Update!

The last couple of weeks things have settled down at school and I have taken some time out spending afternoons at Obuse to relax with nature before I move to Tokyo in 2 weeks time.

Last week was a special day for two of my best friends here in Japan, Kiren and Nick got married at Zenkoji temple in Nagano. Over 20 of their friends and family from overseas came for the big day which was absolutely amazing.

I met up with Kiren and her friends before hand to raise a toast (and drink a few bottles of champers) before our friend became a wife!

The ceremony was a traditional Buddhist ceremony held in a temple on the grounds of Zenkoji.

The ceremony was conducted in Japanese of course but at the end Kiren and Nick had prepared some words to exchange - at this point most of the guests burst into tears! It was very touching.

Kiren and Nick both wore traditional dress for the ceremony and changed for the reception and party (apparently the kimonos aren't very convenient for going to the toilet!!).

The reception was held in a French restaurant in Nagano Cultural Centre. It was beautifully decorated and I think everyone enjoyed the 7 course dinner!

After the reception we all headed to the night party and more guests joined for the celebration. It was held at Green Gerbera where there was more food, wedding cake, lots of drink and some dancing!

Congratulations Kiren and Nick xxx

Befor the big day however there was the obligitory hens night in Nagano. Kirens friends all made a real effort to make it a good fun night bringing things from Oz that we would never find in Japan!

We started the night with a dinner at an Izakiya and then went on to karaoke. Kiren was a good sport and pretty much put on whatever she was given! There was some games started in karaoke and Kirens mum was the first victim. Her dare was a prevocative dance to a stranger....and she did it! Those poor karaoke workers - bet they love the gaijin parties!

Last weekend me and Madz headed to Kats house in Asashina for Ericas 'Kimono and Cake' birthday party. We all donned some form of 'kimono' and I was really impressed with the effort that everyone made. After a few rums I decided Id had enough and stole Kats bed for the night but the party continued into the wee hours!

This week I managed to find a place to live in Tokyo. Its quite central, on the same line as work, lovely house and only 2 people will live there. I can't believe Ill be gone in 2 weeks. This last year has flown by. I don't know how much longer I will stay in Japan, I guess it depends on my job and the company...and how much longer I can live without my friends and family nearby.

At the weekend I went up to Nojiriko to meet the GAA to have another go at wakeboarding. I was rubbish this year! But I gave it my best shot! The lads, as usual, were brilliant and put me to shame. It was really nice seeing them again and cheered me up no end.

As you can see the lads nailed it and were brilliant....

I on the other hand managed to give them a good laugh with my falling technique!