Wednesday, January 11, 2006

Back in the Groove

iPod morning commute music: Alicia Keys, Songs in A Minor (2001)
Yes, I sometimes listen to music not recorded in the '60s. This R&B disc is as good as its hype, and has to be one of the great debut CDs of modern times. It's also pretty good morning music when one is still operating under psuedo jet lag.

Today is the second day back for the students, who are taking what we call achievement tests. I proctored two tests yesterday and one today; tomorrow, regular lessons start up.

Monday was a national holiday here in Japan, Coming of Age Day. It celebrates all those who turned 20 (the age one becomes an adult) in 2005. Kaoru and I ended up shopping in our local JUSCO shopping center, and the women celebrating were dressed in traditional kimono. It was a bit disconcerting to my wife to see them standing in line at MacDonalds, a visual clash of cultures to her eyes. I felt it, too, but sadly MacDonalds is America's greatest contribution to Japanese life. Burgers replacing sushi.

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