Still in Japan

Paul-
I know the title is sort of obvious, but every now and then when I wake up I realize that I am not at home, I'm sleeping on a foam pad on top of grass and ground is moving. We had an earthquake the other day, which we have about 2 or 3 times a month. They happen every day but it's rare that you are able to feel them. I will take tornadoes any day as long as the ground stays still. But back to what I was saying, it's different being here. I can eat the food, speak a small amount of the language and drive with the best of them, but no matter how hard I bow I'm never going to be Japanese. I stick out. I've come to appreciate the US a lot more while being away. Aside from missing ribs, I miss fitting in. I miss being just another brown headed guy picking up some dinner at Target. I miss children who don't stare...for that matter, I miss adults who don't stare. I miss my family and I miss my friends. I miss my four-legged hairy child. But I am happy, which I attribute mostly to Devan. She's the best friend I have ever had and I am thankful that she's in my life. She's a patient one, especially with the food, and always willing to bow to the absurd. I look up to her a lot. For those of you who keep track of this low traffic blog, thanks for reading. As always, I'll leave a promise to post more soon.