I really hate this constant feeling of tiredness that's been going on with me lately.
I couldn't get up for the life of me this morning to go to the gym. I know I got enough sleep, but I just don't get why I always feel like I haven't slept in days! Starting back at work was bound to take it's toll but even though I go to bed around midnightish, apart from Saturdays (when I have to get up at 7.45) I'm not getting up until 9am! Which is more than enough sleep for me. I remember when I was living in Kyushu I was going to bed later and getting up earlier. Maybe I just need to get used to working again or something...there was a lot to take in last week so maybe that just knackered me out or something.
And then this week is all testing which I'm a little nervous about because I have to do EVERTHING. It's kinda crazy because there is so much that I have to remember, along with doing the listening and oral sections and then all the marking, feedback and certificates. On top of that I will need to find time to do all the planning for next weeks classes as well....looks like I might be taking work home with me this week! I always said that I would never do that with this job, but it's looking like I'm going to have to. Or I could at least do it during my commute - there's definitely enough time! I just have to be careful not to get everything mixed up. So crazy when you have like 7 levels and over 100 students to take care of.
I went to the ward office today to try and sort out this malarky with my pension. I was in there for an hour and a half but it was worth it because I just have to wait for some paperwork from my old BOE and then go back down there and I should then be exempt from paying for a few months. I just told them flat out that I couldn't pay it because I've only just started work. We'll see what happens with that...I hope it doesn't mean that they're just gonna add it on to my payments next year!!
So much paperwork. I just feel like my head is constantly filled with all these things that I have to do. And that list is getting longer and longer!
xx
Monday, 30 November 2009
Sunday, 29 November 2009
*Yawn*
I am so tired!
I dragged my tired body to the gym earlier and nearly left one of my aero classes early because I just couldn't be bothered. But i didn't...I stuck it out. And now I'm just exhausted.
I think the craziness of my first week at work is catching up with me. So much stuff to take it and some complete nightmare kids to deal with. And I DO actually have to deal with them - no hiding behind a JTE and leaving all the discipline up to them - this is all me. And I have some serious little shits that I've shouted at already.
Next week all the classes have tests. Yes - even the babies. I'm working my way through their test papers as we speak. I had the same question you probably have - how the hell do you test a baby?!?! It's basically giving them instructions to point and touch things on the page to see if they remember words and stuff, and see if they know the actions to the songs. Weird, I know, but apparently parent really like seeing the certificate at the end of it all - to show off to other parents that their kid can speak English. Certificates that I have to write out and make all the evaluation comments on. For every single student.....I teach 6 classes a day, every day - where the hell am I supposed to get the time to do all the marking, make all the certificates and write all the comments?!?! And no way am I taking this work home with me - they can forget that idea as fast as they like!!!!
So much prep to do.
On a different note, I have this real urge to go and see come kind of contemporary dance show. I was watching this documentary, and the dancing on it literally made me cry - it was so beautiful. So if anyone knows of any good shows, then let me know!!
Cheers me dears!
xx
I dragged my tired body to the gym earlier and nearly left one of my aero classes early because I just couldn't be bothered. But i didn't...I stuck it out. And now I'm just exhausted.
I think the craziness of my first week at work is catching up with me. So much stuff to take it and some complete nightmare kids to deal with. And I DO actually have to deal with them - no hiding behind a JTE and leaving all the discipline up to them - this is all me. And I have some serious little shits that I've shouted at already.
Next week all the classes have tests. Yes - even the babies. I'm working my way through their test papers as we speak. I had the same question you probably have - how the hell do you test a baby?!?! It's basically giving them instructions to point and touch things on the page to see if they remember words and stuff, and see if they know the actions to the songs. Weird, I know, but apparently parent really like seeing the certificate at the end of it all - to show off to other parents that their kid can speak English. Certificates that I have to write out and make all the evaluation comments on. For every single student.....I teach 6 classes a day, every day - where the hell am I supposed to get the time to do all the marking, make all the certificates and write all the comments?!?! And no way am I taking this work home with me - they can forget that idea as fast as they like!!!!
So much prep to do.
On a different note, I have this real urge to go and see come kind of contemporary dance show. I was watching this documentary, and the dancing on it literally made me cry - it was so beautiful. So if anyone knows of any good shows, then let me know!!
Cheers me dears!
xx
Leona
I was watching last night's X Factor show earlier and it made me wanna go back and look at some clips of when Leona Lewis started her journey to international superstardom!
Since she won the show 3 years ago or something, not a single contestant has ever managed to come close to that calibre of talent. No way near. In all of the live shows, she gave a flawless performance week after week - her voice is truly incredible.
She deserves all the success that she's had since winning that show. And she is the reason why I watch reality shows like this one...because they discover pure talent. She is just so amazing - I never tire of hearing her voice.
And if you haven't heard anything of her new album, Echo, then check it out!
xx
Since she won the show 3 years ago or something, not a single contestant has ever managed to come close to that calibre of talent. No way near. In all of the live shows, she gave a flawless performance week after week - her voice is truly incredible.
She deserves all the success that she's had since winning that show. And she is the reason why I watch reality shows like this one...because they discover pure talent. She is just so amazing - I never tire of hearing her voice.
And if you haven't heard anything of her new album, Echo, then check it out!
xx
Thursday, 26 November 2009
So Sad
One of my favourite people that I have met here is gonna be leaving Japan soon.
And the worst bit about it isn't just the fact that he is leaving, it's that I don't even get to say goodbye.
=(
It's weird because when I was back in London, I always thought that I knew nice people. But since being in Japan, I have actually discovered GENUINELY nice people. And this guy is just fabulous! He's funny and so great to hang out with - not that I got to see him as much as I would've liked, but the times that we did hang out were always so much fun and I'm really, really gutted that I don't get to see him one last time just to give him the biggest hug in the world!
And braid his hair! Hehe!!
Gonna miss you lovey!! Safe trip back home and make sure you stay in touch!! I'll mail you my skype...if you don't have skype - GET IT!!
Love ya babes!!
xxxxxxxxxxxx
And the worst bit about it isn't just the fact that he is leaving, it's that I don't even get to say goodbye.
=(
It's weird because when I was back in London, I always thought that I knew nice people. But since being in Japan, I have actually discovered GENUINELY nice people. And this guy is just fabulous! He's funny and so great to hang out with - not that I got to see him as much as I would've liked, but the times that we did hang out were always so much fun and I'm really, really gutted that I don't get to see him one last time just to give him the biggest hug in the world!
And braid his hair! Hehe!!
Gonna miss you lovey!! Safe trip back home and make sure you stay in touch!! I'll mail you my skype...if you don't have skype - GET IT!!
Love ya babes!!
xxxxxxxxxxxx
Tuesday, 24 November 2009
Back In The Classroom
Today was my first day back in the classroom....
...and man, have I got some nightmare children!!
Teaching babies is actually pretty incredible. Their comprehension of what you are saying is amazing, even if they can only say a few words back. Not to mention the fact that they are ADORABLE!! Sooooooo cute!! Infant classes have a lot of little shits in - kids that just can't keep still and never shut up. They are definitely going to be a handful.
Elementary kids and above are definitely in my comfort zone, but there are some really difficult kids in those classes as well. As for the JHS class I had today - what a load of attitude!! But I am hoping to change that as time goes on.
But one thing that all the classes have in common is that the level that they are working at has absolutely stunned me. I can't believe that a 2 year old can write in English, that a 4 year old can answer questions in short sentences and an 11 year old can do the same grammar (but not well!) as a 3nensei JHS kid.
And it's all thanks to these pushy mummies. So many of them were watching the class through the window - probably because they want to grab a peek at the new teacher but more than anything, they want to make sure that they are getting their money's worth.
I've started at a really busy time. Next week, all the classes, including the babies (?!?!?!), have a test. The week after that I have to do all the Christmas classes. It's all quite overwhelming because I have to get my head around all the books and CDs and everything and there are so many of them for each level, it's really confusing.
Over to my second school tomorrow!
xx
...and man, have I got some nightmare children!!
Teaching babies is actually pretty incredible. Their comprehension of what you are saying is amazing, even if they can only say a few words back. Not to mention the fact that they are ADORABLE!! Sooooooo cute!! Infant classes have a lot of little shits in - kids that just can't keep still and never shut up. They are definitely going to be a handful.
Elementary kids and above are definitely in my comfort zone, but there are some really difficult kids in those classes as well. As for the JHS class I had today - what a load of attitude!! But I am hoping to change that as time goes on.
But one thing that all the classes have in common is that the level that they are working at has absolutely stunned me. I can't believe that a 2 year old can write in English, that a 4 year old can answer questions in short sentences and an 11 year old can do the same grammar (but not well!) as a 3nensei JHS kid.
And it's all thanks to these pushy mummies. So many of them were watching the class through the window - probably because they want to grab a peek at the new teacher but more than anything, they want to make sure that they are getting their money's worth.
I've started at a really busy time. Next week, all the classes, including the babies (?!?!?!), have a test. The week after that I have to do all the Christmas classes. It's all quite overwhelming because I have to get my head around all the books and CDs and everything and there are so many of them for each level, it's really confusing.
Over to my second school tomorrow!
xx
Sunday, 22 November 2009
No, No, No!
I will not think about how I'm supposed to be partying it up tonight in ageHa listening to Armin van Buuren, Dj Yoda and Glenn Morrison...instead of being stuck at home with some 'maybe' plans!!
*SOB*
*SOB*
頑張ります！
Since I have been so slack with studying this year, recently I've found myself trying to translate English quotes into Japanese. I'm not sure why - one day when I was looking for my 'quote of the day' I found myself wondering how I would say the same thing in Japanese. Obviously the Japanese have their own 諺, but I wanted to use English ones to see if I could try and convey the same meaning in Japanese.
And to be honest, I have no idea how I'm doing. I'm careful with which ones I post up on FB because I don't want to offend anyone with bad translation!
It's really hard as well, but I'm gonna keep at it. Especially since I haven't done any studying this year - it kinda makes me feel like I'm doing something!
xx
And to be honest, I have no idea how I'm doing. I'm careful with which ones I post up on FB because I don't want to offend anyone with bad translation!
It's really hard as well, but I'm gonna keep at it. Especially since I haven't done any studying this year - it kinda makes me feel like I'm doing something!
xx
Saturday, 21 November 2009
Intense
I finished the training for my new job today...and boy, it was INTENSE!!
So much new information, so many rules and regulations to follow - it couldn't be a world further away than that of an ALT. It's not until you leave JET that you realise just how damn EASY you had it. That's why it drives me mad now to hear JETS complaining that they have nothing to do, that they're bored, blah, blah, blah.
Well let me tell you, it's better than having a jam packed schedule like mine - that doesn't even end with the teaching. No free periods, a mountain of paperwork, time logging, discipline, marketing, recruiting, model lessons, planning trips, meetings, summer and winter school, constant planning, socialising with the parents...and a hell of a lot more. And none of this you can get away without doing. It's all mandatory.
I kind of like the challenge though. At least I know that I will be well utilised. Not to mention the fact that private eikaiwa = heated classrooms! No more wearing 5 layers, a scarf and a coat in the classroom...and looking a hundred sizes bigger. All the schools are located within shopping centres so it's all toasty inside! I'm looking forward to getting started, even though I know that I'm gonna be mad busy, it's better than sitting on your arse all day at school with nothing to do. Although to be fair, that never really happened to me that often because I had so many schools on JET.
But these 3 days of training have knackered me out. I was supposed to be out on the town tonight but I've cancelled my plans. It's not even just because I'm so tired, I can't afford it. Finding out that I do actually have to pay all these pension slips and health insurance that were sent in the post to me (and that I ignored) has really screwed my financial situation and I just can't afford to do anything. I have a backlog of payments now and it's just going to be a constant struggle from here on - to catch up with those payments whilst staying on top of my rent and bills and my gym membership. A lot of money....which I just don't have.
Looks like I'll be staying in for a while!
xx
So much new information, so many rules and regulations to follow - it couldn't be a world further away than that of an ALT. It's not until you leave JET that you realise just how damn EASY you had it. That's why it drives me mad now to hear JETS complaining that they have nothing to do, that they're bored, blah, blah, blah.
Well let me tell you, it's better than having a jam packed schedule like mine - that doesn't even end with the teaching. No free periods, a mountain of paperwork, time logging, discipline, marketing, recruiting, model lessons, planning trips, meetings, summer and winter school, constant planning, socialising with the parents...and a hell of a lot more. And none of this you can get away without doing. It's all mandatory.
I kind of like the challenge though. At least I know that I will be well utilised. Not to mention the fact that private eikaiwa = heated classrooms! No more wearing 5 layers, a scarf and a coat in the classroom...and looking a hundred sizes bigger. All the schools are located within shopping centres so it's all toasty inside! I'm looking forward to getting started, even though I know that I'm gonna be mad busy, it's better than sitting on your arse all day at school with nothing to do. Although to be fair, that never really happened to me that often because I had so many schools on JET.
But these 3 days of training have knackered me out. I was supposed to be out on the town tonight but I've cancelled my plans. It's not even just because I'm so tired, I can't afford it. Finding out that I do actually have to pay all these pension slips and health insurance that were sent in the post to me (and that I ignored) has really screwed my financial situation and I just can't afford to do anything. I have a backlog of payments now and it's just going to be a constant struggle from here on - to catch up with those payments whilst staying on top of my rent and bills and my gym membership. A lot of money....which I just don't have.
Looks like I'll be staying in for a while!
xx
Wednesday, 18 November 2009
Back To Work!
I finally started my new job today!
Well, I started the training. So much to take in, I couldn't believe it! I start shadowing the teacher that I'm taking over from next week and apparently she's really popular...great....that makes my job that little bit harder!
It is so crazy what these kids learn. A 3 year old learning to write?!?! At public school my 1 nensei at JHS couldn't even write their name! Such a different curriculum! I am actually really impressed with how quickly they advance to making whole sentences and stuff. But it's insane because each age group has like 4 textbooks each, including this really difficult homework book!
I got to watch a baby class today and I was in hysterics. Watching these mothers frantically trying to stop their kid from just wondering around and falling flat on their faces. And it's so funny because half the time they just look seriously confused, wondering what the hell is going on - super cute but I can imagine that they are going to be a complete pain in the arse! My schedule is pretty intense in terms of the number of lessons I'm teaching - 6 classes EVERY day. No free periods. I'm wondering how that's gonna go down - as a JET I was used to getting some free time during the week, and now I find out that I'm not going to get any.
I'm so tired! And my brain feels ready to explode with all the information that I was given today. But it feels good to be doing something and earning money...even the commute wasn't that bad. Although I think I may wear lower heels for the rest of the week!
xx
Well, I started the training. So much to take in, I couldn't believe it! I start shadowing the teacher that I'm taking over from next week and apparently she's really popular...great....that makes my job that little bit harder!
It is so crazy what these kids learn. A 3 year old learning to write?!?! At public school my 1 nensei at JHS couldn't even write their name! Such a different curriculum! I am actually really impressed with how quickly they advance to making whole sentences and stuff. But it's insane because each age group has like 4 textbooks each, including this really difficult homework book!
I got to watch a baby class today and I was in hysterics. Watching these mothers frantically trying to stop their kid from just wondering around and falling flat on their faces. And it's so funny because half the time they just look seriously confused, wondering what the hell is going on - super cute but I can imagine that they are going to be a complete pain in the arse! My schedule is pretty intense in terms of the number of lessons I'm teaching - 6 classes EVERY day. No free periods. I'm wondering how that's gonna go down - as a JET I was used to getting some free time during the week, and now I find out that I'm not going to get any.
I'm so tired! And my brain feels ready to explode with all the information that I was given today. But it feels good to be doing something and earning money...even the commute wasn't that bad. Although I think I may wear lower heels for the rest of the week!
xx
Tuesday, 17 November 2009
WOW!!!
These season of Gossip Girl is killing me with its awesomeness!!!
I am just LOVING it!! Love, love loving it!
And the new episode of How I Met Your Mother had me in stitches as well!
Don't hate on me for watching so much TV! As of tomorrow, it all changes!
xx
I am just LOVING it!! Love, love loving it!
And the new episode of How I Met Your Mother had me in stitches as well!
Don't hate on me for watching so much TV! As of tomorrow, it all changes!
xx
Tenho saudade de você
Man, I have been thinking so much about Brasil over the last week.
My friend showed me the video for Rio's Olympic bid and it just brought back so many memories from when I was living there. Living in Brasil generally, not just Rio.
I think it's so great that they won the bid. But I really hope that when people go over there, they don't just stick to the south. Salvador do Bahia is my absolute favourite place in Brasil. The north has all the Afro-Brasileiro influences and it is just an incredible, incredible place, full of music and dancing and the most wonderful people and food. The further south you go, the more European Brasil becomes. And there is nothing wrong with that, I just want people to see both sides that's all.
I'm really missing it! It's kinda crept up on me! I will definitely make it back there one day. If there's one country that I want to do voluntary work in, it's that one. But in the meantime...
...support the Rio Olympics!!
xx
My friend showed me the video for Rio's Olympic bid and it just brought back so many memories from when I was living there. Living in Brasil generally, not just Rio.
I think it's so great that they won the bid. But I really hope that when people go over there, they don't just stick to the south. Salvador do Bahia is my absolute favourite place in Brasil. The north has all the Afro-Brasileiro influences and it is just an incredible, incredible place, full of music and dancing and the most wonderful people and food. The further south you go, the more European Brasil becomes. And there is nothing wrong with that, I just want people to see both sides that's all.
I'm really missing it! It's kinda crept up on me! I will definitely make it back there one day. If there's one country that I want to do voluntary work in, it's that one. But in the meantime...
...support the Rio Olympics!!
xx
Monday, 16 November 2009
Last Couple of Days!
I'm in my last couple of days of bumming around before I go back into full time employment.
It's not like I've been a complete bum - I've been working out nearly every day and stuff. Admittedly I have spent more time in front of the TV than I think I have in my entire 2 years here but that's all about to change - I'll be surprised if I get to watch TV at all with the crazy hours that I'm gonna be working.
Speaking of TV - this year's X Factor is full of surprises. I can't believe that Jamie got kicked off over Lloyd. I know Lloyd actually gave a decent performance this week and Jamie's popularity has been steadily dwindling but STILL!! I've come not to expect anything from that show any more!!
And go Danni!! She is whooping Cheryl's arse in the style wars this year!
Today at the gym went so slowly - it felt like I was in my aerobics classes for 3 hours or something and it was only 1hr 20 mins. Time is dragging today - I still feel knackered from the weekend and you know when you spend the whole day recovering, your sleep pattern gets all messed up, so even though you got loads of sleep, you're still tired. I just hope that it doesn't mess me up for the whole week.
And I've also decided to detox. Well, I say detox but all I mean is that I'm not gonna drink any alcohol until the end of the month. At least. After what I put away last week, I just don't feel healthy at all and it seems pointless going to the gym as much as I have been if I'm just gonna undo everything by the time the weekend comes around. So I'm gonna just stop - it's not that hard. When I was living in Kyushu I rarely got to drink anyway coz I was always driving.
I just wanna get back into good health!
xx
It's not like I've been a complete bum - I've been working out nearly every day and stuff. Admittedly I have spent more time in front of the TV than I think I have in my entire 2 years here but that's all about to change - I'll be surprised if I get to watch TV at all with the crazy hours that I'm gonna be working.
Speaking of TV - this year's X Factor is full of surprises. I can't believe that Jamie got kicked off over Lloyd. I know Lloyd actually gave a decent performance this week and Jamie's popularity has been steadily dwindling but STILL!! I've come not to expect anything from that show any more!!
And go Danni!! She is whooping Cheryl's arse in the style wars this year!
Today at the gym went so slowly - it felt like I was in my aerobics classes for 3 hours or something and it was only 1hr 20 mins. Time is dragging today - I still feel knackered from the weekend and you know when you spend the whole day recovering, your sleep pattern gets all messed up, so even though you got loads of sleep, you're still tired. I just hope that it doesn't mess me up for the whole week.
And I've also decided to detox. Well, I say detox but all I mean is that I'm not gonna drink any alcohol until the end of the month. At least. After what I put away last week, I just don't feel healthy at all and it seems pointless going to the gym as much as I have been if I'm just gonna undo everything by the time the weekend comes around. So I'm gonna just stop - it's not that hard. When I was living in Kyushu I rarely got to drink anyway coz I was always driving.
I just wanna get back into good health!
xx
Sunday, 15 November 2009
Stinking Hangover!
I had such a fun night last night!
Even though everyone bailed on me, I hit up a few bars and clubs in Roppongi. Man, I LOVE dancehall and reggae. There is this awesome Jamaican bar and the owner really takes care of me! Even through in some darts and champagne!!
But I was mixing my drinks like no one's business and am really paying the price today. I rolled in at 7am and after stuffing my face with fabulous McDonald's breakfast yumminess, I went straight to bed. I'm one of those people, that no matter what time I go to bed after an all nighter, I will always wake up a few hours later. And I hate them because you don't get the chance to sleep off the hangover. So I got up at like 11 and watched the X Factor instead! HOW great is Danyl looking?! LOL!!
Then it was back to bed. And even though it's 8pm, I still feel awful!! I'm detoxing as of next week - my alcohol intake from last weekend until now has been stupid. And I'm just getting fatter.
No drinking in the week. I mean it!
xx
Even though everyone bailed on me, I hit up a few bars and clubs in Roppongi. Man, I LOVE dancehall and reggae. There is this awesome Jamaican bar and the owner really takes care of me! Even through in some darts and champagne!!
But I was mixing my drinks like no one's business and am really paying the price today. I rolled in at 7am and after stuffing my face with fabulous McDonald's breakfast yumminess, I went straight to bed. I'm one of those people, that no matter what time I go to bed after an all nighter, I will always wake up a few hours later. And I hate them because you don't get the chance to sleep off the hangover. So I got up at like 11 and watched the X Factor instead! HOW great is Danyl looking?! LOL!!
Then it was back to bed. And even though it's 8pm, I still feel awful!! I'm detoxing as of next week - my alcohol intake from last weekend until now has been stupid. And I'm just getting fatter.
No drinking in the week. I mean it!
xx
Saturday, 14 November 2009
PHWOAR!!!!
Have you seen the latest episode of Ugly Betty?
Adam Rodriguez is in it and looks absolutely INCREDIBLE!!! I mean, he's hot enough in CSI Miami but daaaaaammmmmnnnnnnn!! Give me a guy like that any day!!!
What is he? Like, Cuban/Puerto Rican or something?
Absolute perfection.
Mmmmmmmmm.
xx
Adam Rodriguez is in it and looks absolutely INCREDIBLE!!! I mean, he's hot enough in CSI Miami but daaaaaammmmmnnnnnnn!! Give me a guy like that any day!!!
What is he? Like, Cuban/Puerto Rican or something?
Absolute perfection.
Mmmmmmmmm.
xx
Feeling Fabulous!
OMG I feel amazing! Tired, but amazing.
I went to the gym this morning and what was supposed to be a pretty straightforward aqua class, turned into the hardest session I've ever had in the pool! The regular teacher cancelled and this woman that did the class today was hardcore! My arms were CANING at the end of the aqua boxing class. But it's awesome because they are all toned and gorgeous and I have my muscle definition back. And don't even get me started on how fabulous my legs look right now! LOL! All I need is a tan!
After the aqua I had some time before my aerobics classes so I chilled with a face pack and a looooonnngg soak in the onsen. After the classes were done, I treated myself to a hair mask and relaxed in the mist sauna before slathering fabulous creams all over my body!!
Nothing like a bit if self pampering to feel fabulous!
And now I'm gonna have a long 'nap'. Out on the town tonight and it's gonna be an all nighter so I wanna be ready!!
Night!
xx
I went to the gym this morning and what was supposed to be a pretty straightforward aqua class, turned into the hardest session I've ever had in the pool! The regular teacher cancelled and this woman that did the class today was hardcore! My arms were CANING at the end of the aqua boxing class. But it's awesome because they are all toned and gorgeous and I have my muscle definition back. And don't even get me started on how fabulous my legs look right now! LOL! All I need is a tan!
After the aqua I had some time before my aerobics classes so I chilled with a face pack and a looooonnngg soak in the onsen. After the classes were done, I treated myself to a hair mask and relaxed in the mist sauna before slathering fabulous creams all over my body!!
Nothing like a bit if self pampering to feel fabulous!
And now I'm gonna have a long 'nap'. Out on the town tonight and it's gonna be an all nighter so I wanna be ready!!
Night!
xx
Friday, 13 November 2009
What A Week...
...for sports!
Firstly, yay to David Hayes! The first Brit to win the WBA Heavyweight Title since 2003! Did you see that mammoth guy he was fighting?! He was like a foot taller than him or something and ridiculousy heavier. Proud moment for the British!
Then came a shocker - Robert Enke committed suicide!! I can't believe it! He was such a great goalie - definitely would've been playing in the world cup next year. I haven't heard the whole story about what happened about this - apparently he got hit by a train on Tuesday and left a suicide note for his family. Crazy stuff.
Then another shocker - Roger Federer got knocked out in the second round of the Paris Masters Crown! Poor guy - if Nadal keeps going like he is, I think he's gonna end the year as the world number 1.
And fabulous congrats to Serena Williams - she has won a whopping 28million dollars in prize money - more than any other female athlete. And good for her! She has won every grand slam going at least once, with 11 grand slam titles in total. Crazy, crazy success! Quite an inspirational woman!
And then there's me who couldn't even make it to the gym this morning!
xx
Firstly, yay to David Hayes! The first Brit to win the WBA Heavyweight Title since 2003! Did you see that mammoth guy he was fighting?! He was like a foot taller than him or something and ridiculousy heavier. Proud moment for the British!
Then came a shocker - Robert Enke committed suicide!! I can't believe it! He was such a great goalie - definitely would've been playing in the world cup next year. I haven't heard the whole story about what happened about this - apparently he got hit by a train on Tuesday and left a suicide note for his family. Crazy stuff.
Then another shocker - Roger Federer got knocked out in the second round of the Paris Masters Crown! Poor guy - if Nadal keeps going like he is, I think he's gonna end the year as the world number 1.
And fabulous congrats to Serena Williams - she has won a whopping 28million dollars in prize money - more than any other female athlete. And good for her! She has won every grand slam going at least once, with 11 grand slam titles in total. Crazy, crazy success! Quite an inspirational woman!
And then there's me who couldn't even make it to the gym this morning!
xx
Alcoholic
Man, my alcohol intake this last week has been absolutely shocking!
And last night was no exception! What started out as 'just a JD and coke' turned into finishing bottles of wine and vodka.
Eurgh!
I don't even like JD!!! But it was just there so I was like yeh, go on then!
Not going to do me any good I'll tell ya!
LOL!
xx
And last night was no exception! What started out as 'just a JD and coke' turned into finishing bottles of wine and vodka.
Eurgh!
I don't even like JD!!! But it was just there so I was like yeh, go on then!
Not going to do me any good I'll tell ya!
LOL!
xx
Wednesday, 11 November 2009
Argh!
I hate it when you think that you have something all figured out...and then all it takes is one person to give you a different perspective on stuff to make you realise that you really don't have a clue what you're doing.
Ah man.
I dunno.
There's pros and cons to every situation. Except this one has way more cons! But for some reason I seem really reluctant to give up on it just because everything would be easier if I did. And because someone wants me to.
I don't know why I'm finding this so hard to deal with - I'm way stronger than this, so I'm not sure why I'm getting so emotional about it. Maybe because I don't have my close friends here to hold my hand!
xx
Ah man.
I dunno.
There's pros and cons to every situation. Except this one has way more cons! But for some reason I seem really reluctant to give up on it just because everything would be easier if I did. And because someone wants me to.
I don't know why I'm finding this so hard to deal with - I'm way stronger than this, so I'm not sure why I'm getting so emotional about it. Maybe because I don't have my close friends here to hold my hand!
xx
Sexiest Action Heroes
I was watching this show earlier called 'The Sexiest Action Heroes'. I'm not sure where it started, but I came in at number 19. I thought I'd share the top 10 with you!!
1. Zhang Ziyi
2. Duane Johnson (The Rock)
3. Vin Diesel
4. Jessica Alba
5. Will Smith
6. Keira Knightley
7. Brandon Routh
8. Jennifer Garner
9. Chris Evans
10. Paul Walker
Firstly, I am totally shocked at the number 1!! Like yeh, Ziyi Zhang is really pretty, not really sexy, but I can't even believe Angelina Jolie hasn't even made it into the top 10! Brandon Routh, Jennifer Garner and Chris Evans shouldn't be there at all in my opinion! And the Rock IS gorgeous - but not at number 2!! Paul Walker should be definitely higher up. Keira Knightley has a well deserved spot, as does Jessica Alba - OMG her body in "Into The Blue" is to DIE for!! If ever I need inspiration to get my lazy, fat arse down the gym, that is it!!!
Paul Walker....DRRRRROOOOOOLLLLLLL!!!
LOL!!
xx
1. Zhang Ziyi
2. Duane Johnson (The Rock)
3. Vin Diesel
4. Jessica Alba
5. Will Smith
6. Keira Knightley
7. Brandon Routh
8. Jennifer Garner
9. Chris Evans
10. Paul Walker
Firstly, I am totally shocked at the number 1!! Like yeh, Ziyi Zhang is really pretty, not really sexy, but I can't even believe Angelina Jolie hasn't even made it into the top 10! Brandon Routh, Jennifer Garner and Chris Evans shouldn't be there at all in my opinion! And the Rock IS gorgeous - but not at number 2!! Paul Walker should be definitely higher up. Keira Knightley has a well deserved spot, as does Jessica Alba - OMG her body in "Into The Blue" is to DIE for!! If ever I need inspiration to get my lazy, fat arse down the gym, that is it!!!
Paul Walker....DRRRRROOOOOOLLLLLLL!!!
LOL!!
xx
What Is It Bout Wednesdays?
For the last few weeks, despite setting an alarm, I haven't been able to get up on Wednesdays to go to the gym.
It's not even like went to bed stupidly late last night, but when that alarm went off at 8.30, I just rolled over and went back to sleep. Always on Wednesdays - weird huh?
And the other shitty thing is that I do have to go out today coz I have an appointment and it is absolutely pissing down!! I don't wanna go anywhere.
Gah!
xx
It's not even like went to bed stupidly late last night, but when that alarm went off at 8.30, I just rolled over and went back to sleep. Always on Wednesdays - weird huh?
And the other shitty thing is that I do have to go out today coz I have an appointment and it is absolutely pissing down!! I don't wanna go anywhere.
Gah!
xx
Tuesday, 10 November 2009
Kick Up The Arse
Being here in Japan, it's really easy to get caught up in everything that you forget what your initial goals were.
I was talking to my friend last night, and I realised that I had gone completely off track regarding my career goals. It's not like I had forgotten what it is that I want to do, but I have been so slack in actually doing anything to get there.
Not anymore. I went online last night and checked out the homepage for the Foreign and Commonwealth Offices and I fell in love with Diplomatic Service all over again! Well, being an Operational Officer in Diplomatic Service. So now I feel like I've had this massive kick up the arse to continue working towards this...starting with studying Japanese. After all, it's what I came here to do and I have been lazy this year. I wanna apply through the Fast Stream programme and it takes the best part of the year and a billion tests and I'm not at the age where it's OK to take your time!! I don't wanna start the application without my 1kyuu in the JLPT either. And that itself is another couple of years studying here...which means that I will be 28 by the time I start the application process - and that sounds scarily old!
But I'm also gonna look into options at the British Embassy here during that application process. Yeh, teaching might be the easiest thing to do here and pay well, but it's also a waste of my time. It's been good but it's not like I wanna stay working in education. I don't believe in taking the easiest route - I would rather be working in a field relevant to my final career choice, even if it means making less money and working harder. Maybe if I was younger, I would stay in teaching during the whole process but I just don't feel like I have that time anymore.
I totally wanna be in a position of serious influential power!! Being a diplomat might not be the most powerful position in the world but I love what it involves and I know that I'll be awesome! Hehe!
Oooohhh I'm all excited and motivated now! I really hope that feeling lasts because I really need to start studying. I wonder if I work my arse off I'll be ready to take 2kyuu next summer instead of next Christmas...that was the original plan but seeing how I haven't studied at all this year, I didn't think it was possible to be ready in time. I might give it a bash...we'll see how much time I have when I start working next week.
One more week of unemployment left! Time is moving so fast!
xx
I was talking to my friend last night, and I realised that I had gone completely off track regarding my career goals. It's not like I had forgotten what it is that I want to do, but I have been so slack in actually doing anything to get there.
Not anymore. I went online last night and checked out the homepage for the Foreign and Commonwealth Offices and I fell in love with Diplomatic Service all over again! Well, being an Operational Officer in Diplomatic Service. So now I feel like I've had this massive kick up the arse to continue working towards this...starting with studying Japanese. After all, it's what I came here to do and I have been lazy this year. I wanna apply through the Fast Stream programme and it takes the best part of the year and a billion tests and I'm not at the age where it's OK to take your time!! I don't wanna start the application without my 1kyuu in the JLPT either. And that itself is another couple of years studying here...which means that I will be 28 by the time I start the application process - and that sounds scarily old!
But I'm also gonna look into options at the British Embassy here during that application process. Yeh, teaching might be the easiest thing to do here and pay well, but it's also a waste of my time. It's been good but it's not like I wanna stay working in education. I don't believe in taking the easiest route - I would rather be working in a field relevant to my final career choice, even if it means making less money and working harder. Maybe if I was younger, I would stay in teaching during the whole process but I just don't feel like I have that time anymore.
I totally wanna be in a position of serious influential power!! Being a diplomat might not be the most powerful position in the world but I love what it involves and I know that I'll be awesome! Hehe!
Oooohhh I'm all excited and motivated now! I really hope that feeling lasts because I really need to start studying. I wonder if I work my arse off I'll be ready to take 2kyuu next summer instead of next Christmas...that was the original plan but seeing how I haven't studied at all this year, I didn't think it was possible to be ready in time. I might give it a bash...we'll see how much time I have when I start working next week.
One more week of unemployment left! Time is moving so fast!
xx
Monday, 9 November 2009
THANK YOU!!!
Awwww you guys!!!
I love you all!!
Even though I haven't said what's going on with me right now, I just wanna tell you how much I really appreciate all the emails and phone calls and all your support. You lot are amazing!!
LOL and I love the attempts to cheer me up! I hate that I laugh at seriously crap jokes! Hehe!
Need to stop thinking that I can find the answer at the bottom of a bottle though! Not to sound like a complete alcoholic but I seriously hit the booze last night and man, when I woke up this morning...I don't even know how to begin to tell you how I felt! I can't believe I actually dragged my arse down to the gym with a pounding heading. But I definitely sweat out the booze...LOVELY!!
But anyways, I just wanted to thank you guys for your support. I'm sure I'll be able to work this out but I definitely will with you all helping me!
xoxo
I love you all!!
Even though I haven't said what's going on with me right now, I just wanna tell you how much I really appreciate all the emails and phone calls and all your support. You lot are amazing!!
LOL and I love the attempts to cheer me up! I hate that I laugh at seriously crap jokes! Hehe!
Need to stop thinking that I can find the answer at the bottom of a bottle though! Not to sound like a complete alcoholic but I seriously hit the booze last night and man, when I woke up this morning...I don't even know how to begin to tell you how I felt! I can't believe I actually dragged my arse down to the gym with a pounding heading. But I definitely sweat out the booze...LOVELY!!
But anyways, I just wanted to thank you guys for your support. I'm sure I'll be able to work this out but I definitely will with you all helping me!
xoxo
Sunday, 8 November 2009
F**K!!!
Ah man.
It's at times like this that I wish that certain people were here. When you go through certain things, I've always found that people are amazing with different things. Some are able to give you the support that you actually need and want, some are able to give you the distraction that you need and want, and some are just amazing at making you laugh AND helping you through stuff.
When you move and something happens, you don't have any of these people around you. I haven't been here long enough to get to know people well enough to fill these roles, so it's like I just have to deal with things by myself. Which is not cool right now.
There's only one person that knows what's going on and if the truth be told, I don't see how they can help me. I don't even think they know how to help...I don't even know how I want them to help...if I even want them to. There are some people that when they don't know what to do, they just end up making you feel worse. I haven't worked out if this person is one of those people yet. I don't mean that in a horrible way but I'm sure you must get what I mean. And the crappest bit is that when the only person who knows is someone that you don't really get along with, well, what are you supposed to do?
xx
It's at times like this that I wish that certain people were here. When you go through certain things, I've always found that people are amazing with different things. Some are able to give you the support that you actually need and want, some are able to give you the distraction that you need and want, and some are just amazing at making you laugh AND helping you through stuff.
When you move and something happens, you don't have any of these people around you. I haven't been here long enough to get to know people well enough to fill these roles, so it's like I just have to deal with things by myself. Which is not cool right now.
There's only one person that knows what's going on and if the truth be told, I don't see how they can help me. I don't even think they know how to help...I don't even know how I want them to help...if I even want them to. There are some people that when they don't know what to do, they just end up making you feel worse. I haven't worked out if this person is one of those people yet. I don't mean that in a horrible way but I'm sure you must get what I mean. And the crappest bit is that when the only person who knows is someone that you don't really get along with, well, what are you supposed to do?
xx
Saturday, 7 November 2009
I Love Pubs
One of the things I love about Tokyo is having access to British pubs. There are LOADS of them here! And whilst they may be a tad expensive, it's worth every penny!
But I'm definitely paying the price this morning! I wasn't even out that late, rolling in at maybe 1.30am? In my drunken state, I decided that was the perfect time to watch the latest episode of Project Runway! I really don't get the things I do sometimes. I mean, I was falling asleep in the taxi on the way home, and I was pretty sure that I was gonna dive straight into bed.
I do love Project Runway though. What a great show. Although I think Project Runway Canada is better because Iman is absolutely BRUTAL! Her critiques are just so blunt and honest and I LOVE her! Plus in this season, some of the contestants are really annoying. Carol Hannah constantly looks like she's been punched in the face, or hasn't had enough sleep...THAT'S how awful her eye make up is. I just don't get...she's looking in a mirror...how can she not see how bad it looks?!
Needless to say I didn't make it to the gym this morning. Saturdays are always really busy anyway...but I have to meet a couple of friends today. I just wanna stay in bed and watch movies! LOL! I haven't had a free Saturday in over 2 months! And this month is no exception. It's crazy because I keep banging on about how I have to save money but it's practically impossible right now!
Doh!
xx
But I'm definitely paying the price this morning! I wasn't even out that late, rolling in at maybe 1.30am? In my drunken state, I decided that was the perfect time to watch the latest episode of Project Runway! I really don't get the things I do sometimes. I mean, I was falling asleep in the taxi on the way home, and I was pretty sure that I was gonna dive straight into bed.
I do love Project Runway though. What a great show. Although I think Project Runway Canada is better because Iman is absolutely BRUTAL! Her critiques are just so blunt and honest and I LOVE her! Plus in this season, some of the contestants are really annoying. Carol Hannah constantly looks like she's been punched in the face, or hasn't had enough sleep...THAT'S how awful her eye make up is. I just don't get...she's looking in a mirror...how can she not see how bad it looks?!
Needless to say I didn't make it to the gym this morning. Saturdays are always really busy anyway...but I have to meet a couple of friends today. I just wanna stay in bed and watch movies! LOL! I haven't had a free Saturday in over 2 months! And this month is no exception. It's crazy because I keep banging on about how I have to save money but it's practically impossible right now!
Doh!
xx
Thursday, 5 November 2009
What's Missing?
Man, I have been rushing around all day!
When they told me that I had to go to the Immigration Office to change the status of my visa, for some unknown reason, I never anticipated the ridiculous wait that I would have there! Lucky for me, I had my book.
And then what was supposed to be a super quick trip to Nissin turned into an 1man trolley full of cheese, bagels and other foreign goodness! Money that I should not be throwing away like that right now!! But the smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel that I made when I got back home made me realise that it was worth it...maybe! I'm just annoyed that I couldn't control myself - even when I was at the till and I realised I'd already spent 6000yen and my basket was still half full, I just let the woman keep on scanning! Doh!
Only 2 more weeks of unemployment left! I have to say that it's gonna be good to get back to work...even though when I start I'm gonna miss the days of being at home in the afternoon! Especially with the off key hours that I'm gonna be working. It's not just getting back to work - it's the thought of actually earning money again! I need to get on this saving thing hardcore. And I think with everyone being away for the Xmas period, that shouldn't actually be too hard...until the January sales come around and I go and blow everything anyway! But a new work wardrobe is a must!
Hehe!
xx
When they told me that I had to go to the Immigration Office to change the status of my visa, for some unknown reason, I never anticipated the ridiculous wait that I would have there! Lucky for me, I had my book.
And then what was supposed to be a super quick trip to Nissin turned into an 1man trolley full of cheese, bagels and other foreign goodness! Money that I should not be throwing away like that right now!! But the smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel that I made when I got back home made me realise that it was worth it...maybe! I'm just annoyed that I couldn't control myself - even when I was at the till and I realised I'd already spent 6000yen and my basket was still half full, I just let the woman keep on scanning! Doh!
Only 2 more weeks of unemployment left! I have to say that it's gonna be good to get back to work...even though when I start I'm gonna miss the days of being at home in the afternoon! Especially with the off key hours that I'm gonna be working. It's not just getting back to work - it's the thought of actually earning money again! I need to get on this saving thing hardcore. And I think with everyone being away for the Xmas period, that shouldn't actually be too hard...until the January sales come around and I go and blow everything anyway! But a new work wardrobe is a must!
Hehe!
xx
Wednesday, 4 November 2009
Lazy
I was up so late skyping last night, that when my alarm went off this morning, I was absolutely exhausted!
I didn't even make it to the gym because I fell asleep again and by the time I woke up, my class had already started. But I felt really bad, so I worked out at home today.
And then I messed around on the Wii all morning! I had stuff to do but I just couldn't be arsed. Which has left me rushing around this evening trying to get stuff done!
Seriously though, tomorrow I am getting my arse in gear! I gotta go to the Immigration Office and that is a serious trek! Argh! God, I miss my car!
But really looking forward to the weekend again!
xx
I didn't even make it to the gym because I fell asleep again and by the time I woke up, my class had already started. But I felt really bad, so I worked out at home today.
And then I messed around on the Wii all morning! I had stuff to do but I just couldn't be arsed. Which has left me rushing around this evening trying to get stuff done!
Seriously though, tomorrow I am getting my arse in gear! I gotta go to the Immigration Office and that is a serious trek! Argh! God, I miss my car!
But really looking forward to the weekend again!
xx
Monday, 2 November 2009
First Quote of the Month!
Myspace Quotes Graphics
When I read this, it reminded me of a song by Rihanna called "Question Existing". In it, she talks about how she doesn't know who her real friends are, and can't tell if people want to know her for who she is, or for who she REALLY is.
Don't front. Be who you are. At the end of the day, you can't be liked by everybody - there will always be people who hate you. You just have to learn to not care..or at least turn the other cheek. You can't change who you are just to be liked, because even then, the people that you are trying to impress still won't appreciate you!
xx
Good Times
I really enjoyed this weekend!
I got to hang out with Kyushu peeps, catch up, drink, dance and have a great time!!
It's always nice when you see people that you haven't seen for a while. I love catching up and seeing what people have been up to and hearing their news.
You all know that I'm not really into Halloween, but this weekend I made the "effort" and went out dressed as a schoolgirl. Not original, I know, but I really didn't wanna spend any money on an outfit! Hehe!
It was also cool checking out this thing they had going on at Tokyo Tower to promote New Zealand for the rugby world cup 2011. If ever there was a promotional video that made me want to go to another country, this was it! I totally wanna go to NZ now and it made me even sadder because it was my plan to go this year and I can't. Feel worse for my friend though - I'm sure that video made him homesick as hell! And to be honest, I'm not in the least bit surprised!
Loved this weekend. Loved it.
xx
I got to hang out with Kyushu peeps, catch up, drink, dance and have a great time!!
It's always nice when you see people that you haven't seen for a while. I love catching up and seeing what people have been up to and hearing their news.
You all know that I'm not really into Halloween, but this weekend I made the "effort" and went out dressed as a schoolgirl. Not original, I know, but I really didn't wanna spend any money on an outfit! Hehe!
It was also cool checking out this thing they had going on at Tokyo Tower to promote New Zealand for the rugby world cup 2011. If ever there was a promotional video that made me want to go to another country, this was it! I totally wanna go to NZ now and it made me even sadder because it was my plan to go this year and I can't. Feel worse for my friend though - I'm sure that video made him homesick as hell! And to be honest, I'm not in the least bit surprised!
Loved this weekend. Loved it.
xx
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