L.A. adventure

I obtained my Visa today. It doesn't expire until 2014! I could come and go as I please for the next 5 years.

I did okay with public transit and exploring alone. A good sign for the next year!

When I was in Marukai, this old Japanese woman comes up to me and starts talking to me in Japanese. I was so surprised that she was just talking to me NOT in English. But what was awesome was I knew what she was saying... and able to have a conversation with her! I was super surprised at myself and quite pleased.

I can't wait to try some REAL melon pan. mmmmm... Japanese sweets.

All in all a productive day, but a bit bittersweet. I almost broke down crying in Taiko practice. I'll miss my group of friends here. My adventures will be once in a lifetime in Japan, but right now it's a little difficult to see past the immediate situation.

Not to worry. I'll bounce back, because as Hiro said, "Yeah it makes you sad, but you can make it. because you are CATLIN!!"

Confidence.