February 16th

Last night we went to a small Singaporean restaurant for dinner. Thought you might enjoy the cocktail menu (on the left).

It is freezing cold today, windy and snow in the forecast. Now, where have we heard that before? I am still unable to see Mt. Fuji from my window, as promised by the hotel manager when we checked in, but remain hopeful.

We girded up our loins and tackled the underground today, traveling to Tony's office and navigating the purchase of a Suica card each, which you load up with yen and then it scans you as you pass through all the turnstiles. We must look particularly lost (and daft) as we have been helped every step of the way, by kindly, English-speaking Japanese. We cleverly managed to climb on the wrong train and were quickly put right and sent on our way to the correct line. As you may imagine, the trains are impeccably clean and everybody stands in an orderly line to climb aboard. AND-I can reach the handles that hang down from the ceiling - definitely a plus being in a short person world. The flowers along the window sills in the station are REAL and gorgeous. So unlike anywhere I have seen before now.

We now have to apply for alien registration and re-entry visas. So many forms to fill in and so little time. We will just be sorted out when it will be time to return. However, we have a tough, feisty Japanese relocation agent, who speaks perfect English, helping us every step of the way. We have nicknamed her "the Barracuda" as she seems perfectly fit to negotiate whatever we need. Tony's office is in a large complex of shops and offices, really bustling with activity. The office is new (they moved in December). I think they are all a bit nervous of his arrival-they probably imagine he is going to shake up their nicely ordered world with his high energy and they may well be correct.

I managed to navigate my way back, despite one train stopping and everybody getting off, when it should have gone to my next stop. Again, the hopeless tourist look worked and a sweet and pretty young Japanese girl with a broad Australian accent helped me on my way. So far so good.

I am sure these posts will take on a more interesting and less detailed turn once we start exploring the larger world around us. Keep your emails coming, I love to hear news of you all and of home.