I have been busy cleaning! They have spiders here in Japan too--unfortunately! Overall, though, it is pretty clean! I look forward to putting flower pots on the balcony and adding any "green" I can to the place!
We plan to sleep at our place tonight for the first time! You can see a picture of the front of our place here! We got some futons from Akihiro's mom that will work until we get our mattress moved tomorrow.
I did my first "solo" train trip today! Actually it wasn't very solo as Akihiro made sure I got on the right train and one of the ladies from the church made sure I was headed in the right direction after the lady's Bible study at the church. ( I had never taken this route before!) I was very grateful for each guiding hand and feel more comfortable to do it entirely on my own next time--but at least I sat by myself on the train for a while!
Speaking of the Bible Study...There were ten of us ladies that met at the church--they meet every month. Many of those who came--6 or 7 I think--weren't Christians, but are either interested in learning about Christianity and the Bible or they are interested in learning English. They were very kind and some could speak English fairly well. They were very interested in finding out how I met Akihiro. When I got done explaining our faith-based marriage, one of the ladies said, "God is a good match-maker!" I would agree! The experience really helped to remind me of the missionary opportunity that we have here in Japan.
Today we bought a rice cooker, stove, and a kitchen table. It is interesting to see the different appliances they have here--lots of choices in rice cookers and hot water heaters for tea or noodles, but hardly any stand mixmasters or food processors. Everything is small! We are so looking forward to getting settled into our home!
On our way out of the driving school, I used the toilet and discovered yet another function! This toilet had a button that would make a flushing sound. I guess there are some shy bladders or--well, use your imagination!
Sorry I haven't been able to reply to many of your encouraging emails! Once we get settled, I will perhaps be able to do better! Thank you, just the same!