Where to Start?

After 27 hours of awake time and crazy jet lag, Nick and I arrived in Hino at about 8 at night, Tokyo time. Japan is a stimulus overload for a foreigner, too much to take in a too much to see at first, lucky I was totally brain dead when I got here. Settling in was shaky and confusing, I brought a gift for the famil but was not sure when I should present it. But after a very delightful meal that Kakuzo fixed for us, American Chili, Salad, and of course some Delicious Japanese rice...We hit the bed, ready to work in the morning.

I started the day working at the cafe and antiquae store that Kakuzo runs. It is a Tudor style cottage with a nice garden. As I arrived on the scene, all the women were rushing about but there did not seem to be any real purpose. I was told to sweep a floor that was clean. I obliged and took my precious time, because I was in fear that she may not have anything else for me to do. I think that it is going to be hard working for Kakuzo because she is very managing, but does not want you to use your intuition, but with that being said....She is a very nice person, and certainly helpful, she is always thinking about others, but I think she is going to be hard to please.

Fortunately, I was originally intended to work with Hiro, the man of the Yamazaki family. He was busy in the morning so I had to occupy myself at the Clare Garden and Cafe in the morning. We were going to a construction site, something that I was really excited about. As we arrived on the scene, I noticed the cleanliness and craftsmanship with which this house was being made. Upon entering, we were to remove our shoes, DURING CONSTRUCTION IT IS THAT CLEAN, just like a traditional Japanese house. Though the house was under construction, it was still treated as a clean and dignified place. I find that a very interesting concept and work ethic. This is a post and beam house, and it is going to be very strong. I was so happy that I got to see how people work in Japan, and how a house is built.

Japan is going to be interesting. I am obviously still adjusting to the different culture....Reflections to come later