living in Japan

we have been here almost 3 months...in some ways it seems like 3 years.  I mean that in a good way.

I had waited to write this post until I felt settled here. Everyday I think of something to share with you all...but time gets away from me and other things come up. I also wonder if you want to read about my family life. Are you here to get the latest photography info only or do you mind hearing more from "me"? I hope not because I'm ready to share some of my thoughts about living in Japan.
Everyday I find myself saying "I'm in JAPAN...I'm living in JAPAN". It seems crazy {and scary} to think about how far away I am from my family. We are blessed to have the internet and phone service that allows calls to and from the US for a low monthly rate.

I wondered when we first got here if I would ever feel normal here. Would I ever feel comfortable?
I can honestly say I am happy to be here. I can walk around now and not feel scared. I was so scared when we first got here. I still feel a little panic when I have to pay somewhere...I'm not comfortable yet with Yen. But they are always patient with us. The Japanese are extremely nice and caring people. The nicest people I have ever met. They are truly grateful for your business when you go in a store.
I really thought before I got here that most of the Japanese people spoke English...I don't know why I assumed this...but I did. I at least thought someone in the stores would speak English. My lack of Japanese and their lack of English makes it difficult but we always seem to manage.
Back to the part about how nice everyone is...they are also very trusting. One of the first nights after we had arrived here, we went out to dinner in town. We always pay with our debit card but here, they don't take cards at restaurants {crazy huh}. After the bill came my husband pulled out his card. They shook their head no. He said he would go get money and come back. They asked if he would bring the money back tomorrow. Can you imagine any restaurant letting you leave and come back the next day to pay. They are honest, good people.

I have many stories to tell and pictures to share. I hope I don't bore you.

Don't you love the pink beret? I just bought it for my daughter the other day...and I bought two...I thought a lucky Savvy reader might want one! If you are interested, leave a comment and I'll draw a winner for the pink beret on Friday morning at 9am EST. I'll also fill the bag with some fun Japanese goodies 8-)

{I used Florabella actions for the above pictures...love these actions! I used Retro Vintage for the top two pictures}