James Bond in the Land of Other James Bonds

I drove on the left side of the road yesterday! It was dangerous, and I felt exactly like James Bond. This must be how it feels, fighting Russia and driving on the left side of the road. It's a wonderful feeling of absolute awesomeness. What is even more James Bond-like was that I drove without getting into an accident (which isn't really how every car chase ends), and without problems, aside from the fact that I kept hitting the wind shield wipers whenever I wanted to turn on the blinker. Surprise surprise. If the wheel is on the opposite side of what you're used it, everything else will be too.

I bought a manual yesterday, against the better judgement of the condescending car salesman, and my boss who thinks I too clumsy. However, aside from the fact the gear shift is, you guessed it, on the left, I'm confident I can handle it. Colorado is not exactly the flattest place (well, it is out towards Nebraska), so I'm sure I'll do fine in Togi. Anyways, I know enough about manuals that I won't freak out everytime I stall.

The joke is, right now, that if I'm out on the roads, I'm to call everyone and say "watch out! I'll be driving Route 249 between Suzu and Togi at 4 o'clock." All my co-workers think that's wildly funny. I think it's starting to get a little annoying. Yes, I've run into a fence post. Yes, I've run into a tree. I bare the scars of an over confident youth, and I've learned from them. I hope.

Clumsy is the popular word at Togi High school. I trip up the stairs because I'm not used to my slippers. Clumsy! I run into the door because I'm not paying attention. Clumsy! I drop food because I can't use chopsticks. CLUMSY! I forget my passport at the restaurant on my first day. CLUMSY CLUMSY! Bill, my supervisor, always introduces me like this: "This is the new ALT. Her name is clumsy."

To which, I am forced to reply, "I am actually Alison. But thanks, Bill."

Location: Desk
Listening: Elephant Gun -- Beirut
Wishing: to be able to do something productive.