kids and bugs.. i dont get it!!?

so japanese kids have a fetish for something i am terrified of...insects! They collect them and pick them up with their fingers.. they're fearless..


I was petrified while standing in the field where they grab them..

but the kids asked me to catch insects with them, and i just couldnt say no!

MY "ENKAI!" aka customary WELCOME PARTY!

The 'enkai' is a workplace drinking party... it is a very important Japanese custom to have this celebration to get to know your co-workers better in a social/relaxed situation.. this was the welcome party my office threw for me.. they even made me a kick-ass flyer!

my name in 'katakana'




it felt like a structured affair, where I had to sit at the head of the table beside my big boss -who i never speak to at work b/c his office is separate from ours, but all my co-workers are extremely friendly and welcoming! theyre also a bunch of jokers who crack jokes at the office all the time... its great!

the 'big boss'

my buddy Ojin-sensei! funny guy!

my girlies from work! theyre super 'kawai!' i love them!

beach get together.

the other ALTs got together a few weeks ago before the end of summer to have a beach bbq... i know im a month late, ive been so busy! LOL ..these are just some pics of the view.. it was breath taking.