Roland and I have been living in Fukuoka now for about 5 weeks. It has been a fairly smooth transition with only a few burps in the system. We had to survive without our furniture for about 3 weeks. That was a bit difficult at times, but we managed to make due. Of course we had to buy a few things during that time like a pot to cook with, a futon to sleep on, and a couple of chairs. But it wasn't so bad (I can say that now that we finally have all our stuff!)
It has also been interesting trying to figure out how to use our new appliances - because all the buttons are in Japanese. One of our first purchases was a rice cooker. After 4 hours of trying to get the darn thing to work we were so delirious from laughter that we forgot about our hunger! Roland took the manual to work the next day and got some help with translations. Once we figured out which button to push, it was very easy. After the rice cooker experience I learned my lesson, so when the air conditioner and washing machine were delivered, I got the guys to show me the basic buttons to push to the the things to work. The washer still baffles me. I wish I could figure out how to stop the stupid thing mid-cycle, but I'll get over it! At least I don't have to wash things in the sink!
Roland's initial hunt for an apartment paid off. He found our place before I came over and it was a very good choice. It is a bummer of a commute for him, but I think the living-quality is better for both of us. We are right in the city of Fukuoka, 2 subway stops from the main shopping area and a huge market. We are a short walk from the US Consulate and a wonderful park (Ohori Park). Being so close to the park has paid off already as we have met several new friends there. We also have some local restaurants and a small shopping arcade with fresh fruit and veggies just a 5 minute walk from our building.
We are still having an interesting time with communication. It is very limiting not being able to speak a word of Japanese. It means that we can't be so adventurous and try certain restaurants and shops. And we don't get the full effect of the Ads and announcements and such. We haven't found the right Japanese classes for ourselves yet. We are still looking. . . It will definitely make for an easier and more interesting time when we can communicate with few hand signals.
We are currently in the "rainy season." That means it is very humid here. If it isn't raining, it's really hot and humid. Thank goodness for our air conditioner otherwise I would be dead!
We have finally found an obstetrics clinic that we are really happy with. My first doctor's visit was quite harrowing. I went to a big hospital thinking that it would be more likely to find some English speakers...WRONG. It was so stressful. I couldn't ask any questions. The doctor could say a few english words so he was able to tell me that everything was ok, but I was very frustrated and in tears by the time Roland came home. We realized then that it was paramount to find an obstetrician we could communicate with - at least a little. We found this fantastic private clinic. The doctor speaks english very well. Even a few of the nurses and midwives speak a few words (which I think will really make a big difference). So far, the prenatal care I have received has been VERY thorough and not very expensive - compared to the US at least. This weekend we hope to update the website with some photos from the clinic so you can see how luxurious the place is.
Our stay here in Japan is off to a good start. Both of us are settling in nicely and getting into a routine. It is very different and very interesting. We are learning about the fantastic things about Japan as well as the frustrating things. I'm sure we will learn more about Japanese living every single day.
Please keep in touch. We hope you all are well.
Love,
Rebecca