Week 74: March 27 – 31, 2023
Day 511: March 27, 2023
Monday – Rumoi
 |
| Rumoi High School 3.27.23 |
 |
| Here's what I studied in the Virtual Language Japan (VLJ) course today |
Upon arriving at the school, I couldn't help but notice a significant number of teachers who had opted to use their Spring Vacation leave, and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy. The remaining staff members were diligently engrossed in paperwork. As for myself, I dedicated the day to studying Japanese by immersing myself in the Virtual Language Japan (VLJ) course. |
| Grocery shopping at COOP |
Later in the afternoon, my family and I made a special visit to express our gratitude to Teacher Kanda for her invaluable assistance and guidance in teaching Ella throughout the year. Additionally, we made a stop at the local COOP to stock up on groceries and essentials. |
| We had our first Bingo Night |
Before wrapping up the day's activities, we decided to engage in a lively game of Bingo, adding a touch of excitement and entertainment to our evening.Day 512: March 28, 2023
Tuesday – Rumoi
 |
| Rumoi High School 3.28.23 |
It was a sunny and lively day at Rumoi High School. While others were busy relocating their commodes, I stayed in my area but helped coworkers move heavy desks. I spent most of the day studying Japanese through the VLJ course, making good use of my time. The day was quiet and uneventful, ending with me feeling tired and falling asleep early.
Day 513: March 29, 2023
Wednesday – Rumoi
 |
| Rumoi High School 3.29.23 |
Good morning, everyone! It’s a sunny day, and I’m back at Rumoi High School during Spring Break. With no collaborative projects today, I used the time to study Japanese.
 |
| Nakagawa-sensei moved in to Kishigami-sensei's former unit. She's my new JTE and new neighbor. |
At 10:30 AM, we welcomed Nakagawa-sensei, the new English teacher from Iwanai, who is replacing Motoyama-sensei. Following Japanese school tradition, we helped her move into her new place—coincidentally, the same building where I live! She’ll be our new neighbor, taking over from Kishigami-sensei. Welcome to Rumoi High School, Nakagawa-sensei! We’re excited to have you.
 |
| We went grocery shopping at COOP again. This time, to buy ingredients for my birthday this Friday |
After work, my family and I ran a few errands. We went to Serufu to buy kerosene for the heater and stopped by COOP again to pick up extra ingredients for a special birthday dinner I’m planning for Friday.
Day 514: March 30, 2023
Thursday – Rumoi
 |
| Rumoi High School 3.30.23 |
It was another beautiful morning in scenic Rumoi City. I returned to Rumoi High School and, with no collaborative projects planned, spent the day studying Japanese through the VLJ Course.
 |
| This is the topic that I studied today |
In the evening, my daughter and I prepared a delicious dinner together, enjoying some quality time in the kitchen. We went to bed early, saving our energy for the next day—a special one for me as my birthday was just around the corner.
Day 515: March 31, 2023
Friday – Rumoi x My Birthday
Today holds a special significance as I joyfully celebrate my birthday. I am immensely grateful to the Lord for showering me with abundant blessings and guiding me through another remarkable year of life.
 |
| Rumoi High School 3.31.23 |
Unlike the Philippines, where a Birthday Leave is customary, such a provision doesn't exist here in Japan. Consequently, I returned to Rumoi High School to fulfill my work obligations on this momentous day. Fortunately, my workload was light, allowing me some breathing space to fully embrace the festivities. |
| I read from the newspaper that the Rumoi Line will officially close today. I wanted to ride the "Farewell Ride" or its Last Trip but since I have work I wasn't able to do so. |
 |
| My friends and I helped Kitsui-sensei unpack his stuff. |
At 9 AM, I gathered with my dear friends, and together we embarked on a mission to assist Kudo-sensei in his move. We extended our helping hands to other teachers who were also relocating, ensuring their apartments were left spotless and ready for the next occupants. Additionally, my friend Kitsui-sensei from Embetsu arrived today, so I volunteered to accompany some teachers to warmly welcome him and lend a hand during his move-in process. It was a day filled with camaraderie and selflessness, as I found myself away from school for the majority of the day, dedicating my time to supporting my colleagues.
Celebrating my birthday with family and friends
 |
| Special thanks to my supportive and hardworking wife for preparing all this. I love you! |
In the afternoon, following the conclusion of work, I celebrated my birthday in the loving company of my family. To add to the joyous occasion, my supervisor, Matsuda-sensei, and his family graced my home with their presence, joining in the festivities. This marks my second birthday here in Rumoi City, and I couldn't be happier to commemorate this milestone surrounded by my loved ones and close friends.To sum it up, this week is Spring Break, but I spent the whole week in Rumoi High School. Regardless, I didn't have any collaboration work, so I was able to study Japanese through the VLC Language Course app provided by the JET Programme to ALTs. It was a productive week as usual, and since Friday was my birthday, I could say that it ended with a bang.Read more:
Japan Diaries 4: Weekend 74
Comments
Post a Comment