Monday, June 12, 2006

There and back again: my visit home to America

After about 26 hours of continuous travel from Hampton, Georgia to Ajimu, Japan, I feel great! Sure I feel disoriented and confused about being back in my inaka apartment with tatami mats instead of carpet and rice fields instead of a yard, but that’s what makes living here in Japan so special. Jet lag is blurring my mind a little bit and the newly arrived heat of the season reminds me of when I first arrived about eleven months ago. I have a lot of unpacking and readjusted to do, but in the meantime here are some photos from the last 2 weeks of my trip home to North Carolina and Georgia.



The newly married Ryan and Jessica Bailey! They were the inspiration for my return home. Can you believe this is the only picture I took of them? Ryan, honestly, look normal for once.


Me and Blake with our bold stripped ties.


Back in the land where I’m only average height. Me between 6’5” Baker and 6’somethingslightlylessthan5” Naughty Naughty Kiefer


Danyele and Amy—loyal allies in the war against all things Robot and Zombie. They also got me FREE barbeque.


A trip to Chapel Hill wouldn’t be complete without a blue cup from He’s Not.


Mike and Kristen Kidd declaring, "yes, we are young and crazy!" (Rachel on the left is married so she's just young and proper)


Julie and Paul—best sister and brother-in-law ever—eating can’t-find-in-Japan Mexican food. I love you guys! Thanks for throwing me a party!


Mom and dad with Uncle Russ and cousin Miranda at one of our family meals.


Raleigh the cat being hugged by Julie. Raleigh the cat doesn’t really care for hugs.


Me and my farewell cake. Thanks wonderful family for all your love and support!

7 comments:

Lisa said...

awwww great pictures!!! Nice to see you all having fun =) The picture of the mexican food makes my tummy grumble. Did u bring back any refried beans?

Lisa said...

btw, i think i got bit by a mukade last night! its in my futon! i'm so scared!!!

welcome back to japan! :)

Chris Powell said...

hey, nice to see you back in japan. Hope the readjustment isnt too difficult.

Good to see the photos of the family and friends etc... Your friends are giants.

Ted Pho said...

Glad to have you back. We have to get in another Karaoke session when you have the chance.

Anonymous said...

Great...nothing like being the "giant-freak friend" (well, one of them anyway).

It was wonderful seeing you Justin, glad you made it back safely.

Baker

Anonymous said...

Great to have you back in the USA for a while. Also glad you made the journey back to Japan safely. Wishing you a great next year as a seasoned JET! Love always, Mom & Dad

Sarah said...

you really do look tiny in that picture.