Christmas!

It's Christmastime all around the world. The sound of Christmas music playing and the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping have reached their peak. Japan is no different. There is one difference, however. The ryokan that I am living in has absolutely no insulation, no heat, and is located in the coldest place in the known world. While this may seem like a bit of an exaggeration, it has been an interesting experience trying to stay somewhat warm and comfortable, and it hasn't even started snowing...yet.
Just for fun, let's take a look at my attempts at keeping warm:

#1: I built a fort inside my room.

The fort consists of a heavy blanket, surrounded by towels and an overhead blanket to keep cold air out.
#2: I put an electric heater inside the fort.

Inside the fort, the heater was located next to my futon, which is laying on top of an electric carpet, which heats my futon.
#3: Comfort food

Lastly, I try and cook some warm comfort food to make myself feel like I am enjoying the cold winter weather. This was some Nikujaga, or beef stew, that I made.
Sadly, none of these attempts really came to any real consequence. I am still cold and my electric bill was out the roof.
But don't worry, I have found an apartment in town (with heat) and I am planning to move as soon as I get back from America. So if you're wondering what to get me for Christmas, money for my new apartment would be great!

In other news, I am coming home in just one more week. I went to Sendai today to get my re-entry permit, which gives me permission to re-enter Japan once I leave. In Sendai they have a "pageant of lights" where they light up all the trees on the main street.





Merry Christmas!