Day 13

Monday.  I remember why I dislike Mondays so much; it's because you actually have to get up early again and be coherent in the morning.  On the weekends, I disagree with those two concepts, but still must go along with it.  That being said, waking up was moderately difficult, but I did get to class on time, after showering, having a sandwich, and getting everything together.

Another day of class, another day of turning in homework whenever you feel like it.  Heck, it's like some of the students don't have their homework done before class so just do it then and turn it in at the end of the day.  That is sort of counter productive, because then they lose the daily practice of whatever we're learning, and also just look sort of lazy to the students around them.

We got our first tests back today, and there was one person in the class to get a perfect score on the writing portion, and that was the Mexican girl who sits on the other side of class.  My Czech friend and I both got 99 on the test, which was pretty good (I messed up on particles again, like I always do).  Then, on the speaking portion, I got a 91, which averages out to a 95 on the test (not too bad for my first exam here), and received several positive comments about the speed at which I can speak the language.  In fact, I've been receiving comments like that from all of my senseis over here, in that I can hold a conversation with them at the beginning of class that always seems to hold their attention.  I can only chalk this success up to my education at UChicago (and of course, my hard work).

So, what happens after class?  Laundry, of course.  Not so much homework to do, but plenty of laundry to transport.  Good thing I have two bags to transport it in.  It's a bit pricey, but it gets the job done, and it is something that has to be done (or else I'll either end up with stinky clothes, or clothing that is too worn out to wear).  The bike also comes in very handy at times like this.

So, when night falls, I have my homework done and am very tired.  Time to fall asleep.  Here's your picture and text.

My bike, which only cost 5000 yen, along with a 250 yen bike lock.  I may not need the lock a whole lot over here, as most everybody leaves their bikes unlocked everywhere, but if I take it home, Chicago necessitates bike locks.  It rides well, has a few different gears, and a light on the front wheel that is powered by the rotation of the wheel.  I should attach a capacitor to that and store my own energy.