A Non-routine Routine
Moving is a hectic time no matter where you are in the world. You’re in a new place and new environment. Potentially, in a new country with a new language and starting a new job.
This being my second time in Japan, I thought I would have the moving thing down pat. While there were a lot of pitfalls I avoided because of this, it didn’t save me from general moving troubles. The biggest one is starting from zero and needing to buy simple things like utensils, plates, and toilet paper.
One would simply ask “Well, once you stock up on something, you’re good. Right?” Well, there’s another catch. I’m moving! … again.
See, I’m in a temporary (furnished) rental. Meaning, the futon and blankets I use for sleeping? I still have to buy those. If I want to buy any of my own furniture like plastic dresser drawers, I’m going to have to pay to have those moved. That said, there gets to be a point where there are just some things I can’t live without and are worth paying to move.
Take breakfast for example. When I saw cinnamon rolls on the bread shelf at Seven-Eleven, my eyes lit up. That and non-sweet coffee would be such a treat for breakfast!! But that’s exactly what it is, a treat. After about a week, my body has never craved vegetables and fruit so badly. That means going out, finding pots and pans to bring back in addition to having to go to the supermarket. Mostly by walking and taking the train/bus in freezing (for a Floridian) weather.
On the other hand, one can only eat (& afford) so much UberEats/convenience store food. The first time I came to Japan, the manager at my first school graciously invited me to her house on a day off to teach me how to make three different dishes. I later found out this came to be because my manager and some other staff members were a bit concerned that I was only eating convenience store food.
When in limbo, there is only so much you can do until things become more permanent. That said, as with most things in life, I think the most important thing is finding a balance between necessities and things you enjoy.
Luckily, I’m finally moving into my “permanent” apartment, and I’ll be all moved in just in time for cherry blossom season! Let me know if there are any specific kinds of cherry blossom photos you want to see (by the water, Tokyo Tower, etc)!
Look forward to those photos in the coming weeks~
