with M:i-2. Still enjoyed it though. I think I understood better in the beginning part of story.

Guess how much did I have to pay for a single movie? --- 1,800 Japanese Yen. $18! Yes, EIGHTEEN bucks! Though, I took advantage of student fare... showing my VA Wesleyan's student ID... STILL validated. So I got $3 off. Still darn expensive, huh!

Theater was packed, though! Man, I thought I would be able to enjoy sitting alone... I was quite wrong. Plus, Shibuya is the place for couples. I found that I was the only person without any company... around. I should have looked bad in there (seriously).

I won't go to Shibuya again to see any movies unless I don't get a new girlfriend in Tokyo!

After a rest in a movie theater, I came out to a bookstore... 5-floor bookstore... selling all kinds of publications including foreign magazines. I then read many US men's magazine such as "GQ," "Stuff," "MAX," etc. This section wasn't as popular as other ones within the same bookstore. Prices were about tripled... magazines I took a look at were around $15-17!!! I am sure that I come here to read them, not buying them.

Then, my cellular phone rang. It was from Miyuki (you know her? Yes, she is my ex-). We were supposed to meet for dinner tonight. I was intending to return her person item which I found when moving out of US. We went to a restaurant called "Bou's" where a good variety of wines was available. Ordered a bottle of wine with some appetizers. Man, they were all good. I liked it. Type of cuisine? It was fusion-like, I would say.

She talked to me a lot and I was drinking a lot.

Then moved to another place for coffee. In fact, we moved to another area --- Harajyuku, another fancy place. I forgot the name of that cafe where we had coffee and cakes. Though, as she mentioned to me, that place was quite famous and lots of foreign people. Definitely more than Shibuya.

Probably, I come to Harajyuku again to check out some (stores) more. This must be interesting.

Well, first weekend in Tokyo is over... Impression? I just got amazed by a number of people in Tokyo...

23:11

September 2, 2000 =1st Weekend in Tokyo ---

Tak's 1st weekend in Tokyo --- nothing but apartment hunting... Went and checked 4 different places, looking for a place to live soon... very soon.

I think I liked the first place... the top-left picture above. Other locations were troublesome to live... like noise issue, day light issue, etc. None of them give me a plenty of space... since I am used to American size and now have to adjust my sense to Tokyo's reality... right? Yup.

Price range of the rent for those candidates is around $700 per month... I really told my agent that I could afford up to mid-700. No more than that. The 1st pick of mine is $670... wouldn't be too bad.

I didn't sign the contract yet because I needed a bit more time. I will do so probably next weekend, unless I find some other possibilities.

Apartment hunting was done around 1:30pm... then, I hit Akihabara - famous electronic town of Tokyo. Tons of foreigners too. Stores after stores selling like PCs, CDs, VCRs, TVs, all others... amazing numbers of places you can go in this area... biggest price competition in Japan for sure! If you need to catch up with Japanese technology, this is the place to check that out.

You have to walk... with sweat.

You know what I got from this place? Think --- The one which EVERY SINGLE Japanese has it... from babies to senior citizens! It's cellular phone. Bought a Nokia phone. It's same style that the one available to US market. Choice was between blue and silver. Wanted blue and lots of places were out of stock since Nokia model was limited edition with high demand. Though, I finally found a place to get one!

Wanna call me from US? Sure --- need to dial 011-81 (Japan's country code) -90-4090-5014! Better use here for FREE international calls! Oh, of course I WILL NEVER EVER accept any damn collect call. Even you succeeded to take advantage of Japanese operator, I STILL WILL pretend that I were unable to understand Japanese language!

You know, I now can update this page from a PUBLIC telephone located in the lobby of this facility! I write everything in the room I am staying and carry this laptop with me to downstairs... hook this computer to the phone and upload the files. You know what kind of efforts I am making JUST FOR YOU? Better come back to see me every single day then! (hehe)

Am tired after all I walked... In Akihabara, I went so many different shops to look for Macintosh stuff as well as Visor things. Oh man! There were tons of thing that I almost brought my wallet out of pocket to buy! Thank goodness, I didn't do so. Same money for apartment and all that.

Well, that's it for tonight. Am busy doing laundry for now. Need a close to wear tomorrow... Japanese dryer isn't strong as American one. I need to take more time to dry clothes out.

20:52

September 1, 2000 =Another Drinking Occassion!

Man! I was planning to lose some weight... it's going to be nothing but a dream... First day in new position... I just had an orientation all day long. Plus, there is a party afterwards. You know what? I am pretty much drunk. You BETTER excuse me from writing much today... Let me just put up some pictures... okay?

See, Tak's crazy (as usual)...

Yoshio, Mr. Ishii (Managing Dir.) and Miss Ito

Kaori, Nathan, and Torii

I really don't remember how much drink I had and how much food I ate... I really don't recall.

Only thing I call tell... it was such fun... at least to me. I guess I will turn out to be a party animal... don't you agree? (haha)

Hope I can update this thru public phone... since I STILL don't have any phone to outside this facility. Will see.

Tomorrow... nothing but apartment hunting. Hope I can see some good ones I really get liked to.

All right... too drunk to continue... let me rest. I have another early morning tomorrow for the hunting. See you later!

22:39

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